Mt. Tapulao – a towering mountain with an elevation of over 2000masl, it is the tallest mountain along the Zambales mountain range. Geographically located on the western side of Luzon and part of Palauig municipality, it features yet another side of Zambales.

Being known for its pristine beaches, surf spots, hangouts, camping grounds, and hammock fest destinations; hiking Mt. Tapulao offers another face of Zambales’ gleaming territory. The summit is reached via an old mining road and is approximately 18km to the top. Traverse hikes are also possible coming from the province of Tarlac – presenting a greater difficulty and equivalently a greater reward! Regardless of how you plan on taking the challenge, Mt. Tapulao will surely lit your day brighter! So hop on and rediscover a new face of Zambales at Mt. Tapulao!

HOW TO GET THERE

Regardless if you’re coming up North (Baguio or Pangasinan) or down south (Manila or Batangas), your main point of consideration is reaching Iba – Zambales’ capital.
Via Public Transport
1. Ride a bus from Manila to Iba Zambales. Popular buses like Victory liners have hourly trips;
either from Pasay Terminal, Cubao, or Caloocan.
2. From Iba terminal, take a tricycle or rent a jeepney (large groups) going to Palauig.
Tell the driver to drop you off the jump-off site for Mt. Tapulao located at sitio Dampay.
As of this writing, it would be a longand bumpy road towards the DENR Visitor’s Center.
3. Upon arrival at Dampay, take care of registration and secure your guides.

Via Private Transport
1. If you’re coming from Manila, take NLEX – SCTEX and exit either on Guagua/Angeles/Mabalacat whichever way is easier for you.
2. Reach Iba Zambales and go further up north until you reach the junction Dampay-Salaza. Make a hard right into the rough and dustry road to Sitio Dampay.
3. Upon arrival at Dampay, take care of registration and secure your guides.
***If you’re still confused, click here and follow the route map.

Via Recommended Organizers
If you find it difficult or just don’t like planning the trip, I suggest you take my recommended hike organizer for the tour. Being one of the mainstays in running, hardcore hiker, and Basekamp Store Manager; he’s well versed in many climbs and situations and will surely guide you to get there!
Greg Galicia
Facebook: @greg_galicia
Facebook: @basekampmarketmarket
Mobile: 09171095454

THE BUDGET

• Transport Option 1
  • Manila to Iba Zambales (via bus): 350php ea
  • Iba Zambales to Jumpoff (via trike): 400php (up to 3 pax), 150php if only one.
• Transport Option 2
  • Manila to Dampay Junction (via bus – usually Victory Liner Caloocan): 400php ea
  • Dampay Junction to Jumpoff (via trike): 200php
• Registration Fee: 30php ea
• Guide Fee: 700php (1 guide is to 5 pax)
• Porter Fee (optional): 700php

HIKING MT. TAPULAO

Note that if you intend to do a dayhike at Tapulao, it would be a non-stop 18km uphill and another 18km back. It will be a long but easy and wide trail along the old mining road while you enjoy the beautiful views of Zambales. Upon reaching the 15km mark, Tapulao will present you a cold breeze and a sweet view of the pine trees above. The wide trail goes on until you reach the campsite. From here, it’s just another 30 minutes to the summit – featuring grasslands and a mossy forest ahead.

*****Forgive me for the lack of captions. Too little time! Enjoy the pictures and surprises along the trail. Sometimes knowing a little beforehand is much more fun right?