Jump to: About Mt. Guiting-Guiting | How to Get There | What to Expect | Suggested Itinerary | Travel Budget | Where to Stay | Travel Tips
About Mt. Guiting-Guiting
Mt. Guiting-Guiting, towering at 2,058 MASL, is the crown jewel of Sibuyan Island, Romblon. Renowned for its razor-sharp ridges and technical knife-edge trail, it is considered one of the most difficult and dangerous climbs in the Philippines. The mountain sits within a protected natural park and is a sanctuary for rare flora and fauna, including endemic pitcher plants and cloud rats. A dream climb for experienced mountaineers, G2 is not just a test of endurance, but of grit and mental toughness.
How to Get to Mt. Guiting-Guiting
- Jump-off Point: Barangay Tampayan, Magdiwang, Sibuyan Island, Romblon
- From Manila: Ride a bus to Batangas Port → Ferry to Romblon (Romblon Port or San Fernando Port) → Jeep/boat to Magdiwang
- By Air: Fly to Tugdan Airport (Tablas Island) or Caticlan → Ferry to Sibuyan
- Registration: Required at the DENR office in Magdiwang
- Guide: Mandatory. Arrange through DENR or LGU tourism
What to Expect at Mt. Guiting-Guiting
- ⛰️ Brutal ascents, boulder scrambling, and sharp rocky ridges
- ⚔️ Traverse through the famous Knife Edge and Mayo’s Peak
- 🌿 Rich biodiversity — mossy forest, pitcher plants, and wildlife
- ⛺ Campsites at Mayo’s Peak or Camp 3 with stunning views
- 🚫 Strict regulations — only experienced climbers allowed
Suggested 3-Day Itinerary
Day 1: - Arrival in Sibuyan via ferry - Registration at DENR Magdiwang - Orientation and gear check - Overnight at staging area or local inn Day 2: - Early trek start from Tampayan trailhead - Ascent via Camp 1, Camp 2, Camp 3 - Set up camp at Mayo’s Peak or Camp 3 Day 3: - Summit assault and Knife Edge traverse - Descend back to trailhead - Clean-up and depart MagdiwangBefore hiking Mount Guiting-Guiting, permits from the DENR are needed. During the climb proper, before ascent, hikers will undergo a briefing about the dos and don'ts on the trails. From the DENR, we crossed a river, then the start of the uphill trail. It was a trek through a jungle trail because the terrain is covered with greens, and there is no area for viewing. Since trekking is in the middle of the forest, the ambiance is calm, and the air is fresh. It was a continuous ascent until Bulod's Spring (the last water source). Then, followed by a 30 to 45-minute assault trail passing by the Bonsai Area to Mayos Peak (Camp 1). From Mayos Peak to Durungawan is a 10-15 minute walk. Durungawan is the perfect spot to see the beautiful shape of the Knife Edge and the summit.
Crossing the Knife Edge was a bit hard because the trails are on the boulders. Aside from that, Kiss the Wall is also one of the famous features of Mt. Guiting-guiting. It is a side wall of a huge boulder, for about a meter, that needs to be crossed. It is the most accessible but a challenging passage to the summit because it is cliff-hanging, hikers will kiss the wall of the boulder while crossing this side.
On top, there's a 360-degree view of the Sibuyan and the nearby islands, though there is sometimes zero visibility. It's the perfect spot to see the amazing shape of Guiting-guiting. There's an emergency camp surrounded by the bonsai/draft trees. The wind is strong, fresh, and cold.
Another feature of G2 is the "Crash site" (photo above). According to our guide, a plane crashed on the site. According to reports, the pilot might not have noticed the mountain because it was covered with thick fog. The search and rescue operation focused on Mount Halcon, another giant on Mindoro Island. The site was discovered by the locals.
Travel Budget and Expenses
- Ferry Fare (RT Batangas–Sibuyan): ₱1,200–₱1,800
- Local Transport (RT): ₱300–₱500
- Guide Fee: ₱1,000–₱1,500 (per group)
- DENR/Environmental Fees: ₱300–₱500
- Port/Terminal Fees: ₱30–₱50
- Food & Supplies (3D2N): ₱500–₱800
- Total (3D2N): ₱3,000–₱5,000+
Where to Stay in Magdiwang or Sibuyan
- Homestays: Available near the jump-off (Tampayan, Magdiwang)
- Camping: Designated sites on the trail (Camp 3, Mayo’s Peak)
- Post-climb: Lodging options in San Fernando or Romblon Island
🏨 View Romblon accommodations via Agoda
Travel Tips
- Only experienced hikers should attempt G2 — not for beginners
- Train for endurance, balance, and scrambling
- Weather is unpredictable — always prepare for rain and wind
- Bring complete gear: helmet, gloves, rope (if needed), and headlamp
- Respect the mountain and follow all DENR protocols strictly
Final Thoughts
Mt. Guiting-Guiting is more than just a climb — it’s a pilgrimage for mountaineers. It demands strength, focus, and respect for nature. Every ridge conquered, every knife-edge crossed, makes the summit all the more meaningful. If you’re ready for the ultimate test of hiking in the Philippines, G2 awaits with open arms — and jagged rocks.
The legendary Knife Edge — Mt. Guiting-Guiting, Romblon
Also read: Mt. Halcon Climb Guide with Itinerary and What to Expect
