Mount Ulap Hiking Guide: Best Trails, Tips & Views in the Philippines

The Ampucao-Sta. Fe Traverse is the most iconic trail on Mount Ulap, stretching approximately 9 kilometers and offering a moderate challenge for hikers. Starting at the Ampucao jump-off point, this route takes you through rolling hills, grassy slopes, and pine forests, with an elevation gain of about 600 meters. The trail’s highlight is its open ridges, where you can enjoy unobstructed views of the Cordillera mountain range and, on clear days, a distant glimpse of the Lingayen Gulf. Typically, the hike takes 4 to 6 hours to complete, depending on your pace, and ends in Sta. Fe, where you can relax and refuel. This traverse is perfect for day hikers and those looking to experience the full beauty of Mount Ulap in the Philippines without needing an overnight camp.

For those seeking a shorter yet equally rewarding hike, the Gungal Rock Trail is a fantastic option. This trail branches off the main Ampucao-Sta. Fe route and leads to Gungal Rock, one of Mount Ulap’s most famous viewpoints. The trek to Gungal Rock is less strenuous, taking about 1 to 2 hours from the trailhead, making it ideal for beginners or those short on time. Once you reach the summit, you’re greeted with a breathtaking panorama—think rolling hills, pine-dotted slopes, and, if you’re lucky, a mesmerizing sea of clouds drifting below. Gungal Rock is also a popular spot for sunrise hikes, so starting early (around 4 AM) is recommended to catch the magical morning light. Whether you’re a photographer or simply a nature lover, this trail offers some of the best views Mount Ulap has to offer.

Sunrise at Mount Ulap’s Peak

One of the most iconic photography spots on Mount Ulap is the peak, especially during sunrise, where you can capture the golden light illuminating the sea of clouds. Start your hike around 4 AM to reach the summit in time, ideally via the Ampucao-Sta. Fe Traverse, and set up near Gungal Rock for the best angles. The interplay of soft morning light with the misty peaks creates a surreal effect, making it ideal for landscape shots or silhouettes of fellow hikers. Bring a tripod to stabilize your shots in the early dawn, and don’t forget to adjust your camera settings for low-light conditions to capture the vibrant hues.

Pine Forest Panorama Points

The pine forests along Mount Ulap’s trails offer another stunning photography opportunity, with their tall, slender trees framing the rolling hills and distant mountains. Look for panorama points along the Gungal Rock Trail or near the open ridges of the traverse, where the natural symmetry of the pines contrasts beautifully with the rugged terrain. The cool, misty air often adds a dreamy quality to your photos, especially after a light rain. Experiment with wide-angle lenses to capture the vastness of the landscape, and visit during the golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) for the softest lighting and richest colors.

Hiking Mount Ulap in Benguet, Philippines, offers an incredible adventure with its scenic trails and stunning views of the Cordillera mountain range, but safety should always come first. The mountain’s 9.4 km traverse from Ampucao to Sta. Fe, with a difficulty rating of 3/9, is manageable for beginners, yet it presents unique challenges like steep ascents, rocky ridges, and unpredictable weather. To ensure a safe and enjoyable hike, follow these essential guidelines. Start your hike early, ideally around 5 AM, to avoid the intense midday heat and potential afternoon rain, which can make trails slippery and reduce visibility, especially near Gungal Rock. The trail is exposed in many sections, so apply strong sunscreen and bring a wind jacket or sweater, as temperatures can drop to 14°C at the summit, particularly between December and February. There are no water sources along the trail, so carry ample drinking water—aim for at least 2 liters per person—and pack enough food, as the only store is at the entrance in Ampucao.

Hiring a local guide is mandatory and highly recommended for safety, especially after rain when visibility can drop to zero in some areas; guides cost around 300 PHP per day and can provide valuable insights into the trail and local culture. Stick to the established paths to avoid getting lost, and be cautious on rocky sections like Gungal Rock, where the edges can be slippery—watch your footing while taking photos, as some scenic spots can be hazardous. The trail includes steep descents, particularly on the Sta. Fe side, with makeshift wooden steps and loose rocks, so trekking poles are advised for support to prevent slipping. You’ll encounter cows grazing along the trail; while they’re generally tame, avoid provoking them for selfies to prevent any accidents. Respect the environment by following the "leave no trace" principle—bring your rubbish down and avoid picking plants or disturbing the biodiversity, such as the wild berries and rare flowers along the path.

Must-Have Gear for Mount Ulap Climbers

Start with sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes with good grip to tackle the rocky and uneven terrain, especially near Gungal Rock where edges can be slippery. Bring a lightweight raincoat or poncho, as weather in the highlands can shift quickly, and a wind-resistant jacket for the cool summit temperatures, which can drop to 14°C. A headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries is essential if you start early for a sunrise hike, along with a trekking pole for stability on steep descents. Don’t forget a fully charged power bank, sunscreen with high SPF, a hat, and a basic first-aid kit with bandages, pain relievers, and blister treatment to handle minor injuries or sunburn.

Food and Water Essentials for the Trail

Since there are no water refills along the Mount Ulap trail, carry at least 2 liters of water per person to stay hydrated throughout the 4-6 hour hike. Pack high-energy snacks like trail mix, energy bars, sandwiches, and fruits (e.g., bananas or apples) to maintain your stamina, and consider a packed lunch for a break at Gungal Rock or the summit. Bring a reusable water bottle or hydration pack, and if possible, a water purifier or tablets as a backup. Avoid leaving food waste—pack out all trash to follow the "leave no trace" principle and preserve Mount Ulap’s natural beauty for future hikers.

Mount Ulap, located in Itogon, Benguet, Philippines, is a popular hiking destination known for its stunning views of the Cordillera mountain range, making it a perfect day hike from Baguio City. Situated just 40 minutes from Baguio’s Burnham Park, the jump-off point in Barangay Ampucao is easily accessible for both locals and tourists. Here’s how to get to Mount Ulap for your adventure. If you’re traveling from Metro Manila, start by taking a bus to Baguio City—Victory Liner offers routes from Cubao or Pasay, with a travel time of 5 to 7 hours depending on traffic and stops. Buses typically depart hourly, and fares range from 800 to 1,000 PHP as of early 2025; booking online through platforms like Victory Liner’s website is recommended to secure your seat. Once in Baguio, head to the jeepney terminal near Centermall (a few meters from Jollibee on Lakandula St.) to catch a public jeepney bound for Ampucao Barangay Hall, costing around 50 PHP and taking 40 to 60 minutes. The earliest jeepneys depart around 4 AM, but if you arrive earlier or prefer more flexibility, you can charter a taxi from Baguio to Ampucao for approximately 700 PHP, which is ideal for early morning hikes to catch the sunrise at Gungal Rock.

Upon arriving at Ampucao Barangay Hall, you’ll need to register and secure a mandatory local guide, which costs around 300 PHP per day for a group—guides can also arrange pickups from Baguio if coordinated in advance. Registration opens at 5 AM for day hikes (with a cut-off at 12 PM), and you may need to reserve your slot in advance via the local government’s online form, especially on weekends when up to 500 hikers visit daily. If driving your own car, you can park at the registration area in Ampucao, which has space for about 10 vehicles, though the exit point in Sta. Fe is different due to the traverse route, so plan for transportation back to Ampucao or Baguio. For a hassle-free trip, consider staying overnight in Baguio, where affordable lodging options are plentiful, before heading to Mount Ulap early the next morning.