Fun Under the Sun at Alviera’s Sandbox

Porac, Pampanga used to be known as a huge wasteland after it was covered by lahar in the 1990 Mt. Pinatubo eruption. Today, however, Porac has become a popular destination for adventure seekers due to its naturally difficult terrain, which adds a challenge to a trek, climb or drive.

For adventurous souls who are just beginners in this kind of terrain, there is a more controlled facility just off Porac Exit where they can practice before heading off to the wild. SandBox at Alviera is an adventure camp built by Ayala Land. It has an Adventure Tower with 15 meters of wall to climb, the Avatar One Roller Coaster Zipline (yep- it’s a rollercoaster zipline!), the Aerial Walk where people can practice their balancing skills, a giant swing, an off-road bike track, and ATV/UTV trails.

If you’re wondering, all these equipment were carefully installed to ensure safety under the supervision of Kerry Asuncion, who founded Extreme Adventures, Inc. While the facility is generally safe, guests should still practice extra caution and good judgment. For instance, although The Princess was allowed to ride the UTV with Arjay, my husband and I both agreed not to let her ride since we feel that it may not be very safe for her.

Aside from these fun and thrilling rides, families with little ones can also enjoy the playground with a huge sandbox. The bunkers, slides and kiddie pools with water guns are a huge hit for the kids!

Guests can also give kite flying a try. Just take note that these are not the usual kites you’ll be flying!

SandBox is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 9 am to 5pm. Park Entrance costs PHP75. You will have to pay an additional cost if you want to try the activities:

Giant Swing, PHP100
Aerial Walk, PHP150
Free Fall, PHP100
Rappel Wall, PHP50
Wall Climbing, PHP50
Avatar One, PHP150
Mini Golf, PHP150
ATV, PHP2500/hr
UTV, PHP3500/hr

If you want to try more than one activity, Alviera’s Sandbox also offers affordable packages:

Package A – PHP600
Entrance, Giant Swing, Aerial Walk, Free Fall, Rappel Wall, Wall Climb, Avatar One, Mini Golf, Pump Track

Package B – PHP520
Entrance, Giant Swing, Aerial Walk, Free Fall, Rappel Wall, Wall Climb, Avatar One, Pump Track

Package C – PHP480
Entrance, Giant Swing, Aerial Walk, Free Fall, Avatar One, Pump Track

Package D – PHP370
Entrance, Giant Swing, Free Fall, Avatar One, Pump Track

Package E – PHP340
Entrance, Two activities of your choice, Pump Track

Expect to be exposed to the heat of the sun when you go to Alviera’s Sandbox. I suggest that you wear a long-sleeved top, pants that will let you move freely, rubber shoes, a cap and lots of sunblock. Don’t forget to bring a change of clothes as well because you will need it!

If you’re looking for a hotel near Sandbox, Holiday Inn Clark is just 15 minutes away. This is where my family and I stayed the night before the media preview. Read about our overnight stay here.

HOW TO GET TO ALVIERA’S SANDBOX (via private car)

1. From the North Luzon Expressway, take the SCTEX Exit (it’s the last one and is right after Dau Exit).
2. From SCTEX, drive a little further until you find Porac Exit.
3. Alviera’s Sandbox is located just after you take Porac Exit. You will see it on your right.