Conquer the Heights: Mount Apo, the Crown Jewel of the Philippines

Getting There

• Car

  If you are traveling by car, the best route to Mount Apo is to start from Davao City. Head southeast on JP Laurel Ave toward F. Torres St. Continue on this road until you reach the junction with the Davao-Buhangin Road. Follow the Davao-Buhangin Road until you reach the entrance of the Mount Apo National Park. There may be a small entrance fee which can vary, so be prepared for a few hundred pesos. Once at the park entrance, you can either leave your car in the provided parking area or hire a local guide for the trek.

• Public Transportation

  To reach Mount Apo using public transportation, take a jeepney or bus from the Davao City city center to the town of Bukidnon or directly to the national park entrance. From the city center, look for jeepneys that have 'Bansalan' or 'Bukidnon' on their signage. The fare is typically around 50-100 PHP. Once you arrive at the national park entrance, you will need to register and pay an entrance fee, which usually costs between 100-300 PHP. After registration, you can hire a local guide, which is highly recommended for safety and navigation.

• Hiking

  Once you have reached the park entrance, the final leg of your journey to Mount Apo involves hiking. The trail is well-marked, but due to the challenging terrain and weather conditions, it's advisable to hire a local guide. The hike to the summit can take anywhere from 6 to 12 hours, depending on your pace. Make sure to bring adequate supplies such as water, snacks, and proper hiking gear. The guides typically charge around 1,500 to 3,000 PHP for the hike, depending on the group size.