Ultimate Guide for Budget Traveler and Adventure Seeker

If you are planning to travel to the beautiful town of Bontoc in Mountain Province, visit the twin mountains in Maligcong, Mt. Fato and ...

Mt. Fato and Mt. Kupapey: The Twin Mountains in Bontoc

If you are planning to travel to the beautiful town of Bontoc in Mountain Province, visit the twin mountains in Maligcong, Mt. Fato and Mt. Kupapey. These two mountains are perfect for beginners who want to experience hiking and witness the sea of clouds. At the summit, you will have an overlooking view of the Maligcong  Rice Terraces.


Going up to the summit of Mt Kupapey was easy. The trail was friendly during the first few minutes of our hike. The first 500 meters were cemented and the rest was a forest trail. There are already established trails with minimal assaults; prepare only for long walks that will take 1-2 hours. We found a few stray dogs along the route and they became our guides going to the summit. Most of the time, they stopped when we stopped and wait for us to walk. Hike early in the morning to avoid so much exposure to the heat of the sun.



If you are a first-timer, you don't need to rush; your friends and guide will surely understand you. Take time to rest or, say take five. This will avoid injuries during the hike. I also advise remembering to have a deep breath in and breath out while walking. This is what I usually do to prevent muscle cramps. Remember to bring enough water and trail food.



We were graced by the lovely dramatic sunrise scene from the east when we arrived at the summit. Sadly, there's no presence of a sea of clouds. I don't feel bad at all. Even though there's no sea of clouds, I'm still happy to see the fantastic view of Maligcong Rice Terraces. It's magnificent. My finger won't stop clicking my camera to take pictures.



After 20 minutes, I told Kuya Joseph I was ready to hike Mt Fato. Going to the summit was easier compared Mt Kupapey. Our hike was very smooth. I found a lot of pine trees along the trail, which is the perfect background for a selfie and groupie. There's no major assault. I highly suggest wearing leggings because trail is not yet established. Your legs will be exposed to some irritating bushes.


At the summit, we found a lot of rock formations. Be careful when going up to the rocks because most are sharp and pointed. We saw from here the different sides of Maligcong Rice Terraces and the mountain peaks of Kalinga and Sagada.



After our wonderful experience in Mt. Kupapey and Mt. Fato, we headed to the newest attraction of Bontoc, the Liknon Waterfalls. We took over 30 minutes to reach the waterfalls, a purely descending trail. Gong back to the jump-off point was challenging because the trail was ascending.



WHERE TO STAY

Maligcong Chen's Homestay is one of the best transient homes in Bontoc. It is notable for its strategic and panoramic view of mountains, towering pine trees, and the popular Maligcong Rice Terraces. It's also near the jump-off point to beautiful mountains- Mt. Kupapey and Mt. Fato.

Maligcong Chen's Homestay can accommodate up to 14 pax. It has rooms for singles, couples, and for groups. They also offer a meal for breakfast, lunch, snack, and dinner. Hot and cold showers are also available. You may contact Joseph at 09277 668140.

HOW TO GO THERE

From Manila, take a Coda bus ride to Bontoc town. Upon arrival, walk to the jeepney terminal to Maligcong near the commercial center. Fare is P20, and travel time is approximately 20-30 minutes. It is advisable to topload to see the beautiful scenery along the road.

Bontoc can also be reached either through Baguio or Banaue route. GL Trans Bus Lines ply the Halsema Highway to Bontoc from Baguio, the first trip is 7:00AM, and the travel time is approximately 5 hours.

Mt. Kupapey and Mt Fato
Location Maligcong, Bontoc, Mountain Province

Have you been to Mt. Kupapey and Mt. Fato? Share your experience or review by putting a comment about this destination. You can also put your questions in the comment box.  

1 comment:

  1. I will go to Bontoc next month. Thanks for this post

    ReplyDelete