Mount Ulap, a crown jewel of Itogon, Benguet, offers a quintessential day trek experience for both a seasoned mountaineer and a first-time hiker. It is a 9.4-kilometer eco-trail that has captivated the hearts of many with its stunning natural features, from rolling pine-covered ridges to panoramic views of the Cordillera mountain range.

A day spent traversing this trail is an immersion into the cool, misty air of the mountains, a physical challenge with a rewarding payoff, and a chance to capture some of the most iconic landscapes in the Philippines.

The Journey Begins: A Pre-Dawn Ascent

The classic Mount Ulap day trek is a traverse hike, starting from Barangay Ampucao and ending at Barangay Santa Fe. The adventure typically kicks off in the dead of night, for those coming from Manila. An overnight bus ride to Baguio City is the first leg of the journey. Upon arrival in the “Summer Capital of the Philippines,” a quick jeepney or taxi ride takes you to the Ampucao Barangay Hall, the official jump-off point. The air is immediately different—crisp, cool, and invigorating—a stark contrast to the city’s warmth.

At the Barangay Hall, the administrative process is a crucial step. Hikers are required to register and pay the necessary fees. This is also where you will be assigned a local guide, a mandatory requirement for all groups. The guides are not just for navigation; they are local experts who can point out interesting flora and fauna, and even help you get the best shots at the most picturesque spots. After a brief orientation, often accompanied by a prayer for a safe journey, the trek begins.

The trail starts with a gradual incline, a well-established path through a dense pine forest. The sweet scent of pine needles fills the air as you ascend, and the faint sounds of the waking wilderness accompany your every step. As you gain elevation, the trees begin to thin, and the trail opens up to a landscape of rolling grasslands. This is where the magic begins. If you start early enough, around 5:00 a.m., you will be greeted by the spectacle of the sunrise casting its golden light over a “sea of clouds” settled in the valleys below. It is a surreal and breathtaking moment that makes the early morning start entirely worth it.

The Three Peaks: A Scenic Traverse

The Mount Ulap Eco-Trail is defined by its three prominent peaks, each offering a unique perspective of the landscape.

• Ambanao Paoay Peak: The first peak is reached after a couple of hours of trekking. At 1,788 meters above sea level, Ambanao Paoay offers a sweeping, 360-degree view of the surrounding mountain ranges. The scenery is dominated by green, rolling hills, often with solitary trees that stand as silent sentinels of the Cordilleras. This area is also popular for its unique rock formations, and it is a perfect spot for a quick rest and a few photos before continuing the ascent.
• Gungal Rock: The most famous and photographed landmark of the trek is Gungal Rock. Situated at 1,814 MASL, this iconic rock formation juts out dramatically from the mountainside. Photos of hikers posing on its edge have made Mount Ulap a social media sensation. While it looks terrifying in pictures, it is a relatively safe spot, and your guide will be there to assist you in getting the perfect shot. Be prepared for a queue, especially on weekends, as every hiker wants a piece of this view.
• Mount Ulap Summit: The final push takes you to the summit, the highest point of the trail at 1,846 MASL. From here, the panorama is even more expansive. You can see as far as Mount Santo Tomas and the cityscape of Baguio, a miniature sprawl of buildings against the grand backdrop of the mountains. This is a moment of pure triumph, a culmination of the physical effort and an opportunity to truly appreciate the majesty of the Cordilleras. A packed lunch at the summit, with this view as your dining companion, is a reward in itself.

The Descent: Burial Caves and Hanging Bridges

The journey doesn’t end at the summit. The traverse trail continues its descent towards Barangay Santa Fe. This part of the trek is different in character—steeper and more challenging on the knees. The trail snakes through a forested area, and you will encounter the historic Pong-ol Burial Caves, sacred resting places for the ancestors of the local Igorot people. Your guide can provide insights into the cultural significance of these caves.

The final stretch of the descent is marked by picturesque hanging bridges and a small river, a refreshing sight that signals the end of the long journey. Upon reaching the exit point, a small community hub awaits, where you can wash up, grab a snack, and relax before the trip back to Baguio.

Tour Fees, Packages, and a Side Trip to Baguio

The cost of a Mount Ulap trek can be managed in two ways: a Do-It-Yourself (DIY) trip or an organized tour package.

DIY Breakdown of Fees (as of late 2024 / early 2025):

• Registration Fee: PHP 100 per person. This is a mandatory fee paid at the Barangay Hall.
• DENR Fee: An additional fee of PHP 30 per person.
• Guide Fee: A mandatory fee of approximately PHP 800 per group for a day hike. One guide is required for every 7 hikers.
• Porter Fee (Optional): If you have a lot of gear or a heavy bag, you can hire a porter for around PHP 500 for a one-way trip, for a maximum of 15 kg.
• Transportation:
  • Bus fare (Manila to Baguio): PHP 500 – PHP 850 per person, depending on the bus liner and type (e.g., Victory Liner, Genesis, JoyBus).
  • Jeepney fare (Baguio to Ampucao): PHP 50 per person.
  • Jeepney fare (Sta. Fe to Baguio): PHP 60 per person.
  • Food and other personal expenses are not included.

Tour Packages:

A more expensive option, yet a lot more convenient, is an organized tour package, which typically includes round-trip transportation from Manila, registration and guide fees, and sometimes even a packed lunch or post-hike meal. 

Many tour operators offer all-inclusive packages that simplify the entire process. These packages are perfect for solo travelers or small groups who prefer a hassle-free experience. A typical package for a day hike includes:

• Round-trip transportation from Manila
• All registration, environmental, and guide fees
• Sometimes a packed lunch or post-hike meal
• A tour coordinator to manage the group

Prices for these packages can range from PHP 1,500 to PHP 2,500 per person, depending on the inclusions and the number of people in the group. For my hike, I joined the tour organized by the Just Shut up & Love team.

Side Trip to Baguio:

Since Mount Ulap is in close proximity to Baguio City, a post-hike side trip is a popular way to cap off the day. After a tiring but rewarding trek, spending a few hours in Baguio can be a relaxing end to the adventure.

• Food Trip: Head to Session Road for dinner or explore the vibrant food scene. Try local Baguio favorites like strawberry taho, ube jam, or a hot cup of Benguet coffee.
• Souvenir Shopping: Visit the Baguio City Market or Good Shepherd Convent for pasalubong like fresh strawberries, peanut brittle, and other local delicacies.
• Relaxation: Simply find a cozy coffee shop to rest and enjoy the cool weather before your bus ride back to Manila.

The Mount Ulap day trek is more than just a physical challenge; it is a holistic experience that connects you with nature, culture, and the sheer beauty of the Philippine Cordilleras. It’s an accessible adventure that promises grand views, memorable photos, and a deep sense of accomplishment.

Whether you choose to go with a tour group or organize your own trip, a day trek to Mount Ulap is an unforgettable experience. It’s a journey that combines physical challenge with spiritual rejuvenation, offering a brief escape into a world of towering pines, sweeping ridges, and, if you’re lucky, a mesmerizing sea of clouds.