Taal – Taal Volcano (An exceptionally beautiful trek!)

Taal Volcano is considered the smallest volcano in the world, and it is located near the town of Tagaytay, approximately 70 kilometers south of Manila, on an island within a lake known as Taal Lake. What makes Taal Volcano even more unique is the fact that it has its own lake within its crater, called the ‘Crater Lake.’

You can even swim in the Crater Lake, but it is not recommended to stay in the water for an extended period due to the lake’s exceptionally high concentration of sulfuric acid, boron, magnesium, aluminum, and sodium in the form of salt. The first documented dive into the volcano’s crater was conducted by a team led by Thomas Hargrove in 1986, reaching depths of approximately 20 meters. However, attempting this without proper guidance is not advisable.

Within the Crater Lake, there is even a small island where Hargrove and his team camped. Taal Volcano is one of the 22 active volcanoes in the Philippines, situated within what is known as the ‘Ring of Fire.’

For those seeking to escape the heat of Manila, Tagaytay is the gateway to experiencing the beauty of Taal Volcano. This makes it a tourist destination in its own right for adventurers looking to explore new heights by trekking to the Crater Lake within Taal Lake, essentially a lake within the crater of a larger volcano.

The tour begins with a scenic drive through villages to Tagaytay, followed by a descent into the town of Talisay. Upon arrival, you will board a motorized boat to the island of Taal Volcano, a roughly 30-minute journey.

For those who prefer an easy walk, you can observe the volcano’s crater from the edge of the caldera. The hike at the top of the trail is relatively easy. If you belong to the more adventurous group, we also offer additional routes.

Experienced trekkers can hike through the rugged terrain of the trail that ascends and descends into the crater for a close-up view of the Crater Lake. The program includes an 8:30 AM departure from Manila towards Tagaytay, and an estimated arrival time in Tagaytay with a boat ride at 10:30 AM.

• 10:50 AM: Estimated arrival at the volcano.
• 11:00 AM: Start of the trail by horseback riding.
• 11:30 AM: Arrival at the crater – you can stay longer if desired.
• 12:00 PM: Return to the boat.
• 12:20 PM: Estimated return to the dock.
• 12:30 PM: Lunch.
• 1:30 PM: Return journey to Manila.
• 3:30 PM: Estimated arrival time in Manila and drop-off at the hotel.

Pick up point: Hotel

Drop off point: Hotel

>> View of Taal Volcano (Another tour we offer) – Click here!

The tour lasts approximately 8 hours.

What to bring:

1. Hat.
2. Camera.
3. Spare clothes in case you get wet or need dry clothes before getting back into the vehicle for the return trip to Manila.
4. A wide smile.

Please note: The horse guides will offer you face masks when you arrive at the volcano because of the dust on the trail leading to the crater. You are not required to purchase them unless you want to contribute something to the people who guide the horses.

What’s included in the price:

• New and air-conditioned vehicle, fuel, and toll fees.
• Local guide on the volcano.
• Entrance fees.
• Boat ride.
• Lunch.
• Horses for the ascent to the crater.

What’s not included in the price:

• Tips.
• Personal expenses.