New Gintung Pakpak Eco-Park, Pampanga
If you find yourself getting increasingly stressed by life’s demands, it may be time for you to take a quick vacation. For less hassle, go somewhere that’s just a short drive away from the metro, such as Pampanga.
New Gintung Pakpak Eco-Park in Arayat has kubo (nipa hut) glamping tents, cabins, and villas surrounded by nature. It’s also a convenient place for a refreshing weekend staycation, with a pool, hiking spot, and more.
Kubo glamping
Kubo glamping tents.
Image credit: Adventures of a Storyteller
If you’re going alone or with just one person, you can choose from a kubo-inspired glamping tent or a deluxe cabin, both of which are equipped with an air-conditioning unit. However, since these accommodations are compact, you’ll have to use a common toilet and bath.
Deluxe cabin.
Image credit: New Gintung Pakpak
On the other hand, if you’re in a big group or simply want privacy, you can rent one of their villas. Each of these has a bedroom with multiple beds, a living room, a dining area, a kitchen, and its own toilet and bath.
Their accommodations start at P2,200 (~USD37.78) for 2 pax. These come with free breakfast and allow you access to amenities and activities available at the eco-park, including cozy evening bonfires.
Outdoor activities
The lake.
Image credit: Frederick Corbeza
New Gintung Pakpak has a pool and a garden for your relaxation. But beyond that, there’s a jungle and a lake nearby that guests at the eco-park can explore.
View from the top of the hill.
Image credit: @engr.nelson.ph
You can make a short climb up a hill to get a 360° view of farmlands and the city. On top, there are also photo spots such as giant bird nests like those seen at Balinese resorts.
Bird’s nest-inspired chair.
Image credit: @iam_miss_placed
If you choose not to stay overnight at New Gintung Pakpak, you can still experience this by going on a day tour at the eco-park for P150 (~USD2.58).
Cafe and restaurant
Cafe.
Image credit: New Gintung Pakpak
So you can have a convenient stay, New Gintung Pakpak also has its own cafe and an al-fresco restaurant.
Cafe Gintung Pakpak is a 2-story space with industrial interiors inspired by Korean cafes. Besides a variety of coffee, they serve sandwiches and refreshing beverages such as fresh fruit juices and smoothies.
Pasta.
Image credit: New Gintung Pakpak
For your meals, on the other hand, go to Maria Sinukuan Restaurant, an al-fresco dining spot with great nature views.
It offers Filipino fare, from silog meals and pasta to Kapampangan dishes such as sisig (P260, ~ USD4.47) and pork begukan (P260, ~USD4.47) or Kapampangan-style binagoongan.
Explore nearby tourist spots
Bale Batu.
Image credit: @akilheidin
You can also explore beyond the eco-park and make a quick side trip to other attractions in Arayat.
Bale Batu is a structure made by a local artist that looks like Angkor Wat in Cambodia. You can visit it for only P50 (~USD0.86).
Sunflower farm.
Image credit: Sunflower Farm Arayat
If you’re visiting during summer, go to Sunflower Farm Arayat to see sunflowers in full bloom. This attraction charges a minimal entrance fee of P25 (~USD0.43).
Stay in an eco-park with plenty of nature activities
So if you’re looking for a quick break from the big city, take a short trip and spend your weekend at New Gintung Pakpak in Arayat, Pampanga.
With its nature views and plenty of outdoor activities, you’re sure to return to your day-to-day life feeling recharged.
Address: Purok 6, Barangay Baliti, Arayat, Pampanga
Opening hours: 7AM-5.30PM, Daily
Contact: 0921 889 2626
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Cover image adapted from: Adventures of a Storyteller and @iam_miss_placed