It has a combination of long and difficult terrains, a wealthy rain forest, a vast diversity of plants and animals, spooky stories, and unpredictable weather conditions, which can bring a remarkable hiking experience (the reason why it's my hardest). So far, hiking Mt. Halcon in Oriental Mindoro is the toughest. Though this mountain garnered a nine over nine rating in terms of difficulty, it is part of my "list of the must hiked mountains" because of its hidden and majestic beauty.
Specifications:
- Address: Baco, Oriental Mindoro
- Jump Off: Brgy. Lantuyan, Baco, Oriental Mindoro
- LLA: 13° 15.749N 120° 59.703E
- Height/Elevation: 2582 MASL
- Hike Difficulty: 9/9, Major climb, Trail class 2-4
The Trails of Mt. Halcon:
- We chose the Mayabig Trail for our ascent. It is a long trail surrounded by bananas, coconuts, vegetables, and other plants cultivated by the residents (mostly the Mangyans).
- Our hike in Mount Halcon was a wet season; as expected, the sticky mud and the limits were two of my biggest challenges.
- We rested and had our lunch break at the Iglesiang Ebanghelika ng Aruta in the Mangyan village. BJ (Buko Juice) can also be ordered from the locals.
It is one of the mountains in the Philippines with a virgin rainforest. Having said that, hikers will encounter rivers and waterfalls. With enough moisture and less human intervention, most terrains have healthy vegetation and hardwood trees. The tranquility and relaxing ambiance are everywhere. I can't hide that this mountain is rich in bio-diversity, flora, and fauna. Of course, passing on this jungle trail is one of the best feelings in my hiking experience so far.
The Campsite of Mt. Halcon:
- The photos above were taken at Camp 1. This area is a wide-open space that can handle several tents. This spot has a broad picture and a fantastic view of Halcon’s range with several waterfalls.
- It is also the spot where the sea of clouds appears.
- In addition, the trail from Camp 1 to Dulangan River was very steep.
- My hands and feet depended on the roots passing the 90-degree assault.
- The trails are somehow established but trail marks are available.
Dulangan River:
- DAY 2, Crossing Dulangan River - From afar, I quickly heard the relaxing sound from the splashing and strong water current. I thought the sound was coming from nearby waterfalls, but I was wrong – the famous river.
- The splashing sound was harmonized by the sopranos of the birds and insects - such a relaxing nature's orchestra.
- This river has a breathtaking beauty, and the waters flowing are clean, calm, and crystal clear. While the gigantic boulders and trees serve as a perfect backdrop.
The Summit of Mt. Halcon:
- Our Journey to the Summit of Mt. Halcon, Day 2. We ascended to the summit but were unsuccessful because the time was limited, so we returned to CAMP 1.
- Heading back to CAMP 1 was unsuccessful, too, because we could not cross the river. The water current was destructive, so we had an emergency camp near CAMP 2.
- No pitching of the tent, just flysheets hanging on the branches of the trees. Limited food supplies but had unlimited stories sharing.
- Second Attempt to the Summit, Day 3. Rain forest, and as expected, the terrains are wet because of the rain showers. While on the trails, everything was okay, though we couldn't see the skies because the trails were covered with hardwood trees.
- Until we reached the open area called "Azothea," the spot where we confirmed that fog was everywhere and the wind was intense - it was a thunderstorm!
- A few minutes of silence. Everyone was thinking, "to push or not to push." It was a tough decision.
- We waited for the weather to calm down, but the wind and fog became thicker, making zero visibility on the knife edge.
- As ordered by our guide, we headed back to CAMP 1.
Again, heading back to CAMP 1 was unsuccessful because the Dulangan River was not passable due to its strong current and overflowing water, so we had an emergency camp inside the small cave near the river. There were five, including one of our guides. Supplies were enough for overnight. Everything was okay, and the weather was calm overnight, but we barely slept because of the insects. The next day, I just drank a cup of coffee and crossed the river, heading to CAMP 1, a successful attempt. Upon arrival, our food was ready.
DAY 4, A FULL DAY DESCENT, AND THE REST IS HISTORY
How to Get to Mt. Halcon:
- At the bus station along EDSA or other terminals in Manila, take a bus bound for Batangas Port.
- Take a Ferry or RoRo to Calapan.
- Then, hire a jeepney to to Baco.
- Reminders: You must secure permits before hiking and hire a local guide.