Experience Taal Volcano
Up Close and Within

Taal Volcano is regarded as the world's smallest active volcano and one of the Philippines' most active. It is a volcano within a volcano, that can be viewed from the ridges of Tagaytay, and can be reached by bancas (outriggers), then by trekking. Because of it's accessibility, it has become a favorite tourist destination in the Philippine Islands for both local and foreign. The volcano had 33 eruptions since it's first recorded one in 1572 and it's last being in 1977. Taal Lake and the Tagaytay ridge were believed to have been created by a powerful eruption about hundreds of thousands years ago.

The crater can easily be reached by hiking since the highest peak of the volcano is only about 1300 feet above sea level. Most visitors ride a horse to the crater and the adventurists prefer trekking it. Upon reaching the top slope of the volcano, a spectacular view of the crater lake unfolds and you'll find the cool air to be so refreshing after that long stretch hike. Some visitors venture down the crater with their guides for an up close experience with the volcano. Steams can be seen and some parts of the lake water are even boiling.

You can reach Taal Volcano by bancas from the shores of Talisay City. There are hotels in the city as well as camp grounds if you prefer to spend the night prior to your trip to volcano island. Boat rides can be arranged from the hotels or you can transact on your own with the locals who have boats available for rent. Before going to the volcano island, eat lots of breakfast and bring lots of water as well because snacks and water are over priced in volcano island.

As a word of caution, unless you are getting assistance from the hotels for your boat ride to the volcano, watch out for locals who would want to overprice the charge for their boats especially if you are a foreigner. Haggle as much as you can and if you cannot get the price lower than php 1,800.00 ($ US 40) plus taxes and fees, you'd be better off going to the yacht club and get your ride there instead. Horses are available for rent at the volcano island for php 500 ($ 12) if you are not fit for hiking. Bring hats, sun screen lotions, mask because the trail gets really dusty, snacks and lots of water. Optional guides are also available and again you should haggle with them as they try to overprice.

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