MT. PINATUBO

The hike to Mt. Pinatubo is the last highlight of the 2024 travel escapade. Beyond the breathtaking view of the crater, the 4×4 experience became the pinnacle of our expedition. The journey to Mt. Pinatubo is a fascinating adventure, celebrated for its stunning beauty and historical importance. Mt. Pinatubo is an active stratovolcano in the Zambales mountains, known for its massive eruption in 1991. Despite the devastation caused by the eruption, the ecosystem has begun to recover over time. You will observe a blend of new vegetation alongside remnants of the old forests and occasional wildlife sightings.

The Journey to Mt. Pinatubo

Jump Off

We started our journey to Mt. Pinatubo at 2:30 AM from the Mall of Asia in Pasay. By around 5:30 AM, we arrived at the jump-off point in Capas, Tarlac. While the tour organizer finalized our registration, we had light breakfast and prepared for the hike.

4×4 Jeep Ride

Past 6 in the morning, we began our 4×4 jeep ride towards Toblerone Hills. Hold on tight because it will be a thrilling, bumpy ride. You will journey to the center of the Crow Valley, covered with ashes and volcanic mudflows that have altered the environment. You will be in awe of the spectacular view that you will witness here. Adding to its beauty are sun rays immerging from the left side of the valley.

Photo courtesy of Yhen

Once you arrive at the Toblerone Hills you will get a chance to take pictures of the magnificent beauty that surrounds you. The Toblerone Hills is your first stopover towards Mt. Pinatubo. Take time to take pictures and videos and enjoy its beautiful landscapes. After Toblerone Hills, you will continue the second part of the 4×4 adventure which is the electrifying part.

The 4×4 Traverse offers a variety of rugged terrains for the second part of your journey, including riverbeds, dunes, and ash-covered landscapes. You will experience more than a bumpy ride, through the rough, uneven terrain with sections that are challenging to drive through perfect for thrill-seekers! However, the ride can be shaky and intense, especially when crossing small rivers or navigating through deep ash deposits. The two-part 4×4 journey will take more than an hour before you reach the drop-off point.

The Trek

After the 4×4 adventure, we begin our Trek to Mt. Pinatubo. During the first 30 minutes of the hike, we walked over mostly flat, rocky ground in an open space surrounded by the valley. Here, you can still find small stores that offer snacks and water. The path is dusty, rocky, and muddy when it rains. You will need to cross rivers and streams with views of the surrounding plains and craggy mountains. The landscape, shaped by the eruption, has a striking rugged beauty.

Once you enter the forest, this means you are already halfway to the crater of Mt. Pinatubo. Here you will be walking under lush greenery, huge stones some are covered with moss, and cross streams. The final 20 minutes of the ascent entail a steeper climb to the summit of Crater Lake, where a set of stairs serves as the last obstacle to overcome. From the drop-off point, you can hike to the crater lake in about 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on your pace. The trek is suitable for beginners.

The Crater Lake

The Mt. Pinatubo crater lake is a stunning beauty. The lake is encircled by steep volcanic cliffs created by the 1991 eruption. The surrounding area is filled with mountains and lush greenery, which stands in sharp contrast to the nearby barren volcanic landscape. The crater lake’s water is a striking turquoise to blue-green, caused by dissolved minerals like sulfur and volcanic elements, giving it a surreal, otherworldly look.

Photo courtesy of Yhen

If you have some energy left, you can descend the steep stairs to get a closer look at Crater Lake. Take your time to capture the dramatic panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, which provide a stunning backdrop for the lake. You can have lunch here while enjoying the magnificent view of Crater Lake.

Best Time to VISIT:

The ideal time to visit Mt. Pinatubo is during the summer season, from December to May. Hiking is permitted year-round; however, it is not advisable during the typhoon season, which runs from June to September, as heavy rains may trigger lahar floods in the area.

How to get to Mt. Pinatubo

By Bus:

Take a bus to Capas from either the Cubao or Pasay bus terminals. Several companies, such as Victory Liner and Philexcel, provide direct services to Capas. The journey usually takes about 2.5 to 3 hours.
From Capas, take a jeepney or a tricycle to Sta. Juliana. You will have to pay the necessary environmental fees, and then they will assist you in booking your 4×4 tours. The 4×4 ride generally takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on road conditions.

By Private Car:

The most direct route is to drive from Manila to Capas, Tarlac, which takes about 2.5 to 3 hours. You can use the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) and then take the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) Exit toward Dolores, merge onto MacArthur Highway, and follow the road to Sta. Juliana Capas.
At the jump-off point you will have to pay the necessary environmental fees, and then they will assist you in booking your 4×4 ride that will take you closer to the mountain.

About This Tour:

Organizer:

CESS Vlog Travel and Tours for more details visit: https://www.facebook.com/share/164FuRppm3/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Price:

Day Tour – 2,899.00 per head

What’s included:

Roundtrip Tourist Van Service
4×4 service
Local Tour Guide
Registration and Environmental Fees
Breakfast

Itinerary:

2:00 AM (pick up time) – Mall of Asia

5:30 AM – Jump Off ( Capas, Tarlac) Registration (quick breakfast)

6:30 AM – 7:45 AM – 4×4 ride going to Parking Area (Trek starting point) picture taking Tobleron Hills.

7:45 AM – 10:00 AM – Trek going to Mt. Pinatubo Crater

10:00 AM – 12:45 PM – Viewing/Picture Taking/Rest at Mt. Pinatubo Crater

12:45 PM – 3:00 PM Start of trek and return to jump-off area

3:00 PM – 4:30 PM – (Shower and late lunch)

4:30 PM – Departure

7:30 PM – Arrival Mall of Asia

Additional Information:

Requirements for Filipino Guests:

-1 Valid ID

For 40 years old and above:
– On-site blood pressure check-up

For 60 years old and above:
– Medical certificate or travel insurance

For Foreign Guests:

-Passport

Foreign nationals entering Mt. Pinatubo via the Capas trail are now required to submit their requirements (photos of passports) through endorsement 15 days prior to their visit. This new regulation came from higher headquarters for security purposes via https://www.pinatubomountainero.com/blogs/news/everything-you-need-to-know-about-entering-mt-pinatubo-as-a-foreign-national

Essentials:

Valid ID
Small Bag
Sun Protection
Trekking shoes or sandals
Sunglasses
Trail Snacks
Bottled Water
Toiletries
Hat
Extra clothes
Extra pocket money
Camera

Quick Tips:

Check the weather when planning your tour.
The tourism office randomly assigns 4×4 jeeps. You cannot select whether the jeep is open or closed. A maximum of 4 passengers and 1 tour guide are allowed per jeep.
You will be covered in ashes on your way back; it’s advisable to bring extra sets of clothing.
Shower is available in the parking area after hiking. Just pay ₱50.
Protect yourself from the sun by wearing a cap and using plenty of sunscreen lotion with high UV protection.
Choose lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying hiking shoes for varied terrains.
Bring enough water in an insulated bottle for a longer-lasting cold drink along the trail.
Bring trail food like sweet snacks.
There are mini-stores at the beginning of the trail offering snacks, water, grilled hotdogs, and corn.
To stay dry during unexpected rain, bring an umbrella or a poncho with you.
Smart/TNT/Sun are the only mobile networks available at the jump-off area.
You will meet Aeta kids along the trail. You can bring something that you can give like candies.
Please adhere to the “Leave No Trace” principle and ensure that you dispose of your trash properly.

Take away:

The Mt. Pinatubo hike offers stunning views of the crater lake, unique volcanic landscapes, and a sense of adventure through rugged terrain, making it a rewarding and memorable experience. Mount Pinatubo serves as a reminder of nature’s ability to heal and transform. Even in the most devastating events, always believe that something beautiful is going to happen. #Amping