I remember so vividly when this sleeping volcano awakened so violently in the year 1991. The day turned into night and a wide area of the Central Luzon in the Philippines was wrapped with ash falls , debris and flowing lahar from the Mt. Pinatubo. The ash fall effect had reached even the nearby Asian countries.
After that nightmare, one can never imagine that such incident would make a way to making the Mt. Pinatubo more popular than ever before.
Mt. Pinatubo’s eruption was said to be the most destructive volcanic event in the 20th century and yet , now you’ll be amazed with what you can see. It is one of the most desired tourist spots in the Philippines. If Dubai has their well-known Desert Safari, well, go for a trek in Mt. Pinatubo and you’ll experience the same.
To start the trail
From Manila ride a bus going to Baguio or Pangasinan. Drop off at Capas, Tarlac public market as the jump-off point starts at Sta. Juliana, Capas, Tarlac trail. From the market, ride a jeepney or a tricycle going to Pinatubo Spa Town at Sta. Juliana and there you’ll see the Tourism office and the 4×4 rides for hire.
Surely, everyone will enjoy the sight of the largest lahar canyon in the world as they travel on by a 4×4 adventure. The trek will last for 2 hours up to the crater.
The trail itself
It would be a walk through rocks, dirt and sands so better wear a comfortable walking shoes. A tennis shoe or a trekking shoe is highly recommended. Bring home-supplied food and liters of water. A walking stick at hand is also advisable to add strength and support in your venture.
Finally, at the crater lake
Upon arriving at the crater , it’s definitely a beautiful view of the majestic crater lake – pristine and blue green in color. Although, there were reports that swimming in the said crater lake is dangerous, one can’t resist but indulge as this is just a once in a lifetime experience. Just take extra precaution though.
One can never think that one day , a frightening volcanic eruption would give birth to an exciting trek to the volcano, more so, to the crater lake which is really quiet and looks like an untouchable beauty of nature.
So what are you waiting for? Let’s do the trek.
/// Written by Rosemarie Ramos, The Philippines
