Mt. Apo: Breathtaking Perspectives from the Highest Peak

2954 MASL
(Lakaw ni Paw)Via Kapatagan Trail Traverse to Sta. Cruz Century Trail
February 16 – 18, 2024

We did it! We summited the highest peak in the Philippines. As expected, the trails were magical yet daunting, the long hours of walk were made to tax the mind but the rewards were worth it.

Kudos to the ever strong guides who made the journey safe for all of us and of course to our event coordinator Lakaw ni Paw. The foods were hearty feasts every meal time and the schedules accommodated all types of hikers.

And of course, photos and adventures to share!

DAY 1

4 AM to 4 PM: Jollibee Ecoland>Breakfast at Kapatagan> Kapatagan Jump-off point > Sukarap > Junction > Little and Big Barroring Water Source > Gudi-gudi Camp

Did a stop-over for breakfast and had a detour at Sta. Cruz jump-off point but finally arrived at the Kapatagan jump-off point. Took a quick group photo and had a little huddle for hike briefing led by our lead guide, Sir Jonathan and the legendary Sir Miting.

There were 11 of us, 6 from our group in Cebu and 5 from Manila. Happy to have had good weather, chill from the fog, and less heat from the sun. The first part of the trail, you will pass by fields of produce, from potatoes to carrots, cabbages, even flowering plants. The rolling trail was mainly grass, a little mud (glad there was no rain or else), and rocks. There were plenty of water sources along the way too!

Arrived at the Gudi-gudi camp, an oversized camp with plenty of space to pitch tents with water source right at the camp and sightings of Philippine macaques swinging across the mossy branches of trees.

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DAY 2

2 AM to 4 PM : Wake up call> Ascent to Summit> Boulders> White Sand> Crater> Mt. Apo 3 Summit sides> Lunch at Saddle>Descent to Lake Venado> Camp at Lake Venado

Early morning hike is always the best. We witnessed the city lights and clear skies.

The best of all – dangerous but thrilling boulders. The fantastic sunrise, sea of clouds view, and wondrous sulfur vents (minus the smell) needed to be paired with the strength to climb boulder after boulder.

After the magnificent yet arduous boulders, there’s this cinematic little nook called white sand before the final ascend to the summit.

And… summit photos! We reached the peak!

Feast at at the saddle!

Descent to Lake Venado, the muddy and slippery downhill were big struggles. The safety railings at the end part of the trail helped a lot!

Lake Venado campsite is a site to a behold! The stunning view of the lake and the relaxing cold completed the experience.

DAY 3

9 AM to 4 PM (Last Day): Breakfast > Century Tree> Sitio Garok> Sitio Tumpis> Sitio Culan> Sta Cruz Exit

Last day and we enjoyed the elusive view of Mt. Apo’s peak before the final descent. And again, a sumptuous breakfast to celebrate the final day.

Super muddy trail during the last day! All smiles as the exhilarating journey ended. Certificates were given to each by the end of the day.

The meticulous planning, hearty meals, and amazing guides made us all safe and enjoy the event to the fullest. Thank you Lakaw ni Paw!

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Quick side trip to Samal Island and birthday celebration in advance for Lindel!