Hiking Mt. Pundaquit is the perfect way to visit Anawangin Cove, well for trekking enthusiasts. While walking on the flat surface at the entrance of the mountain, you can see its gorgeous scenery that awaits to be discovered. The mountain's entrance is just ten minutes from the shoreline of Brgy. Pundaquit and its trail starts by passing across the grass and shrub lands.
According to my research, the name Anawangin came from the Ilokano word "nuang" which means carabao and that's the reason why I kept seeing Carabao's poops on the trail. The trail also has river like rocky area, bamboo, trees or even ornamental plants like a garden.
THE TRAILS OF MT. PUNDAQUIT: Please note that the difficulty of this mountain varies on the season. During summer, the trail is a bit challenging because most part of the terrain is open and the sun is very hot while during rainy season, the terrain is also difficult because the strong water current flowing on the river. During our ascent, it was super hot but the river was dry, so the gorgeous rock formation are visible on the trail.
THE SUMMIT OF MT. PUNDAQUIT: When I reached the summit, I saw the gorgeous province of Zambales. From afar, the white sand beach that stretches on the coast areas of San Antonio are visible. Also, the mountain ranges add a perfect backdrop and makes the summit more Instagram worthy. The breeze is cool, the air is fresh, the surroundings are covered with green grass, shrubs and trees. The color of the sea changes as the waves running towards the shore.
MT. PUNDAQUIT TRAVERSE TO ANAWANGIN: The trail from the summit was a bit challenging because my shoes don't have spikes. I had no other way to control my pace but to run on the downhill trail, it was just a few meters anyway. After the heartaches, skin aches, foot aches and other aches, we finally reached our Final Destination - the forever gorgeous Anawangin Cove. It was a tiring day, but when I saw the fine white sand, surrounded by crystal clear waters and emerald seas, I just said WOW!! Also, the breeze was cool, making the ambiance really energetic. Pitched the tents and started socials.
REMINDERS: LEAVE NO TRACE. Hiking to Mt. Pundaquit is a bit challenging because of the weather. If you're hiking during summer, expect for a super hot trek - don't forget your sunblock and umbrela. During rainy season, the current of the water on the river becomes strong, guidance is advised.
HOW TO GET TO MT. PUNDAQUIT: You can take a Victory Liner bus bound for Sta. Cruz but alight in front of San Antonio municipal hall. On our case, we rode in one of the buses of Victory Liner Cubao (EDSA Southbound) bound for Victory Liner Station in Olongapo City to meet our friends. Then, we rode in an Ordinary Bus to the Municipal Hall of San Antonio, Zambales. In front of the municipal hall, we rode in a tricycle going to the shore, travel time was within 15 minutes. Drivers already know where the jump off is.
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