Mayon Volcano is an active stratovolcano found in the province of Albay in the Bicol region of the Philippines. It is one of the most well-known and iconic landmarks in the country, known for its perfectly symmetrical cone shape and violent eruptions.
Mayon Volcano stands at 2,462 meters (8,077 feet) above sea level and has a base diameter of around 20 kilometers (12 miles). It is considered one of the most active volcanoes in the Philippines, with 48 recorded eruptions since the 17th century.
Mayon Volcano stands tall over the region, particularly located in Legazpi City, and provides an amazing backdrop no matter where your location is in Legazpi Province.
Despite its frequent eruptions, Mayon Volcano is also a famous tourist destination because of its stunning views and natural beauty. It is surrounded by lush forests and abundant farmland, and visitors can take a hike up to the crater or view it from various vantage points around the province.
It is believed that the name is derived from “magayon” the Bicolano word that translates to beautiful. This is more than enough to describe how breathtaking this natural landscape is from all angles.
Why is it called Mayon?
Mayon Volcano is named after the legendary princess-heroine Daragang Magayon, who, according to the mythology of the Bicol region, was the daughter of a local chief. The story goes that Magayon was recognized for her beauty and had many suitors, but she fell in love with a warrior named Panganoron from a rival tribe.
However, their love was forbidden by their feuding families, and they eventually died tragically in battle. After their death, it was said that Magayon’s father ordered a great funeral pyre to be built for his daughter, and Panganoron’s body was placed beside hers. The pyre grew into a great mountain, which came to be known as Mayon, after the heroine Magayon.
The legend of Magayon and Panganoron is still widely known and honored in the Bicol region, and Mayon Volcano stays a symbol of their love and the tragic outcomes of their forbidden relationship.
Best Time To Visit
If you’ve always wanted to visit the stunning Mayon Volcano, here’s a complete guide to an enjoyable trip to one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Philippines. Legazpi City, the main location for tourists visiting Mayon Volcano, is best visited during dry seasons from March to May. An abundance of rain is expected between July and September.
How To Get To Mayon Volcano
Mayon Volcano is located in Albay province, approximately 330 kilometers (205 miles) southeast of Manila, the capital of the Philippines.
If you are flying to the Philippines the primary departure location for flights into Legazpi, Albay, or Bicol region is Metro Manila in Luzon. In Visayas, it is possible to travel to Legazpi via Cebu as well as Leyte.
It’s always best to check with local authorities before planning your trip to Mayon Volcano, specifically during periods of increased volcanic activity.
By Air
The time to travel on flights from Legazpi or flights that go to Bicol generally takes approximately one hour and 20 minutes. There are regular round-trip planes towards Manila from Bicol in addition. The airport you will arrive at is Bicol International Airport (DRP).
Alternatively, you could take Cebu via Legazpi flights with Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific.
By Bus
Travel by land from Manila to Albay, which takes about 9-12 hours depending on the mode of transportation and be sure to reserve ahead. There are buses and vans that operate daily from Manila to Legazpi City, with several stops along the way. You can choose from air-conditioned or non-air-conditioned options, depending on your liking and budget. Once you arrive in Legazpi City, you can take a jeepney or a tricycle to your destination.
By Private Car
If you like to drive and go on a road trip, the journey takes approximately 8-10 hours, depending on traffic conditions and the route you choose. If you don’t have your own car, there are several car rental companies and private car hire services available in Manila.
By Ferry
If you are visiting Leyte or Cebu, it is possible to take the 12-15-hour trip via the WG&A as well as Trans Asia shipping lines – both departing from Masbate Port to Legazpi, Albay.
Tourists Attraction I Activities You Can Do Around The Mayon Volcano
Cagsawa Ruins
Provide the most famous views of Mayon Volcano that’s why it’s one of the most visited attractions in Legazpi. The church’s ruined remains are evidence of the intriguing and heartbreaking stories of the once admirable structure during the Spanish time.
It was constructed by the Franciscans in the 17th century. It was later and was destroyed by Dutch pirates and further damaged by the volcano’s eruption in 1814. It was in 2015 that the area was designated to be a National Cultural Treasure by the National Museum.
Mayon 4×4 ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle) Adventure
The best method to be closer to the magnificent structure than to put on a cape of exploration (or helmet in this instance) and make your way to the base of Mayon Volcano. You can rent an ATV and take a guided tour around the foot of the volcano. This is an exciting way to explore the area and get up close to the volcanic terrain.
On a Mayon 4×4 ATV, you’ll drive through forests, rice fields, and even volcanic rocks on a path that will take you toward the mountain’s Lava Wall.
There are a variety of trails to choose from, all equally packed with stunning sights to take in while you take a thrilling trip to experience Mayon Volcano up close and close and personal. It’s also among the most thrilling activities during the rainy season in the Philippines where the rides are more thrilling if the trails are wet.
Mayon Hiking
Get your trip more exciting by hiking to the top of Mayon Volcano. The trek can be challenging, but it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Employ a trusted guide to follow the Farmer’s Trail in which you’ll be received by nature at its best. It is thought that the entire path was created by volcanic eruptions over time.
Due to the activity of the volcano that has been a source of concern, climbing up to the summit is now prohibited, however, tourists are now allowed to climb until Camp 2 and beyond to “Rabbit’s Ear”. The hike typically lasts two hours, as you travel through vast farmlands, grasslands, gullies, and rivers.
It is recommended for novices to walk up to Camp 1 while more experienced hikers may manage to make it to Camp 2. However, both provide an experience worth remembering.
Mayon Zip-line Adventure
You can also try the zip-line experience which will take you to some of the most stunning views of the volcano and its surroundings.
Mayon Camping
If you’re looking for a more immersive experience, you can camp overnight at the nearby campgrounds. This allows you to experience the beauty of the volcano at different times of the day, and you may even see a glimpse of its glowing lava at night.
Cultural Tours
Tourists can discover a variety of amazing locations that were once only by locals and not yet impacted by the rise of tourism. A lot of these places are not featured in travel publications and are awaiting exploration. In part, due to its absolute beauty, this province was classified in the category of a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO’s MAB Programme as it is the home of around 462 species of flora and fauna and 137 of them are native to the region.
People are also among its tourist attractions. ALBAYANOS are affluent, welcoming, and will go to great lengths to make the stay of visitors in the province pleasant at ease, relaxing, and secure.
Photography
Mayon Volcano is a stunning subject for photography, with its near-perfect cone shape and scenic views. You can take photographs of the volcano from various vantage points around the province or capture the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
Travel Tips
Prior to planning your excursion towards Mayon Volcano, it’s best to learn the following information essential to your trip to be hassle-free:
Safety
Mayon Volcano remains active and could be destructive to nature. Before you plan a trip to the volcano make sure you read the warnings or warnings issued by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS).
Security precautions must be taken especially when you go on an excursion or hike up this amazing landmark.
It is crucial to employ a guide for exploring trails and hiking trails since they are well-informed in regard to the weather and what to do in the event that an unplanned volcanic eruption happens.
What to Wear
Always wear your most comfortable clothes and rubber shoes. If you’re taking a 4×4 Mayon ATV ride or you want to take a hike excursion, make sure you take all of the gear you need and hiking essentials like water, food, and emergency kits.
Other Tourist Sites Located in Legazpi and Surrounding Cities and Towns
Lignon Hill Nature Park
Lignon Hill is one of the most famous landmarks in Legazpi City. It’s a 156-meter-high hill that offers an amazing view of the city and its surroundings. Adventurers, sightseers, and even fitness enthusiasts make their way to the city’s most popular tourist spot. Lignon Hill Nature Park offers an array of activities for visitors based on their interests.
360-degree panoramic views from Legazpi City, Daraga, Albay Gulf, and the Mayon Volcano are waiting for the curious. The ideal time to climb the hill is in the early morning before sunrise, to catch the golden sun’s rays stretching towards the vista, or in the evening, before sunset, enjoying the splendor of the city’s glowing lights.
Beautiful sights are offered in nature parks. But what else does Lignon Hill Nature Park offer in addition to the stunning nature? It has a 320-meter zip line that permits those who are brave and adventurous to fly through the air encased in an electric cable. Other extreme sports, like cycling, hiking, rappelling, and paintball are a few of the sports the park provides.
It is the Lizard Grip Trail, an extremely steep route to the top of Lignon Hill, which gives a quick glimpse of what it will be like to climb Mayon Volcano. The trail is followed in about 5-10 minutes.
Daraga Church
Visit the Daraga Church and learn about the rich history of this historic heritage site that was the sanctuary for locals in the event of the catastrophic 1814 Mayon eruption of the volcano.
Camalig, Albay
Go spelunking in Hoyop Hopyapan Cave as well as Calabidongan Cave in Camalig.
Hoyop-hoyopan cave is located in the town of Camalig approximately 30 minutes far from Legazpi. Hoyop Hoyopan Cave is a well-known tourist attraction for both locals and tourists. The caves are mostly constructed from natural limestone and due to the natural air circulation, Hoyop-hoyopan cave is a perfect place to go on a hike and visitors who visit this region of Bicolandia.
The caves are named after the breeze that flows freely through the numerous passageways throughout this Cave system. “Hoyop” in the local dialect of Bicol is a reference to “blowing of the wind”. The cave’s numerous openings are called the grand windows that visitors can take in an amazing view from Mayon Volcano. Mayon Volcano.
Kawa Kawa Hill
Spend the afternoon in awe watching the sunset from the famous Kawa-Kawa Hill.
Kawa-Kawa Hill is a large 25-hectare area that has been transformed into a natural park to help make it one of Albay’s most popular tourist places. It is located in the tranquil barangay located in Tuburan, Ligao City, this hill, which looks like a crater was referred to as Kawa Kawa. Kawa Kawa because it also appears to be a cauldron or kawaas we call it in the local dialect.
If you’re looking for activities to do without cost while traveling in Bicol, Kawa-Kawa Hill, and Natural Park are something that could be added to your agenda. The park is also visited by devotees of the faith and many people make it a routine to make a visit every Holy Week. The way to the summit of the hill is intricately designed statues that depict fourteen Stations of the Cross.
Misibis Bay Resort
Spend a sunny day on the beautiful white beach of the beautiful Misibis Bay Resort.
The tropical getaway is an island-style resort that is private and where guests are able to unwind among the palms or enjoy a day of sun.
The 5-hectare island resort can be accessible by air from Manila with a flight that takes 50 minutes to Legazpi which is followed by a scenic 90-minute journey on the road.
Sumlang Lake
Take in the peaceful ambiance in the bamboo raft while you take in Mayon Volcano’s captivating beauty. Sumlang Lake.
Legazpi Boulevard
Explore the city and observe the vibrant and exciting life in the area while you walk along Legazpi Boulevard.
Quitinday Green Hills
Explore the amazing mountain peaks of Bicol’s very personal Chocolate Hills.
Bicol’s Festivals
Take a journey through the region’s cultural heritage and experience The Ibalong Festival in October and Magayon Festival in April.
Albay Park and Wildlife
Enjoy a family enjoyable day out with the family at Albay Park and Wildlife – the perfect place for kids or old can enjoy an enjoyable time. Many animals like those of the Philippine Hawk Eagle, crocodiles exotic pigeons, exotic crocodiles, and other animals can present.
Taste Bicol’s Chili Ice Cream
Do not miss out on Bicol’s famous spicy Sili Ice Ice Cream in the 1st Colonial Grill, one of the most popular Albay restaurants.
See Mayon Volcano Up Close
Mayon Volcano is something to see. Beyond its stunning beauty are centuries of folklore and rich history – adding to its irresistible beauty and mystery. This is why it’s the preferred subject of travelers and photographers from all over the world. It’s the perfect backdrop for the region in Albay and Bicol generally.
If you’re a nature enthusiast or a lover of adventure visiting this stunning attraction is sure to bring your heart to a beat. It is a must to include Mayon Volcano among your top tourist destinations within the Philippines. Take a look at tours that go of Mayon Volcano that you can add to your itinerary.
Interesting Facts About Mayon Volcano
- Mayon Volcano is considered the most active volcano in the Philippines, with 48 documented eruptions since the 17th century.
- It is ranked as a stratovolcano, which means it is steep-sided and symmetrical in shape, with alternating layers of ash and lava.
- The volcano is known for its near-perfect cone shape, which is considered one of the most beautiful and iconic natural landmarks in the Philippines.
- Mayon Volcano is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region characterized by intense volcanic activity and earthquakes.
- The last major eruption of Mayon Volcano happened in January 2018, which led to the evacuation of over 80,000 residents in the surrounding areas.
- The ash and lava flow from Mayon Volcano have helped to create abundant farmland around it, making the area a major agricultural region in the Philippines.
- Mayon Volcano has been the subject of countless scientific studies and research, as scientists seek to better understand its activity and predict future eruptions.
- Mayon Volcano has been declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and a National Geological Monument, recognizing its unique geological and ecological features
Written By: Judy Eustaquio