Bundok Philippines - Mount Amuyao Trek Guide

Guides - Climbing Mount Amuyao, Ifugao Province

If you've already climbed Mount Pulog and are looking for another trek in the Cordilleras, Mount Amuayao offers an interesting trek even farther off the beaten track. It offers beautiful views when the weather is clear and you'll experience the range of stratified ecosystems found in the northern mountains from the rice terraces and cultivated lower slopes, through the pine forests and finally, the often fog-shrouded mossy forests near the summit.

The peak rises to 2,700 meters (8,860 feet) and you will ascend about 1,000 meters (3,200 feet) on a steep but well-maintained trail from the nearby town of Barlig. There is a telecommunications facility at the summit.

Getting There:

The Amuyao trek can be combined with trips to Sagada, Bontoc and Banaue and is located about 15 km north of the road connecting Bontoc and Banaue. A jeepney from Bontoc will take you to Barlig and since there may not be a set schedule, check the day before for the approximate departure time. Also inquire when the jeepney returns from Barlig.

Climbing Notes:

As a matter of courtesy and security, check-in with the village head or barangay captain at Barlig. You can arrange for guides, usually teens who work in pairs, but don't expect much in Barlig as far as provisions. There should be some eating establishments and maybe a lodge but you should be self-sufficient. Someone will be manning the transmission station at the peak so it would be a nice gesture to bring some extra canned or "bottled" goods to leave behind.

Farther Afield:

If you can find transportation, about 20 km farther north of Barlig, on the same road, is the village of Natonin which is surrounded by beautiful rice terraces and is rarely visited.

Thanks to Rachel Borje for sharing this mountain and photos.