Mt. Maculot Hiking Guide for Beginners 2024

I had always dreamed of climbing the infamous Mt. Maculot located in Cuenca, Batangas, ever since I first laid eyes on the picturesque view from its summit – overlooking the stunning Taal Lake and the renowned Taal volcano. Just this past weekend, I finally had the opportunity to visit this majestic mountain, and it was undeniably beautiful, exceeding all my expectations.

Climbing Mt. Maculot requires great endurance, as its trail is a never-ending ascent. Along the way, hikers can find stores where they can purchase refreshments to quench their thirst or snacks to fuel their journey. However, it’s important to note that most of these stores are seldom open on weekdays.

As an author and avid adventurer, I relished the challenge that Mt. Maculot presented. The grueling ascent tested my physical limits, but the breathtaking scenery and the sense of accomplishment upon reaching each milestone made every step worth it.

After an exhilarating one and a half hour trek, we finally reached the campsite. From there, it was only a short fifteen-minute hike to the Rockies, a famous spot renowned for its stunning vistas. However, I must caution fellow hikers to exercise extreme caution when attempting to capture photographs at the Rockies, as a single misstep could have dire consequences.

Sidetrip: A Taste of History and Culinary Delights

After our exhausting yet invigorating hike, we decided to embark on a side trip to the Taal Church, the largest Catholic church in Asia, which is just a jeepney ride away from Cuenca. While there is no entrance fee for the church itself, visitors who wish to explore the bell tower must pay a nominal fee of 50 pesos.

Feeling famished after our adventure, we ventured to Don Juan, a boodle-fight restaurant near the Taal Church. I must admit, I had high expectations for this establishment, as it was advertised as a good option for groups of six and boasted a relatively high price point. We ordered the Inihaw Boodle for 1199 pesos, but to my disappointment, the serving size did not live up to the hype. Additionally, the restaurant charges a service fee of 6 to 8%, which further dampened our experience.

Despite the minor letdown at the restaurant, our adventure was an overall success, filled with unforgettable memories and breathtaking vistas. I am grateful for the company of my fellow adventurers, and I eagerly anticipate our next thrilling escapade.

Getting There:

From Cubao or Buendia, take a Jam Liner bus bound for Lemery and inform the conductor to drop you off at Cuenca, Batangas. Upon arrival in Cuenca, hire a tricycle to transport you to the registration area and the jump-off point.

Sidetrip to Taal:

To visit the Taal Church, ride a jeepney from Cuenca bound for Lemery and request the driver to drop you off at Simbahan (Taal Church).

Returning to Metro Manila:

If you’re not planning a side trip, you can wait at Cuenca for buses bound for Metro Manila. Simply cross to the other side of the road from the drop-off point.

If you’ve included the side trip, take a jeepney from Taal Church and ask the driver to drop you off at the Flying V gasoline station, where you can catch buses bound for Metro Manila.

Tips and Reminders:

• Food is available at the jump-off point from Mondays to Sundays, including Silog menu items and Lomi for 40 pesos per order.
• The stores along the trail seldom open during weekdays, so if you plan to climb during the week, bring your own food. Otherwise, your only option will be the food available at the jump-off point.
• A guide is required for this hike.
• When at the Rockies, be mindful of your footsteps to avoid any untoward incidents.
• There is a restroom facility available at the campsite.
• Respect fellow mountaineers and practice the “Leave No Trace” policy.

Important Note: Your itinerary and expenses may vary depending on your preferences, such as whether you opt for a day hike or overnight camping, and whether you choose to do a traverse or not. The expenses listed below are for fares only and do not include food costs, as those will depend on your personal preferences.

Summary of Expenses: Bus from Cubao (Jam Liner) to Cuenca: PHP 155 Round-trip tricycle fare: PHP 40 Registration Fee: PHP 20 Guide Fee (PHP 400 divided by 4 people): PHP 100 Jeepney from Cuenca to Taal Church: PHP 27 Jeepney from Taal Church to Flying V: PHP 8 Bus from Flying V to Boni: PHP 170 Total: PHP 520.