Important Things To Know- before climbing
From SMR Homestay - The Ambangeg Trail begins just a few minutes walk away and is considered the easiest, most popular trail for those new to hiking. This trail is relatively short and has a more gradual incline compared to others. It starts from the Ranger Station and offers a less strenuous ascent with well-marked paths and clearer views. This trail is ideal for beginners or those with limited trekking experience.
Important Reminders
- Mt. Pulag is a National Park; respect its ecology and the local community.
- All hikers require DENR registration for their own safety
- Follow Leave No Trace principles to ensure a pristine experience for future hikers.
- Acclimatize properly before your hike to avoid altitude sickness and remember dress warm as it can get almost freezing.
Acclimatize properly
While it is technically possible to complete a day hike up Mount Pulag, it is not recommended due to the strenuous nature of the climb and the need to acclimate to high altitude oxygen level. We do recommend a minimum 2 day stay as most hikers do a two-day trek, which allows for a more enjoyable experience, with the first day dedicated to preparing and acclimatizing. While the second day going for the summit push and witnessing the sunrise. This extended itinerary helps in acclimating to the altitude and reduces the risk of altitude sickness.
Don’t underestimate the cold
Mount Pulag can experience extreme lows as cold as -5°C (23°F), particularly during the early mornings, average temperature is about 10-15°C (50-59°F). Temperatures can vary depending on the season and altitude. The coldest temperatures are usually found at the summit and during the winter months. Proper insulation and warm clothing are essential for comfort and safety
Get your DENR climbing Registrations
Without DENR registration you cannot hike in the National Park. Daily slots are limited to 500 per day. Hikers are advised to check and book in advance the DENR Registration slots to fit your itinerary especially during weekends and holidays, when many climbers are expected to come.
To Make DENR registration reservation for a climbing slot.
CONTACT : DENR Mt. Pulag Office at 09127628844, 09103010423, 09106412678, or 09261626786.
Call Monday through Friday, 8 AM–5 PM
A "Fit to Climb" medical certificate is required to be presented (You can bring yours from any licensed physician or have yourself checked at the medical clinic in front of the DENR Station for about P150) OR you can also get it at the Babalak Ranger Station near SMR Homestay before hiking.
DENR registration of all hikers, is to be done HERE first before you can climb - record your names, pay the necessary fees, and complete the prerequisite orientation.
- You are required to undergo a 30 minute awareness orientation/safety briefing at the visitor’s center/protected Area Office.
Table of FEES to expect :-
- DENR Fee: P250/person weekday (P350 weekend/Holiday) for Philippine nationals. FOR NON NATIONALS P850/person
- Admin Fee: P25/person weekdays (P50 weekend/Holiday)
- Barangay Fee: P60/person
- Environmental Fee: P300/person
- Camping Fee (optional): P100/person/night (Weekdays ONLY)
- Climb Certificate: P50/person
Book the local guides
At the Babalak (Babadak) Ranger Station, if you intend to hike in the national park, you must hire a local guide (strictly mandated), and a porter (if need be) to accompany you.
Climbing Mt. Pulag without a guide is not an option. Guides are an integral part of the registration process, ensuring your safety during the ascent and descent.
Climbing Mt. Pulag without a guide is not an option. Guides are an integral part of the registration process, ensuring your safety during the ascent and descent.
Even for seasoned climbers, the presence of an experienced guide is mandatory. Mt.Pulag’s trails differ from well-marked paths in other places instead, they are community trails leading to diverse locations, coupled with the ever changing weather on the mountain, thus making a local guide essential for navigation.
Getting a porter is optional but of course, it’s best to let go of your pride and hire a porter if you know that you can’t manage long hours of hiking with your bag on your back.
(Remember: you are supporting a local economy)
- Guide Fee: P1500 per 1-5 persons (additional P300/person)
- Porter Fee: P1000/15 kilos max. (additional P100/kilo)
Ready to reach the Playground of the Gods?
Important Things to know
- The Ultimate climb Guide-
Here we have listed a practical, simple guide for the hike to the summit. Just click the button to continue.
If you want to camp and avoid the crowds or have the summit all by yourself or with a few others, We do recommended to schedule your climb on a weekday. This would also allow you to manage the climb pace on your own.