Mt. Mantalingahan measures 2,086 MASL and is located in Rizal, Palawan. It is a mountain that is a bit challenging, but you will be rewarded with amazing views from the summit, cool weather, and a remarkable experience. Others call it Mt. Mantalingajan, or Mt. Mantalingahan Protected Landscape. Traveling to its jump-off is more than 4 hours of land travel from Puerto Princesa City, and it's situated in a secluded municipality. Having said that, its beauty remains hidden from many hikers. Thus, its richness is well preserved.
Overview and Specifications:
- Address: Rizal, Palawan
- Jump Off: Brgy. Ransang, Rizal, Palawan
- LLA: 8°48’N 117°40’E
- Height/Elevation: 2086 MASL
- Hike Difficulty: 9/9, Major climb, Trail class 2-5
What to Expect on the Trails:
During our hike, the weather was not good, so the trails of Mt. Mantalingahan were challenging. After leaving the van, we walked on a muddy and rough road to Balin-Balin Village. This village has a few families that use farming as their source of income. Their houses are made of nipa and wood. From the village, another muddy trail ascends to Mamamahin, the spot where the tall Manguis tree (called Ginoo) is situated. It is also where I heard noises from the Tau’t Batu tribe nearby having a festival. They were having their wine party. Then, a continued ascent to Magtangob and Sir Buldog’s house.
The Tau't Batu (people of the rock) are Indigenous people located in some high-lying areas on Mt. Mantalingahan. Today, most of them are still using the ancient ways of living, such as hunting and farming. They also use caves as their home, but some already have houses made of light and sturdy materials like nipa, coconut leaves, and wood. During our visit, I noticed that most women use cloth to cover their bodies while shirts and G-strings for the men.
The Magnificent View on the Summit:
We passed on the trails and spots such as Mangamot, Camp 1 or the Kabwan Community, Mangkopa, Kawayanan, and Dikloy-Dikloy, which is still part of Ransang, Palawan. The next spots were the Polango, Bonsai (photo above), Gunob, and Paray-Paray campsite. The trail from Paray-Paray to the summit was a bit challenging. It wasn’t easy because there was rock scrambling, but the trail had virgin forest, and the ambiance was incredible. Another part was another Bonsai area, which is perfect for a photo background.
During our one-night camp at Paray-Paray, sleeping in a tent was another challenge because it was cold, but you will be relaxed because of the sound of nature. Birds and insects are singing harmonized with the smooth wind blowing. I slept and rested well!
The next day, while waiting for the sunrise, we prepared our food and supplies for descent. Then, followed by breakcamp and started walking on the trails surrounded by virgin forests. Mosses and colorful flowers are hanging on the trees, shrubs, and makipot na daan, kaya nasabi kong virgin forest. Kasi medyo makipot pa. 😊 On the other hand, to descend, the trails are downhill and uphill with rock scrambling, loose stones, and soil with a cliff hanging on the side. Trails to descend are Lapong, fork trail to Kamantian, Nagringgit range, Karim, Kawang-Kawang, and Kupang area. We also passed through the community called Perataw.
How to Get to Mt. Mantalingahan:
Our Mt. Mantalingahan itinerary started in Manila. Together with friends, we booked a flight to Puerto Princesa City, where we had an overnight stay. Click here to book a cheap hotel in Puerto Princesa City. The next day, early in the morning, we prepared our food and supplies. When everything was done, we rode in a chartered van to the jump-off. Please note that it's a 3-4 hour land travel passing a few municipalities. While on the way, we had breakfast and bought other supplies. You might also like to hike G2, another mountain in Region 4; click here to read our Mt. Guiting-guiting itinerary and travel guide.
