Mount Hibok-Hibok — Local services in Catarman

In the mystical island of Camiguin in Northern Mindanao stands its most famous volcano, Mt. Hibok-Hibok. Not many people know that Camiguin is a literally a hot plate with no less than seven volcanoes in the small island. Mt. Timpoong, at 1450 MASL is actually higher than Hibok-Hibok, but the latter has risen to fame because of its explosive history. Five eruptions have been recorded since the 1827. The latest, in the early 1950s, killed 600 people.

Today, although Hibok-Hibok remains an active volcano, it has no signs of activity. In fact, the only signs of volcanism are the hot springs that count among Camiguin’s tourist destinations. One of them, Ardent Hot Springs, is actually the jump-off point for a Hibok-Hibok climb. A rewarding dip at the 37 C pools is a great post-climb treat.

Climbing Hibok-Hibok is quite challenging for a daytrip. It takes 3-4 hours to reach the peak depending on your pace. The altitude gain is quite rapid and sun cover is minimal.Yet the views are unique and spectacular. At the peak, on a clear day, you can see the mossy crater of the volcano. To your north is Bohol, and you can even see Surigao at the east, and Siquijor on the opposite side. Flanking the island of Camiguin is White island, which truly looks white from atop the mountain. Even more unique to Hibok-Hibok is the blade-sharp rocks at the peak area. The pitcher plants that grow on these rocks make the landscape a little bit eerie. All these elements make Hibok-Hibok a must-stop for hikers who are...

We were really let down by this hike!! Most of the trail is deep in the forest, with no real views along the way — only at the summit, and only if it’s not cloudy. Unfortunately, we didn’t get lucky with the weather. The 7-hour trek was challenging, but not in a rewarding way. We ended up with a strong sense of regret.

Considering the big cost, effort, and lack of scenery, we felt it just wasn’t worth it. Wish we had read more reviews from other European hikers beforehand. You might be better off exploring other trails in Luzon, where there’s more variety and...

One of the best mountain full of lush greenery. My guide, Kuya Bobet, is very welcoming and accomodating. He is well prepared with the climb. Yumbing trail being the gradual trail while Ardent trail is the challenging path. Will return using the Ardent-Yumbing...