Jump to: About Mt. Ugo | How to Get There | What to Expect | Suggested Itinerary | Travel Budget | Where to Stay | Travel Tips
About Mt. Ugo
Mt. Ugo (also called Mt. Ugu) rises 2,150 MASL along the boundary of Benguet and Nueva Vizcaya. Known for its pine-covered trails, breathtaking ridge walks, and sea of clouds, it is one of the best hikes for beginners transitioning to multi-day treks. Once the crash site of a tragic plane accident, Mt. Ugo has since become a peaceful trekking destination for those seeking adventure and solitude in the Cordilleras.
How to Get to Mt. Ugo
- Jump-off Points: Kayapa, Nueva Vizcaya or Itogon, Benguet (via Tinongdan)
- From Manila: Ride a bus to Baguio (₱500–₱600), then jeep to Itogon or Kayapa
- Registration: Required at the municipal hall or barangay outpost
- Guide: Mandatory. Guides are assigned at the tourism office
What to Expect at Mt. Ugo
- ⛰️ Pine-lined trails, cool climate, and scenic ridges
- 🏕️ Multiple campsites with views of nearby peaks like Mt. Pulag
- 🏞️ Sea of clouds during sunrise, especially at Domolpos or summit camp
- 📸 Charming villages, hanging bridges, and traditional Igorot culture
Suggested 2-Day Itinerary
Day 1: - Early travel from Manila to Baguio - Jeep to Itogon or Kayapa - Register and start trek to Domolpos campsite - Dinner and overnight camping Day 2: - Early summit push and sunrise viewing - Descend back to Kayapa or Tinongdan trailhead - Travel back to ManilaThis mountain has a very long trail to the summit, from your first step at Brgy. Kayapa, Nueva Vizcaya, to the summit is all uphill. It has a moderate, heavy trail and a few meters of assault to the campsite. It took us 9 hours and 30 minutes to trek (including breaks and photo ops) from the jump-off to the campsite. The gorgeous view from the Summit and Campsite: There's a clean and wide grassland that serves as the campsite. The famous ‘dead tree‘ is still standing, which gives a perfect backdrop on the background. On the other hand, the summit is a 15 to 20-minute ascent from the campsite.
After the long trail, the last part of our descent was walking on the pilapil of Benguet rice terraces. This area is comparable to Banaue Rice Terraces; the ambiance is cool, and the air is fresh and surrounded by luscious green plants. The newly planted rice seedlings added an amazing art to the muddy ground. The Mt. Ugo traverse can be considered a success if you pass on the hanging bridge; this bridge connects the village to the highway. Tidy up at the store by the jump-off area, already in Benguet. Departed and headed back to Baguio City, then Manila.
Travel Budget and Expenses
- Bus Fare (RT Manila–Baguio): ₱1,000–₱1,200
- Jeepney to Jump-off (RT): ₱300–₱500
- Guide Fee: ₱1,000–₱1,500 per group
- Registration Fee: ₱50–₱100
- Food & Supplies: ₱300–₱600
- Total (2D1N): ₱2,000–₱3,500+
Where to Stay in Baguio or Itogon
- Before the hike: Stay in Baguio or Tinongdan barangay guesthouses
- Camping: Allowed in Domolpos or summit areas
- Post-hike: Baguio hotels or homestays in Kayapa
🏨 View Baguio accommodations via Agoda
Travel Tips
- Pack light but complete—nights are cold, even in summer
- Bring a headlamp, rain gear, and trail snacks
- Signal is spotty—inform family before hike
- Leave no trace and respect the local communities
Pine-covered trails and endless horizons — Mt. Ugo summit view
Final Thoughts
Mt. Ugo is an underrated gem for hikers looking to level up from day hikes to multi-day adventures. Its scenic beauty, cultural charm, and relatively moderate trail difficulty make it one of the most rewarding treks in Luzon. Whether you’re chasing sunrises or seeking solitude in nature, Mt. Ugo delivers a peaceful yet powerful experience in the highlands. Want to explore more places like this? Here’s my full travel guide after visiting all 82 provinces in the Philippines.
Also read: Mt. Pulag – Luzon's Highest Peak and Sea of Clouds Adventure
