The tallest mountains are the most yearned and most alluring goals for every mountaineer. Trekking the highest mountains is often considered challenging, but the spirit of mountaineers only pushes them for it! We understand that the sense of achievement one feels after reaching the summit is incomparable, and nature itself rewards their resolute efforts at climbing with the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. If you are a mountaineering enthusiast, then you must add these five highest mountains in the Philippines to your “must-try” list. You’ll love the trial because the mountainous regions of the Philippines are mostly covered in tropical rainforest and are home to extensive wildlife.
Mt. Apo – Davao/North Cotabato:
With an elevation of 2,954 meters, Mount Apo is the tallest mountain in the Philippines and is one of the most-preferred hiking destinations in the country. Also known as Apo Sandawa, this peak offers the sweeping views of Davao to the northeast, Digos City to the southeast, and Kidapawan City to the West. It is declared a national park, and its dense forests are the natural habitat for almost 272 bird species, of which 111 species are endemic to this mountain. The rare and endangered Philippine Eagle, the national bird of the country, resides in this protected area.
Mt. Mount Dulang-Dulang – Bukidnon:
At the height of 2,938 meters, Mount Dulang-Dulang is the second highest mountain in the Philippines and is an important peak of the Kitanglad mountain range. This mountain is considered a sacred place by the local Talaandig tribe. Mountaineers feel mystified by the changing landscape i.e. the initial wide trial with pine trees and grasslands growing into dense jungles, which they often compare with the Elven forests of Rivendell in “Lord of the Rings.” You’ll be able to catch sight of Mt.Apo and the entire Kitanglad range from the top of this peak.
Mt. Pulag – Benguet:
Mount Pulag, a part of the Cordillera Range, is Luzon’s highest peak and also the third highest mountain in the Philippines. The climb up this mountain with an elevation of 2922m above the sea level is extremely popular for its magical views of the sea of clouds and the Milky Way galaxy. However, this other-worldly sight is subject to weather conditions. Dubbed by the locals as the “Playground of the Gods,” this area is home to 528 species of plants (including dwarf bamboo and Benguet pine), 33 species of birds, and many endangered mammal species.
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Mt. Kitanglad – Bukidnon:
Mount Kitanglad is an inactive volcano situated in Mount Kitanglad Range. There’s a legend behind naming this mountain as Kitanglad. It was said that a devastating flood drowned the Bukidnon area, and only the peak of this mountain was visible, which resembled “tanglad” (lemon grass). At 2,899 m, this is the fourth tallest mountain in the Philippines and is inhabited by 600 rare and endemic species. Mt. Kitanglad Range Natural Park was also awarded as an ASEAN Heritage Park. Although the trek is not very easy, the well-established trial, richness of its biodiversity, and mountain top views attract the climbers.
Also Read: 7 Reasons Why You Should Travel to the Philippines
Mount Kalatungan – Bukidnon:
Located in Kalatungan Range, Mt. Kalatungan (also known as Catatungan) is a potentially active volcano. This 2880 m high mountain occupies the fifth position in the list of highest mountains in the Philippines. The tricky trial to the top of this mountain makes it one of the toughest and challenging climbs in the country and is obviously not recommended for beginners. Its characteristic mossy forests feature a diverse range of plant and wild life.
