Don’t dream of the world to see you.
Climb up and see the world for yourself!
I went on my first hiking trip to Mount Tagapo, a cone-shaped peak on the lake island of Talim, Rizal Philippines. The peak is also locally known as “Bundok Susong Dalaga (Maiden’s breast mountain) because of it’s shape.
The mountain ridge is 438 m (1,437 ft) in elevation and it is the highest point of the island. Many climbers say that it’s a beginner’s climb for first time hikers which was just beyond perfection for me. It’s my first climb and of course, the lower the mountain; the better….
And so I thought.
The 2.5 hours hike challenged every single cell within me. Even though we were able to charge thanks to the 2 hours boat trip to the island; half-way up, I was already out of breath. But still I enjoyed the view at almost every stop 🙂
We had plenty of water stops because of me and I was the one trailing behind. I probably should have exercised before the trip rather than sat at home browsing the web. Well at least now I know what to do next time 😛
The path was very steep and narrow. It was also very inclined; three steps left and then right which made it even more difficult. A straight path would have been fitting for these tiny legs of mine.
2.5 hours passed and we made it to our camp site. It was an amazing feeling, though we weren’t at the peak yet. As night falls, we secured our tents since rain was upon us.
We rested our tired feet and looked forward to our climb to the highest point of the mountain.
So close, yet so far.
It rained heavily around midnight but we managed to sleep through it, praying that there will be sunshine in the morning. And yes, we were blessed by a cloudy sunrise.
We geared up and made our way to the top. It was roughly a 20 minutes hike, but this time the path was highly elevated.
The climb was worthwhile as we were rewarded by a panoramic view of both the province and the city. It really was one-of-a-kind experience. We were at the center of Laguna de Bay, the largest lake in the Philippines.
All the pain and sweat was worth it. And here are some stunning photos from the peak.
This trip was a personal accomplishment and I learned a lot from it. I’m only a rookie in hiking and I am open to more tips from my fellow wanderers.
However, I am more than happy to share with you, especially to my fellow rookies what I learned from this trip 🙂
- Register at the base camp. This is really important. Check-in at the base and let them know when you will return.
- Hike in a group. Avoid hiking alone, have at least one buddy with you and never stray from the group.
- Stay on marked trails. Don’t make shortcuts – it increases your chance of getting lost.
- Wear leggings & long sleeves(in bright colors). Save yourself from future wounds from the plants along the way.
- Comfy & Safe Shoes. Ensure that they are appropriate for hiking.
- Carry only the ESSENTIALS. Remember, the lighter the load, the convenient the climb.
- Toiletries such as wet wipes, alcohol, tissue, mouth wash, toothpaste, sunblock, mosquito repellent and a first aid kit.
- Bring only the clothes you need – such as an extra top and bottom; a jacket if it gets chilly; a towel and a cap/hat.
- Water. Plenty of it. Never assume that stream water is safe to drink.
- Trash bags. Don’t leave any garbage in the mountains.
- Have small snacks ready for that much needed boost of energy.
If you have any tips you would like to share, please feel free to comment or send it to contactbellaangeles@gmail.com and I’ll be glad to add it to this blog post with credits to you of course! 😀
And now I need to buy me some pair of hiking shoes. Any suggestions? 🙂
I’m thrilled with excitement for the next climb! I wonder where my feet will take me this time 😀
With love,
