#mountpicodeloro

April 10, 2016: Pico de Loro, Summit, Mt. Palay Palay Day Hike

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9

Difficult roads often lead to beautiful destinations...

Mount Pico de Loro, also known as Mount Palay-Palay, is a dormant volcano in Cavite province on the island of Luzon, Philippines.

I still can't believe I went through the hiking thing 'cause honestly, I even said before that I will never try to go on hiking since it is very tiring and I find it somehow boring. But that was before.

Thanks to the person who has inspired me to go and try hiking. Though he's not aware of this and Im pretty sure he has no idea on why I came up to the idea of hiking, still, I wanted to thank him 'cause if not because of him, I wouldn't feel the way Im feeling right now.

Moving forward, for those who are planning on a day hike at Pico de Loro, here’s a guide that can help you regarding the expenses and other infos needed.

We went to Ternate, Cavite via bus at Coastal Mall. The bus left at around 4:15 AM and arrived 5:45 AM. Upon arriving at Ternate, Cavite, we rode a tricycle going to Pico de Loro. Drop off place is just minutes away from Pico.

Upon arriving at the entry point, we first had our light breakfast meal. If in case you haven't brought any food, snack, toiletries or other stuffs which will be used during the hike, you can buy from their stores. Although, it is much expensive than the usual price. I suggest, before going on a hike, make sure to bring your own food, drinks, and/or snack. Also, note that there are no restrooms along the trail so make sure to use the restroom before proceeding to hike.

We started our hike at 6:24 AM and got back by 2:34 PM. We reached campsite at around 9:00 AM so it took us 2 1/2 hrs to reach that place. There are also some spots along the trail wherein you can have your rest for a while. Prior to the summit, you will encounter the Summit Campsite surrounded by bamboos and some nice trees. There is also a part from the campsite that overlooks the summit. From the summit, there is an opportunity to scale the Parrot’s Beak – more popularly known as the Monolith. From 9:00 AM - 9:30 AM, we had our light snack and had some picture taking at the campsite. After which, we continued with our hiking. It took us 30 mins to reach Pico de Loro's Summit, Mt. Palay Palay. By 12:30 NN, after we had our light lunch, we've decided to go back already. We have safely arrived at the entry point by 2:34 PM.

We stayed there for a while and asked a tricycle driver where can be the nearest beach that we can go, swim and take a bath as well. The driver brought us to Marine Barracks. I was amazed by how strict their security are but got disappointed at the same time the moment we have already arrived by the beach. Im a beach lover, that's why I really can't wait to soak in the sea. Unfortunately, my excitement went away as Ive seen the place. I suggest, for those who are planning to wash up or take a bath upon finishing the hike, just use the ones in Pico de Loro. 

View from the top is really amazing and refreshing. I even thought of “God, how did you create such a beautiful kind of view like this.” Funny how my friends have asked me to shout the pain Im feeling. Well, actually, Im already fine right now, but still, yes, I did shout. Lol. I also brought my bible with me and spent some time reading His word and reflecting about things that are happening in my life right now.  

It has not been easy since most of us are first timers but big thanks to my former officemate, Jun, for preparing our itinerary and guide, and to Faye's brothers for assisting us all throughout the hike.

I enjoyed being able to meet new people. I was wrong when I thought that hiking is a boring thing. Mehehe. This is my first time to hike and will definitely not be the last!