2,954 m
Elevation
2,954 m
Prominence
6.9875°, 125.2708°
Coordinates
1880 — Joaquín Rajal (Spanish colonial era)
First Ascent
About Mount Apo
The highest peak in the Philippines, a dormant stratovolcano on Mindanao. Sacred to the indigenous Bagobo people. The trek passes through mossy forests and sulfur vents.
Climbing Mount Apo: route, season and difficulty
- How long it takes
- 8–14 hours round trip, or two days using a mountain hut
- Do you need a guide?
- Not required if you are comfortable with exposed scrambling and mountain navigation, but a guide is a good call in poor visibility or early season.
- Best season
- Usually the local dry season — anytime outside the monsoon or rainy months.
- Terrain & gear
- Steep trails with scrambling, loose rock or short exposed sections. Helmet, sturdy boots, wind and rain shell, headtorch, and a via-ferrata set if the route is cabled.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the highest mountain in Philippines?
The highest mountain in Philippines is Mount Apo, at 2,954 meters above sea level.
How long does it take to climb Mount Apo?
Allow 8–14 hours round trip, or two days using a mountain hut. Times vary with fitness, conditions and which trailhead you start from.
Can you climb Mount Apo without a guide?
Not required if you are comfortable with exposed scrambling and mountain navigation, but a guide is a good call in poor visibility or early season.
When is the best time to climb Mount Apo?
The usual season is the local dry season — anytime outside the monsoon or rainy months. Outside that window expect snow, storms or closed access.
What gear do you need for Mount Apo?
Helmet, sturdy boots, wind and rain shell, headtorch, and a via-ferrata set if the route is cabled.
How high is Mount Apo?
Mount Apo stands at 2,954 meters (9,692 feet).
Where is Mount Apo located?
Mount Apo is located in Philippines, within the Central Mindanao (volcanic).
Has Martin climbed Mount Apo?
Not yet — Mount Apo is still on Martin's list of remaining country highpoints.