Mount Kitanglad, standing at approximately 2,899 meters, is the 4th highest peak in the Philippines. Known for its rich biodiversity and cultural significance, it offers an exciting yet challenging climb for outdoor enthusiasts.
For this adventure, I joined “Lakaw Ni Paw”, a hassle-free hiking organizer that provided an all-in package—including van transfers, meals, permits, and everything needed to complete the climb.
How to Get to Mount Kitanglad
We met at Chowking Quimpo, Davao at 10 PM, where we met Aling from Lakaw Ni Paw. From there, we traveled via van to Sitio Intavas, Lantapan, the starting point of the hike. The 5-6 hour journey took us through Malaybalay, Bukidnon, where we arrived at 5:30 AM.
After a short rest, we prepared for the ritual, which started at 7:00 AM.
Cultural Ritual Before the Hike
Before climbing Mount Kitanglad, a traditional ritual is conducted by the local Datu (tribal leader). This involves sacrificing three chickens to seek blessings and protection for the hikers and the mountain. Each hiker also places a coin on the ritual table, which the Datu marks with the blood of the offering.
This sacred practice is believed to ensure a safe and spiritually enriching hike.
Accommodation at Mount Kitanglad
Hikers have two accommodation options at the peak:
✅ Pitch a tent (recommended for experienced campers)
✅ Stay in private rooms with bunk beds for just ₱200 per night
I was lucky to get a bunk bed since our group was small. The temperature at the summit is freezing—it truly felt like being inside a freezer! If you’re not used to extreme cold, bringing thermal layers, a fleece jacket, and a sleeping bagis a must.
Mount Kitanglad Itinerary
Day 0 - Departure from Davao
✅ 10:00 PM – Meet-up at Chowking Quimpo
✅ 12:00 AM – Travel to Malaybalay
Day 1 - The Climb Begins
✅ 5:30 AM – Arrive at Sitio Intavas
✅ 7:00 AM – Ritual Ceremony
✅ 9:00 AM – Breakfast
✅ 10:00 AM – Start Trekking
✅ 1:00 PM – Lunch on the trail
✅ 1:30 PM – Resume Trekking
✅ 3:00 PM – Reach Mount Kitanglad Summit
✅ 3:30 PM – Rest/Nap
✅ 7:00 PM – Dinner
✅ 9:00 PM – Lights Off
Day 2 - Descent & Return
✅ 5:00 AM – Wake-up call + Coffee
✅ 5:30 AM – Sunrise & Photo session
✅ 8:00 AM – Breakfast
✅ 9:00 AM – Start descending
✅ 12:00 NN – Lunch at Datu’s House
✅ 1:00 PM – Wash up at Datu’s House
✅ 2:00 PM – Depart for Davao
✅ 6:00 PM – Dinner stop
✅ 8:00-9:00 PM – Arrival in Davao
Hiking Package & Expenses
For just ₱6,500, Lakaw Ni Paw provides an all-in hiking package that includes:
✔ Round-trip Van Transfer (Davao-Malaybalay)
✔ Climb Permit
✔ Ritual Fee & Ritual Offerings
✔ Guides & Barangay Fee
✔ 5 Meals + Unlimited Coffee
✔ Climb Certificate & Exit Fee
✔ Group Logistics & Personalized Bag Tags
For bookings, contact:
📞 0919-398-6448
What to Bring for the Hike
✅ Personal Eating Utensils (spoon, fork, stainless mug)
✅ Insulation / Sleeping Pad
✅ Camping Tent (if not staying in bunk rooms)
✅ Quick-dry Clothes (2 Days’ Worth)
✅ Slippers for Campsite
✅ Trail Snacks & Energy Drinks
✅ Headlamp
✅ Disposable Raincoat
✅ Compact Umbrella
✅ Sleeping Bag / Fleece Blanket
✅ Fleece Jacket & Extra Socks (2 pairs)
✅ Power Bank
✅ Medicine & First Aid Kit
✅ Garbage Bag (Leave No Trace!)
My Experience: Completing My Top 5 Peaks
This hike was special for me—it marked my return to major hikes after a 2-year break, and it completed my goal of conquering the Top 5 highest mountains in the Philippines before my 30th birthday on February 20.
Despite booking the hike in January, I was not physically prepared. My only training was a fun run on February 2, 2025, and two jogging sessions. Realizing my lack of endurance, I hired a personal porter for the ascent for only ₱1,000. The trail is 90% steep ascent and only 10% flat, making it a real test of both mental and physical strength.
However, for the descent, I carried my own bag—and to my surprise, I finished it in just 2 hours! That moment reminded me that I still have the strength to take on major climbs.
Summit Views & Unique Experiences
The summit of Mount Kitanglad is home to communication towers, so expect to see infrastructure alongside the stunning natural scenery. We were lucky to experience clear skies, although a sea of clouds would have made it even more magical.
One of the highlights of our descent was lunch by a riverside. Our guides, Kuya Aling and Wewex, prepared a unique dish—adobo frog! Surprisingly, it tasted like a mix between fish and chicken.
After freshening up at the Datu’s house, we headed back to Davao, carrying unforgettable memories from this incredible adventure.
Thoughts
If you’re planning to climb Mount Kitanglad, prepare for a tough yet rewarding experience. This hike requires mental resilience and physical endurance, but reaching the summit is worth every struggle.
For those completing their Top 5 highest mountains in the Philippines, Mount Kitanglad is a must on your list. And if you want a hassle-free adventure, Lakaw Ni Paw is the best organizer to go with!
Would you climb Mount Kitanglad? Let me know in the comments!
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