by I was one of those people who got delayed on their Mt Pulag dreams because of the pandemic way back 2020. But surely it was a blessing in disguise to allow the mountains to rest from tourists! So yeah, everything is cool. (Guide To Mt Pulag)
The long wait is finally over now that I was able to conquer the highest mountain in Luzon. I am excited to share with you my trip to the Playground of the Gods in this article. Continue reading below for some important tips and reminders!
About Mt Pulag
Nestled 2,926 above sea level lies the famous and breathtaking “Playground of the Gods”. With its scenic view of rolling hills beneath the sea of clouds, you will surely feel like you are on top of the world. Sitting on the foothills are the Ibaloys and Kankanaey Village.
Mt Pulag is the 3rd highest mountain in the country next to Mt Apo and Mt Dulang-Dulang. Not only that it is famous for its sea of clouds but mountaineers go here to witness an exceptional view of the Milky Way Galaxy at dawn.
Did you know? The indigenous mountain of Mt Pulag is considered by locals as sacred because it is believed to be the resting place of their ancestors, people could appear and disappear. The elders suggest to ask permission to the anitos before entering so that they will not be disturbed. Otherwise, strong winds and bad climate will suddenly appear.
Trails & Difficulty
Even if Mt Pulag is the highest mountain in Luzon, it’s difficulty is fairly 3/9. Meaning to say that the trail is easy to follow and with less difficulties compared to other mountains. The hike will take you about 4-6 hours depending on your pacing. For us we managed to climb it for approximately 5 hours and another 5 hours going back.
There are about 4 rails to Mt Pulag. The 2 famous trails are the Akiki and Ambangeg trail. Akiki is also known as the killer trail while Ambangeg trail is for beginners. For more information about the trails available, you may read more about it here.
Pre-Travel Requirements (COVID-19 Guidelines)
Here are some pre-travel requirements you need to know about the indigenous mountain.
Is it open to tourists?
YES. However, take note that it is only open to tourists residing in Benguet province. As per the DENR’s orientation, they will slowly open the mountain to tourists in the future when there is enough vaccinated tour guides to accommodate the influx of tourists. As a result, only Benguet residents are allowed to enter. (Updated as of April 2022).
What are the requirements?
As of April 2022, here are the requirements needed:
Pre-Travel Tips From Joan’s Footprints (Guide to Mt Pulag)
Entry Protocols & Requirements
Important Contact Person
For Mt Pulag slot reservation.
2 Days 1 Night Itinerary + Attractions Via Travel Agency (Guide to Mt Pulag)
I highly recommend getting an arranged tour if you are traveling with a group, you may check Yamang Pinas on Facebook. A 2 days 1 Night Mt. Pulag tour costs Php3,500.00 (all included).
Side-trip at Ambuklao Dam
Our first side-trip was Ambuklao Dam which is approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes from Baguio City. Here you will see a wide range of fresh water and hills circling around it.
Side-trip at Sulfur Spring
After about 40 minutes from Ambuklao Dam is the Sulfur Spring.
The Ranger Station
Before arriving at the Ranger Station, there will be a short briefing and orientation at the DENR. You can walk around the Ranger Station to check out the village and the scenic view of the mountains. Below is a photo of me at the Ranger Station with the local kids.
We started the hike from the Ranger Station at 1:00 in the morning and was able to reach Camp 1 after an hour. After Camp 1 is another 2 hour hike to Camp 2.
Mossy Forest
Prepare yourselves for a very entertaining trek! The mossy forest is one of the best view during our Mt Pulag 5-hour hike. Honestly I think it took us about an hour for photoshoots during our descent. It’s like an Alice in Wonderland theme or Into the Woods.
The mossy forest will start after Camp 1 until Camp 2. Here you will witness how rich and indigenous Mt Pulag is.
Dwarf Bamboo Forest
Subsequently, just after the Mossy Forest is the Dwarf Bamboo Forest. This starts from Camp 2 going to the peak of Mt Pulag. Before reaching the peak, you will pass by Peak 4, Peak 3, Peak 2 and the summit itself. In this trail you will also see some indigenous plants around.
The Summit & The Grassland Mountain
Mt Pulag is every hiker’s dream and it’s not hard to see why! The exceptional view of the grassland mountains will surely take your breath away. At last, after 2 years of patiently waiting, here lies in front of my naked eye one of the most beautiful place I’ve ever seen in my entire life. I finally conquered Mt Pulag!
We were blessed with such beautiful scenery that can only be seen after working hard for it. I am proud to have been given the chance to climb this humble mountain.
DIY Expenses
Below are the expenses and fees to expect when in Mt Pulag. For DIY travelers, homestays are everywhere near the Ranger Station, just ask around. Homestays are Php500.00/pax/night.
| Entrance Fee for Non-local Residents | Php175.00/pax on weekdays x2 on Holidays and weekends |
| Admin Fee for Local Residents | Php25.00/pax on weekdays x2 on Holidays and weekends |
| Guide Fee | Php1,200.00 (1-5 pax) and additional Php240.00 for every exceeding number of pax |
| LGU Fee | Php150.00/pax Environmental and Cultural Heritage Fee |
| Porter Fee (optional) | Php1,000.00 – 15 kilos and below Additional Php100.00 for every exceeding kilo |
| Camping Fee (Camp 2) | Php50.00/pax/night on weekdays x2 on Holidays and weekends |
| Medical Certificate (optional) | Php130.00/each |
Help me improve my Guide To Mt Pulag! By commenting suggestions in the comment section below, I am very open to new ideas. Photo credits to Aldrin and Mimi!
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May I ask what month is this? I mean your hike to Pulag. Thank you
Hello! It was 1st week of April 2022. 🙂
Hi, would you know if the porter fee of 1000 is only one way going up to Camp 2? Does this not include going down from Camp 2. Thanks!
Hello Alex! The porter fee includes roundtrip. 🙂
Hi Joana, are guides available around the area. Or should the climb be booked through a travel agency?
Hello Raymond! Guides are limited in the area as well as the number of visitors, you can expect it to be fully booked on weekends. If you wish to go without a Travel Agency, it is best to contact the DENR in advance for reservation. To avoid the hassle might as well book with a Travel Agency. 🙂
Hi Joanna, couple of questions, do you leave your other stuff/bags at the homestay when you hike up to Mt Pulag? If you’re staying at the homestay, do you still need to bring blankets, towels & utensils or will all these be provided?
Hey Charlie! 🙂 Yeah we leave our bags at our homestay and bring only water and gadgets with us. Blankets and utensils are usually provided.