The iconic Mt. Pinatubo Volcano, Zambales, Philippines
We all have our own bucket lists- for me, one of it was just checked because of my recent travel. This was during my adventure trek to the mouth of a volcano. Not just a volcano, but a volcano that literally shook the world, where its ashes during the eruption reached the neighboring countries in Asia and Australia. Mt. Pinatubo's eruption 2 decades ago really wiped out the surrounding area. Vegetation, trees, and animals perished, and now all that is left is the "lahar" (rocky debris of the eruption). There are two common reasons why people go to Mt. Pinatubo. First, people want to experience the adventure of riding a 4x4 truck on a dry, bumpy lahar road. Second, because its a Philippine landmark and its history. Mt. Pinatubo adventure hike or trek is a little bit difficult to organize if its a DIY itinerary. Its also a little bit expensive if you will go solo or not join a big group. Therefore, we opted to join a travel group through the help of TRIPinas Travel and Tours.
There were two ways to go to Mt. Pinatubo- Botolan, Zambales and Capas, Tarlac. We opted for the Botolan route since it was the available one during the schedule we chose. Botolan is also a good route but Capas requires less walking than the other.
So without further ado, here is our itinerary which was organized by TRIPinas Travel and Tours.
Total Adventure Package P2040
*inclusive of tour guide, trek guide, transportation, and travel fees
2am Meet up and Travel Registration at McDonalds El Pueblo
220am Departure to Botolan, Zambales (Shuttle Van)
6am Arrival at Botolan, Zambales and Orientation
630am Transfer to the 4x4 or 6x6 truck and start of off road adventure
830am Arrival at the trekking starting point
1030am Arrival at Mt. Pinatubo crater
1030am-12pm Lunch at the crater lake
1230pm Return trek to start off point
230pm off road adventure back to Botolan
430pm Arrival at Botolan and snacks
530pm Departure from Botolan, Zambales
9pm Arrival at Manila (McDonalds El Pueblo)
*Total food and snacks expense P400
Grand Total = P2440 (50 USDollars)
Warning and Tips
1. This adventure trek involves a lot of walking (around 7km back and forth) in unpredictable weather. Exercise, and conditioning is recommended before the scheduled travel.
2. Wear appropriate attire for the trek. Sandals or spiky shoes is recommended. Bring windbreakers or light jackets since its cold when it rains in the mountain.
3. Water is a must, and a lot of it.
4. Pack wisely. The last thing you wouldn't want to do is regret that you brought a lot of heavy things in your bag that you didn't use or consume.
5. Try to drop by at the Aeta communities along the trek. Most of them are friendly.
6. Bring enough food because the activities will surely make you hungry. (and it is not included in the travel package)
TRIPinas Travel and Tours Contact Information
Mobile/viber: (+63)9179037672Landline: (632) 477-7446
http://pinatubotours.blo
TRIPinas destinations: Sagada, Taal Volcano, Pagsanjan falls, Mt. Pulag, Mt. Pinatubo, Intramuros/Manila city, Anawangin, Ilocos, Pico de Loro
Disclaimer: Prices stated are per person each. The itinerary doesn't involve the hotel accommodation and airfare since these two factors always change depending on the time you purchase it or bought it. The prices are also estimates and may change through time or seasons. It is much better to contact and research first before visiting the attraction you want.