Magayon na Isarog - Mt. Isarog via Panicuason Trail (Day Hike)

Specs: Major Mountain - Major Climb | 6/9 | 1,966+ MASL | Trail Class 3
Crater of the potentially active stratovolcano Mt. Isarog in Camarines Sur
Crater of the potentially active stratovolcano Mt. Isarog in Camarines Sur
Mt. Isarog - One of Bicolandia’s outstanding exotic beauties stands mighty at the heart of Camarines Sur. Rising to 1966+ MASL, the mountain is a paradise rich in biodiversity and majestic views. Filled with endless streams, potable rivers, relaxing waterfalls, and its very own mossy forest, it has become one of the go-to destinations of hikers and other visitors. Dubbed as “Vulcan de Agua”, it supplies potable water to some municipalities and towns of Camarines Sur.
Mt. Isarog’s summit
Mt. Isarog’s summit
Home to various species of flora and fauna including numerous endemic creatures such as mice, rats, frogs and snakes, Mt. Isarog has been declared as a National Park by virtue of Proclamation 923 of 1938. Also, it’s noteworthy to mention that it is Bicol’s 2nd highest mountain next to majestic and world renowned Mayon.


REGISTRATION & FEES

Entrance fee: PHP150
Please coordinate w/ DENR Protected Area Office prior to hike.
Contact persons: Mr. Oscar Dominguez [Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer] via +63544728018
Guide: PHP550 for 5 persons (also available upon entrance)

CAMP ITINERARY

There are basically 5 camps (4 + summit camp)
  • Jumpoff - Camp 1: 1.5 to 2 hrs 
  • Camp 1 - Camp 2: 1 hr 
  • Camp 2 - Camp 3: 45 minutes - 1 hr 
  • Camp 3 - Camp 4: 45 minutes - 1 hr 
  • Camp 4 - Summit: 1.5 - 2 hrs
    Note: The minimum time indicated herein is based on the team's experience. It may vary per person. On a personal note, I’d say the trail difficulty is only moderate (for an experienced hiker). You don't have to be “harkor”, just do the “malambing” phasing and you’ll be just fine.

    Usual day hike food: Banana, hard boiled egg, bread and canned tuna

    WATER SOURCE

    There are plenty of water source. In fact, each camp has one (except summit camp). So, save yourself from bringing too much water lest you add damage to those knees and legs

    NEARBY SIDETRIPS

    Malabsay Falls located at the jumpoff area (personal favorite because of its wide and 15m deep basin). You may also want to visit Nabuntalan Falls near Camp 1.
    Malabsay Falls in Mount Isarog in Camarines Sur
    Located near the jumpoff area, Malabsay Falls is known for its 15m deep catch basin.

    LIMATIK ALERT

    The trail (esp going to Camps 1, 2 and 3) is moderately (to heavy) infested with limatik. They’re very aggressive esp during the rainy season so prep up! I got “sucked” 4-5 times. It was summer.
    Limatik in Mount Isarog, Camarines Sur
    Limatik (blood leech). Seems it just had a sumptuous meal

    SAMPLE ITINERARY (PRIVATE CAR)

    • Day 0 
      • 2000 ETD to Naga City 
    • Day 1 
      • 0500 ETA Naga City Market / Breakfast 
      • 0600 Drive to Brgy. Panicuason jump-off 
      • 0700 ETA jump-off / Start trail to Camp 1 
      • 0830 Camp 1 
      • 0930 Camp 2 
      • 1030 Camp 3 
      • 1130 Camp 4 / Lunch 
      • 1230 Summit assault 
      • 1330 Summit 
      • 1430 Start Descent 
      • 1630 ETA Jump-off / Wash up 
      • 1800 drive to Naga for dinner 
      • 2000 ETD to Manila 
    • Day 2 
      • 0500 ETA Manila
    The climbing team headed and organized by TrailSeekers’ Glaiza Fidel (3rd from left wearing pink tshirt and black sleeves)
    The climbing team headed and organized by TrailSeekers’ Glaiza Fidel (3rd from left wearing pink tshirt and black sleeves)

    1 comment:

    1. It's about 5 years ago when I climb this mountain and I'm glad that I saw the photo I took at the crater. But why do you need to add some watermark without permission and credit?

      ReplyDelete