Taal Volcano
Taal Volcano
4
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Taal Volcano is located about 60 km (about 37 miles) south of Metro Manila. Last major eruption was reported back in 1965 that affected villages in the surrounding area.
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Zandyy
London, UK177 contributions
Dec 2022
I visited Taal Volcano 25 years ago, and again last month, and things are very different. There is surprisingly little information about how to reach the volcano online so thought I'd contribute what little knowledge I have.
The volcano had erupted a couple of years ago and it's still quite active, so it is currently forbidden to access the island in the middle of the lake. Most pictures of that island here are out of date, it looks very different now.
A couple of enthusiastic tour operators offer boat rides to the island but without disembarking. It's not as easy to find those tour operators as it used to be. We used someone called Precious who is just to the right of the road from Tagaytay as it hits the lake, and clearly signposted.
The lake waters are very choppy and it's not a boat trip for the faint hearted. I remember the waters were rough 25 years ago as well, but this time there seemed to be zero traffic on the lake, which may mean that not many choose to adventure this way, at least not at the moment.
Overall I think I'd recommend admiring the volcano from afar at this time, the viewpoints in Tagaytay are great and taking a boat without disembarking doesn't add much. Hoping to see access to the island itself resored soon.
The volcano had erupted a couple of years ago and it's still quite active, so it is currently forbidden to access the island in the middle of the lake. Most pictures of that island here are out of date, it looks very different now.
A couple of enthusiastic tour operators offer boat rides to the island but without disembarking. It's not as easy to find those tour operators as it used to be. We used someone called Precious who is just to the right of the road from Tagaytay as it hits the lake, and clearly signposted.
The lake waters are very choppy and it's not a boat trip for the faint hearted. I remember the waters were rough 25 years ago as well, but this time there seemed to be zero traffic on the lake, which may mean that not many choose to adventure this way, at least not at the moment.
Overall I think I'd recommend admiring the volcano from afar at this time, the viewpoints in Tagaytay are great and taking a boat without disembarking doesn't add much. Hoping to see access to the island itself resored soon.
Written January 7, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sarah r
3 contributions
Feb 2023 • Couples
I had hiked the volcano a few years back and wanted to show my partner, on a trip to the Philippines. As the volcano erupted a few years back, you can't actually land on the island anymore but u can go on a boat ride around the lake. Drive thread down to talisay and you will find places advertising trips. It's not cheap, (between 3000 and 5000php), but it was fun and takes around 2 hours. Be warned it got REALLY choppy out there and we got very wet! Tourism, was thier main way of making a living and with eruption many are still displaced. So worth supporting the community too. The guys were really lovely.
Written February 17, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Benedetta L
8 contributions
Jan 2024 • Solo
Taal Volcano is a stunning natural wonder! The views from the top are breathtaking, showcasing the beauty of Taal Lake. The trek can be challenging but rewarding, and the unique landscape is a photographer's dream. Just be mindful of safety updates due to its activity. A must-visit for adventure seekers!
Written October 30, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Malay A
Melbourne, Australia31 contributions
Dec 2019
Taal Volcano is a must-see Attraction in the Philippines. A trip to Manila is not complete without a visit to see Taal Volcano. Located about 100 km from Manila, it takes approximately 2 hours drive by car each way, depending upon the traffic conditions of course.
The best way to get here is by hiring a Car (with driver) which can be arranged through local travel agents in Manila (that makes the trip even more enjoyable because it offers some very good sceneries along the way, to the Volcano too).
That way, you can also take your own time enjoying the sights, trekking, taking the boat-ride to the Volcano and so on, instead of being rushed!
Tickets need to be purchased upon entering the site and then you are greeted by some amazingly breathtaking sights the nature has to offer. The view of the Volcano surrounded by the lakes and the hills is just unbelievable!
During our visit though Taal Volcano wasn't Active at all. So we were fortunate to visit and appreciate the awesome views that it offers!
Malay Adhikari
(Melbourne, Australia)
The best way to get here is by hiring a Car (with driver) which can be arranged through local travel agents in Manila (that makes the trip even more enjoyable because it offers some very good sceneries along the way, to the Volcano too).
That way, you can also take your own time enjoying the sights, trekking, taking the boat-ride to the Volcano and so on, instead of being rushed!
Tickets need to be purchased upon entering the site and then you are greeted by some amazingly breathtaking sights the nature has to offer. The view of the Volcano surrounded by the lakes and the hills is just unbelievable!
During our visit though Taal Volcano wasn't Active at all. So we were fortunate to visit and appreciate the awesome views that it offers!
Malay Adhikari
(Melbourne, Australia)
Written February 21, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mahmoud Yousef
22 contributions
Dec 2019 • Family
While we were visiting a family friend in Cavity for lunch we decided to visit Batangas city to see the Taal volcano. When we arrived there and parked our cars in the car park of Starbucks, we sat there for a nice cup of coffee and delicious cakes.
Then we were watching the volcano from a distance and took lovely pictures. Then we went to the entertainment center where our kids enjoyed the most and were closure to the Taal. Unfortunately, the weather got cloudy and started to rain and we couldn’t take a boat to the volcano. Later on at beginning of January I heard that the Taal volcano was erupted and the residents near the volcano were evacuated.
Then we decided to come back again when the volcano cools down and when we are in Manila again.
Then we were watching the volcano from a distance and took lovely pictures. Then we went to the entertainment center where our kids enjoyed the most and were closure to the Taal. Unfortunately, the weather got cloudy and started to rain and we couldn’t take a boat to the volcano. Later on at beginning of January I heard that the Taal volcano was erupted and the residents near the volcano were evacuated.
Then we decided to come back again when the volcano cools down and when we are in Manila again.
Written January 31, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Catherine G
Washington, UK124 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
All over here have my sympathy, be they human, animal or any kind of nature. Times like this you have to realise you're well off where you are, regardless of the bad weather we get. As we haven't volcanoes to put up with we just have to be thankful for the bad times we don't have.
Written January 15, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Paul Marvel
1 contribution
Feb 2019
The horses were in a very bad condition and don't treated well!!!!!!! They force you to ride a horse, but you should don't do it!! The prices are really high for what you get. The boat trip is expensive. No clean toilets and waste everywhere. Hungry dogs, chicken, ... They want to charge you for everything - a guide, a map, special photo place, ... If you want to see something nice near Manila visit waterfalls near Laguna for example, much better.
Written January 10, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
night_hawk07
New Delhi13 contributions
Apr 2012 • Solo
This was one of those trips where i decided to save some money yet go out and venture.
I started off from Manila (Makati) by 6:30 am, and took a jeepney to the nearest bus station where i could get a bus from. This was the EDSA - ALABANG SLEX bus stand. waited here for approx 20 minutes and then finally got a bus. I took the San Augusting bus to Olivarez, Tagaytay.
The buses in Philippines are comfortable and clean (considering the fact that i live in India !!).
Once in Olivarez, You'll have you haggle like a true asian and bring down the prices that the tri-cycle owners ask you. (They may ask for anything between 500 ~ 1000 Pesos) But i managed to bring it down to 100 Pesos ( India teaches you stuff which is universally used, Hahaha.. :-D ).
These tricycle rides would take you to Talisay (the shore town of the lake itself).
It's another half an hour on the side cart of a tricycle before you reach the shore.
Now here is the catch. The tricycle guys would take you to the Banca "special boat" owners. YOU have to be very adamant, that you don't want the Banca ride to the volcano island (because the Banca would easily cost you approx. 1500 Pesos - back and forth trip). You ask the tricycle owner to take you to the ferry station (He would say that there are no ferries, you have to take the Banca only, in order to reach the island. DON'T listen, just keep pressing on the point that you want to go to the ferry station).
Ok, now in my case, I had never been on a Banca, so I specifically hunted down a cheaper Banca owner - He started haggling from 1500 Pesos and we had an agreement at 700 pesos..!!
So this banca ride would take you to the taal volcano island and this is another 30 minutes of a boat ride.
Once on the island - You have to pay a tourist entry fees of 50 pesos.
You may hire a pony/donkey (it's still debatable so as to what those animals are). This would set you back by another 700 ~ 800 pesos (Only if you haggle and bargain too well), it may range up to 1500 ~ 2000 pesos for an inexperienced haggler !!
I decided to trek all the way up to the top and come back. So no Pony for me.
One important TIP - carry loads of your water even if you are not trekking your way up.
Once on top - the view and the cool breeze is spectacular. Since the Volcano is active - you may easily spot steam vent on the inner side of the volcano.
So keep your eyes open.
I started off from Manila (Makati) by 6:30 am, and took a jeepney to the nearest bus station where i could get a bus from. This was the EDSA - ALABANG SLEX bus stand. waited here for approx 20 minutes and then finally got a bus. I took the San Augusting bus to Olivarez, Tagaytay.
The buses in Philippines are comfortable and clean (considering the fact that i live in India !!).
Once in Olivarez, You'll have you haggle like a true asian and bring down the prices that the tri-cycle owners ask you. (They may ask for anything between 500 ~ 1000 Pesos) But i managed to bring it down to 100 Pesos ( India teaches you stuff which is universally used, Hahaha.. :-D ).
These tricycle rides would take you to Talisay (the shore town of the lake itself).
It's another half an hour on the side cart of a tricycle before you reach the shore.
Now here is the catch. The tricycle guys would take you to the Banca "special boat" owners. YOU have to be very adamant, that you don't want the Banca ride to the volcano island (because the Banca would easily cost you approx. 1500 Pesos - back and forth trip). You ask the tricycle owner to take you to the ferry station (He would say that there are no ferries, you have to take the Banca only, in order to reach the island. DON'T listen, just keep pressing on the point that you want to go to the ferry station).
Ok, now in my case, I had never been on a Banca, so I specifically hunted down a cheaper Banca owner - He started haggling from 1500 Pesos and we had an agreement at 700 pesos..!!
So this banca ride would take you to the taal volcano island and this is another 30 minutes of a boat ride.
Once on the island - You have to pay a tourist entry fees of 50 pesos.
You may hire a pony/donkey (it's still debatable so as to what those animals are). This would set you back by another 700 ~ 800 pesos (Only if you haggle and bargain too well), it may range up to 1500 ~ 2000 pesos for an inexperienced haggler !!
I decided to trek all the way up to the top and come back. So no Pony for me.
One important TIP - carry loads of your water even if you are not trekking your way up.
Once on top - the view and the cool breeze is spectacular. Since the Volcano is active - you may easily spot steam vent on the inner side of the volcano.
So keep your eyes open.
Written April 22, 2012
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
usa97
manila, philippines3 contributions
I currently live in Manila and am familiar with negotiating taxi rides (for longer distances or if someone won't use the meter) and prices for boats etc. Taxi from Makati to Tagaytay was about $40 USD, seemed to be a fair price. Thankfully (you'll see why in a minute) we had an excellent taxi driver!
In Tagaytay we negotiated for a boat over to Taal, but once we got on the boat the operator kept assessing extra fees, same when we got to the island. It was frustrating and we ended up being left on the island where Taal is.
We hiked up to see the volcano, which honestly wasn't that impressive, it just looks like another lake.
We haggled for another boat back across the lake, and when we got to our taxi, the boat owner (not the operator) started giving us a hard time about where his boat was, what happened to the operator, etc.
We ended up having to go to the PNP Station (Philippine National Police) where the matter was resovled (oh, and by the way, on the way to the PNP station the boat owner stopped and picked up the operator/guide - they knew he was back!).
The PNP were helpful, and thankfully we were able to laugh about it, but honestly the trip was more trouble than it was worth. I wish I knew the name of the boat or where the launch was to tell you to avoid it.
I've heard the actual town of Tagaytay can be nice, and I may go back for a day trip, but I recommend that you just skip Ta'al.
In Tagaytay we negotiated for a boat over to Taal, but once we got on the boat the operator kept assessing extra fees, same when we got to the island. It was frustrating and we ended up being left on the island where Taal is.
We hiked up to see the volcano, which honestly wasn't that impressive, it just looks like another lake.
We haggled for another boat back across the lake, and when we got to our taxi, the boat owner (not the operator) started giving us a hard time about where his boat was, what happened to the operator, etc.
We ended up having to go to the PNP Station (Philippine National Police) where the matter was resovled (oh, and by the way, on the way to the PNP station the boat owner stopped and picked up the operator/guide - they knew he was back!).
The PNP were helpful, and thankfully we were able to laugh about it, but honestly the trip was more trouble than it was worth. I wish I knew the name of the boat or where the launch was to tell you to avoid it.
I've heard the actual town of Tagaytay can be nice, and I may go back for a day trip, but I recommend that you just skip Ta'al.
Written January 2, 2006
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
mattywill03
Newcastle, Australia3 contributions
Oct 2013 • Friends
919 We had the most amazing time not only at Taal volcano but getting there and coming back. We managed to get a taxi driver that was so awesome . named Ramon Garcia (+639198534218). he's been driving taxis for twenty years and the car was only a year old. It cost 3500Pto get there and for him to wait and returned us back. We left the motel around 9 am and he gave us some options as what do we want to experience at Taal. We were keen for the horse trip up and in the crater. He said there is a quicker way but will cost alittle bit extra in tolls 60 or 80 pacos.
About an hour and a bit later we arrived after a lot of traffic getting out of Manila and he surgested we use the yaht club as they we better boats and to order a small amount of food for when we get back. We weren't keen on the idea as we thought this is just a scam or something but when we got back we were tired and needed a feed to get energy back.
got on the boat and headed to Taal once there we were greeted by our guides and our horses.hoped on the horses with guides next to us and headed up the crater. These horses are so strong and just new were to go. got to the halfway point on top of the crater. snaped off some photos and then headed down the crater the guides were awesome and the guides now how to take photos of you on the horses as far as composition is concerned. So all round great experience without using travel agencys.
About an hour and a bit later we arrived after a lot of traffic getting out of Manila and he surgested we use the yaht club as they we better boats and to order a small amount of food for when we get back. We weren't keen on the idea as we thought this is just a scam or something but when we got back we were tired and needed a feed to get energy back.
got on the boat and headed to Taal once there we were greeted by our guides and our horses.hoped on the horses with guides next to us and headed up the crater. These horses are so strong and just new were to go. got to the halfway point on top of the crater. snaped off some photos and then headed down the crater the guides were awesome and the guides now how to take photos of you on the horses as far as composition is concerned. So all round great experience without using travel agencys.
Written October 30, 2013
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi, I’d like to go for the day from Manila with my family of 5 (3 kids from 8 to 15). I’d prefer a private tour/guide but don’t want to spend gazillions...
Written June 14, 2019
Hi there,
The cheapest way is to rent a car & use Waze to get there. Once there you just need to pay for the boat ride to the island about 2000 pesos for the boat for everyone. Then a horse ride up the volcano is another 500 pesos person at the ticket counter on Taal island. There is no need for tour guide as everyone speaks English plus it is just a volcano attraction there. So just buy the tickets and ask around to get around. Only be prepared to haggle to get a good deal. Plus to avoid the heat try to get there early or late afternoon.
Written June 15, 2019
Hi all,
I want to trek to the Volcano but I am a solo traveler. Is there any tour company that creates groups to visit this place instead of me paying a very expensive fare?
As well, I have read about the heat and lack of shade, so is there any company that goes there quite quite early to beat the chaos and the heat.
Cheers
Julian
Written April 18, 2019
Best to contact a local travel agent handling domestic tours or the Dept. of Tourism .
Written April 18, 2019
Hi again,
I was a bit unclear asking the previous question - I want to take a weekend trip to climb Taal and Pinatubo. I would land around 5am on Wednesday and - hopefully - go back at 8pm on Thursday (yes yes, not your typical weekend, well, i have atypical schedule). As far as I know, Pinatubo takes longer, so I would do Taal on the second day - do you think it’s possible to go early in the morning (from Manila), hike to the top and back, and go back to Manila (not hiking, by bus or Jeep or...?) and be at the airport at 6pm? If so, where do I take that transportation, how long does it take, and how much does it cost? Also, how long does the hike take?
Written February 10, 2019
It is possible to do that if there is no traffic. We hired “Tourist Driver” but his booking clearly states that you must not be flying out for the next 15 hours on the day of the tour. If all goes well and you start your journey before 6am, you should be at the airport by 3pm using tollways on the return. If you hire a private car, Your driver should adjust the tour start time to ensure you make your flight
Written February 10, 2019
Hi! How to get there from Manila? And how long does it take to hike and go back to Manila again? (I’m wondering if a weekend trip will be enough)
Written February 8, 2019
You can either rent a car or take a bus from directly from Manila.
Getting a Ride to Tagaytay
There are many ways to get to Tagaytay. Most tourists travel to Tagaytay directly from Manila. The trip can take between 1 to 1.5 hours by jeepney, bus, or private car. Although it will take longer, it is cheaper to take a bus from the Pasay terminal to Tagaytay. Buses depart frequently from the Costal Mall area. Look for a bus which says “Nasugbu via Tagaytay” on it’s destination sign. Be sure to double check with the driver if the bus makes stops at Olivarez or Rotonda. Get off at one of these stops since there is not a bus terminal in Tagaytay.
Crow/Crown Bus Lines is among the most trusted bus companies which run routes to Tagaytay. The cost of a one-way trip from Manila to Tagaytay is around 100 pesos.
Although public transportation is cheaper, if you need to take a lot of baggage, or are traveling with a number of friends, it may be more convenient to rent a FX Jeep at the Starmall in Mandaluyong. The FX Jeeps park near the EDSA.
Driving to Tagaytay
If you have a car or are renting one, you can easily drive to Tagaytay. There are two main ways.
Take the Roxas Boulevard to the Manila-Cavite Expressway/Costal Road. Turn onto Emilio Aguinaldo Highway which will lead you to the main rotunda of Tagaytay.
Drive on the South Luzon Expressway, and take the exit at Sta. Rosa. Take the first right after getting off, and follow the signs directly to Tagaytay.
Getting Around the City
Tagaytay is not a large city, and it is quite easy to get around. Public transportation is provided by jeepneys and trikes. If you are planning to visit such popular locations as People’s Park in the Sky, the Good Shepherd Convent, or the Japanese Garden, take a jeepney near Olivarez Plaza. Look for a jeepney with a sign for “People’s Park in the Sky.”
If you want to visit Tagaytay City Hall, Mahogany Market, or Tagaytay International Convention Center, you can take a jeepney from Olivarez Plaza which has a destination sign reading, “Nasugbu.”
It is possible to also take a trike from this location, the cost is usually three times as much. Although many transportation fees are fixed, you may be able to negotiate the fare if you decide to rent a private vehicle and tour guide.
Remember to stay safe when you are taking public transportation, and to keep your eyes on your belongings while you are traveling.
Written February 11, 2019
Hi! How to get there from Manila? And how long does it take to hike and go back to Manila again? (I’m wondering if a weekend trip will be enough)
Written February 8, 2019
IndahDesi
Jakarta, Indonesia
mau tanya transportasi dari Bandara Manila ke Tagaytay naik apa?
Written July 2, 2018
Mengikut pengalaman saya, kereta sewa bersama driver adalah keputusan yang terbaik. Kamu boleh check dari internet harga yang ditawarkan oleh syarikat-syarikat di sana.
Written July 3, 2018
HI,
Read your comment about Taal and you mentioned you camped. Wanted to ask if it is legal to camp there and where exactly we can? You also mentioned its super hot so will May be possible to camp or too hot?
Written March 30, 2018
No you can not camp in Taal but you can Trek or Horseback ride to go up and down to the Crater. It cost $700 for the horse and comes with a Guide.
Written April 1, 2018
Hoi,
Ik lees dat je zelf naar de taalvulkaan toe bent gereden. Heb je ook zelf de boot gepakt naar de vulkaan en de klim naar boven ook zonder gids gedaan? Zo ja, kan je deze tickets bij aanvang van de taalvulkaan kopen?
Graag hoor ik van je.
Groetjes,
Ilse
Written March 5, 2018
Any idea how to get there in a car or bus? I mean not a bike.
Thanks
Written April 1, 2017
There are buses that go to Taal - it takes 2-3 hours
Written April 19, 2019
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