Live the van life in this Jeepney Camper in Tanay, Rizal
Everywhere you go around the Philippines, it's impossible not to see a jeep coated in loud colors and embellished with flamboyant decorations.
Dubbed as Hari ng Kalsada, the Philippine jeepney is the most iconic vehicle roaming around the city's bustling streets. But, what if the King of the road was transformed into the King of the jungle?
In the Philippines, a businessman has converted an old jeep into a tiny house built in the jungle where visitors can enjoy a nature trip on a whole new level. The jeepney-turn-camper van in the rainforests of Sierra Madre in Tanay, Rizal is perfectly designed for guests who wish to experience glamping in style with a Pinoy twist.
Jeepney Camper in Balai Tanay offers a cozy and unique place to stay as a jump-off point for outdoor activities without having to travel too far from the city. If you're into glamping or are fascinated with tiny house living, you shouldn’t miss out on this one.
Owned by Filipino designer Michael Go, this recreational vehicle is inspired by the “van-life” trend in the U.S. It is about 2 hours away from Manila and it promises to give a 100% van-life adventure for you, your family, and pets with its soothing ambiance and great amenities.
While the property has been around for several years, it was recently featured by the world’s first online design and architecture magazine Designboom, which detailed how Go purchased the jeep from a junkyard, removed the mechanical parts, and repainted the rusted body with water green paint.
filipino designer converts old jeepney into two-story campervan homehttps://t.co/xsiRqx0lsL pic.twitter.com/hHuq4HnW1a
— designboom (@designboom) August 16, 2022
In an interview with PhilSTAR L!fe, Go shared that he listed the family resthouse Balai Tanay on Airbnb in 2018 and started the Jeepney camper project in 2019.
"The idea was to create a Camper Van with a Pinoy twist. The Jeepney camper is rather unique and original. We've all used Jeepneys for travel, but how often do you get to sleep in one, comfortably?," said Go.
This cozy RV house is equipped with a queen-sized bed and double mattress, a small kitchen, a bathroom with shower, Wi-Fi, and air conditioning among others. It offers two sleeping areas for a maximum of four guests. The upper bed area gives more headroom, while the headroom in the lower bed space is quite low, making it appropriate for kids.
The outside of the jeep is covered with shades of teal and white that complement the natural hues of the forest. It also has a little nipa hut style native bamboo embedded on the roof. Meanwhile, the interiors are made up of white walls and bamboo floors. The main door will lead you to the sink, sitting area, and mini fridge. On the other hand, a short ladder will lead you to the attic where another cozy sleeping area awaits.
The glamping site includes an outdoor dining area and kitchen if you want to experience al fresco dining next to the campfire. Take note that since the property is situated in the heart of the forest, you may encounter insects and other small creatures here. Aside from that, there is also a private 5” dipping pool for adults and a 2” deep pool for children who want to unwind and take a dip.
Guests are allowed to explore the backyard full of trees and wild plants, the private lush gardens, and the mango orchard nearby to see other exotic plants.
If you are up on another trip to the Rizal Mountain ranges, the Airbnb owner recommends guests visit nearby sights like Tinipak River and Mt. Daraitan, located 4 kilometers away from the area, Daranak Falls, Masungi Georserve, and Calinawan, all located not more than 25 kilometers away from the property.
The property also offers all-day breakfast, boodle-fight meals and several other options for meals, shared Go.
Because of its remote location, getting to the Jeepney Camper is more accessible for guests who have their own vehicles and free parking is available on the premises. However, those taking public transport can also rent a tricycle to bring you to the location.
Based on 151 reviews and a 4.83 rating, the Jeepney Camper has been described as a "hidden gem" and "must-visit place" for those who want to commune with nature without giving up creature comforts.
The Airbnb proprietor also told PhilSTAR L!fe that they are "currently building another new and unique type of cottage" within the property, but details are yet to be revealed. We'll definitely keep an eye out for this.
You can book the Jeepney Camper Van on Airbnb for P5,500 per night.