The Soft Side of the Cordilleras – Mt.Timbac

Let’s experience the new destination in Benguet- dubbed as “The Soft Side of the Cordilleras”.

Background:

When we say Cordillera region, we often and always think of Mt. Pulag, And who will not? With it’s scenic view, cold weather

And the seas of clouds that envelope you along the summit as you wait for the sunrise and even sunset!!

Indeed, Mt. Pulag is a must for every POP mountaineer.

But Mt. Pulag is not just that, climbing Mt. Pulag also means, you have to endure long travel time and the high cost as well because

Of the transportation (you need to rent a jeepney) and the guides and entrance costs you will incur.

But wait, no need to fret, Pinoy Outdoor Planet has found a new destination for you to explore,

Mt. Timbac in Atok Benguet,  a fresh hiking destination in the north that is now gaining popularity as “The mountain in the Soft Side of the Cordilleras!

This mountain is possible to summit by a daytrek, with numerous activities as a side trip,

You can visit  Halsema Highway Highest Point – (highest higway in the Philippines)

And the Timbac Mummies.  Plus the usual sights of the Cordillera’s - pine trees, vegetables terraces, and of course the cool breeze.

Itinerary:

Day00 – Friday

22:00  - ETD Cubao going to Baguio via Victory Liner Bus

Day01 – Saturday

05:00 – ETA Baguio, then take a taxi to Dangwa Bus Terminal

05: 15- 05:45 – Breakfast

06:30 – ETD Baguio

09:30 – ETA Km 55 in Atok, Benguet

09:45 – Start Trek

11:30 – ETA Summit

12:00 – Back at Timbac Elementary School,

Then explore the Timbac Mummies(optional)

14:00 – ETA Jump-Off, wait for Bus going to Baguio

18:00 – ETD Baguio City, explore the city

22:00 pm – Go to your hotel or the bus terminal going back to Manila

Other Information:

Transportation: From the Dangwa terminal, there about two bus company that service to Sagada, of which

This will also pass by KM. 55 Jump-Off. Tell the teller that youre destination is Km 55 in Atok Benguet for the fare adjustment and remind the driver and

The conductor to stop on that. Going back to Manila, be sure you are in the jump-off before 3 pm, because the buses going

From Sagada is on hourly basis only, and you wouldn’t want to be stuck behind.

Food: Near the Dangwa terminal, are numerous cafes and fastfood chain wherein you can take your breakfast.

                Likewise, there will be a stop over near the KM 55 that you can buy your trail food and even lunch as well.

Guides and Entrance Fees: as of April 2013, there are no entrance fees neededto climb the Mt. Timbac,

The trail is very straightforward as it is being used also by the village people, so therefore no guide is recommended.

Budget Details:

1.       Manila to Baguio and vv = 455*2 = 910

2.       Baguio to Atok and vv = 81*2 = 162

3.       Food = 200

Total = 1272