With a total land area of about 64,000 hectares, the Mount Apo National Park is home to a dizzying array of colourful, exotic flora and fauna, including carnivorous pitcher plants and the queen of Philippine orchids, the waling-waling. The massive national park also boasts the highest mountain in the Philippine archipelago, standing at an impressive 2,954 metres over the city of Davos. Known locally as the grandfather of all mountains, stemming from its name “Apo” which loosely translates to “master” or “grandchild”, the majestic Mount Apo is actually a volcano, but is safe to visit because it has not erupted for centuries.

Climbing enthusiasts and hiking aficionados will thoroughly enjoy the trek up to the summit, which is not as difficult as it seems. To reach the summit, visitors can trek either of 2 different trails: the Kidapawan Trail on the Cotabato side which cuts through the dense, humid rainforest and swampy Lake Venado, or the Kapatagan Trail on the Davao side which cuts through ashy, boulder-strewn volcanic terrain. Both trails are arduous and challenging but will reward the tenacious with a breathtaking, spectacular bird’s-eye view of the stunning Mindanao landscape. Visitors will be required to buy a permit and hire a guide from the local tourist offices in charge of each trail to ascent the mountain.