Mt. Mabilog (Laguna, Philippines)

Dusk at Mt. Mabilog 

In the midst of the stress in the city, my husband and I together with our friends managed to sneak to a nearby mountain to rest and enjoy the nature. It has been more than a year already since my last hike, so I wasn't prepared physically. The less-than-2-hour climb was really burdensome this time. Plus my right foot which was injured a couple of months ago, still hurts. But anyway, anyway we did it!

Because of the travel blogs that we've read, we were able to reach the place easily. According to these travel blogs, there are three  jump-off for this mountain. We chose the jump-off at Lake Pandin, Sto Angel, San Pablo City so that we'll be able to experience Lake Pandin too.

From Kamuning, we rode a bus to San Pablo (Fare: P135.50). From San Pablo, we rented two tricyles to go to Sto Angel (Lake Pandin). The rent costs P200/per tricycle. We were 12 so we paid P50 each.

We reached Lake Pandin in a few minutes (it is cheaper to ride a jeepney but the trike drivers know exactly where to go so if you're new in San Pablo, better take the tricycle). We were welcomed by the monkey-guard and some bangkeras. 

The Monkey-Guard at Lake Pandin

We all agreed to take the balsa tour which costs us P180 each (with free buko). We had our baon so we didn't buy the food there. (If you want fresh food you can ask them to serve you food too-P360 something per person ata including the tour). It is admirable that all the bangkeros were women.

Ate Lotlot in her buksan ang buko-moment

We didn't swim on the lake but they said the water is cool and deep. Kuya on the picture above is the lifesaver of the lake.

After two hours, we decided to start the journey to Mt. Mabilog. Because we're 12, we were required to take two guides (P300 for each guide). The trail is actually easy (and we can do it for an hour). However, I was very slow and my husband carried a big and heavy backpack bag so we stopped from time to time. On our way, we were able to see Lake Yambo from a distance.

After two hours, we reached the summit. The summit is actually spacious (pero masukal ang ibang lugar!). There were few hikers already so we didn't get to have the best place. But it was okay :) The view on the summit is beautiful (nakakawala ng pagod).

View on our Camp Site

Sunset on the Other Side

We were there before the sunset so we were able to enjoy it. Plus it was full moon that night so we got to enjoy the moon too :)

The next day, we went to Lake Yambo and Bunga Falls. I'll complete the story on the next post. :)

(c) Pictures by Nemil