Karting, zip-lining and obstacle courses: SandBox has thrills for every daredevil | Lifestyle.INQ

OCTOBER 27, 2022

SandBox
Image: INQUIRER.net/Niña V. Guno

Do one thing that scares you every day — but what if you could do several things that made your heart drop, in one go, all in one place?

SandBox, an outdoor recreation park in Porac, Pampanga has a thrill for just about everyone, whether you prefer to defy gravity or prove your worth in competition. It is located in Alviera, a sprawling 1,125-hectare up-and-coming community which aims to harmonize urban living with the great outdoors.

Figure out which thrill fits you best—or better yet, try them all.

For the daredevil

While mere mortals watch in horror at the astounding heights they have to face, the daredevil is always up for a dose of danger. Higher, faster, anything more is the order for the day.

The adventure tower which includes wall climbing and rappelling is probably where one will stay. Avatar One, the roller coaster zip line makes for an unpredictable ride while the free-fall will make you feel you’ve had a second lease on life.

SandBox
Image: INQUIRER.net/Niña V. Guno

Still not enough? The giant swing brings your favorite playground pastime 10 meters above ground.

For the ninja warrior wannabe

SandBox has differentiated itself from other parks with obstacle courses that challenge one’s self physically and mentally.

If you’ve been inspired by extreme Japanese game shows and their American counterparts “American Ninja Warrior” and “Wipeout”, these are for you.

Head to the brand-new Splash Tub which just opened in June, a water obstacle course with 11 activities.

sandbox
Image: INQUIRER.net/Niña V. Guno

Don’t let the inflatables and the bright colors fool you: one must go through slippery surfaces while maintaining speed and overall body strength.

SandBox
Climbing inflatables is not as easy as it looks. Image: INQUIRER.net/Niña V. Guno
sandbox
A contestant goes through the Challenger course in Splash Tub. Image: INQUIRER.net/Niña V. Guno

Prefer to stay dry? The Aerial Walk Challenge tests one’s balance and agility through a web of ropes and nets.

SandBox
Image: INQUIRER.net/Niña V. Guno

Do you have what it takes to be number one?

For the free spirit

If you’re out to explore the world and push your personal limits, the kind of adventure you need would be one which takes you places.

SandBox just opened its 2-hectare karting complex last May and boasts it as the largest in the country. With 8-meter wide tracks and various layouts for drivers of different ages and levels, City Kart Racing’s latest circuit is for anyone who wants to take control of their need for speed.

SandBox
The shipping containers seen at the back will be transformed into a viewing deck where visitors can relax while watching action from the racetrack. Image: INQUIRER.net/Niña V. Guno
SandBox
Image: INQUIRER.net/Niña V. Guno

The racetrack is designed in such a way that amateurs can go at their own pace while professionals go head-to-head in a track made for international competitions. It can also accommodate other types of racing vehicles such as motorbikes. One heat or 12 minutes starts at P450.

SandBox
The circuit will continue to expand to accommodate international competitions which will be separate from the amateur track. Image: INQUIRER.net/Niña V. Guno

Prefer rougher roads? SandBox has all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and utility vehicles (UTVs) where you can blaze through the Pasig-Potrero river and discover Pampanga through its scenic views.

For the anything-goes vacationer

For those who prefer a slower pace, SandBox has a number of activities that don’t involve heart-thumping heights or an adrenaline rush. Outdoor archery is a challenge anyone can take on, while sports like frisbee and football can be played in the open field.

Playtime can take all day for younger visitors with a large kiddie playground and grassy areas to run through. The Splash Tub also has a portion where children can cool down and play with fun inflatables.

It goes unsaid that a large part of Alviera’s appeal is the scenery, fresh air and being away from the metro traffic — certainly something adults will appreciate aside from the unique attractions. The North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) makes the trip a breezy one-hour-and-a-half from Metro Manila. From north Luzon, tourists are able to access it through the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX).

Have you found your kind of adventure? You can head to SandBox for year-round fun in the sun.

SandBox is open from Wednesday to Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. While on soft opening, karting is available from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Tickets can be bought hassle-free via TicketWorld. JB

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