At 2,954 meters (9,691 feet), Mt. Apo is the highest point in the entire Philippine archipelago. The mountain occupies about 72,800 hectares of land area and a good portion of which has been declared a reserve dedicated to preserving the few remaining Philippine Eagles. The trail head near Lake Agko is at 3,937 feet above sea level and will take climbers through a garden of exotic flora and fauna as they go to higher elevations. Among the interesting features of Mt. Apo are its hidden waterfalls, sulfur craters, rivers, lakes, and flowering plants that dot the entire slope all the way to Lake Venado just below its summit. In all, it will take climbers about 3-4 days to summit the peak.

Kidapawan is located on the main highway between Davao City and Cotabato City approximately 3-hours by bus from either point of origin. Airconditioned buses run regularly and normally charges 60 pesos per passenger. Upon arrival in Kidapawan, take a tricycle to the Kidapawan Tourism Council at the Museum Building, J.P. Laurel St., to register your climb. The registration fee varies for Filipino citizens and foreigners. The cost should include a Certificate of proof that you have indeed completed the climb. Jeepneys and buses take about 1-hour to reach Ilomavis and charge about 30 pesos. You can also hire your own jeepney for about 500 pesos including pick-up. Some jeepneys however may be unable to go all the way to Lake Agko which is roughly 5 kilometers and 1500 feet in elevation gain up a steep road from Ilomavis. The Philippine National Oil Company operates a geothermal plant near Lake Agko and it is an option to hitch a ride with one of their dump trucks. Porters/guides can be hired at the Lake Agko campsite through Mr. Aurelio Ayag, the President of the local guide association. The porterage fee ranges from 100 pesos per day inclusive of food. the rate will be higher if the porters have to bring their own suplies.

CAUTION : Although we have taken steps to confirm the veracity of the content of this site, it is ALWAYS advisable to go with an organized group, WITH a knowledgeable guide. Furthermore, the information provided here is meant only to describe the general location of the area. YOU should take steps to confirm these facts and BE responsible enough to ENSURE your personal safety, SECURE all necessary logistics for this activity. These are inherently DANGEROUS activities, take all precautions!