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Mountain in the Philippines By LemuelSalibio –

10 most beautiful mountains to hike in Philippines

The Philippines is known for its divine white sand beaches and tropical islands. Luckily for adventure seekers and hike enthusiasts the country also has plenty of mountains. The Philippine archipelago is tucked within the ‘Pacific Ring of Fire’ with it being above the equator. It has volcanoes and mountains around the three main island groups of Luzon, Visayas etc. 

For a fun-filled vacation in the Philippines, hiking should be on the bucket list. Apart from conquering the highest peaks in the country, the Philippines offers stunning mountain views, golden sunsets, and panoramic sunrise views . Here’s a list of the 10 most beautiful mountains to hike in the Philippines to help you plan your adventure.

1. Kanlaon (Negros)

Kanlaon Volcano, Negros Occidental By Paolobon140 –

Known as the highest mountain in the Visayas mainland, Mt. Kanlaon stands majestically in Negros Island. It’s the 4th largest island in the Philippines with its peak stands 2,435 meters above sea level. It is ranked as a class 4  trail with up to 4 days climb, according to Pinoy Mountaineer.

The best part of the mountain is the impressive lunar-shaped crater at its summit. Moreover it has lush forests, lagoons, and waterfalls it also serves as a biodiversity haven with 200 species of flora. Furthermore, its home to various endangered species, including the Philippine spotted deer and the Visayan Warty Pig.

Both intermediate-level hikers and pro hikers can attempt to go up to the summit. The trail is difficult to traverse, mainly because of the high probability of encountering extreme weather conditions. All said and done the hike up is totally worth it!

2. Kabunian (Benguet)

Mt. Kabunianis a mystical mountain part of the Bakun Trilogy, alongside Mt. Lubo and Mt. Tenglawan in Bakun town, Benguet. It’s rocky mountainside was used as a burial place and still has wooden coffins hanging on the cliffside. The majestic mountain rises over 1,789 meters above sea level with breathtaking views.

In addition to the mountains beauty, it also transforms into a crying mountain during the rainy season as the waterfalls cascade down the verdant landscape. The Bakun trio is usually climbed in an average of 3 days to maximize the trip. Each has a minor climb classification, 5/9 difficulty rating, and between trail classes 1 to 3. Expect to traverse raging rivers, dense forests, and foggy grounds.

3. Kitanglad (Bukidnon)

View of the Kitanglad Mountain Range By Francisco M. Pajares –

Mt. Kitanglad is the 4th highest mountain in the country and is among the protected natural landscapes and hiking spots in the Philippines. It boasts a summit with an elevation of 2,899 meters above the Food Basket of Mindanao. Mt. Kitanglad Range National Park is one of the few remaining flourishing rainforests in the Philippines. As a biodiversity haven, it is home to the rarest plant and animal species, including the Philippine Eagle.

The mountain also serves as the headwater of the three main river systems in Mindanao. Mt. Kitanglad has a major climb classification with a difficulty rating of 6/9 and a trail class between 2 to 4 based on the Pinoy Mountaineer guide. Despite having well-established terrains, the path going up is extremely challenging, and only the most veteran hikers can surpass it.

4. Dulang-dulang (Bukidnon)

Tucked within the Kitanglad Mountain Range is another breathtaking peak in the country with a beautiful mountain view on top. Mt. Dulang-dulang, the 2nd highest mountain in the Philippines, rises 2,938 meters above sea level. It possesses dense forests covered with thick moss and fog. The lush rainforests have a variety of landscapes, tall pine trees, and dense jungles create a mystical vibe.

Given its major climb classification with a difficulty level of 6/9, those attempting to reach its summit should be experienced and have extensive preparation. 

5. Guiting-Guiting (Romblon)

The jagged peaks that give Mt. Guiting-Guiting By Androkoy –

Another magnificent hiking destination is the Mt. Guiting-Guiting, that lies at the heart of the Sibuyan Island. It stands majestically at around 2,058 meters above sea level. It is considered one of the most challenging climbs in the Philippines.

It has a difficulty level of 9/9, which means the hike involves rock climbing wherein ropes are required. Despite the challenging paths going to the summit, the mountain serves as a peaceful sanctuary of diverse flora and fauna with 54 endemic plants, including the rarest rodent and bat species.

6. Halcon (Oriental Mindoro)

Mt. Halcon is one of the toughest hikes with an elevation of 2,582 meters above sea level. Situated in Oriental Mindoro, this magnificent mountain features steep paths best suited for advanced hikers to pass dense forests and cross raging rivers. Moreover, it is home to a large diversity of flora and fauna, including the critically endangered Mindoro Tamaraw. 

However, Mt. Halcon is easier to navigate except for the wooden ladder you’ll have to climb.  Once at the peak, breathtaking views of the entire Mindoro will be worth the climb. On a clear day, you might even have a glimpse of the nearby Mt. Banahaw in Quezon, Mt. Maculot in Batangas, and Mt. Mayon in Albay from the summit.

7. Pulag (Benguet)

Mount Pulag By FranzSeph –

Known as the country’s third-highest mountain and Luzon’s highest peak with an elevation of 2,922 meters above sea level. It is one of the most popular destinations for a major hike in Luzon. Called the Playground of the Gods because it offers breathtaking Philippines views.

Hikers should expect rugged paths with somewhat steep slopes when traversing the trail. Surrounding the trails are vast vegetable gardens and mossy pine forests.  It has a difficulty level of 3/9, so it is beginner-friendly and mildly challenging for first-timers. 

8. Apo (Davao)

The highest in the country and undeniably the best mountain to hike in the Philippines is Mt. Apo with a summit towering 2,956 meters above sea level over Southern Mindanao. It is located west of Davao City, home to the critically endangered Philippine Eagle. It exhibits a multitude of landscapes, from mossy swamps to craggy rocks and lush forests. 

The Mainit Hot Springs, you can take a short soothing dip before heading to the second campsite at Lake Venado.  There are gigantic volcanic boulders with sulfuric vents that spew fumes. From there, it will take you three hours to reach the summit. Aside from hiking the summit, travelers can go on a Mt Apo National Park day tour for a short trek and fun activities like cable riding and zipline adventures.

9. Mount Pico De Loro

Mt. Batulao, Nasugbu, Batangas, Philippines By Biag arnel –  

This is an absolutely beautiful hike with gorgeous rewards for those who are prepared for its challenges. The going can be very steep and slow, and the slippery conditions can make it downright treacherous at times – as a result, this is perhaps not the ideal hike for a beginner.

10. Mount Ugo

Pinus kesiya forest, Mt. Ugo By anne_jimenez on Flickr –

One of the best mountains in the Philippines is Mount Ugo which stands at 2150 meters above sea level. It is both a major hike and a popular hiking destination in the Philippines.

Mount Ugo’s slopes are covered with pine forests, with parts inhabited by natives living in their highland villages. A stunning view of the cordillera mountain range could be seen at the summit, especially during clear weather. The sea of clouds also appears on mount Ugo, making it a compelling mountain to climb.