Mt. Pinatubo Crater Day Trip from Manila Including 4x4 Adventure and Hike

Summary

During this full-day Mt Pinatubo tour, you’ll ride an enclosed 4WD vehicle over a rugged lahar trail made of volcanic mudflow and rock debris—geological remnants of the world's second-largest volcanic eruption of the 20th century. First, settle in for the drive from your Manila hotel, departing before the sun rises. Catch up on sleep or eat the breakfast you brought along before arriving at Capas Tarlac, where you’ll depart for Sta. Juliana Base Camp. After a safety briefing, hop behind the wheel or into the passenger seat of your 4x4 and follow your guide along a bumpy route, referred to as the Sky Way. You’ll make your way over the volcanic terrain until arriving at the base of the volcano. Disembark your vehicle for a leisurely, but moderate, guided trek to Mt Pinatubo Crater, starting down a lahar slope and then climbing into the forest. During the hike, your guide points out valley streams, volcanic rocks and other natural features in the landscape. Finally, climb a stairway to the viewing deck to peer at the shimmering, gemstone-like green waters of the crater lake from afar—swimming is prohibited. You'll have free time to explore the region before starting your trek back. When you reach the area where your 4x4 is parked, climb aboard for the rugged ride back to base camp. Replenish with authentic Filipino cuisine for lunch at V.E.S. Food Resort and Villas. Enjoy seafood fried noodles or barbecued chicken at the on-site restaurant and garden. You’re free to take a shower here before your return drive to Manila. Your tour ends with drop-off at your hotel in Manila.

Tour info

Duration
15 hours
Group Size
Pricing (From)
Commentary
Meeting Point
Dropoff location

Why take this tour?

Leave the bustle of Manila behind on this day trip to Mt Pinatubo for a combo 4x4 and trekking adventure to Pinatubo Crater with an expert guide. Drive an off-road vehicle along a river valley made of lahar — the mudflow from the volcano’s 1991 eruption. Then hike another 1.5 hours to the crater with free time to enjoy views of the emerald-colored lake. After following the same routes back to base camp, you’re rewarded with a Filipino-style lunch (and shower) before your return drive to the capital.

What’s included?

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off on selected hotels only

  • Transport by air-conditioned vehicle

  • Use of 4x4 with DOT accredited guide

  • Hiking including local guide

  • Lunch and bottled water

  • Entry/Admission - Mount Pinatubo

  • Food and drinks, unless specified

  • Gratuities

  • Municipal Fee of PHP 700.00 per person

Things to know

Before you book

  • Duration: 15h

  • Mobile tickets accepted

Covid Policy

  • Regular temperature checks for staff
  • Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
  • Guides required to regularly wash hands

Cancellation Policy

    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Operated by:

Gray Line Philippines

About operator:

Skip the inevitable group tour delays and the hassles of negotiating public transport and relax on this guided private shore excursion to Makati and Old Manila. Glide through vibrant downtown to the American Memorial Cemetery and pay tribute to World War II’s fallen heroes. Then stroll through the ancient remains of the old walled city, Intramuros, including San Agustin Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Fort Santiago.

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