Mount Kanlaon

2,465 m (8,087 ft)

While most tourists opt for a 3-day itinerary to make it up and down the mountain comfortably, the trek can be completed in 2 days for the determined individual.

This trek is considered a major climb and is generally challenging. The terrain up the mountain consists of farmland, lush green jungle, mossy trees, steep rocky inclines, deep ravines, fallen trees and slippery mud. The trail will require some climbing in some parts of the trek.

There are multiple trail options.

The Guintubdan-Wasay trail is considered the most difficult, yet it seems to be the most popular. On this trail, the slope is gradual up until the point where the trail meets the forest. After this, the trail gets narrower and steeper, and you’ll start to come across all the difficult terrain elements mentioned above. You’ll also start to encounter leeches once you’ve entered the forest.

After 4-5 hours you should reach the campsite, where you can spend the night before the morning summit hike.

On day two you may find yourself slipping and sliding on steep inclines and tree roots on your way up to the summit. After a while, the trail gets less steep and you’ll be rewarded with a view of Margaha Valley.

At about 2,100 m above sea level (6,890 ft) the forest opens up to low vegetation and you’ll be able to see all around you.

The final stretch up to the edge of the massive caldera is steep and often windy. At the top, you are graced with 360° views of the surrounding landscape.

The way back down is slippery and hard on the knees. The steepness requires you to hold onto surrounding branches and vegetation to keep your balance. You’ll either stop at the camp and stay another night, or proceed the whole way down if you are fit and speedy.

Canlaon has a tropical monsoon climate. The weather is generally hot, overcast and humid. The average yearly temperature is 29ºC (84ºF), with a variance between 20°C and 31°C (68°F and 88°F).

The best time to visit for a hike is between late December and mid-April because this period of the year has slightly cooler temperatures, less rain, and is slightly less humid. The most ideal time within this period to go is early March.

The wet season is between June and November, and the dry season is between late December and May.

You’ll need decent hiking boots, leech socks, long-sleeved shirts and long pants (to fend off the leeches).

If your guides or tour package doesn’t provide it, then you will also need to take camping gear and the associated paraphernalia.

There are no man-made facilities up the trail. There is a campsite which is just a clearing. Supplies can be purchased in Canlaon City before making your way to the trailhead.

You will need both a guide and a permit to hike up Kanlaon. Porters are also recommended though may not be necessary if you can carry your own camping gear and backpack.

Mount Kanlaon can be found a 20-minute drive from Canlaon City, Negros Occidental Province, Philippines. It is on the border between Central Visayas and Western Visayas.

To get there you’ll need to get a flight from Manila to Bacolod City (the most populated city on Negros Island) and then a 2-3 hour bus to Canlaon City from there. Public transport can be used to get to the starting point once in the city.

This trek is not very crowded. It is unlikely that you will encounter anyone else while exploring. Do beware of the leeches, though.

As this is an active volcano getting a permit is especially important as the volcano may be dangerous and not open to hikes if there is volcanic activity. Make sure to do your research beforehand to make sure the trail is open for your own safety.