As many know, mountain climbing is a challenging and yet enjoyable recreational activity. As the highest mountain in Luzon is famous for its sea of clouds, Mt. Pulag and attracts a lot of mountain climbers. Majestic Mt. Pulag is the highest peak at 2,926 meters above sea level. The third highest mountain in the Philippines next to Mt.Apo and Mt.Dulang dulang.It is also a dormant volcano. The borders between the provinces of Benguet, Ifugao and Nueva Ecija. It has one of the richest biodiversity in the country, having vast forests, full of pines, moss, and grass. A mountain worth climbing, both for its challenging trails and its natural beauty.A perfect climb for every hiker from amateur to professional.
Mt.Pulag is the most breathtaking sights in our country and definitely a haven for nature lovers. It is literally closest to heaven that mountain enthusiasts can get. As they say, it is known as the “playground of the Gods”. At the peak, you will enjoy the beautiful scenery of the sunrise and sea of clouds. Much better if you go there before sunset to witness the enchanted light of the milky way and take a glimpse of stars in our galaxy.
The cool weather in Mt.Pulag is refreshing, but if you are not prepared the weather will become a great burden because temperatures have been recorded to reach zero or subzero levels. But with proper preparation, the cold weather is quite an experience. The mountain’s coldest months are from December to February.
There are four major trails up the summit: the easy Ambangeg trail, the challenging Akiki the hardest thrill, Tawangan trails from Benguet has the thickest rainforest and the Ambaguio trail from Nueva Vizcaya is the longest. These trails are managed by the Mt. Pulag National Park, under the DENR.
Camping on the mountain is definitely a rewarding experience; you will constantly be surrounded by jaw-dropping views and embraced by the mountains cool air.Mt.Pulag offers climbers the thrill, fun, and reward they deserve. Camping is allowed only in designated campsites. There are campsites on this trail before the peak. Campsite 1 is too near to the ranger station, so it’s not so much used. Campsite 2 is approximately 2km before the peak and it’s a favorite campsite. There is a good freshwater source here. Campsite 3 is just under the peak. It’s again a preferred campsite. All campsites are equipped with toilets.
Note that hikers should bring their own camping stoves and cooking utensils. Campfire is not allowed in the park. All hikers shall keep the parking area clean and sanitary at all. Shall be responsible to bring their own trash and garbage whenever they leave the parking area. As for food, you must bring some with you as there are limited goods near the park. Bigger groups are advised to purchase in Baguio City as the stores cannot cater to bigger groups.
Things to Bring
>gallons of water
>flashlights or headlights
>sleeping bags and sleeping mat
>backpack
>snacks for the hike
>thermal gloves, scarf, bonnet/cap
>thermal socks and thermal blanket
>eating utensils
>camera
>mini stove/butane gas
>rain gear
>clothes for layering
>preferably rain-proof jacket, rainproof pants, rainproof everything
>hiking shoes
>first aid and medicines
>extra footwear
>toiletries
>lots of plastic
>tent
IMPORTANT REMINDER
Please be informed that a Medical Certificate is required for all hikers as a policy of the DENR. The medical certificate must indicate that the hikers are “fit to hike” or “fit to do physical activities”.
A requirement before going through the hike: a brief stop at the DENR station.Mt.Pulag is a protected area so by all means, listen, follow and respect nature as it is.
How to get there?
From Manila, you can opt to ride a bus bound for Baguio or hire your group’s own van for more flexibility in your schedule. From Baguio City, take a monster jeepney to Kabayan, Benguet, where the DENR Visitor’s Center is located. Travel time is about three hours from Baguio City.