Hi! My name is Mier, a computer engineer and digital nomad. In addition to typical travel, I’m actively conquering various summits in the Philippines. I’m also documenting my adventures for fellow mountaineers who enjoy hiking solo or as part of a group. If you have questions, feel free to message me on Facebook or Instagram.
Tara, Balik sa Talinis!
Jump to: [Highlights] [Gears] [Useful Contacts]
Camping Summary (2D1N):
Day 0:
Bus from Cebu to Dumaguete - 376 PHP
Roro Cebu to Dumaguete - 150 PHP
Overnight at Heart Hotel [Book Here] - 944 PHP
Dinner at Rizal Boulevard - 450 PHP
Day 1:
Breakfast at 7 Eleven (Coffee and Onigiri) - 158 PHP
Climb Proper - 5000 PHP (All in package) Highly Recommended Guide: Kuya Joey [details]
Motorcycle from Dumaguete City to Mt Talinis Jump Off
Start of Climb at 9am
Campsite at Lake Nailig
I decided to do back trail since this is my second time
Took me 4 hours to reach the campsite
Stayed at the summit for 1hr [checkout perfect clearing here]
Lights off at 8pm
Day 2:
Climb Proper
Woke up 5am and spent all morning enjoying the view of Lake Nailig [See More]
Breakfast at 8am
Break Camp at 8:30am
Start Descent at 9am
Took me 3 hours to go down
Lunch at a local restaurant - 185 PHP
Side Trip to Forest Camp
Entrance Fee - 200 PHP
Coffee - 100 PHP
Burger and Fries - 200 PHP
Bus from Dumaguete to Cebu - 376 PHP
Roro from Dumaguete to Cebu - 150 PHP
Total: 8,289 PHP (6,895 if no Day 0)
General Tips:
There are pros and cons to joining an organized group versus hiking solo. For my first hike to Mount Talinis, I spent around 5,000 PHP as a joiner, while my solo hike cost me about 7,000 PHP (assuming I didn’t stay overnight in Dumaguete City, just like my first trip).
I recommend having a Day 0 to give yourself time to relax and prepare for the climb.
It's best to summit on the same day to catch the sunset and enjoy taking photos of the lake the following morning.
If you prefer a DIY approach, you can simply pay for a guide (1,000 PHP per day) and the environmental fee (500 PHP).
Panghilakan trail have few water source except on summer. A litter of water would be enough to bring and just refill along the way.
Recommended Gears:
Camping:
Hiking Bag: Osprey Talon 36L
Super Lightweight Tent: Naturehike Cloud Up (2P)
Pillow: Naturehike Inflattable Pillow
Super Lightweight Chair: Naturehike Folding Chair
Gadgets:
Tech Bag: Cullen Wayne Commuter Backpack
Waterproof Bag: Naturehike 30L Bag
Drone: DJI Mini 4 Pro
Selfie Stick and Tripod: For insta 360 and Phone (needs holder)
Highlights:
Checkout this highlighted video in my facebook page or youtube.
Lake Nailig:
When hiking Mount Talinis via the Panghilakan Trail, you will find a perfect camping spot at Lake Nailig. This serene lake is not just a rest point; it's one of the highlights for all mountaineers attempting to summit this majestic mountain. The tranquility of the water, surrounded by towering trees, offers a peaceful retreat after a long day of hiking.
The temperature here can drop to a brisk 8 degrees Celsius, particularly during the cold and wet seasons. This chill is enhanced by the vast expanse of water, which creates a unique microclimate. As you sit by the lake, you can marvel at the fog that sweeps in quickly, cloaking the forest in mystery before dissipating just as fast. The shifting weather adds an element of surprise to your experience, reminding you of nature's unpredictable beauty.
Reaching the lake, especially in the late afternoon, can sometimes mean encountering thick fog that obscures the view, which can be a bit disappointing. However, there’s no need to worry; the best time to truly appreciate Lake Nailig's beauty is in the early morning, from 5 a.m. to 7 a.m. At this time, the stillness of the water creates a perfect mirror, reflecting the lush forest canopy above, a scene that is nothing short of breathtaking.
Locals often come to the lake to fish, using nets and hooks under the cover of darkness. My guide shared stories of catching fish weighing over two kilos each, a testament to the lake's rich aquatic life. Upon my arrival, I was captivated by the sight of hundreds of tiny fingerlings blanketing the shallows [checkout this video], a lively reminder of the thriving ecosystem in this tranquil setting.
Summit:
After about 30 minutes of constant and very steep ascent from Lake Nailig, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views from the summit of Mount Talinis. Standing at this elevation, you can overlook the scenic expanse of Lake Nailig, capturing the moment with photographs framed by the beautifully twisted branches of a nearby tree. This unique vantage point offers a breathtaking panorama that feels like a scene from a painting. On lucky days, the view becomes even more serene and majestic as the sun sets, casting vibrant hues across the sky and reflecting off the lake’s surface, creating an unforgettable spectacle.
This was my second visit to this stunning location, and I’ve come to realize that the clearing at the summit is often fleeting, lasting only a few minutes to an hour. Fog can quickly envelop the entire landscape, obscuring the view just as swiftly as it arrives. During my first visit, I was greeted by a complete whiteout, a reminder of the mountain’s unpredictable weather. Therefore, it’s crucial to plan your adventure carefully, aiming to avoid rainy days for the best chances to appreciate the views.
As you begin your descent, the trail is flanked by an abundance of shrubs and trees, which gives it the nickname "Monkey Trail" among some local guides. This playful name is fitting, as the route is filled with natural obstacles and opportunities for light-hearted navigation. The lush greenery adds to the sense of adventure, and the vibrant flora enhances the overall experience as you make your way back down.
Overall, the hike up Mount Talinis is not just a physical challenge but also a chance to immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty and dynamic weather of the area. Whether you’re chasing the perfect photo or simply enjoying the moment, every visit to this remarkable summit is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Check this video for the cinematic drone shots of my Mount Talinis adventure!
Useful Contacts:
Local Guide: Sir Joey [https://www.facebook.com/www.wikikiw.yahoo]
Recommended Gears:
Camping:
Hiking Bag: Osprey Talon 36L
Super Lightweight Tent: Naturehike Cloud Up (2P)
Pillow: Naturehike Inflattable Pillow
Super Lightweight Chair: Naturehike Folding Chair
Gadgets:
Tech Bag: Cullen Wayne Commuter Backpack
Waterproof Bag: Naturehike 30L Bag
Drone: DJI Mini 4 Pro
Selfie Stick and Tripod: For insta 360 and Phone (needs holder)
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