Have you ever wondered about crossing the staunch mountains which lie blanketed in lush green vegetation? These natural wonders with towering peaks and unmatchable beauty are a blessing to unveil during a hiking trail. The thick green cover of vegetation along with the sun shining above the head presents a breath-taking view of paradise in disguise.
The Philippines boasts an avid range of mountains that has been a dream destination for every adventurous traveler. A hub for adventure junkies the destination calls for major participation in the form of conquering the highest peaks of the country. The steep terrains make perfect sync with the sky and the earth and are a haven for visitors all around the world. Let us now check out some of the places that make an ideal locale for mountaineering in Philippines.
Best Time To Visit Mountaineering In Philippines
For any trip particularly to the summit, people shall always start by picking up the right season. This is because if the temperatures are not optimum then the whole hike can go in an altered way. A fascinating trip to the Philippines is not completed without going for mountaineering. The rolling hills of the country are sure to reel you in with their gigantic trails. For the best experience of mountaineering in Philippines, the fair time to visit will be between November to February i.e the cool and dry season. The trails will be dry and the sun would not be blazing hot. Also, the country experiences moderate temperatures in between the above months making your overall journey more exciting.
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5 Best Places For Mountaineering In Philippines
As already mentioned before the country has rich and diverse geography which leaves an interesting footprint over the piece of land. These mountain ranges across the country make an apt pair with the blood-curling sport, encouraging adventure junkies to try them out. Rich diverse flora and fauna the steep slopes are a huge natural abode. Let us now list out some of these mountain ranges which have given the sport a new dimension.
1. Mount Makiling, Laguna
2. Mount Tapulao, Zambales
3. Mount Apo, Davao Del Sur
4. Mount Pulag, Benguet
5. Mount Maculot, Batangas
1. Mount Makiling, Laguna
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It is one of the top favorites with the climbers due to a variety of reasons. Mt Makiling has varied vegetation spread across its hilly terrain. The summit can be reached by bus in a total of 3 hours from Metro Manila and the base of the hike is at St Tomas Batangas. While the overall journey can be a lot excruciating due to the tough challenges posing at every step, this has not deterred the climbers from trying it out. One of the best places for mountaineering in the Philippines, the dense foliage of the mountain is a payoff at the end of the road.
Climb Duration: 7 hours-1 day
Price: Entry fees start from INR 14, hike fees: INR 140/person.
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2. Mount Tapulao, Zambales
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It can be rightfully termed as an “Endless trail”, due to a variety of reasons. The exhilarating and starving journey to the summit is encountered by uneven, rocky soil of the gradient which has a reddish appearance. The peak also rewards the climbers with a winding trail that can be difficult at times. After a few hours of the climb to the pine forests, one can also soak in the view of the surroundings. The journey to the base point of the mountain Iba, Zambales can be traversed in 5 hours from Metro Manila.
Climb Duration: 1 day(12-14 hours are consumed in the ascent alone)
Price: Start from INR 1056, Registration fee: INR 42.
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3. Mount Apo, Davao Del Sur
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This is an old veteran standing upright among all the other mountains in the country. Looming sternly over Davao city, Mt Apo can be rightfully hailed as one of the oldest mountain ranges. With so many synonyms to its name, it does not come as a surprise that conquering the peak is every climber’s dream. Blessed with Mossy forests along its trail, the peak is also home to Lake Venado.
Climb Duration: 3-4 days (for both ascent and descent)
Price: Start from INR 422, hiking permit costs: INR 704
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4. Mount Pulag, Benguet
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It is yet another coldest mountain range in the country that awaits you! The peak is also regarded as the third highest in the entire nation and has a chilly atmosphere surrounding it. The journey to the base point will take you an average of 9 hours(6 hours bus ride from Metro Manila to Baguio city, 3 hours to Ambangeg). The total hike to the campsite can take 5 hours to reach where one can spend the rest of the night. Mossy forests along with the bed of clouds wait to embrace you at the peak while sunrise.
Climb Duration: 1-2 days (for both ascent and descent)
Price: Start from INR 6322
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5. Mount Maculot, Batangas
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This summit is postcard-perfect for people who rely on a revitalizing hike rather than a weary one. The overall duration to the base point will take a 2-3 hours bus ride from Metro Manila. Another 2 hours can be invested in taking a climb up to the “Rockies’ ‘ where one can witness Taal lake, Taal volcano, the nearby town of Batangas, and Tagaytay highlands in full glory. Also in the distance, a clear shadow of Mt Makiling can be seen adding another highlight to your trip.
Climb Duration: 5-6 hours (for both ascent and descent) or camping overnight
Price: Start from INR 563 – INR 1126.
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Things To Carry During Mountaineering In Philippines
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Mountaineering in the Philippines calls for some extra things that might be needed. Take a look at this list of all the things that one might need to pack along when planning to go on the escapade.
Clothes: Always wear clothes that can dry off soon. Avoid wearing cotton or denim as it absorbs sweat and can lead to Hypothermia. For headgear you always prefer cap to keep the sun out of your reach. Also, be prepared for a sudden change in weather like rain and carry with you a raincoat or a waterproof jacket. One should always keep a ziplock plastic bag while venturing for an outdoor climb as it helps to protect clothes in adverse climatic conditions.
Shoes: Go for proper hiking shoes with a thick pair of socks to maximize protection against insects and for a more comfortable walk on the rugged slopes.
Gear: Tents pose as a home away from home when out in the wild. Always carry decent tents for a good night’s sleep on overnight camping.
Nourishment: Food and water are vital ingredients that are always needed during hiking. Carry 1 to 2 liters of water with you along with canned foods like instant noodles, chocolate bars, power bars, and other sweet items to boost energy.
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Tips For Mountaineering In Philippines
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Here is a list of all the tips and tricks that one should have in mind. Make sure that you have points on your fingertips to enjoy a hassle-free experience.
1. A few things to do before venturing out for hiking is to get prepared for the upcoming hurdles. One should undergo proper training with physical exercise like going for jogging and climbing the stairs daily to strengthen leg muscles.
2. Keeping the environment clean is mandatory so do not throw trash on and off the trail. Carry it along with you and dispose of it in the correct place.
3. Abstain from damaging and writing on trees and barks during the hike.
4. Be respectful of other fellow hikers as well. Keep the noise level to a minimum in every situation.
5. Show basic etiquettes and greet people while ascent or descent.
6. It is always better to plan the scheduled journey way before and then get prepared accordingly.
7. Set up your camp on durable resting grounds.
8. Minimize the campfire if staying overnight.
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It is an age-old saying that “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy”. Life today has come to a full circle where this saying can be easily integrated into everyday lives. The majority of people today work for flourishing sectors making them miss the wonderful aura which nature has within its kitty. So take a call and break free from the clutches of the 9-9 routine and indulge in mountaineering in Philippines. Not only will it surprise you but also show you what value real life holds. Plan a trip to the Philippines right away and travel the off-beaten path for it may have something which you secretly desire.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Mountaineering In Philippines
What are the best months to go mountaineering in the Philippines?
The months from November to February are the best for a hiking trip.
Can we go Mountaineering in the rainy and summer season?
No, as it is quite risky. During the rains, the slopes might be slippery causing a hazard to life and in summers the heat will soak up your body fluid making it dangerous to hike.
What is the most difficult mountain to climb?
Mt Apo is the most difficult mountain to climb and is also one of the oldest.
Does it snow in the Philippines?
No, as the Philippines is a tropical country and it is hard to find temperatures below freezing point here.
How many mountains are there in the Philippines?
There are over 10 mountains around 8,900 m above sea level.
What is the smallest mountain in the Philippines?
Mt Wycheproof is the smallest mountain in the country.
How long is the hike to Mt Pulag?
1-2 days on an average are required for the hike to complete.
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