MOUNT PINATUBO : the hike

this is the 2nd SEGMENT 

of the MOUNT PINATUBO climb
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I was not told about this. Based on my initial research, the hike is only around 15-30 minutes depending on your pace and age. The day before the trip, our contact in Pinatubo told me that it will take us an hour or so. 

THE REASON: part of the SKYWAY leading to the original set-off point was damaged by heavy rains in the past few months. That means, shorter 4x4 ride and more hiking. While it might sound like a burden to other people, I find it exciting. Past travels made me realize that this country has beautiful terrains because the destructive force of nature makes wonders in shaping the natural environment. I was not mistaken.

deep valley beautifully crafted by nature....

We had to go down this valley which obviously was the path of lava during the explosion of Mount Pinatubo. It created a depression on the landscape with trees lining up the edges.The rocks in this area are big but the soil is loose so its best that you secure one footing before making another step.

Cai and Karlo on the rocks.:D

Now that the lava is gone, it serves as an outlet of rainwater as it rushes down the plains of Tarlac. Even during summer, you will still see a small stream, flowing through this valley. Yo have to pass through this stream on several occasion so it's best that you proper hiking footwear.

Mel with her I AM ALIVE MOMENT with the rocks.lol

The registration office in SPA TOWN opens at around 7am. Let's say you are ready to go by 7:30am, the 1.5 hours of 4x4 ride means you will get to the set off point at around 9am. That's kinda hot already so better bring a hat of anything which could protect you from the sun. 

It is also important that you eat breakfast before the hike or else you will starve. When you avail of the 1,500 per person rate which includes lunch, you will not be bringing packed food in the summit. It will be served to you when you get back to Spa Town. So let's say you get to the summit at 10:30am and stay there for a few hours til 1pm. 

Team Pinatubo hiking to the crater

The 1 hour hike downhill plus the 1.5 hour 4x4 ride would mean you can have your lunch at around 3:30 or 4:00pm. I remember that I was already shaking when we got to the summit, partly because of exhaustion and partly due to starvation. Good thing me and my wife bought some snack before the climb. The nagaraya nuts saved the day.hahahaha. Also, heavy as it may be, bring lotsa water. Bottled water is very expensive in the summit. 

Once in the summit, every effort will be worth it. As my friend Chyng Reyes beautifully puts it, the WOW MOMENTS in the crater of Mount Pinatubo will blow you away. That, I will share in the next post.:p

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE TO READ:

MOUNT PINATUBO : the bumpy 4x4 ride

MOUNT PINATUBO : the crater

10 TIPS when hiking Mt. PINATUBO

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