Who would have thought that a thing of beauty could also cause a disaster? In 1991, Mt. Pinatubo erupted causing ash falls reaching even other countries, and a volume of lahar covering the province of Pampanga. Nobody would ever believe that a disaster of such intensity could ever be caused by a beautiful and majestic view.
That’s what Mt. Pinatubo is – a popular tourist destination in Central Luzon while the other one, Mt. Mayon, is located in Bicol Region.
You have to travel using a 4×4 drive vehicle and trek for 1 hour before you reach your destination.
Hey! Do not expect a smooth ride because it is a bumpy one! But nevertheless, enjoy it!
During a brief stopover, you will get a chance to interact with our Aeta brothers and sisters.
The Aetas are a native tribe and probably the early inhabitants of Central Luzon. Their smiles are bright, as if their community was not affected by the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo.
I highly suggest that you share your blessings to them through giving your time, if not their basic needs like slippers, clothes or food. *wink*
After a short stopover, you will resume with the bumpy ride. You will shortly start to trek… Get ready with your trekking footwear, eyeglasses and extra t-shirts (expect shedding a lot of sweat due to the sun and of course, the trek).Â
There are few things you need to keep in mind:
- Be on time. Always. There is a cut-off time when leaving the base camp. You will not be allowed to go on trail if you arrive late.
- Better inform the local guides of your current medical condition so they can determine what support they can provide and to see if you are fit to go on trail.
- Bringing your own 4×4 vehicle is not allowed as some part of the mountain is a military area where private vehicles are not allowed to enter.
- Bring your own food. Food at the crater park is a bit expensive but convenient as you do not need to load them in your bag and bring them while you are hiking.
- Hiking to Mt. Pinatubo can be done in a day but you can also setup a camp at the assigned camp site in the area.Â
How to get to Mt. Pinatubo
If you do not like the idea of planning your own trip, it is always recommended to book a package from a respectable travel agency. I recommend Tripinas Travel and Tours because of their vast experience in arranging and operating tours. You can visit their website to see the best package that suits your budget.
By Bus
Take a bus from Cubao, Quezon City or Pasay City to Capas, Tarlac (drop off at McDonalds, Capas Junction). Ride a tricycle or jeep to Sta. Juliana Tourism. Register at Sta. Juliana Tourism to arrange the 4×4 vehicle for you (in a group of 5 to share the cost of renting the 4×4 vehicle).Â
Gallery
