It’s been my goal to hike up Taal Volcano for a few years now. I’ve been to Tagaytay a handful of times before but have only ever admired Taal Lake from afar. However, I’ve always been too intimidated to hike all the way up to Taal Volcano’s crater.
While Taal volcano has not erupted since 1977, it is still regarded as an active volcano. In fact, it remains the second most active volcano in the Philippines with 33 recorded eruptions between 1572 and 2011. Although Taal volcano is one of the lowest volcanos with a mere elevation of 311 metres, it shouldn’t be undermined. It is a complex volcano that is estimated to have taken 5,000 to 6,000 lives.
Surprisingly, despite the fact that the volcano island is still considered a dangerous area, you will still see many houses dotting the volcano island. Many of whom rely on farming, fishing and tourism for their livelihood.
How to Get There
Go to Tagaytay
Tagaytay is located in Cavite province, in the southern part of Luzon. While Tagaytay has other activities and attractions to offer, the amazing views of Taal lake draw in many tourists and locals alike.
By Bus
The Araneta Bus Terminal In Cubao, Quezon City is one of Luzon’s main transportation hubs. Get there by train, taxi or Grab.
A few bus companies head to Tagaytay multiple times a day. Look for signs that read “Nasugbu-Tagaytay”. When in doubt, ask a security guard or conductor.
By Car
If you’re not intimidated by the prospect of driving through Manila traffic, consider driving yourself. The fastest route is through SLE (South Luzon Expressway), though it is important to note that you’ll need to stop and pay a toll fee.
Alternatively, you can hire a car or taxi. I prefer using a service like Grab, because I hate having to deal with taxis who supposedly have broken taxi meters. I paid just over PhP 1000 from Quezon City to Tagaytay.
Head to Talisay Bay
The easiest way to get to Talisay Bay is by tricycle. That being said, it isn’t always the most economical option. A cheaper alternative would be to take a jeepney from the Tagaytay Rotonda. We took a tricycle because we decided to hike up last minute. The driver initially said it was PhP 250 each way but somehow we ended up paying PhP 800 (20 CAD) for the ride to Talisay and from Talisay back to Tagaytay town.
TIP: Negotiate the rate before hopping into the tricycle and pay the price agreed upon.
Take a Boat to Taal Volcano
You’ll need to rent a boat to get from Talisay Bay to Taal Volcano. In Talisay Bay, there are multiple resorts that offer boat rental services. The boat rental costs Php 2000 (50 CAD) for up to 6 people. The relatively calm boat ride across Taal lake took about 20 minutes.
TIP: Get a group together to split the cost and save a bit of money.
Hike up Taal Volcano
Once you reach the island, you’ll be welcomed in and asked for your registration. We paid for the Tourist (entrance) fee which cost Php 100 per person. You’ll also be offered a guide and a horse. These are both optional.
The Hike
The 3.5 km hike up to the crater of Taal Volcano is relatively easy. You can opt to get a guide for Php 500 or walk up by yourself. We decided against a guide because the trail was simple and straight forward enough. There were also many other people we could follow. Also, we wanted to be able to take our time looking around and exploring.
If for any reason you’re unable to trek 3.5 kms, you have the option to ride a horse for Php 500. This fee includes a guide and a horse that takes you to the top of the volcano and back.
Along the trail are stations of the cross for pilgrimage.
It took us about 40 minutes to leisurely hike up Taal Volcano’s crater lake. This includes dicking around, looking at rocks, playing with little vents in the ground and time for me to catch my wheezy breath. And yes, I am not an active person.
Just before the crater lake, you will be greeted by vendors selling drinks like cold water, gatorade, beer and fresh coconut water. I got a gatorade for Php 100 (about 2.50 CAD). This is significantly more expensive than regular retail price, so if you want to save some money, consider bringing a bottle of water.
And finally, the crater lake. A view that is worth every single step of the hike.
Unfortunately this quick snap of the view does not do Taal Volcano any justice. It’s a breathtaking experience that you’ll just have to see for yourself!
Helpful Tips
- Try to head out either early morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the scorching heat.
- Wear sensible clothes and footwear for the the boat ride and the hike.
- Bring water unless you’re willing to part with PhP 100 for a drink.
- Bring a face mask or something to cover your mouth from the volcanic ash, sulphur and horse poop. There are vendors at the beginning of the trail that will offer you a mask for a fee.
Did you find this guide helpful or even mildly entertaining? You can read more about my adventures in the Philippines here.
