Top 10 Hiking Places In The Philippines

The Philippines is a widely recognized touring destination for several reasons. Aside from its famous beaches, the country boasts many elevated mountains overlooking green, scenic landscapes. With over 7,000 islands, the country is not short of offering breathtaking hiking spots for tourists to indulge in. Guests should consider checking out the top 10 hiking places in the Philippines for guests who enjoy trekking and viewing the great natural surroundings.

Top 10 Hiking Places in the Philippines

Did you know that the Philippines has over 3,142 named mountain summits? These mountains are formed by various oceanic plates, resulting in the country having such a vast mountain range. Today, many mountain and natural locations have become popular hiking spots. Here are some of the most famous spots you should visit:

Mount Batulao

Located just 87 km from Manila, Mount Batulao is a local favorite suited for first-time hikers and trekking enthusiasts alike. The location is one of Batangas’s most popular hiking spots thanks to its moderate terrain that oversees smaller and vividly green mountaintops.

Upon hiking onto the top, you will be greeted by the view of many coastal towns. The trek takes about 8 hours, which gives you more than enough time to take in the atmosphere and admire the view. The trail also offers refreshing winds to cool you down, offering relief from the sun’s glare despite the absence of shading trees. After the trip, you might as well try some of the best vacation spots in the Philippines for another type of relaxation.

Mount Daraitan

Many guests consider Mount Daraitan one of Rizal’s best hiking spots. This spot is perfect for those wanting a full-depth experience of the outdoors. The trail can be around moderate to difficult terrain but can be completed within a day. The summit is over 600 meters above sea level and is perfect for overnight hiking. When you reach the tip, you will have a great view of the Sierra Madre mountain peaks and nearby waterfalls.

Mount Sipit Ulang

Mount Sipit Ulang is a popular Rizal tourist spot located about 38 km away from Manila City. Standing at 252 meters above sea level, it offers breathtaking views of caves, forests, and probably the best scenic waterfalls. As you hike along the limestone trails, you will be greeted by majestic rock formations. You can stop by Payaran Falls and wade in its refreshing waters if you need a break.

Mount Maculot

Mount Maculot is a perfect spot for first-time hikers due to its friendly trail and elevated view. Deemed by many as one of the best mountains to hike, the mountain is known to have three destinations, with most travelers choosing to journey towards the Rockies. On the way, you will encounter several spots to rest right before reaching the top.

Upon reaching the top, you will be rewarded with a wide, scenic view of Taal Lake, making the spot more popular among tourists. Here, guests can take pictures, record videos, or enjoy the view and enjoy the clear air.

Mount Pinatubo

Mount Pinatubo is a well-known hiking destination that provides visitors with a relatively easy trek despite its massive size. The mountain is situated about 90 km away from Manila and used to stand at 1,460 m before its eruption in 1991. You can witness the unparalleled beauty of Mt. Pinatubo, which offers breathtaking views of the Green Place. Here, guests can enjoy the lush landscape and a mesmerizing 360-degree perspective of its ever-changing crater lake.

Mount Pulag

Being the highest peak in Luzon, Mount Pulag is one of the country’s most marvelous hiking spots. The climbing difficulty of this spot is moderately difficult, usually taking about 5 hours each way, making it ideal for more seasoned hikers. However, once you make it to the mountaintop, you will receive an exhilarating reward in the form of a sea of clouds.

Mount Pico De Loro

Guests will have their form of vibrant rewards should they hike across Mount Pico De Loro. The trail can be challenging for any beginner as it can be steep and slippery at some point, depending on the season. Experienced hikers should also exercise caution. After the hike, guests will stand just below Cavite’s highest peak.

Tarak Ridge

Are you feeling more daring or up for a more challenging hike? Then, the Taarak Ridge is one of the top 10 hiking places in the Philippines for novice and experienced tourists. The location offers several spots for you and your companions to enjoy and relax along the hike if they are not looking for a race. After hiking to the top, you will be rewarded with a beautiful panoramic view with a stunning view of Manila Bay.

The Masungi Georeserve

Masunagi Georeserve is a nature conservation spot located 47 km from Manila. This place is ideal not just for hiking but also for many outdoor activities. Guests can rely on the provided ropes as their guide while they hike on the location’s trail. The rope ensures visitors’ safety during their journey due to the area being challenging, especially during specific seasons.

The area’s most visited attraction is its metal netting, which resembles a giant spiderweb suspended above the limestone formation. You can enjoy a 360-degree view of the Sierra Mountain range by checking out the top.

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Mount Apo

Topping out the recommendation is the highest mountain in all of the Philippines. Mount Apo stands almost 3,000 meters tall and is recognized by all for its thick moss-covered trails and surface. This destination is a popular hiking spot among both international and local tourists. Although the journey can be challenging, the breathtaking countryside views waiting at the top make it all worthwhile.

Closing Thoughts

The top 10 hiking places in the Philippines define some of the highest peaks within the country and the spots that offer the best views at an elevated level. Mountain areas are ideal hiking spots not just because of the mountain but also because of the environment and surroundings. The entire environment should succeed in offering breathtaking views that are hard for anyone to forget.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the best hiking places in the Philippines:

What is the hardest climb in the Philippines?

Many mountains are deemed too difficult to climb, including Mount Guiting-Guting. This mountain in Romblon is one of the highest, taking up to 4 days to summit.

What is the highest mountain in the Philippines for hiking?

Mount Apo is the highest mountain in the Philippines, making it the tallest peak to hike. Numerous seasoned hikers challenge themselves to climb this mountain to add it to their list of accomplishments.