'Ain't No Mountain High Enough': Hiking trails to conquer near Manila

The Philippines is very rich when it comes to natural resources. Not only is our 7,107 islands blessed with a wealth of water resources, the country is also gifted with a variety of landforms and spectacular landscapes.

 For those who enjoy such nature, mountain climbing and trekking are easy favorites. If you are one of them, here are some hiking trails to conquer near Manila.

Located in Tanay, Rizal, Mount Mapalad is a favorite among tourists and new mountaineers because of its beginner-friendly hiking trail. The peak offers a scenic view where climbers get to take Instagram-worthy shots on top of wooden palm structures, overlooking the mountain range. Along the way, you might even come across the Kinabuan falls where you can cool down or take a dip. Mount Mapalad is also accessible as it is near the metro, about one or two hours away from Manila.

Address: San Jose St, Padilla, Antipolo, 1870 Rizal

Also located in Tanay, Rizal, Treasure Mountain is referred to as the “no-hike mountain” because of its easy and attainable hiking trail that you could enjoy with your family and friends. Aside from the spectacular view of the sea of clouds, there is also a variety of activities and amenities to try in this area such as the Obstacle Course with Spider’s Web, Bosay Falls Trek, Maximinus Pool Swim, The Apiary Farm Visit, Laiban Falls Trek, El Patio Razon Visit, and the Daranak Fall Trek. The good news is that you could easily avail any of these activities through Klook’s Treasure Mountain Tour. It also has an option for an overnight camping experience. What an exciting bonding time for you and your loved ones!

Address: Sitio Maysawa Brgy. Cuyambay, Tanay, 1980 Rizal

Located in Laguna and Batangas, Mount Makiling is a famous camping site and hiking trail in the Philippines. Classified as an inactive volcano, many campers and mountaineers frequent the place to get fresh air, enjoy the hot springs, and learn about nature. The forest reserve is also famous for its folklores about Maria Makiling who is believed to be the mountain’s guardian. Depending on the traffic, it takes more than an hour or two to get there from Metro Manila.

Address: Los Banos, Laguna

Located in San Rafael, Bulacan, Mount Secret is referred to as the “The Hidden Mountain of Bulacan.” With a hiking trail suitable for beginners, trekkers often come here to enjoy the majestic views of the rock formations in the Malangaan Cave and Spring, and even see a glimpse of the Mount Arayat. With just an hour or two drive away from Manila, a hiking tour that is available through Klook is ready to take you and your loved ones on this exciting adventure.

Address: San Rafael, Bulacan

Located in Siniloan, Laguna, Mount Romelo is a hiking trail surrounded by lush greenery and cool waters. Also dubbed as the “Waterfall Sanctuary of Eastern Laguna," it is also the location of four waterfalls namely the Buruwisan Falls, Lanzones Falls, Batya Batya Falls, and Sampaloc Falls. Luckily, you have the opportunity to enjoy all of these through this Mount Romelo and four Chasing Waterfalls hiking tour being offered by Klook.

Address: Siniloan, Laguna

With just a few hours drive away from Manila, you’ll reach another popular hiking spot - the Mount Batulao. Located in Batangas, Mount Batulao is surrounded by lush forests. The view from the peak is spectacular as you get to see the provinces of Batangas and Cavite, as well as the Taal Lake.

Address: Nasugbu, Batangas

Go hiking with your buddies at Mount Daraitan in Rizal where there are many outdoor activities to try such as spelunking and swimming at the popular Tinipak River. The view is also beautiful with its lush greenery and rock formations. At the peak, you even get to see the spectacular Sierra Madre mountain range.

Address: Tanay, Rizal

Up for some challenge? Try the hiking trails of Mount Pamitinan. Located in Rodriguez, Rizal, Mount Pamitinan is only less than an hour drive from Quezon City. Climb boulders and at the peak, relish in the breathtaking view of the green landscape, overlooking the Wawa River.

Address: Rodriguez, Rizal