Scaling the Heights of Mt. Tapyas, Coron: A Detailed Guide
Towering above the picturesque town of Coron, Mt. Tapyas stands as a testament to the island's natural beauty. Offering breathtaking views of the sun setting over the crystal-clear waters and verdant islands, a trip to Mt. Tapyas is an absolute must for every Coron visitor. This blog post explores the enchanting allure of Mt. Tapyas and provides a comprehensive guide for your upcoming hike.
If you want to read more about Coron, just follow this LINK.
Why Climb Mt. Tapyas?
Offering 360-degree views of the stunning Coron Bay and surrounding islands, Mt. Tapyas provides a view like no other. Standing at 210 meters above sea level, it is the second tallest mountain in the town of Coron. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a casual traveler, scaling Mt. Tapyas is an invigorating experience that promises stunning views and memorable moments. You can easily join a tour to Mt. Tapyas and visit other attractions in the mainland like Maquinit Hot Spring. Just go to this LINK.
The Journey to the Peak of Mt. Tapyas
The trek to the summit of Mt. Tapyas starts with a stairway of over 700 steps. Although it may sound daunting, the well-maintained steps and numerous resting benches along the way make the climb manageable. And with each step, the view becomes even more mesmerizing.
At the summit, a massive cross stands as a symbol of the local culture, adding to the charm of Mt. Tapyas. The space around the summit is large enough for visitors to find a comfortable spot, relax, and soak in the jaw-dropping views.
Here’s a little trivia I gathered from local folks about climbing the mountains of Coron when the town was quite poor and before mass tourism came in. Back when cell sites were being set up in the area, the only way to bring up the construction materials like cement was by people carrying them from the town proper to the top of the mountain. It was a very hard duty, one that would take hours to accomplish and for their body to fatigue. There were days when when some folks would have to spend the night in the trail to guard their burden. You could just imagine how hard life was back then when a few hundred pesos pesos of earnings in a day would ensure a week of meals for a family.
Best Time to Climb
The best time to climb Mt. Tapyas is in the late afternoon, just in time to catch the world-renowned Coron sunset. As the sun dips behind the islands, the sky lights up in a kaleidoscope of colors, casting a breathtaking hue over the islands and waters of Coron Bay.
Packing Essentials
Remember to pack a bottle of water, wear comfortable footwear, and don a hat or use an umbrella to shield yourself from the sun. Also, consider packing some snacks for a rewarding picnic at the top.
The Rewarding Views
The panoramic vista from Mt. Tapyas's summit is its real prize. You'll be greeted by a picturesque view of rolling hills, deep-blue waters, and the quaint town of Coron. On clear days, you can even spot neighboring islands in the distance. Although discouraged because of safety concerns, a few meters from the established viewdeck would offer an even better vantage point of the sunset view.
Capturing the Moment
Mt. Tapyas is a photographer's and nature lover paradise. You can also add the romantic ones just to really push it. Be it the panoramic landscape, the vibrant sunset, or the star-studded night sky, each moment at Mt. Tapyas is worth capturing. So, don't forget to bring your camera to freeze these magical moments. And don’t forget some liquid to keep you hydrated.
Wrapping Up
In a town brimming with natural wonders like Coron, Mt. Tapyas holds its own. A visit to this iconic spot offers not just a physical trek but a journey of aesthetic wonder and cultural discovery.
So when you visit Coron, make sure to take the rewarding climb up Mt. Tapyas. Embrace the journey, marvel at the summit views, and immerse yourself in the tranquility that this mountain offers. You’ll return with not just photographs, but memories of a lifetime.