CLIMB TAAL VOLCANO and DISCOVER "A LAKE within A LAKE!

'HAVE YOU experienced "climbing on to" TAAL VOLCANO's peak? Yes, I mean- the CRATER! Did it ever cross your minds about the possibility of literally standing right at this very volcano's mouth?

Personally, I must say that climbing Taal Volcano crater is a unique adventure that tourists who plan to visit Tagaytay should not miss! Yes, you can literally trek this famous volcano's perimeter as well as climb to the crater either by foot or via horse rides. For those who have already been to Tagaytay but missed getting to this spot, then I would say... you haven't really seen the real Tagaytay- after all.

There is one tourism accredited agent stationed there who rents out horses to visitors- who want to avail rides to get to the crater. But there are tourists who- for the sake of a more exciting adventure- would rather trek and climb it by foot, which would take more or less 4 hours of walk- back and forth.

Moreover, they assign one well trained guide for each person who registers to climb the crater. These guides are well trained and acquainted with horses- so I would like to advise you to just enjoy the ride- and take in the fresh scent air and magnificent view around you in silence. Feel the soft whispering wind kiss your cheeks. The best!

Rental is at $10/horse and it takes an hour to complete the expedition. Either which way, visitors leave the volcano well satisfied. I must mention that these guides are merely volunteers to make sure that you get comfortable horse rides while trekking
the volcano perimeter as well as lead you- the fastest and safest way to the crater and vice- versa. Just show them your appreciation and gratefulness by giving them whatever amount you believe they deserve to receive as "tip"+ a bonus of sincere happy smile would be more than enough to ease their tiredness from walking and running on foot beside your respective horses.

Some of those who do not know that this course exists may react and ask after reading this... "REALLY? IS THAT POSSIBLE? WOW! That's COOL!". Yes, it's the greatest adventure I have ever experienced visiting Tagaytay. Viewing Taal Volcano from a distance is already quite breathtaking but to actually climb it to the top and from there look down- and watch the inside of the crater filled with blue green serene waters is another story to tell.

HOW TO GET THERE:

There are several local hotels around Tagaytay who are more than willing to refer tourism accredited agents to visitors who want to experience the fun of trekking around and climbing the peak of Taal Volcano.

First Step is to find agents who offer boat rides to the volcano. The ongoing standard charge for one boat that can carry a maximum of 8 passengers is at $40. I am posting this amount just to serve as your reference/guide esp. when dealing with free lance agents who tend to overcharge foreign tourists. My 6 American friends who went to climb Taal Volcano last December of 2009 got a ride on a nice boat for only $35.

Once you have made and accepted the deal re boat rental, someone will guide you to where your ride will be waiting. Trip from Tagaytay proper down to the lake shore takes 30 minutes. Boat ride to Taal Volcano usually takes 30 minutes.

Boat rental charges are negotiable but rides to the crater, I believe, is steady at $10/horse.

As regards the money tips for those guides who will assist you there- it's up to you to decide how much appreciation tip you'd like to give them.