Mount Batulao Hiking Guide
Mt. Batulao is a popular mountain located in the province of Batangas, Philippines. It is part of the Southern Tagalog region and is known for its scenic beauty and relatively easy hiking trails, making it a favorite destination for both novice and experienced hikers.
Standing at approximately 811 meters above sea level, Mt. Batulao offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including rolling hills, verdant valleys, and distant mountain ranges. It is characterized by its distinct twin peaks, known as the "Old Trail" and the "New Trail."
The Old Trail is the traditional and more challenging route up Mt. Batulao. It features steep slopes, narrow ridges, and rocky terrains, providing hikers with a thrilling adventure. On the other hand, the New Trail, which was established in recent years, offers a more gradual ascent with a wider and well-maintained path, making it a preferred option for beginners.
One of the highlights of hiking Mt. Batulao is the breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view from the summit. On a clear day, hikers can see nearby landmarks such as the nearby Taal Volcano, Batangas Bay, and even as far as the South China Sea. It's a rewarding sight that attracts many nature enthusiasts and photographers.
Public Transportation:
From Manila, you can take a bus bound for Nasugbu or Calatagan, as these are the towns nearest to Mt. Batulao. Several bus companies, such as DLTB and BSC, operate routes to these destinations. Board a bus at a designated terminal or along the route, and inform the conductor or driver that you'll be getting off at Evercrest Golf Course, the jump-off point for Mt. Batulao. From there, you can hire a tricycle to take you to the mountain trailhead.
Private Vehicle:
If you have access to a private vehicle or are willing to rent one, you can drive from Manila to Mt. Batulao. The approximate travel time is around two to three hours, depending on the traffic and your starting point in Manila.
Van or Jeepney:
Another option is to take a van or jeepney from Manila to Nasugbu. These are usually available in designated terminals like the ones in Pasay or Buendia. Similar to the bus option, inform the driver or conductor that you'll be going to Evercrest Golf Course. From there, you can hire a tricycle to reach the starting point of the hike.
The starting point for hiking Mt. Batulao is typically at Evercrest Golf Course, which is located in Nasugbu, Batangas, Philippines. It serves as the jump-off point for both the Old Trail and the New Trail.
Once you reach Evercrest Golf Course, you can proceed to the registration area where you will pay the necessary fees and secure any required permits. It's essential to register before starting your hike for safety and monitoring purposes.
From the registration area, you can follow the designated trailhead to begin your ascent of Mt. Batulao. The trail will lead you through scenic landscapes, open grasslands, and eventually towards the twin peaks of the mountain.
There are typically local guides available at the jump-off point who can assist you and provide guidance throughout the hike if needed. They can help ensure your safety and provide valuable information about the trail and the mountain itself.
It's important to note that the starting point and trail access may vary slightly depending on any recent developments or changes implemented by local authorities. Therefore, it's advisable to gather updated information and coordinate with the local tourism office or experienced hikers familiar with the current conditions before your trip to Mt. Batulao.
