Teresa, Rizal: Things to Do and Nearby Day Trips

Teresa, Rizal is a small town in the hills of the Sierra Madre, and it is our home. This guide tells you what Teresa is known for, when its fiestas happen, and which day trips are close by. We will be honest: Teresa is quieter than the famous destinations, so most visitors combine it with the attractions of its neighbors.

Where Is Teresa, Rizal?

Teresa sits on the slopes of the Sierra Madre in the province of Rizal. It borders Antipolo to the north, Angono to the west, Tanay to the east and Morong to the south. The town is described as a valley surrounded by mountains, with the town center near the middle. The town has nine barangays, and its patron saint is St. Rose of Lima.

Teresa was once a barrio of Morong. It was renamed Teresa in 1900 and became an independent municipality on January 1, 1919.

What Teresa Is Known For

• Mountain resorts. Teresa is best known for its nearby mountain resorts, which are popular for day outings, family gatherings and company events. Check current rates and house rules directly with each resort.
• Cool, green surroundings. The hills and valley setting make a pleasant change from the city.
• Fiestas and traditions. The town fiesta is held on the first Sunday of March. The Turumba sa Mahal na Patron Santa Rosa takes place every August 23, in honor of the patron saint, and the town marks its independence anniversary every December 30. Check the exact schedule with the municipality before planning around a festival.
• A parish church. The town's church is dedicated to St. Rose of Lima, and it is a peaceful stop for a short visit.

Day Trips Near Teresa

Teresa's biggest advantage is its location. Several well-known places are a short drive away.

Tanay

Tanay, to the east, is Rizal's outdoor playground. Daranak Falls drops about 14 meters into a deep, jade-green pool, and families rent floaters and huts for the day. Batlag Falls and Calinawan Cave are also in Tanay. Go on a weekday or early in the morning to avoid the weekend crowds. Tanay is also home to the San Ildefonso de Toledo church, one of the stops on our Visita Iglesia route.

Antipolo

To the north, Antipolo has the International Shrine of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage. Read our Antipolo pilgrimage guide for how to visit it, when it is busiest and what to eat nearby. The Pinto Art Museum is also in the area, which makes a good change of pace after a church visit. Check opening days and fees before you go.

Morong and Baras

To the south, Morong and Baras have two of Rizal's oldest Spanish-era churches. They are stops on the same Visita Iglesia route, and they are especially popular during Holy Week.

Angono

Angono, to the west, is known as an art town and the site of the Angono Petroglyphs, rock carvings believed to be the oldest artworks in the Philippines. Check current visiting hours with the National Museum before you go.

When to Visit

• Dry season (roughly November to May) is the best time for waterfalls and outdoor trips.
• Rainy season (roughly June to October) is greener and quieter, but trails and waterfalls can be slippery, and some activities may be closed after heavy rain.
• Weekdays are calmer at the popular spots than weekends and holidays.

Plan a Rizal Day Trip with CieloAmor

Because our office is in Teresa, we know the roads, the resorts and the timing. We can arrange a van with a driver for a family, a barkada group, a parish, a school or an office, and combine Teresa, Tanay and Antipolo into one day. Tell us your date, group size and starting point. See our tour packages or our travel services, or visit our office. Details are on our About page.