Mount Apo – attracts lots of hikers all over the world
Mount Apo is a large solfataric, potentially-active stratovolcano in the island of Mindanao, Philippines. With an altitude of 2,954 metres (9,692 ft), it is the highest mountain in the country and is located between Davao City and Davao del Sur province in Region XI and Cotabato province in Region XII. The peak overlooks Davao City 40 kilometres (25 mi) to the northeast, Digos City 25 kilometres (16 mi) to the southeast, and Kidapawan City 20 kilometres (12 mi) to the west.
Apo, which means “ancestor”, is flat-topped mountain with three peaks and is capped by a 500-metre-wide (1,600 ft) volcanic crater containing a small crater lake. The date of its most recent eruption is unknown, and none are verified in historical times.
The volcano is one of the most popular climbing destinations in the Philippines with the summit, on the average, takes two days to reach. The first recorded climb was on October 10, 1880, by a party led by Joaquin Rajal, then Spanish governor of Davao.
Mt. Apo, as the highest mountain in the Philippines, attracts a lot of attention from hikers all over the world.
Climbing Mount Apo is a good workout. It’s not a technical climb, but don’t underestimate it. Take a good rain coat and a small tent because it rains a lot and gets very cold at night.
Hypothermia could be a problem if you get soaked and don’t have any dry clothing to change into.
Water is available at several places along the way so taking a liter water bottle along should be enough. Carrying extra weight will make each step harder.
Most hikers take three days to make the round trip from the starting point near the Agko hot springs. If you are in shape and want to push harder you could complete the trip in 2 days or less.
There are a few river crossings at the beginning of the trail. The park workers have installed crossing bridges for some of the rivers, but prepare to get your feet wet crossings small streams and swampy areas.
It’s a good idea to take along spare dry socks for the next day and for sleeping at night at the top. Why not be comfortable? Just remember not to take along anything that is not needed because you will be doing a lot of up hill walking and will regret it.
It’s really a good idea not to push too hard. Pace yourself so you don’t get too winded, unless you are really into trying to make good time. Probably you would never be able to match the speed of a local man that lives in these mountains.
They can literally run straight up this mountain and it was suggested to me that they could probably make it to the top in 4 hours.
If Mother Nature permits, you will be brought to the “Garden of Eden” perfectly landscaped by nature with white sand, wild plants and flowers. You will cherish into your heart the WEALTH OF WONDERS.
Location Map of Mt. Apo
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An experience for lifetime, the adventure, culture and nature.
