A Beginner's Guide to Mountain Hiking in the Philippines

Why Mountain Hiking?

There's something deeply rewarding about reaching the summit of a mountain. The physical challenge, the fresh air, the panoramic views. It all sticks with you long after you've come back down.

Here in the Philippines, we're lucky to have mountains for every skill level. You can start with the gentle slopes of Mt. Gulugod Baboy and eventually work your way up to the challenging trails of Mt. Pulag.

Whether you're looking for a new way to stay active, hoping to disconnect from the city, or just craving an adventure, hiking checks all the boxes.

Essential Gear for Your First Hike

You don't need the most expensive gear out there. But having the basics will keep you safe and comfortable on the trail.

Footwear

Your shoes are the single most important piece of gear. Get a solid pair of trail shoes or hiking boots with ankle support and good traction. Break them in before your first hike so you don't end up with blisters halfway through.

Clothing

Go with moisture-wicking layers. Cotton soaks up sweat and can leave you cold at higher elevations. Synthetic or merino wool base layers are your best bet.

Always bring a lightweight rain jacket too. Weather in the mountains can turn on you fast.

The Ten Essentials

Every hiker should carry these on every trip:

• Navigation - Map, compass, or GPS device
• Sun protection - Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat
• Insulation - Extra clothing layers
• Illumination - Headlamp with extra batteries
• First-aid supplies - Basic medical kit
• Fire - Matches or lighter in a waterproof container
• Repair tools - Knife, duct tape, cord
• Nutrition - Extra food beyond what you plan to eat
• Hydration - Extra water and a way to purify more
• Emergency shelter - Lightweight bivy or space blanket

Preparing Your Body

Hiking takes a baseline level of fitness, especially for longer or steeper trails. Start preparing at least four to six weeks before your first major hike.

Cardiovascular Fitness

Build your endurance with regular cardio. Walking, jogging, cycling, and swimming all work great. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days of the week.

Leg Strength

Strong legs make the climb easier and the descent safer. Squats, lunges, step-ups, and calf raises are your go-to exercises. Stair climbing is especially effective since it mimics what you'll actually be doing on the trail.

Core Stability

A strong core helps with balance on uneven terrain and cuts down on fatigue when you're carrying a pack. Planks, bridges, and rotational exercises all help here.

Trail Etiquette

Being a good hiker means respecting both the environment and the people around you on the trail.

Leave No Trace

Pack out all your trash, stay on marked trails, and don't disturb wildlife or plants. The mountains were here long before us, and it's on us to keep them pristine for future hikers.

Yield the Trail

Uphill hikers generally have the right of way. Step aside and let them pass. When you run into a larger group, the smaller group should yield.

Keep Noise Down

Part of the mountain experience is the peace and quiet. Keep conversations at a reasonable volume and skip the Bluetooth speakers.

Safety First

Mountain hiking carries real risks. Understanding those risks and preparing for them is what makes the difference between a great experience and a dangerous one.

Know Your Limits

Pick trails that match your current fitness level and experience. There's zero shame in turning back if conditions get too tough. The mountain isn't going anywhere.

Check the Weather

Always check the forecast before heading out. Avoid hiking during typhoon season or when bad weather is on the way. In the Philippines, the dry months from November to May are generally your best window for hiking.

Hike with a Group

Especially as a beginner, going with experienced companions gives you safety in numbers and a chance to learn from people who've been doing this a while. Peaksy makes it easy to find group hikes led by certified guides.

Register with Local Authorities

Many Philippine mountains require registration at a local DENR office or barangay hall. This isn't just a formality. It makes sure someone knows you're on the trail and can send help if something goes wrong.

Popular Beginner-Friendly Mountains in the Philippines

If you're just starting out, these are some great peaks to try:

• Mt. Gulugod Baboy (Batangas) - Gentle climb with stunning views of Anilao coastline
• Mt. Batulao (Batangas) - Rolling grasslands with scenic ridge walks
• Mt. Maculot (Batangas) - Moderate climb with the famous Rockies viewpoint
• Mt. Daraitan (Rizal) - River trekking combined with a summit climb
• Mt. Kalisungan (Laguna) - Beginner-friendly trail with lush forest scenery

Your Next Step

Ready to hit the trail? Join the Peaksy community to discover organized hikes, connect with fellow adventurers, and track your mountain-climbing journey. Every summit starts with a single step.