Important Things to Know - The Climb
The Climb Experience
Prepare yourselves for a very entertaining trek! The weather can be unpredictable, so it’s essential to bring clothing and equipment suitable for varying temperatures. The hike will take you about 4-6 hours depending on your pacing, typically 5 hours to the peak and another 5 hours for the decent. It can get muddy, slippery and steep at some points and the hikes usually begin at 1.00am dawn ,so it can be rather dark. Phone reception in the area is very weak or sometimes none at all So, the “Piso Wi-Fi” at SMR homestay is popular among hikers looking to quickly update loved ones before the hike.
The setting up of tents is allowed only at the designated camp sites and building any open fire is strictly prohibited. You should bring your own butane camping stoves if you want to cook some hot meals while at the campsite. There are rustic designated urinal and toilets at campsites to maintain the sanitation in the National Park area but don't expect any creature comforts like running water or flush system. So best, do all your necessaries at the homestay before starting your trek. If you have read or heard some people say that there are clean water springs up in the mountain… don’t put much trust in that advice as they can be dry or muddy, depending on the season, so best bring enough of your own for cooking and hydration. Don't forget to enjoy the breathtaking majestic views on the way up, at the summit and on the way down. Enjoy your hike!
The locals believe that the mountain is sacred. For things to be smooth, you must not be obnoxious or loud. Respect the peace and quiet on the mountain, and the mountain will respect what you’re asking for.
The locals believe that the mountain is sacred. For things to be smooth, you must not be obnoxious or loud. Respect the peace and quiet on the mountain, and the mountain will respect what you’re asking for.
Essential Things to Bring
- Sleeping Bags and Sleeping Mat
To protect you from the cold and to give you comfort from the hard ground - Water Bottles
2-3 liters per person should be enough. (Bring electrolyte drinks of course if you get thirsty rather quickly). - Flashlights or Headlights
- Rainproof Backpack
If you don’t have a rain-proof one, make sure to wrap your things inside in plastic - Snacks for the hike
Consider packing carbohydrates that are great for replenishing energy - Gloves, scarf, bonnet/cap
Anything to heat you up! it gets MORE than chilly. almost ice cold!! - Hat
To protect yourself from the UV exposure and heat. - Dry Clothes
Preferably quick dry and RAIN-PROOF EVERYTHING. - Extra clothes for layering.
- Dry Socks
- Rain Gear
Again, another just in case, and definitely no umbrellas. Make shift trash bag ponchos, if you must. - Simple First Aid and Medicines
For minor aches, cuts or bumps and bruises. If you are prone to motion sickness and have other regular medication, bring it along. - Good Hiking Shoes
Any Reliable, comfy and insulated shoes is recommended and consider hiking poles if you have those. Not really required; but they do help support trekking. - Extra Footwear
A light one; a slip on or slipper for example. Just in case your shoes accidentally get ruined. - Lots of Plastic Bags
To put your trash into, clothes, etc. etc. Don’t throw any of these away in that mountain of course! - Basic Toiletries
- Basic Eating Utensils
- Camera and Power bank
- Small Tent
10 Tips to remember
TIP 1: Pack light and right
This is common knowledge, but sometimes you can over pack on this regular hike. Just pack light and only the essentials. or hire a porter if you know that you can’t manage long hours of hiking with your bag on your back.
This is common knowledge, but sometimes you can over pack on this regular hike. Just pack light and only the essentials. or hire a porter if you know that you can’t manage long hours of hiking with your bag on your back.
TIP 2: Prepare yourself adequately
Make sure you are well ,fit and acclimatized. Even though this is considered a beginners trail, it can be challenging as the elevation, the cold and ever changing weather is not most people are accustomed with.
TIP 3: Listen & follow well
Mt. Pulag is a protected area so by all means, listen, follow, and respect nature as it is. Basically, you just need to abide by the DENR reminders Some examples: (1) no spitting, (2) no shouting, (3) no taking or reckless touching of plants, (4) stay on the trail, and more.
TIP 4: Gear up!
Use the restroom, have some meals to pack some energy at the homestay. There are small sari-sari stores around this area so if you forgot to anything or need more snacks, buy them here. After that, gear up: layer your clothes and wear the proper hiking clothes, secure your bags, and hire a porter
TIP 5: Pack enough water
Due to cold you may not sweat so much, 2-3 Liters of water is usually adequate
TIP 6: Take a rest whenever needed
As the elevation ,the cold and low oxygen will take its toll on your fitness. TAKE IT EASY as it is not a race, you will get to the top eventually.
TIP 8: Be camping-equipped
TIP 9: Don’t underestimate the cold
TIP 10: Be careful and leave no trace — take only pictures!