10 Best Mountains Near Metro Manila on a Budget

Looking for the best mountains near Metro Manila for your next hiking adventure? Whether you’re an experienced trekker or a beginner, there are plenty of stunning mountains just a short drive from the city that offer breathtaking views and an escape from the urban hustle. In this guide, we’ll take you through the top 10 best mountains near Metro Manila, perfect for day trips or weekend getaways. From scenic peaks to challenging trails, these hikes are ideal for nature lovers seeking a memorable outdoor experience without straying too far from the capital. Ready to explore? Let’s dive in!

1. MT. BATULAO

Mt. Batulao I would say is a little bit of everything. It is a long and winding hike along bare trails which during the hot summer months would really give you the hardest times. It has some technical and difficult parts which require certain navigational skills but would definitely prepare newbies to take on more difficult hikes moving forward.

Check out our Mt. Batulao Hike for more info: MT. BATULAO: Truly Marvelous. Quite An Experience For A First Time Climber

MT. MACULOT

Mt. Maculot is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful mountains in Batangas. It also offers one of the most coveted views of Taal Lake. While it is widely known for unsolved mysteries and was frowned upon in recent years due to a mountaineer’s death, it remained one of the all-time favorites among hikers.

Check out our Mt. Maculot Hike for more info: MT. MACULOT CLIMB GUIDE – Day Hike Traverse

MT. MARAMI

Many of you might know Mt. Palay-Palay or more commonly known as Mt. Pico De Loro. But few of you might know about Mt. Marami. It is considered as the lesser-known sister of the shining star Pico De Loro but that doesn’t mean she is less stunning. Beyond the shadows that conceal her beauty in total darkness are more exciting things to discover.

Check out our Mt. Marami Hike for more info: MT. MARAMI: The Epitome Of The Saying “Less Is More”

MT. GULUGOD BABOY

Talking about a chill and relaxing time at the beach after one fun hike would always bring up Mt. Gulugod Baboy in the picture. It is a relatively short and easy hike but it is one you shouldn’t underestimate. It offers one the impeccable views of the coastlines of Batangas particularly the pebble stone beaches of Anilao.

Check out our Mt. Gulugod Baboy Hike for more info: GULUGOD BABOY (Mt. Pinagbanderahan): Hiking Anilao’s Most Priced Treasure

MT. MANABU

Mt. Manabu is one of the easiest mountains to hike in Batangas. It has the right combination of trails from muddy slopes to rocky assaults. This certainly tops the list of the all-time favorites of seasoned hikers. Not only that it offers one of the most beautiful trails but it is also known for its delicious alamid coffee.

Check out our Mt. Manabu Hike for more info: MT. MANABU: Travel Guide + Itinerary To One Of The Easiest Day Hikes In Batangas

MT. DARAITAN

Mt. Daraitan is classified as a minor hike but it isn’t for the fainthearted. Its straightforward trail consisting of rocky terrains will certainly make you drop to your knees. Making it through to the summit might prove to be a real challenge but the rewarding view at its peak is worth the trouble.

Check out our Mt. Daraitan Hike for more info: MT DARAITAN: The Brightest Gem Within The Heart Of Sierra Madre

MT. PAMITINAN

The mountains of Rizal are known for their jagged limestone formations and this quality is best displayed by the famous trio of Rodriguez. Among this trio is Mt. Pamitinan which is considered to be the 2nd toughest hike among the three. This mountain might give you scratches and bruises but it will surely take your breath away.

Check out our Mt. Pamitinan Hike for more info: MT. PAMITINAN: Ain’t An Easy Peasy Hike Along Limestone Karst

MT. BINACAYAN

Mt. Binacayan is one of the famous trio of Rodriguez along with Mts. Pamitinan and Hapunang Banoi. Some say it is the easiest among the three but this mountain would certainly beg to differ on that. Just like the other two, its trail consists of rocky slopes and a difficult ascent along jagged karst.

Check out our Mt. Binacayan Hike for more info: MT. BINACAYAN: Day Hike Guide, Budget, Itinerary & Why It’s More Than Just The Sea Of Clouds

MT. MABILOG

When we speak about mountains in Laguna, the enchanting Mt. Makiling is what most people would remember. Not very often would someone mention the little mountains in this beautiful province. Among these small but wonderfully amazing mountains in Laguna is Mt. Mabilog. It truly is little when compared to the formidable mountains you would see towering gloriously from afar while you are at its summit but the views are never short of remarkable especially when you’re looking at 7 stunning lakes.

Check out our Mt. Mabilog Hike for more info: HIKING MT. MABILOG? Read About Our 2-Hour Awe-Inspiring Trek Made More Fun With The Rain

TAAL VOLCANO

Taal Volcano can be seen from almost anywhere in Batangas or Tagaytay and the view of a stunning lake with that small island of a volcano in the middle is always one to captivate. But have you once imagined what it’s like up close? Taal Volcano is one of the most fun and easiest hikes there is near Manila but the views that it offers are certainly of a higher caliber.

Check out our Taal Volcano Hike for more info: TAAL VOLCANO: Day Hike Guide, Budget, Itinerary & Why It’s Worth It

There you have it, folks. That’s it for the 10 Best Mountains Near Metro Manila. I would certainly love for you to add some to this list. Comment on your choice below.  You can also chat with me on Facebook to keep tabs on my adventures. Be super awesome too and share this post. I’ll see you next time. Ciao!