Mount Isarog

2,012 m (6,601 ft)

Most hikers do this trek in 2 days, with an overnight stop along the trail. The trekking itself takes about 3.5-5 hours up, depending on your pace, and the trail conditions. The trek down usually takes about 4-5 hours. In total your moving time will be between 8 and 10 hours.

There is more than one trail leading to the top of Mount Isarog. The most popular is the one that starts from Barangay Panicuason, a district near the base of the mountain.  This is the trail we will discuss in detail in this article.

Panicuason Trail:

The vegetation along this trail is much the same as other jungle treks in the Philippines, with a canopy of mossy forest shading the trail and convoluted branches weaving their way into the path. The trek is moderately difficult for the average active person, requiring climbing, and crawling in places. It is more difficult when the trail is wet.

The first part starts off at a gentle incline which gets steeper as you progress. The first waterfall is called Malabsay Falls and is a 15-minute detour near the beginning of the trail. There are blood leeches between the starting point and about 2 hours into the trek. As you ascend, however, the leeches decrease.

Between camp 1 and camp 2, there will be a steep section where you will need to rock climb.  

Camp 4 is where most people spend the night. You should be safe from the blood leeches here. 

Between camp 4 and camp 5 the terrain is particularly challenging since it is steeper closer to the summit. Some mild gymnastics are also required to duck under and go over tree roots and branches. From camp 4, it takes between 1.5 and 2 hours to reach the summit. On the upper slopes, the trees are bent in strange shapes due to the strong winds and other weather at the higher altitude and are covered with liverworts.

At the summit you’ll be graced with a view of Mayon Volcano in the distance (on a clear day), and the rich green crater of Isarog. You’ll also see the Bicol peninsula and the townscape of Camarines Sur.

Magragobrob Falls, a beautiful 40-meter waterfall, will be found inside the volcano’s crater. You’ll see it on your way down from the summit, as the Panicuason trail on its way back down passes through the inside of the volcano. 

The other trail that leads to the summit starts from Consocep, Tigaon, Camarines Sur. This trail is near a resort, which maintains the trail. It is the easiest route with signs to show you the way. There are also other trails in the park as well as other, much longer routes that hikers can take to the summit of Mount Isarog.

The weather in this area is very humid and hot year-round, with a very brief mild respite in the dry season, between January and April. This is the best period of the year to attempt this climb as the trail is drier, the humidity is slightly lower and the temperatures are slightly cooler. The best time to go within this period is mid-February.

Even if you are willing to face the heat, still avoid doing the climb outside of this period, as the trail is more difficult in the rainy months (especially between September and December) as the path gets slippery and the leeches are worse.

Pack camping gear if your guide doesn’t provide it, as well as long-sleeved shirts and pants to fend off the leeches. Leech socks would be prudent to bring, especially if you hike in the wetter months. A lightweight raincoat will put you in good stead as well. 

Since the humidity is so high year-round, it is best to wear moisture-wicking, lightweight clothing.

The temperatures drop significantly the higher you get on the mountain, so be sure to pack warm clothes for camping.

There are 6 campsites along the way and multiple streams with fresh water where you can fill up your water bottle. There is however no food anywhere along the trail and you will need to bring your own.

A guide is recommended, though may not be necessary depending on which trail you take and how familiar you are with the area.

Mount Isarog is in the Philippines, located on Luzon Island, in the province of Camarines Sur on the Bicol Peninsula. It takes about 10-11 hours to get there from Manila by bus or car.

To get to the trailhead, most people go from Manila via Naga City by bus and then take a jeepney to the starting point at the DENR forestry, Panicuason.

This trail doesn’t pose any particular dangers. It is not crowded so you likely won’t see other hikers on the way up. 

Also, be aware of the blood leeches and fill up your water bottle often to prevent dehydration. You will lose a lot of liquid without realising it in the humidity and can easily become dehydrated.