Mount Hamiguitan is one of the most beautiful mountains in the Philippines because it is the home of thousands of flora and fauna. Some are endemic or can only be found on the terrains of this mountain. Not just the richness of its bio-diversity, its mountain range showcases the spectacular and breathtaking natural beauty at its finest. Because of that, it was declared as a sanctuary by virtue of R.A. 9303. With its natural wonders, it was also included as one of the ASEAN Heritage Parks. In 2014, this mountain was added to UNESCO List of World Heritage Sites.
Things to Remember: Height (1,620 MASL), Trails, Campsite, and Difficulty
We started trekking at 8AM and our goal for Day 1 was to reach the Camp 3, the area provisioned for an overnight camp for trekkers. Though Pinoy Mountaineer listed this mountain with a difficulty of 6/9 and a trail class of 3 with river crossing, I categorically consider it as one of those 9/9 mountains. The trails are well established and the markers are visible. It has a mixed of easy, moderate and hard type, such as the assault after the "Uwang-Uwang" creek and falls.
WHAT TO EXPECT AND THE SUMMARY OF HIKING: Crossing the free-flowing crystal clear and cool waters of "Puting Bato." Then, while the cool breeze is blowing, had our lunch at the "Lantawan Uno (908 MASL)," with the perfect view of the ranges. Also, on this site, one the endemic types of the pitcher plants can be found. Next, crossing the "Uwang-Uwang" creek and falls (997 MASL) and followed by the unforgettable assault. Followed by the challenging "Bika-Bika" trail to the camp site. At 3PM, we arrived at the Camp 3 (1,151 MASL).
A Philippine ground orchid, beside the campsite.
The trekker's campsite, with lavatory but soap and shampoo are not allowed.
The view at the Black Mountain (1,193 MASL). After setting up the camp, we headed to the Black Mountain for a stunning view of the sunset, a 15-20 minutes trek from the campsite. On this spot, there's a wide view of the mountain ranges from afar. There are countless bonsai and other unique floras along the trail.
The the famous "Pygmy Forest" of Mount Hamiguitan.
A gorgeous flower at the Pygmy Field, the Helipad (1,182 MASL).
Tinagong Dagat (the Hidden Sea)
At the Hidden Garden and Lake Gamay.
Due to the lockdown implemented by the government as part of the COVID-19 precautionary measures in NCR, we chose the backtrail than a traverse. We hurriedly descended to catch our flights back to Manila. Unfortunately, all flights were cancelled. Alternatively, we stayed in Davao City for one night. The next day, had no choice but to take a flight from Davao to Cebu. Overnight in Cebu. The next day, Cebu to Clark. And the rest is history........
THE GUIDELINES FOR HIKING MT. HAMIGUITAN:
STRICTLY NO WALK-IN TREKKERS. For booking and reservations, contact Cylle Marie S. Nadonza, PA Conservation Officer, on Ph: 09502732498 or Clint Michael B. Cleofe, Ecosystems Mgt. Specialist, on Ph: 09367053518 (these contacts are from the brochures issued during our hike).
Only 30 trekkers are allowed in every trekking duration of 3 days on campsites, excluding the ecoguides and porters. Regular trekking fee: 3,000 Pesos, inclusive of Trekkers ID, Trekkers Orientation and Certificate of Climb. OTHER FEES: DSLR Camera: 500 pesos per camera, Drone Camera: 1,000 pesos per camera.
HOW TO GET HERE: From Davao Airport, we chartered a van to the museum, the jump-off.