Elevation: 688 masl
Difficulty Level: 3/10 (minor climb)
Hike Duration: 3-5 hrs
Location: Ternate, Cavite
Mt. Pico de Loro, also known as Parrot’s Beak, is a renowned hiking destination located in Ternate, Cavite. Named for its unique rock formation that resembles a parrot’s beak, this mountain offers an unforgettable adventure for both novice and experienced hikers.
I climbed Mt. Pico de Loro on February 16, 2024.
You need to book a schedule online if you want to hike, as they do not allow walk-in guests. See the link below:
https://mppmngnp.com/book_schedule
The available schedule is only twice a week, Friday and Saturday. Ninety (90) slots are available per day starting at 6AM up to 4:35PM. The expenses are as follows:
Registration: Php 200.00
Mandatory Eco-guide fee: Php 500.00 for a maximum ratio of 1:5
Parking: Php 50.00 for motorbikes, Php 100.00 for cars
I booked a Friday hike, 6:30AM, to avoid the crowd of hikers of Saturday. I also want to feel the peace of nature since it’s my first time hiking alone (except for the guide who will be with me).
Mt. Pico de Loro is accessible from Manila via bus or private vehicle. Take a bus bound for Ternate, Cavite, and then transfer to a tricycle or jeepney to reach the DENR jump-off point. The travel time from Manila is approximately 2 to 3 hours. Since I am from Indang, Cavite, it took me less than an hour to drive to the jump-off point.
I arrived before 6:30 AM. There was a short orientation and picture-taking session before the hike started. The speaker discussed that Mt. Pico de Loro is part of the Mts. Palay-Palay and Mataas na Gulod Protected Landscape. The mountain boasts lush forests, diverse wildlife, and panoramic views that are sure to captivate any nature enthusiast.
The hike started around 7 am. A guide is required for each group. The guide assigned to me was young, only 19 years old. He offered to carry my tumbler so I would only have to carry my light bag.
As we ascend, we were greeted by a canopy of trees, the gentle hum of forest life, and the cool, crisp mountain air. Hiking was enjoyable because, despite the heat, it was shaded due to the many trees. However, it was tiring because there were many uphill climbs. We took breaks little by little. Most of the stations didn’t have a signal. As I recall, I only got a signal at Stations 3, 6, and the summit.
We reached the campsite, which is close to the summit, at around 8:30 am. From the campsite, the famous Parrot’s Beak is visible. I had my tour guide take lots of pictures and videos of me before we ascended to the summit.
I was drenched in sweat when we reached the summit, but it was totally worth it. I was rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views. At the summit, you can see the famous Monolith—the iconic rock formation. However, during my visit, it was closed due to ongoing rehabilitation. My tour guide mentioned that to reach the top of the monolith, you would need to rappel. From the summit, you can enjoy expansive landscapes, including a sweeping view of the surrounding provinces of Cavite, Batangas, and even parts of Laguna. On a clear day, you can also see the vast expanse of the South China Sea. Additionally, you can view the forested areas, neighboring peaks and mountains, and the campsite and trails.
Again, I had my tour guide take lots of pictures of me. I made the most of the view, even though some of the spots I posed in seemed a bit dangerous. Luckily, I didn’t fall.
We stayed for about 30 minutes, then we started to descend. We took breaks again along the way. We ate the nuts and chocolates I brought whenever we stopped at the stations. The trail going down was somewhat easier compared to the uphill climb, which was really tiring. We reached the base at around 11 am. My tour guide said my pace was fast, which is why we finished early. I’m very proud of myself for experiencing this hike alone and finishing it quickly. I gave a tip to the guide because he was very accommodating. He even carried my bag when he noticed that I was drenched in sweat and exhausted.
There are restrooms at the base if you want to freshen up or change clothes. There’s also a canteen where you can have meals cooked, mostly silog dishes. The cost is around Php 70-100.00. I had lunch there before heading home.
Must bring:
- Water (just enough for you to carry)
- Sunblock (though the area is mostly shaded)
- Cap
- Arm Sleeves
- Hiking Jacket
- Hiking sandals/shoes
- Trekking Pole
- Pocket money
- Light snacks (biscuits/chocolate/nuts)
Overall, Mt. Pico de Loro offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, providing a serene environment where hikers can connect with nature. Whether you’re seeking a physical challenge, scenic views, or rich biodiversity, Mt. Pico de Loro promises an experience that will leave you inspired and rejuvenated.
