Melo Villareal
Mount Tapyas in Coron, Palawan
Having been dubbed as the Philippines’ “Last Ecological Frontier,” Palawan deserved the name; even with that expectation in mind, you can never be truly prepared for what you will experience here.
One day, blessed with good weather, I decided my main activity would be to climb Mt. Tapyas.
It seemed like a good preview of what would lie ahead in my week of exploring the islands. Mt Tapyas is one of the mountains in Busuanga and stands at 210 meters above sea level, giving a magnificent bird’s-eye view of the laid-back town.
You are wrong if you think the climb is just for hardcore mountain climbers. Don’t worry about climbing a mountain; it has been developed into a tourist site, and over 700 steps have been built leading to its summit.
There are signs all over Coron that lead you to the mountain, but you will want to look for a basketball court with a flight of stairs leading to the dominant metal cross at the top. Depending on your shape, it should take you about an hour to reach the summit via the stairs. If you need to stop, there are several shaded areas along the trail.
You will want to bring water, though, on a warm day to help keep you hydrated. I had left in the afternoon, so it was dark when I came down. There are some lighted posts along the way, but some are too far apart, so you may want to bring a flashlight.
Once down and back in the room, you can still see the glow of the cross at the summit, watching over the town. Climbing Mt. Tapyas is a great side activity when visiting Coron; it will give you a bigger picture of what else awaits in this paradise.
About Mount Tapyas
Mount Tapyas, located in Coron, Palawan, Philippines, is a prominent natural landmark and a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Rising to approximately 210 meters, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the picturesque town of Coron.
To reach the summit of Mount Tapyas, visitors embark on a challenging but rewarding climb of 724 concrete steps. Along the way, they are treated to stunning vistas of lush forests, rugged cliffs, and the azure waters of the surrounding islands.
At the peak, a large cross stands as a symbol of faith and offers a perfect spot for visitors to pause and admire the stunning views. The scenery from Mount Tapyas is particularly captivating at sunrise or sunset, as the sky’s changing colors cast a magical glow over the entire landscape.
Aside from its natural beauty, Mount Tapyas also holds cultural significance for the local community. The mountain is named after the Tagbanua term “tapyas,” meaning “chop” or “cut,” referring to the ancient practice of cutting the mountain’s trees for cultivation.
For those seeking an extra dose of adventure, there is an option to zip-line down the mountain, offering an exhilarating and memorable experience.
Mount Tapyas is not only a testament to the Philippines’ breathtaking natural wonders but also a symbol of Coron’s resilience and beauty. It offers visitors a chance to connect with nature, appreciate stunning vistas, and create lasting memories of their journey to this remarkable destination.
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Read:
- Top 10 Best Things to do in Coron Palawan
- Is Coron Palawan the MOST BEAUTIFUL island in the Philippines?
