Major jumpoff: Brgy. San Andres, Tanay, Rizal
LLA: 645 MASL / 780 MASL
Days required / Hours to destination: 1 day /1.5h (Mapatag); 3-4 (Susong Dalaga Peak)
Specs: Minor climb, Difficulty 3/9, Trail class 1-3
Features: Grassland slopes, views of Laguna, Rizal, and Quezon

— Source: Pinoy Mountaineer

THE JOURNEY

We started to climb around 6 PM and thought that it would be an easy trek but it was not. The trail going to the first peak named as Duhatan Ridge which is the campsite was truly a difficult one. It was like a total ascent, the trail was really steep. Per our guide, there are three main stations where you can actually rest on the trail and there is also a store that opens as early as 4 AM near the campsite. One good thing about Mt. Batolusong is its water sources. There are actually three water sources in this mountain. One near Duhatan Ridge, another near Mapatag plateau and lastly near Kayibon falls. So if your stomach is not too sensitive, you can drink from it to help you lighten your backpack.

After almost two hours of climbing, we were able to reach the campsite. Note that you can either choose to camp at Duhatan Ridge or Mapatag plateau but it is recommended to camp at Duhatan Ridge because of the following reasons:
(1) near the store; (2) near the water source; (3) the best view of the sea of clouds. After setting up our tent, we had our dinner under the glimmering infinite number of stars in the sky. The feeling was very ecstatic with the thing we have just beheld.

It was around 4 AM when we started our trek to Mapatag Plateau and it took an hour to reach it. It was unfortunate that we were not able to witness the sea of clouds in Duhatan Ridge due to the strong winds from last night but nonetheless, it was still amazing to witness Mt Batolusong from a total darkness unfolding to its exquisiteness. We continued our climb to reach its third and highest peak which is the Rangyas Peak.

The changing color of the sky, the flowers that bloomed overnight, the city lights, the greenest grasses in the mountain that were turned into gold, it was indeed a wonderful scenery!

Kay-Ibon Falls

We descended at around 7 AM and took the route going to Kayibon falls. This is the most well-known side trip when climbing Mt. Batolusong. It took us roughly around 2 hours to reach the place and we were the first group to dip into the base of the falls and it was so satisfying! The trail going to the falls was absolutely easy! 

TIPS/REMINDERS:

1. Leave no trace policy (LNT). Always respect the mountain!
2. Bring a flashlight for overnight and for those who will start the trek at dawn.
3.  Bring at least 1 liter of water, get it refilled from the water sources in the mountain if your stomach is not that too sensitive since the water comes directly from the mountain.
4. Bring your packed lunch/dinner and trail food.
5. Bring extra clothes.
6.  From Kay-ibon falls, you can exit from there and wait for jeepney back to Cogeo.

1. From Cubao Aurora Blvd, ride a jeepney going to Cogeo. Drop off is at Cogeo Gate 2 or Cogeo public market.
2. Walk to  Cogeo City Mall and look for the jeepney terminal going to Barangay Sampaloc. Drop off is at Barangay San Andres or just tell the driver that you will climb Mt Batolusong.
3. Rent a tricycle will take you the jump off area.

1. From Kay-ibon Falls, hire a tricycle that will take you to the jeepney terminal bound to Cogeo. The fare is around 150-200 good for four. From there ride a jeepney for 30 pesos. (You can also wait from the highway for jeepney bound to Cogeo, but this is not advisable for big groups because most of these jeeps that passed by are already full.
2. From Cogeo Gate 2, there are already jeepneys that are bound to Araneta Cubao for 25 pesos.

Related Links:
MT. PULAG TRAVEL GUIDE
Hiking Guide for Beginners: Mt. Maculot (Rockies) 2017
230 pesos Hiking Guide to Mt. Balagbag 2017
500 pesos Dayhike Guide to Mt Batulao + Caleruega Church

FOLLOW OUR BUDGET FRIENDLY ADVENTURES THRU:

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MT. ULAP ECO-TRAIL Itogon, Benguet

Entry point:

Brgy. Ampucao, Itogon
Exit point: Brgy. Sta. Fe, Itogon
LLA: 16.2904 N, 120.6312 E, 1846 MASL (Mt. Ulap)
Days required / Hours to summit: 1 day / 2-3 hours
Specs: Difficulty 3/9, Trail class 1-3,
Features: Grassland and pine ridges, scenic views of the Cordilleras, burial caves
Source: Pinoy Mountaineer

Baguio City has always been  a great place to visit any time of the year because of its welcoming cold weather, beautiful scenery, unique and tasteful food and most especially the culture of the people up here. But beyond this place is a truly remarkable town that made headlines two years ago for the new discovery of mountain to hike. In the town of Itogon, Benguet, it houses the now most favored mountain for beginners, Mt Ulap.

WATCH OUR VIDEO

Mt. Ulap Eco-Trail is only a 45 to an hour of jeepney ride from Baguio and is nearer to some other hiking destinations like Mt. Ugo and Mt. Pulag. When you arrive at the jump off area, you will need to register at Barangay Hall manned by Barangay officials, secure a guide and pay the necessary fees.

The rewards of starting early is the stunning sunrise

The trail for this mountain is approximately 10 KM and it will take around 6 to 8 hours to finish depending on your pace. In our case, we started our adventure to Mt Ulap as early as 6AM taking a traverse day hike.

FLORA AND FAUNA

Pinit, an indigenous wild berry in Cordillera, are commonly seen along the trail. This wild berry is edible.

Mount Ulap Eco Trail is not considered a hard climb, but if you are a beginner, you could well find it challenging. The first part of the trail is almost a non-stop ascend. So better be ready! Be sure to watch your step as the trail is rocky and slippery so it is easy to end up with a twisted ankle or chaffed knee if you don’t focus.

There are six stations along the trail. The first one is Tomtombek, a gradual walk from the Barangay Hall to the metal welcome board showing the different stations and the beginning of the upward assault. The next station, Ambanao Paoay, a 1,788 mASL peak, is adorned with man-made stone stacks but to reach this, you must survive the almost non-stop ascent trail.

The Campsite commands jaw-dropping views across the mountains

Camping is allowed at the lower portion of this station. Also, along with this station, a portion of the San Roque Dam and Philex mining area can be seen.   For campers, the magical sunset and sunrise are often sought here.

Gungal Peak is the most popular spot on Mt Ulap. It is a must that you take a picture of it because of the stunning view made up of amazing rock formations, rolling canyons and often mesmeric cloud formations that linger atmospherically on and between the peaks. You have to be quick though as the officials of Mt Ulap have decided to limit taking pictures here for 10 seconds per person and this is especially enforced whenever a large number of people are hiking. Apparently, this is to ensure that everyone has the chance to take their photos. My friends and I had to wait for at least an hour since we went there on a weekend and the place was swarming with people!

Lots and lots of gratuitous photo ops for everyone

The Summit @ 1846 mASL

From Gungal Peak, it will take you at least an hour to reach the Summit. Once you reach it, you are rewarded with a splendid view of the Cordillera Mountain ranges. It is truly breathtaking and the cold breeze adds up to the total satisfaction.

At the top at last but still looking good and modest!

If you think going down is easy, think again! Going down is a tricky descent because of the steepness of the trail. Fortunately, locals have been kind enough to make a real effort for the tourists and have constructed a makeshift stairway.

Stairway from heaven

After an hour or so of knee numbing descent, you will be welcomed by the ‘infamous’ store up in the mountain, the Ministop/711. You can take a break here and recharge your energy. You can try ordering pancit canton and red rice for Php 40 only! From the Ministop store, it will only take you around an hour to finish the trail of Mt ulap.

Once you get a view of the hanging bridge you’ll know you made it to the finish line! You just survived Mt Ulap

The bridge swings a bit so watch out

How to get there?

Option 1: DIY Travel

• Ride a Victory Liner Bus from Cubao going to Baguio City.
• From Victory Bus Terminal in Baguio City, get a cab going to Baguio Center Mall (Jeepneys are located in Lakandula St. Adjacent to Magsaysay St.) where the Jeepney terminal going to Ampucao, Itogon, Benguet is located.
• From there, ride a jeepney bound to Ampucao, Itogon, Benguet. Tell the driver that you will climb Mt Ulap. Travel time: 45 minutes – 1 hour).
• Register and secure guide/s at Ampucao Barangay Hall.

Option 2: Join an organized Tour (search it thru Facebook or Google)

Tour Guide

Budget?

See below computation if you are planning a DIY travel. Please bear in mind that our calculations do not include food and expenses such as Pasalubong, Shower fee (20), Campsite fee (800 pesos for 10pax below) and Porter’s Fee (500 Day hike, 800 overnight)

NOTE: For DIY hike, be sure to make an advance reservation thru Mt. Ulap Facebook Page or you may contact Ms. Celine Palubos at +63018-2788-626 for any inquiry regarding Mt Ulap.

Option 2: Travel Tours

Mt Ulap is now one of the favored mountains in the Cordillera Administrative Region alongside with Mt Pulag and Mt Ugo. Since it has become a hit, tour agencies and individuals alike have been offering tours to Mt Ulap for as low as Php 800. You can find them with a Google or Facebook search.

Reminders

• This mountain is recommended for beginners.
• Don’t leave any of your rubbish behind and leave the countryside as you find it. LEAVE NO TRACE POLICY!
• Closing of registration at Ampucao Barangay Hall is 2:00PM. So complete your registration before lunch as the offices close at 2PM.
• Bring at least 2L of water.
• Packed your lunch and eat at Gungal Peak or at the summit.
• The hike takes about 1.5 – 3 hours to get to the mountain’s Gungal Rock depending on your pace.
• Bring enough hydration. Don’t forget your raincoats and windbreakers as it usually rains on this mountain due to its high elevation.
• Expect rain during monsoon season (June-February).
• You can join organized hiking events online to save time and cut on costs.

If you are going to stay in Baguio for dinner and you want to get away from the more well known and crowded restaurants, try Cafe Will near Children’s Park at Burnham, Ina Mansion or just beside the Himaya Spa. This restaurant is very good value and might even been called a ‘fine dining’ restaurant and bar depending on what you are used to! They serve great Asian, American and Italian dishes at affordable prices and the serving sizes are very generous and could be considered more than enough for 2-4 people. 

Budget: 250-300/person

MORE SIDE TRIPS:
Top 25 Tourist Spots in Baguio 2017

Related Links:
MT. PULAG TRAVEL GUIDE
600 pesos Dayhike Guide to Mt. Daraitan + Tinipak River
500 pesos Dayhike Guide to Mt Batulao + Caleruega Church
Hiking Guide for Beginners: Mt. Maculot (Rockies) 2017
230 pesos Hiking Guide to Mt. Balagbag 2017

FOLLOW OUR BUDGET FRIENDLY ADVENTURES THRU:

The post Mt. Ulap Traverse Day Hike appeared first on byajayro.

Location: Cuenca, Batangas
Elevation: Rockies (706 Masl); Summit (930 Masl)
Difficulty: 4/9
Guide: Mandatory/Required

I have always been wanting to climb the infamous Mt Maculot located at Cuenca Batangas ever since I have seen the picturesque view from its summit– overlooking Taal Lake including the renowned Taal volcano. Just this weekend, I have been able to visit this mountain and it was undeniably beautiful, indeed!

Climbing this mountain requires great endurance as its trail is a never-ending ascent. Along the way, there are stores where you can buy something that can cleanse your thirst or something you can chew on. However, most of these stores seldom open on a weekday. 

The 7/11 of Mt. Maculot!

After one and a half hour of trekking, we finally reached the campsite. From there, it will only take you about fifteen minutes to go to the Rockies. Please take extra care when you want to have a photo in the famous spot at the Rockies because a wrong move might cause you your life.

Sidetrip

After your exhausting yet invigorating hike, you would want to visit the biggest catholic church in Asia, the Taal Church, which is just a jeepney away from Cuenca. No entrance fee except if you want to explore the bell tower, it will cost you 50 pesos.

You may also want to try Don Juan, a boodle-fight restaurant near Taal church. 

DISCLAIMER: I thought the serving was big because the price is high and it was advertised as good for 6persons. We ordered the Inihaw Boodle for 1199 but to my disappointment, it wasn’t what I expected. They also have a service charge of 6 to 8%.

So there you go, another fun filled adventure has been experienced. Thank you guys for the company til’ our next adventure!

How to get there?

From Cubao or Buendia, ride a bus (Jam Liner) that is bound to Lemery and tell the conductor to drop you off at Cuenca, Batangas.

At Cuenca, hire a tricycle that will take you to the registration area and at the jump off point.

Sidetrip at Taal. How to get there?

At Cuenca, ride a jeep bound to Lemery and tell the driver to drop you off at Simbahan (Taal Church).

Going back to Metro Manila?

w/out sidetrip

: You can wait at Cuenca for buses bound for Metro Manila. Just cross from the other side of the road at the drop off point.
w/ side trip

: From Taal Church, ride a jeepney and tell the driver to drop you off at Flying V gasoline station, from there wait for buses that are bound to Metro Manila.

Tips/Reminders:

Food is available at the jump off point (Mondays to Sundays). ** They have Silog menu and Lomi for 40pesos per order The stores along the trail seldom open during weekdays. So if you plan to climb during weekdays, bring food. Otherwise, your only option is the food available at the jump off point. A guide is required. When in the Rockies, be mindful of your footsteps to avoid untoward incident. There’s a CR at the campsite. Respect other mountaineers.

As always, LEAVE NO TRACE POLICY

IMPORTANT NOTE:
Itinerary depends on your preferences whether you only want a day hike or an overnight camping. Also, it will depend on either you go for traverse or not. In addition, the expenses listed below is for fare only. I have excluded the food expense since this expense will depend on you.

Related post:
MT. PULAG HIKING GUIDE
230 pesos Hiking Guide to Mt. Balagbag 2017
600 pesos Dayhike Guide to Mt. Daraitan + Tinipak River
500 pesos Dayhike Guide to Mt Batulao + Caleruega Church
500 pesos Dayhike Guide to Mt. Batolusong + Kay-ibon Falls 

FOLLOW OUR BUDGET FRIENDLY ADVENTURES THRU:

The post Hiking Guide for Beginners: Mt. Maculot (Rockies) 2021 appeared first on byajayro.

Location: Nasugbo Batangas Elevation: 811+ MASL Difficulty: 4/9

Guide: Not Required

Life gets more of its flavor from the adventures we get to experience- from a simple trip to somewhere where we can have the serenity we have been looking for and just like any other human being in this world who loves to explore the beauty of nature, once again, we climbed another beautiful mountain.

Mt Batulao is  2-3 hours away from Manila that has been tagged as one of the most famous hiking destinations for enthusiasts that offers a magnificent view of provinces of Batangas and Cavite.

THE JOURNEY

There are two trails to choose from when climbing this mountain namely the New Trail and the Old Trail wherein these two can be combined for a traverse hike. The Old trail consists of 10 peaks to the summit while the New trail consists of 12.

We went for a traverse hike and decided to take the OLD-NEW trail and started trekking around 5:30AM.

Peak 1 (Longest trail among the 12 peaks)

It took us roughly around an hour to reach peak 1 since the trail from jump-off to peak 1 is the longest. From peak 1, you’ll get pass peak 2 to 7 without any difficulties. However, starting from peak 7 going to peak 10 which is the summit, it required us to double our effort because it is from here where the steepness of the trail becomes burdensome.

Photo taken at Peak 7. This is the starting point where the difficulty of the trail is leveled up.

After almost three (3) hours of trekking, we were able to reach the summit and was welcomed by a very breathtaking scenery.

SIDE TRIP

After your hike, you may want to visit the most iconic and popular Chapel for weddings in Tagaytay, the Caleruega Church.

HOW TO GET THERE?

 ride a bus from Cubao or Buendia bound to Batangas and tell the conductor to drop you off at Hillcrest or tell him that you will climb Mt. Batulao. The fare is 111/way if you’re coming from Buendia. From there, hire a tricycle that will bring you to the jump-off point for 100pesos.

 SIDE TRIP: Hire a tricycle at the jump-off point that will take you to the Chruch for (80-100 pesos good for four). 

REMINDERS/TIPS:

• You can opt not to hire a guide since it is not required. However, if you are alone or a beginner, it is better to hire a guide. Guide fee is 500 pesos
• Registration fees will be paid along the way to the summit and back to the jump-off point for 10, 20 and 30 for a total of 60 pesos.
• Better to camp at Old Trail’s campsite since its located at the lower part of the mountain which means strong winds at night can be avoided. In addition, the trail NEW-OLD is easier compared to the OLD-NEW trail.
• If you have extra money to spare, then you can visit Caleruega Church as a side trip.

Related Links:
MT. PULAG TRAVEL GUIDE
Hiking Guide for Beginners: Mt. Maculot (Rockies) 2017
230 pesos Hiking Guide to Mt. Balagbag 2017
500 pesos Dayhike Guide to Mt. Batolusong + Kay-ibon Falls

FOLLOW OUR BUDGET FRIENDLY ADVENTURES THRU:

The post 500 pesos Dayhike Guide to Mt Batulao + Caleruega Church appeared first on byajayro.

Rizal province is undoubtedly one of the most favored places to visit for mountaineers. It is a perfect place for beginners to celebrate their first mountain hike since it is in here where you can find the right mountain to climb based on your specifications. Aside from the beautiful mountains, the province of Rizal also offers unspoiled rivers and waterfalls as well as impressive rock formations inside those century old caves.

One of the mountains in Rizal that is considered a favorite is Mt. Daraitan. It is categorized with a difficulty of 4 out of 9 and it offers a scenic view of the Sierra Madre and the ever-bustling Tinipak river.

THE JOURNEY

We started our trip to Mt. Daraitan and Tinipak River a little passed 4AM. At around 6AM, we reached our destination which was at the Jollibee Tanay. From here, many tricycle drivers are waiting and will offer a ride going to Barangay Daraitan.

The fare is fixed at 500 pesos and the trike can accommodate up to 6 persons. Banca Transfer Fee is Php 5 per way

After more than an hour of the bumpy ride, we transferred to a banca to cross a river and rode another tricycle going to Brgy. Daraitan Barangay Hall where the major jump-off point is located. We reached the Barangay Hall around 8AM.

The guides in Barangay Daraitan are well organized. Before we started our adventure, our guide, Kuya Melvin, provided us an orientation to discuss the pros and cons of the hike.

We immediately started our trek after the orientation as our feet were too hungry to conquer this mountain. The first part of the trek appeared to be just fine that made us think that it was an easy hike but it was a big mistake to think that way! The trail going to the summit was almost a total ascent plus the difficulty doubled due to the muddiness of trail brought by yesterday’s rainfall.

We were on an almost non-stop climb up to the summit. We passed Camp 1 and rested for awhile and immediately got back to our trek passing camp 2 and eventually reaching camp 3. The longest of these was the trek going to camp 1 and it was the most difficult part of the trek.

THE SUMMIT

Finally, after almost 3 hours of trekking we eventually reached the summit and what else can we say, it was a total beauty! The Sierra Madre Range is so mesmerizing plus the natural rock formation on the summit made it all perfect.

SIDE TRIP

We took a different route, traversing to Tinipak River. The difficulty tripled! It was too slippery plus the trail going down was too demanding and you really need to be extra careful to avoid getting slipped and hurt your precious butt with that hard and pointed limestone.

If your shoes looks like this, no worries! You can wash the mud off at Tinipak River.

After more than 2 hours of trekking down, we reached Tinipak River. It was a perfect way to end our hiking, dipping into its cold water.

Inside the cave.

HOW TO GET THERE?

Ride an FX at Starmall Crossing and tell the driver to drop you off at Jollibee Tanay. From there, hire a tricycle that will take you to Brgy Daraitan (be prepared for an adventurous ride since the way is a rough uphill road).

TIPS/REMINDERS

1. Leave no trace policy.
2. The first trip of UV Express going to Tanay is at 4AM just in front of Starmall Shaw.
3. Take with you at least 2 liters of water, trail food, and your packed lunch.
4. Bring extra clothes.
5. Be more cautious when you are in Tinipak River especially if you plan to swim because the underwater current is strong.
6. Take a jeepney when going back to town proper, it is safer than hiring a tricycle.

Related Links:
MT. PULAG TRAVEL GUIDE
Hiking Guide for Beginners: Mt. Maculot (Rockies) 2017
230 pesos Hiking Guide to Mt. Balagbag 2017
500 pesos Dayhike Guide to Mt. Batolusong + Kay-ibon Falls 
500 pesos Dayhike Guide to Mt Batulao + Caleruega Church

FOLLOW OUR BUDGET FRIENDLY ADVENTURES THRU:

The post 600 pesos Dayhike Guide to Mt. Daraitan + Tinipak River appeared first on byajayro.

It was a one fine Saturday morning when I decided to visit Mt. Balagbag located at Licao-licao, Rodriguez Rizal. At first, I was hesitant because that was my first time to hike a mountain alone but my adventurous spirit told me that I can do it even if it is just me. So I packed my things in a hurry and just like one click of the remote control to change the channel of the TV, I was there standing at the jeepney terminal bound to Licao-licao where my climb to the summit of Mt. Balagbag will soon start.

The Journey

This mountain is a good climb for a beginner. The trail is very wide and is easy to follow, you’ll never worry about getting lost. Though it still requires a deal of stamina especially during rainy season. For less than two hours, I was able to reach the summit welcoming me with this amazing view.

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Related post:
MT. PULAG HIKING GUIDE
Hiking Guide for Beginners: Mt. Maculot (Rockies) 2017

When I was enjoying the view up to the summit, the clouds gathered and boom! Heavy rain fell. In less than an hour of “tampisaw sa ulan” experience, the rain stopped and it made me speechless to witness the magnificent view from the top. The green golden grass field, the sun, the clouds, the trees, everything!

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Mt Balagbag is not only great at daytime but rather equally beautiful at night because it gives you a magnificent view of what a city light is.  Just make sure to bring a jacket or something that will keep yourself warm when you plan to camp up there.

Surely, this won’t be my last climb here. All is well that ends well. Cheers to more adventures!

It’s more fun in the Philippines!

Thanks to Daniel and Regina, new found pals for the coffee, the ride, and meaningful life lessons.

How to get there?

• From Edsa, ride a bus going to Tungko. Just look for buses that have the signage “Tungko.”Tell the conductor to drop you off at Jollibee Tungko or BDO which is just a few meters away from Jollibee. At the back of BDO is the jeepney terminal bound to Licao-licao.

1. Leave no trace policy as always. Respect the mountain!
2. Bring packed lunch or dinner/Trail food
3. 2 liters of water
4. You can also bring some kiddie food for the children along your way up to the summit.
5. Always bring extra clothes, umbrella, and extra money.
6. Personal meds
7. A guide is not required since the trail is easy. You can also ask the locals if you’re in the right way up to the summit. Traversing to Mt. Maranat is “allowed” by the locals but as per the advisory from DENR, Mt. Maranat will be temporarily closed for rehabilitation.
8. Tricycle going to Brgy Hall (optional)
   • Solo= Php. 60 (for me I opted not to ride a trike going to Brgy hall. I started my trek after I get off the jeep and I discovered that it will only take you at least 30 minutes to reach the Brgy hall where you will register and pay a fee of 10 pesos and I recommend that you start from here.)

Related post:
MT. PULAG HIKING GUIDE
Hiking Guide for Beginners: Mt. Maculot (Rockies) 2017

 FOLLOW OUR BUDGET FRIENDLY ADVENTURES THRU:

The post 230 pesos Hiking Guide to Mt. Balagbag 2017 appeared first on byajayro.

MT. GULUGOD-BABOY Anilao, Mabini, Batangas

Jump-off point: Philpan Dive Resort, Anilao, Mabini

LLA: 13°42’55″N; 120°53’43″E; 525 MASL
Days required / Hours to summit: Half-day / 1-2 hours
Specs: Minor climb, Difficulty 2/9, Trail class 1-2
Features: Scenic views of Batangas Bay and Balayan Bay
Source: Pinoy Mountaineer

Mount Pinagbanderahan or widely known as Mount Gulugod Baboy is a hidden paradise of Southern Batangas that is only three hours away from Manila and features the scenic views of Batangas and Balayan Bay, magnificent rolling hills and a beautiful grassland. This mountain stands 525 meters above sea level and takes at least an hour of a trek to reach its peak.

The Journey

The welcoming trail of Mt Gulugod Baboy is an uphill walk and is considered to be the most challenging part of the hike because you will need to trek on an elevated cemented road plus in our case, under the heat of the afternoon sun.

Once you passed this part of the trek, the trail to the summit becomes fairly easy because it will only take a gradual trekking without the steep assaults. Along the way, you will pass by homes where you can take a rest and have some refreshment.

After you reach the summit, you will notice that there is no designated area as a campsite that is why you can choose where to pitch your tent. Note that the higher you pitch your tent, the better the view especially during night time because you will have a view of city lights. However, the higher the area, the stronger the winds at the same time. So you better choose wisely where you would want to camp!

A store is available near the campsite and also a restroom for your necessities. You can have your breakfast here as they offer goods that are affordable enough. Also, they have  Buko (Young coconut) in case you like to taste fresh coconut while enjoying the picturesque view of your surrounding.

After an almost two hours of trekking, we were welcomed by the beauty of this mountain! The magnificent 360-degree view of the ocean surrounding the town and the grassland that gives the New Zealand vibe was indeed worth the exhaustion.

Second peak of Mt. Gulugod Baboy and parts of Balayan Bay!

Later in the afternoon, we were able to witness a very beautiful sunset. The blue sky turned into an orange like pastel color. We were really speechless during this time and it is truly remarkable how nature works.

Spectacular sunset at Mt. Gulugod Baboy overlooking Maricaban and Sombrero Island

The next day, it was already past seven in the morning when we woke up and thought that we have missed the sunrise but once we got out of our tent, we were surprised that our surroundings are still covered with fog.

It was around eight o’clock in the morning when there was a clearing at the summit. The fog was eventually swept away by the cold breeze and once again, the beauty of the mountain unfolds before our eyes.

At Summit of Mt. Pinagbanderahan. With parts of Balayan Bay and first peak of Gulugod Baboy on the background.

TRIVIA: Gulugod-Baboy is the general term to describe the trail traversing Calumpang Peninsula. It is also named as such because the contours of the hills are closely alike to a “pig’s spine.”

SIDE TRIP

After an exhausting hike, we opted to take a dip in the ocean. We choose Philpan Dive Resort which is just a minute walk from the registration area. There are many resorts near the jump-off point and most of these resorts have an entrance fee of Php 100.

If you have more money to spare, you can also opt to visit the famous Sombrero Island, a white sand beach in a small island (you can actually see this island when you are at the summit). It will cost you boat rental of Php 2,800 good for 10 people and a Php 200 entrance fee.

Masasa Beach

At Anilao port, wait for public passenger boats to arrive. Usual time of the first trip is at 10:00 AM. However, boats depart as early as 7 AM as long as the boats are filled with enough passengers. The boat ride takes around 45minutes.

At Tingloy port, ride a tricycle going to Masasa Beach. The tricycle will drop you off at the nearest point going to the beach. Thus, you will need to walk for at least 15-20 minutes to arrive at Masasa Beach shoreline.

Masasa Beach Travel Guide

How to get there?

• Ride a bus bound to Batangas Grand Terminal. Buses are available in Cubao or at LRT Buendia. (Cubao- Php 165, Buendia Php 157)
• Once at Batangas GT, ride a jeep bound to Anilao. Drop off is at Philpan-Mabini junction or just inform the driver that you will climb Mt Gulugod Baboy and he will know where to drop you off. (Fare is Php 37)
• Ride a tricycle going to the registration area. (Fare 120 one tricycle good for four)

1. Always LEAVE NO TRACE POLICY, Please!
2. Bring your packed food.
3. There is a store and CR located near the summit. They sell cup noodles, coffee and an all-time favorite, Buko!
4. If you don’t like to trek going down, you can hire a tricycle near the store for Php 250 going to Mabini Town or Php 500 back to the registration area.
5. A guide is not required. If you opt to, you can hire one for Php 500.

Related Links:
MT. PULAG TRAVEL GUIDE
600 pesos Dayhike Guide to Mt. Daraitan + Tinipak River
500 pesos Dayhike Guide to Mt Batulao + Caleruega Church
Hiking Guide for Beginners: Mt. Maculot (Rockies) 2017
230 pesos Hiking Guide to Mt. Balagbag 2017
Mt. Ulap Traverse Day Hike

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