The Philippines is home to countless natural wonders and landscapes, so it comes as no surprise that the country is also home to over 3,142 summits. Whether you want to challenge yourself at the most difficult mountain trail or simply want to know the tallest peak, read more below to find out what is the highest mountain in the Philippines.
Must-Visit Mountains in the Philippines
Whether you want to go on a thrilling mountain-climbing adventure or simply want to see breathtaking views, here is a list of the highest peaks in the Philippines that you must consider visiting:
Mount Apo
If the question, “What is the highest mountain in the Philippines?” has ever crossed your mind, there’s no other contender than Mount Apo. Situated in the west of Davao, this majestic peak rises to an impressive height of 2,954 meters. It’s part of the Mount Apo National Park and is home to the critically endangered Philippine eagle.
Seasoned climbers consider Mount Apo to be one of the toughest trails. If you want to test your skills, consider climbing this peak at least once. But if you want to go on a lighter, Eden Nature Park and Resort is at its foothills. You can explore the park to experience the mountain’s flora and fauna without roughing it out on the trail.
See also: The Best Tourist Spots In Davao
Mount Dulang-Dulang
The second-highest mountain in the Philippines is Mount Dulang-Dulang at Lantapan, Bukidnon. It’s also recognized as the highest peak in the Kitanglad Mountain Range, with a height of 2,941 meters above sea level.
Moreover, it is also a popular hiking trail and is considered one of the most challenging ones, taking about 8 hours to reach its peak. If you plan to climb this mountain with friends, note that authorities limit hikers to 15 people per group, so plan your trip accordingly.
On the trail, you’ll encounter Bukidnon’s local flora and fauna, including Manny’s Garden, which is a lush forest named after one of the pioneers who introduced Mount Dulang-Dulang to the climbing community.
Mount Pulag
Dubbed the “playground of the gods,” Mount Pulag is the third-highest mountain in the Philippines, standing 2,928 meters above sea level. Like the last two peaks, it is also a popular hiking trail for thrill-seekers.
Since it’s located on the borders of Benguet, Ifugao, and Nueve Ecija, the peak is known for its cold weather. So, remember to pack a jacket and warm clothes if you plan to climb its trails.
The highlight that brings most travelers to Mount Pulag is the chance to see the sea of clouds. If you’re not familiar, it’s a phenomenon where a layer of clouds covers the horizon, resembling the “sea.”
Mount Kitanglad
Next on this list is Mount Kitanglad. Standing at 2,899 meters above sea level, it’s the fourth tallest mountain in the country. It’s also an ASEAN Heritage Park since you can find unique flora and fauna surrounding its peaks, including the spectacular Rafflesia plant. Aside from dense forests, you can also find a number of caves, waterfalls, and a hot spring around the summit.
Mount Kitanglad is also a well-known hiking trail, but remember to be respectful if you plan to traverse its path since indigenous tribes, like the Higaonons and Talaandig, consider the peak as their ancestral domain.
See also: Bukidnon Travelogue
Mount Kalatungan
The fifth-highest mountain in the Philippines is Mount Kalatungan in Pangantucan, Bukidnon. Due to their proximity, the summit is also known as the “twin peak” of Mount Kitanglad. Standing at 2,860 meters above sea level, it is also one of the most challenging climbs in the country.
Among its lush forests, you’ll find a diverse classification of local flora and fauna, including the endangered Philippine eagle. Thus, it’s declared as a protected area and an ASEAN Heritage Park.
Mount Tabayoc
Situated in Kabayan, Benguet, Mount Tabayoc is the sixth tallest summit in the Philippines. Standing at 2,820 meters, its trails aren’t also a walk in the park. At the beginning of the trail, you’ll come across vegetable slopes, which are common in the Cordillera mountains. So, prepare to get your shoes dirty because you’ll be hopping among puddles of mud.
The challenge doesn’t end there since you’ll also need great balance and leg strength to crawl, climb, and hug branches to get to the summit. That’s why mountaineers dub its path as the “monkey trail.” But once in a while, you’ll be greeted with an exhilarating view of the area’s natural landscapes, especially when you reach the highest peak.
Final Thoughts
The majestic Mount Apo stands as the highest mountain in the Philippines, with an impressive height of 2,954 meters. Mount Dulag-Dulag and Mount Pulag are also magnificent marvels as the second and third tallest peaks. If you want to explore these natural wonders up close, consider challenging your skills by hiking their trails.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The Philippines has plenty of mountains that adventure seekers can explore. If you plan on challenging yourself by trekking through the highest peaks of the country, these answers to frequently asked questions may help you prepare your itinerary better:
What are the highest mountains in the Philippines?
The top five highest mountains in the Philippines are Mount Apo, Mount Dulag-Dulag, Mount Pulag, Mount Kitanglad, and Mount Kalatungan.
What is the highest altitude in the Philippines?
The highest altitude in the Philippines goes to Mount Apo, with its highest point rising to 2,954 meters.
What is the Philippines’ third highest peak?
Mount Pulag is considered the third-highest peak in the Philippines. It’s also considered the highest mountain in Luzon.