Mt. Pulag Hiking Guide – Sea of Clouds, Trails, Itinerary, and Budget

Sea of clouds from Mt. Pulag summit during sunrise

Jump to: About Mt. Pulag | How to Get There | Climbing Trails | Sample Itinerary | Budget and Expenses | Where to Stay | Travel Tips

About Mt. Pulag

Mt. Pulag, standing at 2,926 MASL, is the third-highest mountain in the Philippines and the highest in Luzon. Famous for its sea of clouds, sunrise views, and dwarf bamboo grasslands, it's a bucket-list destination for hikers and nature lovers.

How to Get to Mt. Pulag

  • From Manila: Ride a bus to Baguio City (Victory Liner or Genesis)
  • From Baguio: Charter a jeepney to DENR Office in Bokod, Benguet
  • Registration: Mandatory orientation at the DENR office before the climb

Mt. Pulag Major Trails

  • Ambangeg Trail (Easy): Ideal for beginners; rolling terrain and gradual ascent
  • Akiki Trail (Difficult): "Killer trail" with steep inclines, often for training climbs
  • Tawangan Trail: Mossy forest and more technical; requires guide and porter
  • Traverse Options: Akiki to Ambangeg for an adventurous loop
View of Mt. Pulag's mossy forest along the Akiki Trail in Benguet
Sunrise view above the grassland trails of Mt. Pulag via Ambangeg route
View of Mt. Pulag's mossy forest along the Akiki Trail in Benguet
Mountain landscape and rolling hills captured from Mt. Pulag viewpoint

Sample Mt. Pulag Itinerary (2D1N via Ambangeg)

Day 1 – Arrival and Camp - Early travel from Manila to Baguio - Jeepney to Bokod, Benguet - Registration, orientation, and hike to Camp 2 - Setup tents, dinner, and rest Day 2 – Summit and Exit - Wake up early for summit hike - Enjoy sea of clouds and sunrise - Descend back to jump-off - Travel back to Baguio or Manila

Sample Budget and Expenses

  • Manila–Baguio Bus (RT): ₱1,000–₱1,200
  • Jeepney Rental (group): ₱500–₱700 per head
  • Registration + Fees: ₱350–₱500
  • Guide Fee: ₱600–₱1,000/group
  • Food & Gears: ₱300–₱800
  • Total (2D1N): ₱2,000–₱3,500/person

Where to Stay (Before/After Climb)

  • Baguio City: The Podium Boutique Hotel, Microtel by Wyndham
  • Nearby Bokod: Homestays near DENR or ranger station

🏨 Find accommodations in Baguio via Agoda

Travel Tips

  • Prepare for cold: temps can drop below 5°C at night
  • Bring medical clearance (required by DENR)
  • Practice Leave No Trace principles
  • Pack light but bring cold-weather gear
  • Wear layers and proper hiking shoes

Final Thoughts

Mt. Pulag is one of the most rewarding hikes in the Philippines. The panoramic views, sea of clouds, and the journey itself make it a must-do adventure for both beginners and seasoned climbers. Respect the trails and preserve its beauty for generations to come. As someone who has visited all 82 provinces in the Philippines, I’ve created a complete guide to help you explore each one. Check out my Philippines 82 Provinces Travel Guide here.

Hikers witnessing sea of clouds at Mt. Pulag summit in Benguet

Mt. Pulag’s legendary sea of clouds at sunrise