From the breathtaking beauty of the Cordillera mountains to the mystical trails of Mount Apo, the highest peak in the Philippines, the country's hiking destinations are truly a sight to behold. If you're a foreigner planning to explore the Philippines' hiking trails, here are ten essential things you should know.
1. No Ice And Snow
That’s right, there is no ice or snow in Philippine wilderness. Mountain peaks in the country are not adorned with icy caps but rather cloaked in vibrant shades of green. The trails are not covered with snow or ice, so you do not need crampons, ice axe, climbing ropes, or winter-grade gear. This means that you can enjoy a fun and safe hiking experience without having to worry about the dangers of ice, snow, and extreme cold temperatures.
2. Tropical Weather
The Philippines is a tropical country which means you have to prepare for intense heat, humidity and rain. The country experiences two seasons: dry season (from November to April) and wet season (from May to October). However, be aware that the weather patterns in the Philippine wilderness are unpredictable, and rain can occur even on a sunny day turning the trail into muddy terrain. Planning your hiking attire is essential.
3. No Large Land Predators
You will not get attacked or eaten by big carnivores because the Philippines has no large predators like bears or mountain lions. The only wild animal that may pose a threat are venomous snakes. But snakes avoid humans and they generally avoid trails. So as long as you stay on the trail and keep your eyes open, you should be fine.
The Philippines is home to many species of wildlife, but there are no land predators that are big enough to pose a threat to hikers.
4. No Technical Skills And Equipment Required
While there are some challenging hikes in the Philippines, none of them requires technical climbing skills or equipment. In fact, most of the popular hiking destinations in the country are relatively easy and offer stunning views. All popular trails can be traveled by foot, which means that if you can walk, you can explore.
5. Maps and Guidebooks Are Either Outdated Or Unavailable
If you prefer to navigate Philippine mountains and wilderness in a traditional way using map and compass, you will not find quality and detailed paper maps in Philippine stores. You can, however, download printable topographical maps from online sources like NAMRIA, but know that their maps are old. Most of them date back to the 1970s and some as far back as the 1950s. Newer ones, or at least two decades old, only cover the major population areas.
If quality and detailed map is not available, here are other options.
6. Acclimatization Not Required
High altitude acclimatization is not required when going up to Philippine mountains because they are low to moderate altitude only. This means that it is highly unlikely that you will suffer from altitude sickness because the air pressure and oxygen levels are not significantly different from the air pressure and oxygen levels at sea level. However, it is still important to stay hydrated and take breaks when needed to avoid altitude sickness.
7. Hiring Local Guide May Be Required
Most popular hiking destinations require you to hire a local guide. While most popular destinations have established trails, many trail sections lack proper signage or are blurred making it confusing. A wrong turn will easily get you lost. Hiring a mountain guide may add to your expenses but it can be worth it because they will not just show you the right direction, they can also double as your assistant in case of emergency.
Local guides do not just take you to the right direction, they can also assist you in case of emergency.
8. Less Amenities
Manage your expectations. The comforts you enjoy in your country may not be available in the Philippines. Basic amenities such as as toilets, warm baths and mountain huts are almost non-existent in Philippine wilderness and mountains. In many cases, people have to rely on natural resources to relieve themselves. If you plan to have an overnight camping, you have to bring a portable shelter like a tent or tarp.
9. The 10 Essentials
Venturing into the wilderness of the Philippines is a thrilling adventure, but it comes with risks. That's why you should know the importance of packing the '10 Essentials' – a collection of vital gear and supplies for survival and safety in the Philippine wilderness. These are the key items you need to carry, even on day hikes, to stay prepared for unforeseen situations that could arise in the wild. Learn more about the 10 Essentials
10. Good Behavior Is A Powerful Tool
When hiking in the Philippines, it's crucial to respect the local regulations, customs, traditions, and the indigenous communities you may encounter along the trails. Learn the 12 Good Habits beforehand to win friends and avoid any unintentional cultural missteps or environmental damages.
