The Philippines is known for its rich natural resources and magnificent landforms, so you can expect to witness soaring mountains and volcanoes during your trip. Mount Apo, a dormant stratovolcano, is the highest point of elevation in the country and is believed to have had no history of eruptions. This 9,692-ft-tall (2,954-m-tall) mountain comprises various landscapes and networks of trails, making it a great spot for experienced hikers. Meanwhile, the mountains in Rizal, such as Mount Sipit Ulang and Mount Kulis, are well-suited for budding climbers.
Adventure seekers who are after adrenaline-pumping activities will find this country a perfect spot for epic hiking trips. The golden rule in sustainable hiking is to leave no trace. Everything that you take to the mountains should be taken back home. Are you planning a hike soon and wondering where to go? Check out these top hiking trails in the Philippines.
1. Mount Pulag
Coined by the native tribes as the “playground of the gods,” Mount Pulag is argued to be the closest hikers can be to heaven - the place where land meets the sky. It is the highest peak in Luzon at 9,587 ft (2,922 m) above sea level.
This rugged mountain borders the provinces of Benguet, Ifugao, and Nueva Vizcaya. The mountainsides feature extremely steep slopes while rolling areas occupy the majority of the mountain peak. A large part of the mountain is designated as a National Park to preserve the environment.
Mount Pulag also has four primary trails: Ambangeg, Akiki, Tawangan, and Ambaguio. The 10.8-mi (17.4-km) out-and-back trails are easy to moderate, and most parts are walkable and trekkable. The challenge is that the route requires around 6 hours and 28 minutes to complete.
Mount Pulag
Address: near Kabayan, Benguet
Price: head to the starting point for more details regarding the environmental and entrance fees
Tip from Content Creator
Far from the mammoth crowd of Ambangeg trail, the blood leech infested trail of Tawangan has secrets that only the brave will try to unravel. This is one of the longest and undoubtedly the bloodiest of all the trails leading to the summit of Mt. Pulag, so be prepared before you try it.
Traveler's tips
Mt. Pulag will always be one of my favorite hikes here in the Philippines. The midnight call time and trek through dark trails eventually give way to open grasslands that look golden under the morning sun, 2,900+ meters above sea level. If you're lucky, you might even be greeted with a vast sea of clouds. But even without the clouds, the scenery is still glorious with the rest of the Gran Cordillera spread all around you. The last time we were here (February 2020, just before the outbreak), we were rained on so my friends and I are all looking forward to our "revenge climb" next year. ❤
(Picture taken back in March 2016, our first Pulag hike.)
2. Mount Tapyas
Travelers who are not very active but want to experience the delight of hiking will be enticed by the 721-step stairs to Mount Tapyas’ viewpoint. It takes around 40 minutes to reach the tip of the mountain at 535 ft (163 m) above sea level.
At the summit, you will be rewarded with panoramic views of Coron Island and the dreamy sun setting across the islands. There are many landings equipped with benches between the flight of stairs where you can rest. The best time to climb is during the sunset.
Mount Tapyas
Address: Coron, Palawan
Price: free admission
3. Mount Pinatubo
Are you looking for a hiking spot near the capital? Mount Pinatubo is an active stratovolcano at a tripoint boundary of the provinces of Pampanga, Zambales, and Tarlac. It is also about 55 mi (90 km) northwest of Manila.
Mount Pinatubo’s crown jewel is the magnificent crater lake, perched at the end of a two-and-a-half-hour hike. The best time to explore the wonders of this awe-inspiring landform is during the dry and summer season, from December to May.
If you wrap up the trek early, you can insert some relaxing side trips to nearby destinations to recuperate. Ease your sore joints and muscles in Pinatubo Spa Town and Bueno or Dolores Hot Springs.
Mount Pinatubo
Address: Botolan, Zambales
Price: you might need to pay an environmental fee at the start of the trek
Tip from Content Creator
The Delta-V trail might be the most challenging of all trails leading to Mount Pinatubo. But with such an amazing view from the crater rim, who cares if one would spend 15 hours just to witness this beauty from above? Still worth the long climb even if it's the second time around.
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
4. Batad-Banaue
The best way to explore the majestic UNESCO Heritage Site - Rice Terraces is on foot. Get away from the urban frenzy and find some serenity in Batad-Banaue. This hiking experience opens an opportunity for travelers to glimpse the beautiful culture and lifestyle of the Ifugaos in the traditional villages of Batad and Banaue. Trekkers can also splash around in the Tappiyah Falls to feel refreshed.
The hike duration is expected to last for around two hours. The best time to see the rice terraces in full glory is from August to November, while April to July is typically the planting season.
Batad-Banaue
Address: Batad-Banaue, Ifugao
Price: from 70 PHP (1.26 USD) (environmental fee)
5. Mount Masaraga
Soaring at 4,357 ft (1,328 m) above sea level is Mount Masaraga which takes around three hours to complete. It is part of the iconic “Magayon Trio,” alongside Mount Malinao and Mount Mayon. Although it is considered the smallest among the three, its feat is grueling and should never be underestimated.
The arduous experience will definitely be worthwhile as soon as you reach the summit. Moreover, this mountain is an excellent vantage point to marvel at the perfectly cone-shaped Mayon at an unobstructed level.
If you have spare time, you can visit the nearby lakes of Sumlang and Gabawa or the gorgeous cascades of Quitinday to cool down.
Mount Masaraga
Address: Ligao City, Albay
Tip from Content Creator
Take a few minutes to relax by the nearby Sumlang Lake after your hike. It's a 14-hectare (34.6-acre) artificial lake that is filled with lilies. You will enjoy watching the Philippines’ most popular active volcano, Mt. Mayon, from this vantage point. The lake is said to be the single body of water that can catch the perfect reflection of the famous volcano!
6. Mount Ulap
Ulap, when translated to English, means “cloud.” As the name suggests, Mount Ulap offers a one-of-a-kind chance to witness the sea of clouds. This slice of paradise settles in the Cordilleras and rises at an elevation of 6,056 ft (1,846 m). The jump-off point is at Ampucao, Itogon, about a 45-minute drive from Baguio, making it a super spot for a day hike. Moreover, trekkers can choose Sta Fe as their exit point.
The hike is typically around three to four hours, depending on your pacing. It is also recommended to begin hiking early in the morning and bringing packed meals and water is advised as the trail is relatively new and has no stores along the way. You can even set up tents at the campsite if you want to stay overnight.
Mount Ulap
Address: Itogon, Benguet
Price: from 100 PHP (1.80 USD) (registration fee)
Traveler's tips
In 2016, my friends and I had a camping adventure in the charming Itogon, Benguet. With its picturesque landscapes, lush forests, and breathtaking waterfalls, Itogon is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. It is renowned for its lush environment and rich mining history that adds a unique cultural dimension to the experience. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture, interact with the warm-hearted locals, and even try their hand at gold panning.
The best time to visit Itogon and indulge in a camping experience is during the dry season from November to April when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear.
7. Mount Batulao
Escape the city and bask in nature by spending a day at Mount Batulao. It is a sleeping stratovolcano in the region of Calabarzon, boasting a gorilla-shaped ridge line.
Mount Batulao has a height of 811 m (2,661 ft) above sea level. It has a total trail length of 7 mi (12 km) and takes around five to six hours to trek. The suggested start of the trek is in the early morning to avoid the scorching afternoon heat.
Further, you can access several rest stops dotting the mountain, offering light meals and beverages to replenish your energy.
Mount Batulao
Address: Nasugbo, Batangas
Price: head to the starting point for more details on the environmental and parking fees
8. Mount Daraitan
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Mount Daraitan offers a 2.9 mi (4.8-km) loop trail at the heart of the spectacular ranges of Sierra Madre. Its primary jump-off location is the village center of Daraitan in Tanay, Rizal. It also has a height of 2,424 ft (739 m) above sea level.
As you explore the lush mountains, you will pass along a tropical forest, limestone formations, age-old caves, and a river trek. It is also home to the crystal-clear Tinipak River, where you can enjoy a refreshing dip to beat the summer heat.
The entire hike takes over two hours to complete, but the poetic scenery of the Daraitan River and the partial views of the Laguna de Bay will definitely make up for the long trek.
Mount Daraitan
Address: Daraitan, Tanay
Price: head to the barangay hall for more information regarding the registration fee
9. Kibungan Circuit
This hiking circuit nestles in the peaceful mountain-top municipality of Kibungan. This picturesque setting is characterized by deep ravines, towering pine ridges, and a breezy atmosphere.
Most trails frame the vast expanse of the mountain, but Kibungan Circuit is one of the most popular and accessible, with two routes. The first route is an overnight hike to Mount Tagpaya, about 5,971 ft (1,820 m) above sea level. Moreover, you can extend your hike to even higher summits at the second route with trails of Mount Oten and Mount Tagpew.
The mountain has different points of elevation depending on your chosen peak, and the hiking duration varies as well. At the summit, you can take a breather and admire the scenic views of the mountains of Bakun and the province of Benguet.
Kibungan Circuit
Address: Kibungan, Benguet
Price: head to the starting point for more details regarding the environmental and registration fees
10. Mount Makiling
Mount Makiling is often associated with many local myths and folklore, and its enchanting beauty is one of the main reasons why. It makes an ideal spot for those who want to embark on a weekend hike, thanks to its proximity to Manila.
This beautiful stratovolcano stands at a height of 1,090 m (3,576 ft). The hike to the summit lasts for about five to six hours at a leisurely pace and with enough time to rest. You can grab some refreshments while recharging, such as coconut juice. After a hard-strength day, take the time to plunge into the sulfur-fed heated mud springs to soothe your senses.
Mount Makiling
Address: near Los Baños, Laguna
Price: head to Mount Makiling’s entrance gate for more information on the registration fee
Return the lovely favor to nature
Nothing compares to the sense of fulfillment upon reaching the peak of a mountain and catching the panoramic sights and golden sunrise underneath the sea of clouds. Boasting remarkable hiking trails spread across the lush mountains, the Philippines offers an action-packed yet rewarding hiking pursuit.
Nature has also never deprived people of anything, from breathtaking views to abundant natural resources, so it is just right to return the favor and take good care of its treasures. This can be done in a simple way—sustainable hiking.
For your next hiking excursion, consider these top hiking trails in the Philippines.
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