Dayhiking Mt. Kintanglad and Mt. Dulang-Dulang (D2K)

I planned for this last year only to be left behind by the airplane.  A late morning rain and a horrible traffic ruined my plan.  I arrived at the airport thirty minutes after the plane departed.  The airline staff wouldn't agree with me taking the next flight despite my begging.  It was clear that re-booking was the only option.  However, that would mean incurring an added expense that was just substantial for me to bear.  I went out of the airport not just with a heavy backpack but also with a heavy heart.  I learned my lesson.

Fast forward to 2014, taking advantage of an airline promo, I booked myself a flight to CDO.  Coincidentally, my booking was of the same month as last year.  With everything regarding the climb all set, I can’t afford to be left behind.  Fortunately, this time around I left the airport on board a plane. 

 

Kitanglad Mountain Ranges

 Doing a solo hike on Kintanglad Range has been on top of my bucket list.  My feet has long been itching to step on the trails of Mt. Kitanglad and Mt. Dulang-Dulang .  These two mountains have a high appeal to me.  Reading the accounts of those who have climbed, just excite me.  At the same time, knowing that these two are among the Philippines highest also sends shivers down my spine.  It took me for a while to finally entertain the thought of doing a dayhike.  Mental and physical preparations must be put into consideration.  

So come Oct. 26, 2014, armed with the courage I mustered for  quite some time and the confidence gained from more than a year of hiking and running, I found myself along with Kuya June (guide) walking on a dirt road.  We will be doing a dayhike traversing Mt. Kintanglad and Mt. Dulang-Dulang. 

dirt road to the jump off

The walk on the dirt road towards the foot of the mountain served as a warm up.  By the time that we started the gradual ascend, my body has already adjusted.  The intense heat of the sun was not a challenge as the trail was covered with trees.  A number of still ladders were present at some parts of the trail.  Occasionally stopping to rehydrate and rest, we trekked on a consistent pace hoping to not finish late at night.  A sight of dwarf trees near the summit amazed me.  Fog started to envelope when we arrived at the summit after more than three hours of trekking, obscuring any view.  Nevertheless, I was still glad that I made it to the summit of the fourth highest mountain in the country. 

a beautiful site near Mt. Kintanglad summit

The traverse from Mt. Kitanglad to Mt. Dulang-Dulang I would say was the most challenging part of the climb.  The trail involved some steep descent and ascent which had me clinging to ropes and roots. Negotiating these parts mandate extra cautious, one wrong move and I’ll be in serious injury or even worse.  While it may be the most challenging, it was also the most beautiful part of the trail.  The mossy forest in its different density was just captivating.  I can’t count the times I stopped to snap photos.  There were times when all I can say is WOW.   

one of the steep ascents

Approaching towards the summit of Mt. Dulang-Dulang, the trail remains challenging.  More steep parts ensued which gave me a hard time.   I had to listen to my body and slow down a bit with my already slow pacing.  At some points I had to stop and stretch my tired and stiff legs.  I was on the verge of getting leg cramps.  Fortunately, before any leg cramps occurred I was already at the summit.  It was a big relief!  I can now take a little rest.  Unfortunately, there was no view of the Kitanlad wilderness in sight.  Thick fog prevented me from seeing the surrounding mountains.  Still, I was thankful and proud standing on the summit of the country’s second highest mountain.  Not many have the chance to do so.

mossy forest

The descent was smooth all the way passing through the mossy forest on the other side.  However I had a scary moment in the early part of the descent.  While inside the mossy forest, I heard a voice shouting “sir” at my back.  Yes, I was exhausted and all but I heard it loud and clear.  I had to run to my guide who was 15 to 20 meters ahead of me asking if he called me.  Hearing a no as answer scared me to death.  It was only the two of us in the trail and in Mt. Dulang-Dulang.  In fact, we only encountered one group of mountaineers and that was on our way up Mt. Kitanglad.

a ritual site at the summit of Mt. Dulang-Dulang

After two hours, we reached the foot of the mountain.  Perhaps, the creepy incident help us went down the mountain swiftly.  We rested for a while, before continuing our walk on a dirt road that leads us to a hi-way.  A habal-habal took us to the bus stop, 35 kilometers away and rode a jeepney to Malaybalay.   By seven in the evening I was back at my lodge.  It took 10 hours to complete the entire D2K dayhike traverse.  Twelve hours if travel time back to Malaybalay is included.

The entire journey was never easy.  I may not have a good clearing but still the experience was rewarding.  I hope to go back some other time and stay longer.    

at one of the campsites of Mt. Dulang-Dulang

Interested in climbing at Mt. Kitanglad and Mt. Dulang-Dulang?  Visit this site http://www.mkrnp.org

just enchanting

Mt. Kinabalu

I have this impression that climbing Mt. Kinabalu is expensive.  Accounts of friends who made it there were clear on how high the expenses for travel, accommodation, food, and climbing related fees if summed up.  This would mean that I have to save some more and wait a little longer.  However, one day I stumbled into a blog telling that a dayhike is possible and permitted.  The blog entry continued to detail how to obtain the climb permit and how much the entire climb costs.  Elated after learning all these information, I booked a flight without hesitation.  The next thing I know I was in Kota Kinabalu joined by my friend Adrian with the intention of dayhiking Malaysia's tallest mountain.

Kinabalu Park Headquarter 

Convincing Power Failed

With high hopes we entered Kinabalu Heretage Park,  heading straight to the visitor's lounge. We conveyed to the staff our intention to do a one day climb.  She was quick in turning us down, telling that a new park regulation on "No More Dayhike" has been in effectivity a month ago.  I was crushed! We pleaded but she referred us to the park ranger on duty.  They were singing the same tune but an option was offered by the park ranger.  A two-day climb staying overnight at the newly built resthouse called Lamaine at a lower price to which we did not resist nor agree at first.  We told him that we'd give the offer a thought over lunch and will come back.
  

Timpohon Gate

After our lunch we headed back not to the visitor's lounge but to the park's admin office. Unfortunately, the park administrator was not around.  Nevertheless, we told his secretary of our intention and that we hoped for a favorable response from the park administrator.  Since the secretary can't decide for her boss she then referred us to the office of the senior park ranger, our last hope.  How unfortunate it was that again the person we're looking was not around.  He was in KL attending a convention.  His staff however was accommodating and tried her best to help us. However, they were strict with the new regulation and we had no other options but to succumb to the two-day climb. 



The Journey to Labanrata

Since we will doing a two-day climb, we decided to start by ten in the morning.  By this time most of the climbers already started their ascent.  After settling all climbing fees, we were ready to start when two French men arrived and asked to join us.  It would mean splitting the guide and transportation fees to the four of us.  And so we agreed of course!

The French guys on one of the staircases

By 10:20 am we were at Timpohon gate, the starting point of the climb.  This gate can be reach either by walking or by riding a car from the visitor's information center.  We did the latter to save time. The start of the trek involved a gradual ascent and after passing the Carlson Fall, staircase ensued. By 10:48 am, we reached KM 1 and from this point onward it has been mostly assaults and staircases.   We encountered a number of climbers on their way down and we also passed by climbers resting on some of the resting stations. It was sunny when we started but as we progress it turned cloudy and foggy.  Though it would not have been much of a challenge had it been sunny all the way since there were trees to provide shade. 
   

just one of the beautiful spots along the trail

By 12:40 pm we were at KM 4, two more kilometers before Labanrata, our final stop for day 1.  The massive gain of elevation had me sweating profusely.  We continued our ascent  and passed by on more hikers.  Dwarf trees along the trail also caught my attention while the two French were ahead of us and no longer in sight.    After 3.5 hours of trekking, we finally reached Labaranta (KM 6).  Our guide took us to Lamaine resthouse where we will be staying.  It has been cloudy for the rest of the day and even drizzled at times and at 3, 270 masl it was cold.  Good thing, hot food and beverages are available at Labanrata.   Not for free though.

at KM 4

Labanrata

The Assault to Low's Peak.

We agreed to start the assault by 4 am.  Our group were at the meeting place as early as 3:30 am, however, our guide was no where to be found.  We waited a little longer but he seemed to be still comfortably sleeping.  Almost all the group had started their way up. Worried that we might not catch the sunrise, we decided to go even without him. Anyway, the trail towards the summit was clear and we can follow the climbers ahead of us.  

the boulders and the summit plateau

The summit was 2 kilometers away from Labanrata.  Seemed short of a distance but the elevation gain of 825 masl  and the biting cold were really a challenge.  The trail towards the summit were mostly staircases.  There were also some rope segments before reaching the gate at KM 7 and another one at the summit plateau where our guide caught with us. The last part of the climb was on boulders of granite rocks bearing the 4,095 masl marker at the top. 

the sunrise

There were already a handful of folks at the summit eagerly waiting for the sunrise when we arrived.  It was so cold that my hands were numb.  I was praying for the sun to come out so that the temperature will somehow improve.  But I guess we arrived a little early that we have to wait a little longer.  I was thinking to go down but I can't afford to not witness the sunrise.  To my mind, I traveled long, I paid for the climb, I made it to the top, why would I let myself bothered by the cold. With mind conditioning, I was able to withstand the cold and witness the beautiful sunrise.  Standing on Malaysia's tallest mountain and witnessing the beauty that surrounded it was just awesome.  It was all worth it!  We stayed for about 30 minutes longer taking pictures.  

us at the marker

The Descent

Our way down from Low's peak to Labanrata was smooth and swift stopping occasionally at some parts of the trail that interested us.  It was still dark on our way up so we took the opportunity on our way down to take photos.  By 8 am, we're back at Labanrata and had a hearty breakfast.  At exactly 9 am, we left Labanrata and started our descent.  On our way down, we encountered climbers and porters on their way up.  We also chanced upon the Filipino crew of Living Asia Channel who did a shoot at the summit.  The crew filmed us while trekking and did a short interview.  If it was aired, we had no idea.  By 11 am we reached the Timpohon gate. We took souvenir photos before riding back to the headquarter.  

South Peak

Post Climb Realizations

We had no regrets taking the two-day climb.  In fact, it was a blessing in disguise as weather would turn awful in the afternoon during our stay.  The chance of us getting a good clearing had we done it dayhike would have been very slim.  While dayhiking would have been a fit but I'm not sure if we would have enjoyed it, even the two day climb was not easy.  We had our eyes down and knees up most of the time.  Dayhiking would have been more exhausting for sure.  

Overall it was a successful climb.  An adventure that I will surely treasure my entire life. A dream that has turned into a reality.  Thanks to my climbing buddy Adrian.  Thanks to God for the strength and guidance.   

another beautiful spot along the trail

Climb Expenses 

Permit                              -   100.00 rm
Accommodation                -   100.00 rm
Food                                 -    30.00  rm
Guide fee (37.5/4)            -     37.05 rm
Transportation (33/4)        -      8.25 rm
Insurance                          -      7.00 rm

Total (per head)                    282.75 rm

in pesos (282.75*16)              P4,524 


Tips

1.  Booking your climb directly at Mt Kinabalu Park would cost lower than booking through tour operators.
2.  Climb during lean months to avoid influx of climbers.
3.  Same day booking and climb is possible if you arrive at the park early.
4.  There are a number of inns and lodges outside the park which would cost you lower than staying inside the park.
5.  There are good restaurants just outside the park which are affordable.
6.  There are no money changer inside and outside the park.



   


  

Mt. Pulag

Finally it happened! I have climbed the so called playground of Gods and the country’s third highest mountain – Mt. Pulag.  This is after a couple of failed attempts late last year and early this year.  Well, it was worth the entire wait! The invitation came from my friend Adrian which I responded to with a yes instantly.  We were also joined by Rosalyn and Analene on this climb.  We invited other friends but are not available on the date of the climb.   The final participants were the four of us and we’re reunited once again (have climbed with the three in Mt. Rinajani).

Day 1 (Akiki jump-off to Saddle camp)

We arrived in Baguio City on board a Dagupan bus dawn of Aug. 15, 2014.  We wasted no time and went straight to a nearby eatery for a quick breakfast.  Right after eating, we then proceed to the transport terminal (Baguio Old Slaughterhouse).   It was agreed beforehand that we’ll completely rely on public transportation.  Hiring a jeepney or a van would be too expensive for four persons.    Upon getting to the terminal, we took a van plying Baguio-Kabayan route that left the terminal at around 7:30 am.  After one stop and about 3.5 hours of travel we arrived at the Akiki jump-off in Brgy. Duacan, Kabayan.   We were met by our guide Kuya Crispin and he ushered us to the Akiki Ranger Station where we did the registration.  We paid the climbing fees (registration, camping, and green fees) which totaled 230 pesos each.    There was a short briefing given to us on what to expect on the trail and the dos and don’ts during the entire climb.  At around 11:00 am, our trek commenced. 

at one of the stops

The initial part of the trail was easy until reaching the Eddet river.  We did not have a hard time negotiating it. In fact, we were pre-occupied with taking pictures here and there.  It took us 1.5 hours to get to the river.  We had our lunch at the resting station.  After an hour, our trek resumed.  There was a sudden change in weather.   It started to drizzle after we cross the bridge requiring us to wear our ponchos.  It was also at this point of the climb where the steep trail started and it has been steep all the way up to the grassland.   I was amazed by the Pine forest along the trail engulfed with mist making it more scenic that at one point I was expecting for some wolves to come out.  I also wondered how it looks like during sunny days.  We had several rest stops before arriving at Malboro country around 4:15 pm.  It was still drizzling and the temperature starting to drop.  We stayed for a while at the resting station and consumed some trail foods.

at the pine forest

The trek continued and we entered into the montane forest.  As we went deeper into the forest, the cold temperature started to bite as well as the weight of my backpack.  There was nothing much to see inside the forest as it was already dim.  By 5:30 pm, we reached the last water source.  We refilled our water bottles and rested for a while.  Conversations were limited and smiles hardly seen, a proof that we’re all tired.   After more than 2 hours we came out of the forest into a grassland.  It was a relief knowing we’re nearing the end of our trek.  The final hour however, was the hardest part simply because we’re all exhausted.   We had to endure the darkness, the drizzle, the strong wind, and the cold temperature while negotiating in a slow pace the steep part and rolling trail of the grassland.   After trekking for almost 8 hours, we reached the saddle camp with excitement.  Much to our surprise, the camping area and the bunkhouse were empty.   There were no other groups but us.   We opted to stay at the bunkhouse and it was a big relief to us.  Our exhausted bodies no longer need to pitch tents on a dark, cold, and rainy evening.    After changing into dry clothing, we prepared our dinner.  A mushroom soup, salted egg, and chicken-pork adobo filled our hungry stomach.  By 10 pm, we called it a night.  No socials, all just wanting to rest. 

Day 2 (Sunrise viewing, Exit via Tawangan)

We woke up at around 4am of day 2.  We need to be at the summit as early as possible in anticipation of the sunrise.   Mt. Pulag is famed because of its sunrise over a sea of clouds.  We left the bunkhouse several minutes after we had our breakfast.  The assault to the summit took around 30 minutes from the bunkhouse.  We made it all at the summit by 6 am. There were also other climbers (from camp 2) already at the summit eager to witness the sunrise.   However, it was a gloomy morning.  No sunrise.  No sea of clouds.  I was a bit sad.   I was expecting a good weather.  I was expecting to see what Mt. Pulag is famous of.  Others at the summit may not be vocal but I knew they share my feelings.    Minutes after, I came to realize and accept the fact that in mountaineering it’s not always a good weather but there’s always another chance.  I can always go back when it’s best season to climb Mt. Pulag.  After these realizations, I joined my group and we made the most out our Mt. Pulag experience.  To have successfully climbed the country’s third highest mountain is enough reason to be happy.  The mountain still offered a scenic view despite the poor weather condition.  The mountain itself with its mist-shrouded dwarf bamboos was still a sight to behold.

at the summit

with the dwarf bamboos

At 7 am, we stated our descent via the tawangan trail.  As we’re making our way down, it started to drizzle.   Our guide told us that it will be a long journey but no more assaults unlike the day before.  We entered the mossy forest at around 8am.  Some parts of it were so dense that it felt like we’re in another dimension.  Some parts of the trail were concealed by over grown shrubs and foliage proving how less-taken it is.   What really bothered us was the high population of blood leeches (limatik) in most parts of the trail.  The trail was heavily infested that we almost consumed a bottle of alcohol combating with them.  We’re all got bitten still. 

descent to Tawangan

limatik bite

We stopped by the third water station (a stream) to have our lunch.  Had it been a sunny day, I could have taken a dip.  However, it was raining and the water was so cold.   At around 1 pm, we continued our descent inside the seemingly endless forest.  The rain was getting harder while the fog engulfed the surroundings leaving a somewhat eerie feeling on me.  By 3pm, we came out of the forest and had our first glimpse of the village we’re heading to.   After 8.5 hrs. of trekking, finally we reached Tawangan village.  We had to stay overnight at the village because of bad weather. 

the mossy forest

Day 3 (The journey back to Manila)

We woke up early to catch the only bus bound for Baguio from Tinoc, Ifugao which usually leave 7:30 am.  From Tawangan, Benguet, it was an hour motorcycle (habal-habal) ride to Tinoc, Ifugao.   Upon arriving at Tinoc, unfortunately the bus was not roadworthy and can’t go on with the scheduled trip.  We looked for other options as we all need to go back to Manila.  However, vans plying Tinoc-Lagawe route were all reserved by other passengers.  The last option for us was to wait for trucks (from Tawangan) that deliver vegetables (to Nueva Vicaya).  Luckily, the driver of the habal-habal had a contact to a driver of one of the trucks.  However, we had to wait for almost six hours before the truck arrived.  Travel time from Tinoc, Ifugao to Bangbang, Nueva Viscaya was 5 hours with almost 80% of the way was on a rough road over a mountain.  The view was breathtaking and scary at the same time.  Sitting on sacks of carrots while on a long bumpy ride is very uncomfortable but we had to endure just to get home.   We reached Bangbang by 7pm and had our quick dinner at a fast-food before boarding a bus back to Manila. 

The whole experience while very tiring was worth it.   We may not have a good weather but still it was very rewarding.  Mt. Pulag (from Akiki to Tawangan) is still beautiful even in an awful weather.  Truly a must climb mountain.

the flora

just lovely

Mt. Bulusan

The first time I attempted to climb Mt. Bulusan (Dec. 2013) I met a number of misfortune.  On my way home from the office to get my backpack, the MRT broke down.  On my way from home to the bus terminal, there was a horrible traffic.  When I arrived at the bus terminal, it was empty.  I ended up in a coffee shop feeling unlucky (coincidentally, it was a Friday the 13^th).  While having a cup of a coffee, I was imaging with so much envy how my companions were having a good climb.  Days after, I found out that the climb were unsuccessful because of bad weather.  I realized that all the misfortune were actually blessing in disguise.   

Fast forward, the team leader set June 7-8, 2014 to be our second attempt.  We agreed to leave Manila, Friday evening.  I did not wait for the evening and went ahead of the group. I was not excited! Lol.  The truth was, I did not report to work because I had this strong feeling that my boss won’t allow me to go home early.  If that will happen, surely I’ll have a hard time on my way to the bus terminal and getting a ride.  I didn’t want to be left behind again.  This time I’d like to have my coffee in Mt. Bulusan. 

Mt. Bulusan is situated in the province of Sorsogon in the Bicol region.  Elevation is at 1,565 masl and it is one of the most active volcanoes in the Philippines. The volcano and the forest surrounding it are protected areas.  Coming from Manila by bus would take roughly 14 hours to reach Irosin, Sorsogon.    Alternatively, one can take a plane to Legazpi, Albay and from there it will be just less than 4 hours ride to Irosin, Sorsogon, but this can be more costly.  I was at the bus terminal at around 10 am.  Checking the schedule of trips to Irosin, the earliest was by 2 pm.  If I’ll take the 2 pm trip, it would mean that I have to wait for 3 hours more and arrival in Irosin would be in the wee hours.  I checked other options.  There was a bus bound for Legazpi that will leave by 11 am.  I decided to take the trip and spend a night in Legazpi.  I paid 650 pesos for the fare. The travel from Manila to Legazpi was smooth.  The bus had stops during lunch and dinner time. It was past 12 midnight when we arrived in Legazpi.    I slept at a tourist inn and paid 350 pesos for a fan room with CR. 

I woke up at exactly 6 am the next day.  After I had my shower, I checked out.  It was a beautiful morning and I felt good after getting a rest.  I boarded a jeepney to Daraga where the buses going to Irosin pass by.  I took a quick breakfast in Daraga.  At around 8:20 am, I boarded an ordinary bus going to Irosin.  I paid 100 pesos for the fare.  While on the road, I communicated with rest of the group asking their whereabouts.  They were 4 to 3 hours away from Irosin.   It got me excited.  I was thinking about the climb when suddenly the bus stopped.  The driver informed us that the engine malfunctioned and we have to be transferred to another bus.  Minutes had gone by but the bus promised by the driver is nowhere in sight.  I asked a bystander of other ways to get to Irosin.  Fortunately, I was already in Sorsogon City and it would just take me less than an hour by jeepney to Irosin.  I was told to ride a tryk that would bring me to the jeepney terminal.  I did and paid 40 pesos.  Unfortunately, the jeepney won’t leave not until it was full.  It took more or less 20 minutes before we finally left the terminal.  I arrived in Irosin at exacty 11:30 am and my companions were already there.  While having our lunch, I told them what happened.

After we had our lunch, we hired a tryk that brought us to Bulusan Volcano National Park (BVNP).  We paid 60 pesos each.  By 12:45 pm, we arrived at the park and met by the staff.  We settled climbs fees and did some last minute preparations.  A staff checked our blood pressure and each one of us were given an ID.  An orientation about the place and the climb rules and regulations followed before we started the trek.    At exactly 1:30 pm, our trek began. All 9 of us (joined by 1 guide and 1 porter) were excited.

our group before starting the trek 

To get to the trail head, we had to paddle a kayak across Bulusan lake.  Two persons per kayak and since we were 9, one joined the guide in a pump boat together with our backpacks.  I actually enjoyed kayaking.  When all of us were able to cross the lake, we started the trek.  It was a sunny afternoon, good thing the trail was fully covered with trees. Dense and verdant!   I also liked how established the trail and how gradually it gained elevation.  Limatiks were present on some parts of the trail but not aggressive.   After 2 hours of trekking, we reached the halfway of the trail marked by a hexagonal hut.  There was a change in weather.  Thick clouds formed and rain was about to fall at any moment.  We were supposed to do the tree planting but due to the impending rain, our guide decided to continue the trek and do the tree planting on our way down.  Minutes after we left the hut, it rained hard.  Some of us worried that it might continue until the next day.  When we’re few meters away from the campsite, the rain stopped.  By the time we reached the campsite at around 5 pm, the sky was clear again.  In fact, the summit was visible.  After unloading our bags, we asked our guide the way to the lake.  We ran with excitement to the direction pointed to but the lake was nowhere to be found! Obviously, we took the wrong direction. Lol.  Nevertheless, we took that opportunity to take pictures. 

paddling our way to the trail head

looking for the lake

After about 30 minutes we returned to the campsite.  We pitched our tents and prepared our dinner.  We shared the campsite with 3 more groups.   We ate our dinner at around 8pm.  Afterwards, we had to sing a birthday song to one of our companions.  It was his birthday.  We brought to the mountain a small cake for him.  He thanked us and I guess he was happy.  We had no wine/liquor to consume but we had stories/jokes to share.  While other groups were already sleeping, we’re laughing hard.  One of the guides had to remind us to minimize our voices.  Before other groups got mad at us, we decided to called it a night.  After all, we had enough and we had to wake up early the next day.  Before I entered my tent, I looked at the sky.  It was clear and dotted with stars.  It seemed to promise a beautiful sunrise. 

Voices coming from the other groups woke me up.  They were already preparing for the summit assault.  When I checked my watch it was only 2 am.  I wanted to continue my sleep but I had I hard time.  Some of my companions woke up and prepared our breakfast.  I went out the tent and joined them for breakfast.  Right after, we prepared for the summit assault.  We began the trek at exactly 3:30 am.  It was still dark and cold.

The trek to the crater summit started with the grassy flat terrain then a steep trail ensued.  From that point to the crater were mostly assaults.  The first part of trail was covered with forest but darkness kept me guessing how it looked like.  After an hour of trekking, we emerged from the forest to an open grassy trail.  By that time, the dawn was slowly breaking.  Our guide told us that the sunrise will be at 5:17 am.  It seemed that we can’t make it to the top before sunrise.  Five minutes before the expected sunrise, we’re 30 minutes away from the summit.   True enough the sun rose while we were still on the trail, 20 minutes away from the summit.

sun slowly rising

I didn’t mind. It was still a sight to behold.  By 5:50 am, we reached the summit.   We were the second group to arrive at the crater summit.   We were blessed with a good clearing.  We can even see Mayon Volcano from afar.  We’re all in joy that our second attempt was finally a success.  We’re all in agreement that all the sweat and effort in trekking and the 14 hours butt-numbing bus ride were all worth it.  We took pictures while other groups started to arrive.  We stayed at the summit for almost an hour.  At about 7 am, we started our descent to the campsite which took us almost an hour.

the grassy trail to the summit

Mayon Volcano from a distant

lake Aguinay and the Sharp peak

with our guide ( kuya Bayani) at the crater

Upon reaching the campsite we prepared our early lunch.  Others started to break camp.  The sun was up and it was already hot.  At exactly 9:30 am we ate our lunch.  Afterwards, we prepared for our trek from the campsite down to the jump off.  We took our souvenir photo at the campsite before leaving.  We left the campsite at around 10:40 am.  We reached the halfway of the trail by 11:56 am.  Before proceeding, we did first the tree planting which is mandatory.  When everyone has planted each seedling, we continued the trek down.  We took the emergency trail.  An easy and established trail, well, except for the last portion where we negotiated boulders before finally emerging right in front of the BVNP office.  Each one of us was given a certificate stating that we’re able to complete the climb.  Afterwards, we head to the nearby Dancalan beach to celebrate the climb.

planting a tree for the future

I would just like to commend the management and staff of BVNP for a well-organized climb, starting from the application of permit, to the climb proper, and to the post climb ceremonies.  Guides are well trained and porters are good.  The mandatory tree planting for every climber is commendable too. 

Interested in climbing Mt. Bulusan?  Check this out!  https://www.facebook.com/wild.boars.10?fref=ts 

Three Mountains, One Day

It’s been a while since I had my last entry to this blog.  It’s about time that I should update and share my adventures.  How about starting with the latest?

 Last June 15, 2014 together with friends Rosalyn and Rogemar,  we embarked on a three mountain, one day challenge.  This is actually in preparation for some running events in the future.  Our original plan is to hike Mt. Batulao, Mt. Talamitam, Mt. Marami  & Mt. Pico de Loro.  Yes, 4 mountains in a day.  The proximity of the mountains to each other gives us confidence that we can do it.  We ended hiking just 3 and missing Mt. Pico de Loro.

We agreed to meet as early as 3 am at the Integrated Bus Terminal (Coastal Mall).  We are supposed to start at Mt. Marami, then Mt. Pico de Loro, then Mt. Talamitam and Mt, Batulao being the last one. Upon learning though that the first trip to Magallanes( the jump off to Mt. Marami)  from Naic  is still 7:30 am, we decided to start at Mt. Batulao.  We boarded a Nasugbu bound bus which departed at the terminal at around 3:45 am.  After about 1 hour and 40 minutes, we were already at Evercrest (jump off to Mt. Batulao).  Before we started, we had a quick breakfast at one of the carenderias. 

At exactly 6 am, we started our trek.    We opted to walk than ride a tryk from the highway to the foot of Mt. Batulao.  After 20 minutes of walking we reached the foot and started to negotiate the trail of the mountain.  We had a nice weather.  We reached camp 1 at around 7 am.  Hikers who camped at the area were having their breakfast.  We registered and paid 20 pesos each.  I also took some pictures.  We continued the trek and by 7:40 am, we reached the summit. 

at the summit of Mt. Batulao

We rest for a while and had our pictures taken.  After more or less 10 minutes at the summit, we started our descent towards the new trail.  We reached the camp site of the new trail after 20 minutes.  We registered and paid another 20 pesos each.  After resting for a while, we commenced our descent.  This time we were running on the trail. 

the rugged peaks 

We encountered hikers on their way up.  We stopped at one of the kubos and asked for buko to rehydrate.  After consuming the buko, we continued our way down walking and running.  We completed the hike in 3.5 hours.  Not bad! 

the nearby mountains 

To continue, we boarded a bus going to Nasugbu and had us drop at Brgy. Bayabasan (jump to Mt. Talamitam).  It was past 10 am when we registered and paid 20 pesos each.  After registering we began our trek right away.  We are already feeling the intense heat of the sun.  Thanks God the early part of the trail was covered with trees.  I was also delighted to see mango and java plum trees bearing fruits.  In fact we had several stops under java plum trees and munched on its fruits. 

Java Plum bearing fruits

  By 10:40 am, we were at the grassland slope.  We slowed down a bit due to the heat of the sun.  After a little while, we reached the 60 degree trail leading to the peak.   At exactly 11:15 am, we reached the top.  The group who were at the top already descended when we arrived.  We had the peak all to ourselves!  From the top we can see the surrounding towns and nearby mountains.

at the summit of Mt. Talamitam

  After taking pictures and resting for a while, we descended.  We ran our way down the slopes.  We passed by the other group who were resting under a tree.  We were at the jump off at around 1 pm.  We completed the hike in 2.5 hours.  We proceeded to one of the carederias at the jump off to have our lunch. 

at the grassland of Mt. Talamitam

After our lunch, we rested for a while before boarding a jeepney to the tryk terminal at Amuyong.  We paid 15 pesos for the jeepney fare.  We then boarded a tryk that brought us to Magallenes and paid 100 pesos each.  It was a long drive of almost 45 minutes.  Traditionaly, the entrance to Mt. Marami is at Brgy. Ramirez, but we opted to enter at Brgy. Talipusngo.

the wide and open trail of Talipusngo

  After we registered and paid 20 pesos, we started the trek at around 3 pm.  The trail was wide open and flat.  We walked and ran under the sun.  It seemed that trail is longer compared to the Ramirez trail.  We had several stops along the trail as we’re feeling tired already.

 my friends Roge and Val trail running 

 We encountered locals and hikers who were a bit surprised seeing us just on our way to the summit at that time of the day.  We just continued our trek and by 6:30 pm, we were at the summit.  Unfortunately, the fog began to envelop the summit denying us of any view.  We did not stay long at the summit as it was getting dark already.  It was also by this time that we decided not to continue the trek to the last mountain.  Traversing the unfamiliar trail from Mt. Marami to Mt. Pico de loro at night would be risky.  Also, considering the time if we will push to the last mountain, we will arrive at the jump off (DENR) very late or worse early the next day.  So we called it a day.  We trekked back and exited at Brgy. Ramirez.  It was already past 9 pm when we reached the community, exhausted and hungry.  The trail of Mt. Marami seemed to be twice or even thrice longer than that of Mt. batulao and Mt. Talamitam.    It took us 6.5 hours to complete the hike.   We had to stay overnight at the Brgy. as there was no more vehicle that would bring us to Naic. 

the foggy "silyang bato" of Mt. Marami

It was never easy and it was tiring.  Our limits were tested.  One thing is for sure though, I liked it!   I’m not closing to the four mountains, one day idea.  I know it’s doable.