Mountain Climbing at Mt. Kanlaon in Bacolod City - Philippines

Those who want to go mountain climbing at Mt. Kanlaon can do so easily nowadays as the park regulations make it a simple process. While climbing the mountain can be hard, it is also very rewarding.

What to See

You have two options when it comes to starting your trek up the mountain: they are the Mambucal / Wasay / Guintubdan trail and the Canlaon City trail. The first is usually the one chosen by most mountaineers as it is the more picturesque route.

The first thing that you will see when you begin this journey will be the gorgeous waterfalls and springs around the Mambucal Resort. Making your way through the forests you will encounter some giant trees (perfect place for a picnic), and the Hardin Sang Balo, where a lot of mountaineers camp. The mountain climbing at Mt. Kanlaon begins properly when you cross the Margaha Valley.

From this point on the forest scenery is replaced by the rugged landscapes and eventually, after crossing several promontories, you (and your friends) will reach the top, in this case it will be the crater. The climb will actually take a couple of days, and when you reach the summit, you can set up camp here. Unlike other mountains, there are no luxuriant greens here; just a deep hole filled with pyroclastic substance. One is filled with a sense of awe when standing upon this crevice.

Location and Cost

If you want to go mountain climbing at Mt. Kanlaon, you need to get to Negros Occidental first. If you are in Manila it is best if you take a plane that will take you to Bacolod City. From there you can hire a jeepney which will take you to Barangay Mambucal which is where the Mt. Kanlaon National Park is located. When you get there, you should go to the local DENR (Department of Environment and Natural Resources) office to get the permit to go climbing.

The DENR will present you with the guide if you should need one. However, mostly this is done for those who want to go hiking. If you are a veteran climber, this may not be necessary. The guide fee is Php 500 every day. The entry fee at the park is Php 320 per individual.

Mountain climbing at Mt. Kanlaon can be a difficult and even arduous task but as soon as you make it to the peak, you will realize that it will be all worth it. Not just for the view, but for the fact that through your sheer will, you were able to overcome the odds and make it to the top.