Lost in Time: Our Adventure to the Angono-Binangonan Petroglyphs
Hidden just outside Manila, the Angono-Binangonan Petroglyphs transport visitors thousands of years back in time. In this Lost in Time: Our Adventure to the Angono-Binangonan Petroglyphs, we share our journey to the oldest known rock art site in the Philippines, navigating Manila’s chaotic traffic, unexpected transport challenges, and the thrill of discovering ancient carvings that date back to 3000 BCE.
Getting There: The Traffic Test of Patience
When we planned our trip to the Angono-Binangonan Petroglyphs, we knew we were in for an adventure—but we didn’t realise just how much! Before leaving Scotland, we had downloaded Grab, the Uber equivalent in the Philippines, thinking this would make transport a breeze. However, despite verifying our accounts, we couldn’t load money onto the app or link our Scottish credit and debit cards.
Nevertheless, we managed to summon a Grab driver and confirmed that he would accept cash—though he wouldn’t have change. Fair enough!
Our journey began at Fersal Hotel in Quezon City, just 21 km from the site. That distance doesn’t sound far, right? Well, 1 hour and 40 minutes later, we finally arrived, having been fully initiated into the madness that is Manila traffic. That was our first surprise—the sheer time it took. The ride cost less than 800 PHP (around £11), which felt like a bargain considering the ordeal!
Arrival at the Petroglyphs
The drop-off point was unexpected. A security guard greeted us before we entered a tunnel, which, funnily enough, was originally built by a nearby golf course to divert water to their site. Walking through it gave the entrance a mysterious, almost cinematic atmosphere—a perfect prelude to stepping back in time.
From there, the walk to the site was a manageable 1.5 km. Upon arrival, we checked in at the visitor centre, where our names and nationality were recorded. A friendly gentleman gave us some background on the site, and we browsed a small, air-conditioned exhibition room that provided historical context.
The History of the Angono-Binangonan Petroglyphs
Discovered in 1965 by Carlos Francisco, a renowned Filipino artist, the Angono-Binangonan Petroglyphs are considered the oldest known rock art in the Philippines, dating back to around 3000 BCE.
Francisco was camping in the area with his scout troop when he noticed unusual carvings on the rock surface. Intrigued, he asked locals if they knew anything about them, but they had little information. Subsequent archaeological investigations determined that the carvings were prehistoric, depicting human figures, animals, and geometric patterns.
The petroglyphs include over 127 engravings, featuring stylised human figures with angular limbs, frogs, lizards, and other abstract symbols. These carvings are believed to have had ritual or symbolic significance, possibly related to healing or spiritual ceremonies performed by early inhabitants of the region.
Despite its significance, the site has not yet been granted UNESCO status, though it absolutely deserves it. The visit took about an hour, giving us plenty of time to take in the stunning rock carvings and reflect on the people who once created them.
The Unexpected Challenge: Getting Back to Quezon City
Our adventure didn’t end at the petroglyphs. After a fulfilling visit, we tried summoning a Grab to return to Quezon City. Easy, right? Not quite.
Despite having phone reception, there were no Grab drivers available. None. Not a single one. We tried again and again, and after several failed attempts, we realised we might have a problem. We were effectively stranded in the middle of nowhere.
Panic set in slightly. What now? Top tip: Always figure out your way home before heading off on an adventure.
After discussing our predicament, we decided our best option was to walk 2 km to the nearest village and hope for better luck there.
The Journey to Antipolo
Upon reaching the village, we asked the motorised tricycle drivers about Grab. They laughed and told us that to book a car, we would need to get to the nearest city—Antipolo.
So, we climbed into a tricycle, a small, motorised three-wheeled vehicle. The ride took about 30 minutes, with the wind cooling us down as we zipped through the streets. Though the driver didn’t speak English, he gestured to let us know where to get off. The ride was vibrant, colourful, and bumpy—a fun experience despite our predicament.
When we arrived in Antipolo, we were hot, thirsty, and out of water. We considered stopping for a drink but thought it best to check for Grab availability first. We opened the app, held our breath, and tried again.
Success! A driver named Cristopher accepted our ride request, agreeing to take us back to Quezon City. The return journey cost 700 PHP (around £9.50)—a small price to pay for relief!
Final Thoughts
The Angono-Binangonan Petroglyphs are an absolute must-visit for history lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone interested in ancient art. The journey there is relatively easy—but the journey back requires planning!
If you’re thinking of visiting, make sure you have a solid plan for getting home—especially if relying on Grab. And don’t forget to bring extra water, just in case.
For us, this was yet another unexpected Wee Wild Adventure, and despite the challenges, we wouldn’t have missed it for the world!
Angono-Binangonan Petroglyphs: Essential Visitor Guide (2025)
Lost in Time: Our Adventure to the Angono-Binangonan Petroglyphs
How to Get There:
- From Quezon City (e.g., Fersal Hotel):
- Grab: Approx. 21 km, but expect 1 hour 40 minutes due to traffic.
- Cost: 800 PHP (~£11) (one way)
- Returning:
- Grab availability is unreliable at the site.
- Alternative: Take a tricycle (30 min) to Antipolo and summon Grab from there.
- Tricycle cost: Varies (80 PHP)
What to Expect:
- Historic rock art site (~3000 BCE), the oldest known petroglyphs in the Philippines.
- Figures: Human-like carvings, frogs, lizards, and abstract symbols—believed to be used for rituals.
- Tunnel entrance (originally built for a golf course’s water supply) creates a unique atmosphere.
- 1.5 km walk from the entrance to the petroglyphs.
- Visitor Centre:
- Register with name & nationality.
- Small air-conditioned exhibit with site history.
Duration of Visit:
- 1 hour is enough to explore the site.
- Allocate extra time for travel and potential Grab delays.
Cost of Visit (2025):
- FREE (no entrance fee).
What to Take:
- Plenty of water (very limited facilities & can get hot).
- Cash for transport (tricycles and some drivers don’t have change).
- Phone with data (for summoning Grab in Antipolo).
- Power bank (for navigation & booking transport).
What to Wear:
- Comfortable walking shoes (short hike involved).
- Light, breathable clothing (hot & humid conditions).
- Hat & sunglasses (limited shade).
- Sunscreen (essential for outdoor areas).
Top Tip:
- Plan your return journey in advance! Grab is unreliable at the site—be prepared to take a tricycle to Antipolobefore booking your ride back.
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