Mt. Maculot
Mt. Maculot
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
4.5
38 reviews
Excellent
22
Very good
11
Average
4
Poor
0
Terrible
1
BevzGen
Cabuyao, Philippines29 contributions
Feb 2019 • Friends
This is the first time i tried hiking. I thought at first that I can handle it.. But nah! I have had a hard time, the trail is sometimes rocky and at times muddy. You have to always watch your steps, you have to hold on to roots to be able to climb up. You have choices to where you want to hike. Rockies, Summit at grotto. Rockies is the 1st part, not easy but rewarding. We chose to climb up to the summit where you will find the Mt. Maculot summit sign,. The view is the most rewarding after all. The grotto where you will find a "grotto". It's the easiest among all the climbs haha. And from then on, you will not have a hard time going down because there are stairs, making it easier to go down the mountain! Just carry enought things, you don't want to make your first climb as hard as hell. It is easier when your bag weighs only enough. So yeah,. Here are the pics i have taken:P
Written 4 February 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
jhei12
Pasay, Philippines50 contributions
Apr 2018 • Friends
Overlooking the Taal Lake, the scenery here is so breath taking. We did a day hike traverse, Rockies-Summit-Grotto and spent our time well as we are only 3 groups that hiked the place that day. There are some stores with some chairs and tables located just before you ascend the Grotto where you can eat your packed lunch and you can also buy some here as well. You can rest in here as well before you can ascend to Grotto.
Written 9 January 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
ayeezy
New York City, NY15 contributions
Dec 2018 • Solo
I’ve been living in a Manila for a few months now and decided on doing a solo day trip out to Mt. Maculot.
Getting there was not bad as there is a bus from Manila to Cuenca on the Jam liner from Buendia. I got there at around 5:20am and waited about 30 mins for the bus to go. Bus took a little over 2 hours but was big, uncrowded, and had ac. Was actually a little cold. Bus fare was 178 php.
I decided to hike the reverse traverse (grotto, summit, Rockies) as I wanted to hit the Rockies (highlight) last. If you do the traverse I think this is better as the payout at the Rockies is amazing! You have the option to hike just the Rockies but I didn’t take a 2 hour bus ride and a 3 hour return trip just for a 2 hour hike.
Depending if you want to do Rockies first or grotto first, they have different start points but it’s easy to ask for some help and have a trike take you. The registration is 10-20 peso, and guide is a bit pricy at 800, but can be split with upto 5 ppl.
The hike itself was pretty strenuous for me. Very steep steps and rocks, fairly slippery even on a dry day, short climb/rappel with rope. It was December but for a California native it was still hot and humid. I bought 1.5 liters of water which weighed me down a bit and I only drank about half and had 2 cups of coconut juice along the way. On a really sunny day I probably would have needed all that water. It can be climbed by a novice but probably should go slower and you will be tired at the end. I finished in a little over 4 hours, but i think it generally takes people 5-6 hours.
Getting back required me to take a Jeepney 45 mins to sm Lipa bus station. My guide pointed out the Jeepney to me. From the station you can catch a jam liner ac bus back to Manila. I paid the Jeepney 25 from cuenca to sm lipa, but I don’t know if that was the right amount. Bus ride back to Manila was 148 php. Hit crazy amount of rush hour traffic in Manila so I ended up just getting off the bus in the traffic somewhere near makati. Then i ended up walking back to bgc, because Manila traffic is the worst!!
Anyway, the Rockies is definitely the highlight. If you are around the area and just want a short hike just go up the Rockies. Grotto and Summit didn’t add much spectacular views, but did extent the hiking. Also grab a bowl of lomi while you are there. Was the best 50 php I’ve ever spent!
Another successful day trip from Manila. Had to take a grab, bus, trike, Jeep, bus, walk (7 hours of traveling) for a 4 hour hike. >_< you can always just hire a private car if you have a lower pain threshold.
Getting there was not bad as there is a bus from Manila to Cuenca on the Jam liner from Buendia. I got there at around 5:20am and waited about 30 mins for the bus to go. Bus took a little over 2 hours but was big, uncrowded, and had ac. Was actually a little cold. Bus fare was 178 php.
I decided to hike the reverse traverse (grotto, summit, Rockies) as I wanted to hit the Rockies (highlight) last. If you do the traverse I think this is better as the payout at the Rockies is amazing! You have the option to hike just the Rockies but I didn’t take a 2 hour bus ride and a 3 hour return trip just for a 2 hour hike.
Depending if you want to do Rockies first or grotto first, they have different start points but it’s easy to ask for some help and have a trike take you. The registration is 10-20 peso, and guide is a bit pricy at 800, but can be split with upto 5 ppl.
The hike itself was pretty strenuous for me. Very steep steps and rocks, fairly slippery even on a dry day, short climb/rappel with rope. It was December but for a California native it was still hot and humid. I bought 1.5 liters of water which weighed me down a bit and I only drank about half and had 2 cups of coconut juice along the way. On a really sunny day I probably would have needed all that water. It can be climbed by a novice but probably should go slower and you will be tired at the end. I finished in a little over 4 hours, but i think it generally takes people 5-6 hours.
Getting back required me to take a Jeepney 45 mins to sm Lipa bus station. My guide pointed out the Jeepney to me. From the station you can catch a jam liner ac bus back to Manila. I paid the Jeepney 25 from cuenca to sm lipa, but I don’t know if that was the right amount. Bus ride back to Manila was 148 php. Hit crazy amount of rush hour traffic in Manila so I ended up just getting off the bus in the traffic somewhere near makati. Then i ended up walking back to bgc, because Manila traffic is the worst!!
Anyway, the Rockies is definitely the highlight. If you are around the area and just want a short hike just go up the Rockies. Grotto and Summit didn’t add much spectacular views, but did extent the hiking. Also grab a bowl of lomi while you are there. Was the best 50 php I’ve ever spent!
Another successful day trip from Manila. Had to take a grab, bus, trike, Jeep, bus, walk (7 hours of traveling) for a 4 hour hike. >_< you can always just hire a private car if you have a lower pain threshold.
Written 21 December 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
chonastodomingo
Manila, Manila, Philippines108 contributions
Jan 2018 • Friends
Its been a decade after my first climb but the same beauty of nature unfolded before my eyes. Trails have become safer yet remained challenging specially for newbies. New trail have been opened and the rockies have been explored more than ever. Friendly, accomodating and knowledgeable guides are available at the tourism office and the local government has been more vigilant and more strict for the safety of the climbers.
Written 21 June 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Benedict A
Manila, Philippines170 contributions
May 2018 • Friends
Mt. Maculot is located 2 hours from Manila, providing an instant getaway for people in the Metro.
It has three peaks for climbers to enjoy. We started with the stations of the cross peak, then to the Maculot summit, then all the way to Rockies. We did it this way because we wanted to save the best for last.
Maculot is beginner-friendly and still challenging enough for veterans. Its mystic beauty will surely give memories to treasure.
Climb away! ❤️
It has three peaks for climbers to enjoy. We started with the stations of the cross peak, then to the Maculot summit, then all the way to Rockies. We did it this way because we wanted to save the best for last.
Maculot is beginner-friendly and still challenging enough for veterans. Its mystic beauty will surely give memories to treasure.
Climb away! ❤️
Written 17 May 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Eric R
Manila, Philippines91 contributions
Apr 2018 • Friends
I am 41 years old turning 42 this April. I am somewhat obese at 180 pounds despite being 5'9. I treadmill 2 to 3 times a week which is what helped me get through this challenge.
I went with my officemates, majority of whom were 27 to 32 years old slim females. They told me that without excercise, this climb would be very difficult. You simply cannot just climb up without any prep (unless you're really atheletic and young).
We brought a car and followed Waze which got us 99% of the way. The remaining 1% was lost on Waze as there are 2 take off points. By the way, the road towards the mountain are kinda bad so bringing a car, though possible, will punish its suspension. Just drive slow or bring a SUV.
You will need a guide to go up.
By luck, we choose to ascend on the grotto side which turns out to be a more difficult climb. You start out with cemented steps but once you reach the grotto, the climb becomes harder and almost 80° vertical at one point. Luckily, there are ropes to help you conquer this portion (and most of the way). Due to the beginners with us and numerous photo ops, it took us 4 hours to reach the summit. This included the pit stop at the store that sells halo-halo (really!).
Then on the way down, there is a big rest area with lots of covered rattan tables and makeshift benches where you can eat your lunch. This also leads to the rockies where even better photo ops can be taken but is a good 20 mins out of the way. You back track to the rest area and make your way down which, though looks easier then the trek up, can be difficult due to the loose pebbles causing you to always loose footing and fall on your bum.
When we got down, I was surprised to see that:
1. Our vehicle was in the other side and we needed to ride a tricycle to get there.
2. This had a better staging area as there where multiple bathrooms a areas to rest.
Tip:
You will need the following:
1. Thick gloves to hold on to trees, rope, and rocks which will protect you from cuts. This is a must!
2. Proper trekking shoes. My officemates who came up in regular running shoes kept loosing grip and falling on their behind.
3. About 2 liters of water/gatorade though there are vendors selling at outrageous prices along the way.
4. A small umbrella as it gets hot in the summit with hardly any shade.
5. Some snacks (hard boiled egg and banana are lifesavers).
6. Money to buy food/water should you run out.
7. Though I never used walking sticks, I came upon other hikers who used these and were more balanced.
Travel light.
Cover up.
Wear good shoes for climbing.
Don't place your phone on your back pocket because once you fall on you butt, it could break.
This mountain is listed as beginners but it's still difficult. You cannot simply just climb up without prepping your endurance.
I went with my officemates, majority of whom were 27 to 32 years old slim females. They told me that without excercise, this climb would be very difficult. You simply cannot just climb up without any prep (unless you're really atheletic and young).
We brought a car and followed Waze which got us 99% of the way. The remaining 1% was lost on Waze as there are 2 take off points. By the way, the road towards the mountain are kinda bad so bringing a car, though possible, will punish its suspension. Just drive slow or bring a SUV.
You will need a guide to go up.
By luck, we choose to ascend on the grotto side which turns out to be a more difficult climb. You start out with cemented steps but once you reach the grotto, the climb becomes harder and almost 80° vertical at one point. Luckily, there are ropes to help you conquer this portion (and most of the way). Due to the beginners with us and numerous photo ops, it took us 4 hours to reach the summit. This included the pit stop at the store that sells halo-halo (really!).
Then on the way down, there is a big rest area with lots of covered rattan tables and makeshift benches where you can eat your lunch. This also leads to the rockies where even better photo ops can be taken but is a good 20 mins out of the way. You back track to the rest area and make your way down which, though looks easier then the trek up, can be difficult due to the loose pebbles causing you to always loose footing and fall on your bum.
When we got down, I was surprised to see that:
1. Our vehicle was in the other side and we needed to ride a tricycle to get there.
2. This had a better staging area as there where multiple bathrooms a areas to rest.
Tip:
You will need the following:
1. Thick gloves to hold on to trees, rope, and rocks which will protect you from cuts. This is a must!
2. Proper trekking shoes. My officemates who came up in regular running shoes kept loosing grip and falling on their behind.
3. About 2 liters of water/gatorade though there are vendors selling at outrageous prices along the way.
4. A small umbrella as it gets hot in the summit with hardly any shade.
5. Some snacks (hard boiled egg and banana are lifesavers).
6. Money to buy food/water should you run out.
7. Though I never used walking sticks, I came upon other hikers who used these and were more balanced.
Travel light.
Cover up.
Wear good shoes for climbing.
Don't place your phone on your back pocket because once you fall on you butt, it could break.
This mountain is listed as beginners but it's still difficult. You cannot simply just climb up without prepping your endurance.
Written 4 May 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Fel
Taguig City, Philippines41 contributions
Feb 2018 • Friends
It's been years since my last climb, so when a friend ask me to join her, I was excited and a bit concern. I never exercise regularly and not that fit as I used to. But I did it anyway. We joined the group of Sir Godfrey (Nature Trail Outdoor Camaraderie), they organize climbs and events, you can look them up in FB. All of the organizers are really nice and accommodating. They made sure that everyone is accounted for and always minding everyones safety.
Anyways, Mt Maculot is a day hike (2 to 3 hrs depending on how fast you climb). There are 2 trails and we took the way to the Grotto first. Before you can reach that, you will pass by 14 Stations of the Cross w/c is popular with locals and tourist/s during the holy week. After that, we climbed to the summit w/c was about 1 hour or 1 1/2 to hike. It was just foggy when we arrived so we can't really see the surrounding. After the summit, campsite to reach the very famous Rockies. There were stories about that part of the mountain that will make you chill or felt bad and sad.
By the way, if you ever forget to bring refreshment or food, don't worry as at almost every stop there is a vendor of coconut juice and at the campsite you can ask to have them cook pancit canton. They are also selling sodas. But don't be surprise with the price, haller! They've been carrying that from the ground to the top of the mountain, so please don't ever say that it's too expensive.
All in all, my experience was very good, I get to meet new people and became friends with and had that feeling again of being accomplished. Doing something that you were afraid of doing again for so many reasons. I suggest for first timer to join a hiker or a mountaineering group so you can be guided on what to do and what to bring. I'm excited about where to go next.:)
Anyways, Mt Maculot is a day hike (2 to 3 hrs depending on how fast you climb). There are 2 trails and we took the way to the Grotto first. Before you can reach that, you will pass by 14 Stations of the Cross w/c is popular with locals and tourist/s during the holy week. After that, we climbed to the summit w/c was about 1 hour or 1 1/2 to hike. It was just foggy when we arrived so we can't really see the surrounding. After the summit, campsite to reach the very famous Rockies. There were stories about that part of the mountain that will make you chill or felt bad and sad.
By the way, if you ever forget to bring refreshment or food, don't worry as at almost every stop there is a vendor of coconut juice and at the campsite you can ask to have them cook pancit canton. They are also selling sodas. But don't be surprise with the price, haller! They've been carrying that from the ground to the top of the mountain, so please don't ever say that it's too expensive.
All in all, my experience was very good, I get to meet new people and became friends with and had that feeling again of being accomplished. Doing something that you were afraid of doing again for so many reasons. I suggest for first timer to join a hiker or a mountaineering group so you can be guided on what to do and what to bring. I'm excited about where to go next.:)
Written 12 February 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
camerinoadriane
Imus, Philippines2 contributions
Nov 2017 • Friends
It is my first time to hike and it was in Mt. Maculot. My experience was more than amazing. The scenery in this place is wonderful and stunning. I would definite l recommend this to first time hikers like me. :)
Written 27 November 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
macasaetchris
Makati, Philippines557 contributions
Nov 2017 • Friends
I think this is my 5th in Mt. Maculot and it never ceases to amaze me. :)
Good:
1. Distance - Just a 1.5 hr drive from Manila. If you're commuting 2 hrs.
2. A surreal view of Taal Lake - Taken for granted because it's so near Manila but the view is really amazing.
3. Cheap thrill - For less than 1k you can enjoy the view plus you can eat Batngas Lomi
4. Guides - Yes I know before it's free to climb Maculot but let's help the local community of Cuenca and better safe. :)
Bad:
Nothing.
Good:
1. Distance - Just a 1.5 hr drive from Manila. If you're commuting 2 hrs.
2. A surreal view of Taal Lake - Taken for granted because it's so near Manila but the view is really amazing.
3. Cheap thrill - For less than 1k you can enjoy the view plus you can eat Batngas Lomi
4. Guides - Yes I know before it's free to climb Maculot but let's help the local community of Cuenca and better safe. :)
Bad:
Nothing.
Written 19 November 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Nuwilin
Quezon City, Philippines142 contributions
Mar 2017 • Friends
When we reached the Rockies, it rained hard we don't have a choice but go down. On the way to the summit, the trail was muddy to the point that you need to crawl. But we had fun there and took a lot of pictures. Though it was said to be beginner-friendly, I think the mud and rain made it difficult for us. But hey, we conquered it.
Written 14 August 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Hi🙂 is it allowed to bring a baby with us during the hike?
BevzGen
Cabuyao, Philippines29 contributions
I think, it is not allowed kasi mejo matarik ang Mt. Maculot, hindi po guaranteed ang safety, hindi din po kasi smooth ang hike, may mga mtutulis din na bato at makikipot na daan.. Kung nga 6yo and above po pede na siguro, may mga nakasabay din kme pghike na mga bata, pero hindi po baby.
Mafs
Philippines
Are they open on Dec 27, 2018? Planning to hike on that date because it's my bday
Balbonix
Vienna, Austria1 contribution
Hi, I’m planning on climbing this coming November what is the earliest tour or climb up at Mount maculot ? Is there any trail I can take if I decided to climb without any tour guide, I want to avoid that extra time wasted due to other tourist taking too much time taking photos. Thanks for the help!
Jansell Iris Simbulan
Philippines
Hi Balbonix, best time to hike would be 4am or earlier and kindly note that local guide is required for Mt. Maculot hike. :)
Hi, do you have contact info of someone at mt. Maculot? I'm planing for a hike this coming september 8. I want to know the exact weather before going. Thanks
chonastodomingo
Manila, Manila, Philippines108 contributions
Sorry for the super late reply. There are a lot of nice people who can give you able and kind tourguide at the base camp
Is mt. Maculot open tomorrow july 7 2018?
macasaetchris
Makati, Philippines557 contributions
They are always open.
Magandang Araw po :)
We are planning to hike this May 1, 2018
If ever po,
Manggaling kami sa Buendia Bus Terminal,
Ano po ang sasakyan namin at bababaan papuntang Registration area?
Ganun narin po sa pabalik ng Manila
Maraming Salamat po, will really appreciate this :)
Hi. Open po ba ang Maculot this May 2018?
Jansell Iris Simbulan
Philippines
I think so kasi sabi ng guide namin araw-araw naman may mga umaakyat. Enjoy! :)
charinabenitez
Imus, Philippines
can i know the hiking schedules?
macasaetchris
Makati, Philippines557 contributions
You start as early as 5AM-5PM. You need to register and pay for a guide. 500 pesos for 4 pax.
MT. MACULOT (Cuenca) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about Mt. Maculot
- Hotels near Mt. Maculot:
- (1.57 km) OYO 151 Tierra Mercedes Nature Resort
- (13.73 km) Paradores Del Castillo
- (2.13 km) Mt. Maculot View Resort
- (4.16 km) Valentino Resort and Spa
- (3.25 km) Endaya Cove Resort
- Restaurants near Mt. Maculot:
- (2.28 km) G2B Lomi House
- (3.00 km) Florenel Restaurant & Event Center
- (8.88 km) Casa Marikit
- (4.61 km) Corcolon Lomi Haus
- (13.34 km) Lipa Grille Restaurant & Co
- Attractions near Mt. Maculot:
- (14.46 km) Milea Bee Farm
- (11.68 km) Taal Volcano
- (14.32 km) Basilica of St. Martin de Tours
- (13.37 km) Taal Heritage Village
- (10.40 km) Lake Taal