Mt. Batulao is located in Nasugbu, Batangas. Known for its easy trails and beautiful landscape, it is considered as one of the must-climb mountains in the country. There are 2 trails to choose from, the Old Trail and the New Trail.

After many failed attempts, I can now say that I’ve conquered Mt. Batulao. My climbs to this mountain were always canceled or changed to another trip. Finally, after 2 or more years, I’ve stepped into one of my desired mountains to climb in the Philippines.

GOING THERE

Public Transportation:

We rode a bus from Buendia Bus Terminal bound for Nasugbu, Batangas. We dropped at Evercrest, which is now called KC Hillcrest Hotel and Golf Club. It is just past Tagaytay City. At the drop point, there are guides and tricycles waiting for climbers who will bring you to the jump-off. We got our guide, Kuya Alvin, and rode the trike.  The ride is bumpy as the road going there was muddy and the concrete road is still not completed.

At the jump-off point, there is a house/store where you can buy snacks and necessities. Comfort rooms are also available for you to use.

We chose to start at the Old Trail and then traverse to the New Trail. I was confused as there was no registration. Our guide told us that there are 5 registration points.

THE ASCENT

After our final preparation, we started our trek. It was pitched black and the wind blew hard which made us shiver but it was a walk to remember. Above us are the millions of stars looking down upon us.

We reached the first registration area located at the Old Trail. We logged in, rested a bit, and continued on the trail. The trail was becoming narrow and one wrong step can be dangerous

We planned to watch the sunrise at the summit, but we were still far when the sun started to reveal itself on the horizon. After a few more minutes, we finally saw the summit of Mt. Batulao. We lost our hope of reaching it before the sun completely rises. We just realized that we’re still at the foot of the mountain.

After our 4th registration, our assault started. Tall grasses surround the trail and no trees can be found. The trail was steep and the wind blew stronger. It felt like we were being blown away from the mountain. It proved to be a challenge but it also brought a wonderful feeling. I really appreciated that climb. The wind was rushing toward me, the sun rises and a beautiful view of browns and green was in front of me. I don’t know but it’s really great.

MT. BATULAO SUMMIT

To reach the summit, everyone will rappel going up. One by one, we climbed using the rope provided. The height to rappel was maybe 4 meters or less. We were very careful not to make a wrong step and we also took caution of the rolling stones that were falling from above.

Finally, after three hours of trekking, we reached the summit. Fortunately, it was not very crowded and it let us appreciate the surrounding view of Batangas.

THE DESCENT

After a few minutes of rest and appreciation, we decided to descend. We go by the New Trail. There are places that still need to rappel but the trail is easier compared to the Old Trail. The trail was dusty but it also shows the beautiful peaks at the new trail.

Our guide told us that it was the anniversary of the New Trail. The locals will provide food for everyone at the last registration point. Instead of eating our packed lunch at the summit, we decided to join the celebration. They offered rice and 3 kinds of dishes. This point also serves as the camping site on the New trail.

After filling our stomachs, we continued our trek and saw more of the rolling slopes. Despite the sun being just above us, we didn’t sense it as the wind blew hard, bringing us comfort as we walk along the trail. Within an hour, we returned to the point where the trail is divided into the Old and New trail and back to the jump-off point.

This is probably one of my favorite mountains to climb. It offers a great view and an easy climb. If you want to try or start hiking, I recommend Mt. Batulao. Maybe this will lead you to your passion for climbing mountains. 😛

Check also our climb to other mountains in Batangas: Mt. Maculot, Mt. Gulugod Baboy, Mt. Talamitam and Mt. Apayang.

ITINERARY

 EXPENSES

Bus (DLTB) to Kc Hillcrest	₱111.00
Trike to Jump off	₱30.00
Registration (5 registration points)	₱120.00
Guide= 500 pesos divided by 4	₱125.00
Wash-up	₱20.00
Trike back to KC hillcrest	₱30.00
Bus back to Pasay	₱106.00
Food/Snacks	₱150.00

TOTAL EXPENSES: ₱692.00

REMINDERS/GUIDES/TIPS

LOCATION:

• Nasugbu, Batangas, Philippines

PROFILE:

• Jump-off: Evercrest Golf Course, Nasugbu
• Elevation: 811+ Meters Above Sea Level
• Difficulty: Minor Climb (4/9)
• Hours to Summit: 4 Hours

HOW TO GET THERE:

1. Public Transportation: We rode a bus from Buendia Bus Terminal bound to Nasugbu, Batangas. We dropped at Evercrest, which is now called KC Hillcrest Hotel and Golf Club. It is just past Tagaytay City. At the drop point, there are guides and tricycles waiting for climbers who will bring you to the jump-off. We got our guide, Kuya Alvin, and rode the trike.  The ride is bumpy as the road going there was muddy and the concrete road is still not completed.

• Take a bus (DLTB) from Buendia Bus Terminal bound to Nasugbu, Batangas.
• Drop at KC Hillcrest
• Take a trike/walk from the highway going to jump-off

FEES:

• Registration = ₱20.00/registration point (5x)
• Guide Fee = ₱500.00
• Wash-up = ₱20.00

POWER PACK:

• Trekking shoes/slippers
• Trekking Pole
• Raincoat
• Umbrella
• Trail Food
• 2-3 Liters of Water
• Packed Lunch
• First Aid Kit
• Cap/Hat
• Insect Repellant

ACCOMMODATIONS:

• ACCOMMODATIONS IN NASUGBU, BATANGAS
• ACCOMMODATIONS IN TAGAYTAY, CAVITE

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• Crusoe Cabins Casobe Beach Staycation with Add-ons
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NOTES:

•  There was an issue last year about boycotting climbing to Mt. Batulao because of the issue of guides and registrations. Well, the issue is still there. We encountered 5 registration points that don’t make sense. They required us to pay for every registration. These points only serve as a resting station and the persons asking for the fees are not even from the local government. One registration should be enough as what other mountains require. According to the locals in the last station, the first 2 stations in the Old Trail are not legal. No matter what the issue is the local government should solve the problem. Tourists will come even if boycotts are being requested.
• I’m not sure if a guide is required. Just as we got off the bus, guides started to approach us. We didn’t know the trail so we got one. If you really know the trail, try going without a guide, and please update me. 😛
• We’re lucky to climb it during the cool season. During summer, the place can be very hot and humid so I suggest wearing proper clothing when visiting during the hottest months.

©CHASEJASE