MT. MAKILING

The mystical Mount Makiling is the home of over a thousand diverse species of flora and fauna. Just a two-hour drive from Manila, this legendary mountain towering over Los Baños, Laguna and Sto Tomas, Batangas offers an ideal respite to commune with nature, experience the vanishing rainforest, and embark on a multitude of different adventures. It offers varied activities including simple nature tripping at the Botanical Garden and Pook ni Mariang Makiling, bird and butterfly watching, camping and trekking on its network of trails, swimming in its numerous hot springs, and mountain biking. This inactive volcano rises 1109 meters above sea level and offers a glimpse of some geological wonders like the Mud Spring – a sulfuric vent just 692m trek off the main trail, and the Flat Rocks – where you can swim in refreshing mini-sized water falls or just enjoy the lush greenery. – lakwatseradeprimera.com

Photo from: philippinevolcanoes.blogspot.com

Photo from: travel.webshots.com

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Since its adoption as a protected area by the University of the Philippines, Mt. Makiling has become one of the “mainstay” destinations for mountaineers, as well as scientists and tourists. The forest, which was restored during the 1910s, remains in pristine condition; a plethora of birds, reptiles, and other fauna continue to thrive in Makiling. Due to its popularity, the trails leading to Peak 2 are well-established, and no guide is necessary to climb the mountain. Although extensive damage was wrought by typhoon ‘Milenyo’ in 2006, as of the 2009 climbing season the UPLB trail has recovered and is now open for climbing.

Photo from: philippine-evolution.com

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Photo from: msc.edu.ph

As of September 2010, the trail is in excellent condition. The Mt. Makiling Park Management was able to clarify the confusing parts near Stations 15 and 16; thus the trail leading to Peak 2 is well-delineated. There is no truth to the rumors of landslides affecting the trail system. Dayhikes are still encouraged over overnighters; camping is still prohibited beyond the Wilderness Zone point, with Malaboo and Tayabak campsites the only authorized areas for camping. – pinoymountaineer.com

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