Every Friday, I’m going to showcase something unique about my home country , the Philippines. It can be a place, food, experience, custom or tradition that highlights what we our 7,107 islands can offer. I remember that on my travels, there are some people who are still unaware of where the Philippines is or what the country has to offer. So I hope that through these posts – I can help bring awareness about the Philippines, it’s beauty, hidden sites, quirkiness and diversity.
For my first post, I’m writing about Taal Volcano.
Philippines is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire and home to a number of active volcanoes (official count was 50). Taal Volcano is one of the more famous volcanoes and also one of the most active in the country. Don’t worry though as its last major eruption was in the 1970s.
So what is so special about this volcano?
Taal Volcano is most known for having the world’s largest island in a lake on an island in a lake on an island (phew!).
To better explain: the center most island is called Vulcan Point which sits on the Crater lake, Crater lake is inside Taal Island, which then is inside Taal Lake on the Luzon Island. Don’t believe me? See the photo below (hard to see Vulcan point from here).
Taal Volcano from a satellite – Wikimedia Photo
I recently spent a weekend with my family in Talisay, Batangas – on a resort along the lake with a great view of the volcano. And I must say that it’s nice to wake up and have this view on your window. 😉
Considering that it’s only a two hour bus ride from Manila, it’s a great day trip to include on itinerary if ever you’re coming from Manila. You can go to the city of Tagaytay for a view from atop overlooking the lake. You can also go to the town of Talisay and arrange a hike to the top of the volcano island. It’s a 45 minute hike to the top and can be done on foot or on horse. View of the crater island is worth the climb!
*Photos from deckchua & therealbrute under creative commons license
Have you been to Taal? What were your experiences? SHARE them below!
Are you a travel blogger? I’m inviting you to take part of Filipino Friday with me. All you need to do is post something about the Philippines every Friday. Contact me if you’re interested.
17 Comments
This is a unique spot. I fell in love at the first photo. How wonderful and beautiful is your country. This is a great place for adventure.
I understand why this is a famous volcano. Truly lovely pictures.
Ariana recently posted..OLD FAITHFUL
Thanks for the post and really enjoying your blog.
We’re going to be in Manila in the next few days. Is it fairly easy to do this day trip without having to go on an organised tour? As we prefer to do it on our own, or at least with some friends but not on a package trip.
Thanks again for doing such a great job on the blog.
The first time i went there was during my college days, i dont blog and i dont own a camera back then… I wish i can go back there soon and experience it again:)
Hehe, I’ve heard of that place! I’d love to visit someday.
Aussie on the Road recently posted..The Adventures of Ford Focus: Tea Gardens
Anytime mate! feel free to come!
Jerick recently posted..Filipino Friday: The Balut
It looks really interesting. As a fellow ring-of-fire dwellers, volcanoes are no strange thing for Indonesians. However I don’t think there’s any volcano here in Indonesia like Taal volcano. Island in a lake on an island in a lake on an island..wow! The most appealing part is that it’s only 2-hour away from Manila (that is so close, man).
Bama recently posted..Versatile Blogger Award (of Mine)
Yes, it’s a great escape for the hustle and bustle of Manila! I’d like to see volcanoes in Indonesia too especially Mount Bromo! 🙂
Jerick recently posted..Filipino Friday: The Balut
I’m going to Bromo this December, so you’d better watch! 🙂
Bama recently posted..Sweet Reminiscence of Tidung Islands
Awesome! I’d like to hear that definitely.
Jerick recently posted..Filipino Friday: The Balut
Awesome post. My ex is a born-and-raised Filipina but since we split I have not yet returned… my buddy and I are planning our next trip there now tho, can’t wait! Once I have some fresh material I’ll join you for Filipino Fridays. In the meantime, keep up the good work!
Derek recently posted..My 7 Links
Thanks Derek! can’t wait to hear your stories once you get to back! 🙂
Jerick recently posted..Filipino Friday: The Balut
Wow. I’ve grown up visiting Crater Lake National Park in Oregon, but I hadn’t heard about this amazing spot. Maybe we’ll get there on our travels. Thanks for the introduction.
Bethany ~ twoOregonians recently posted..Home: Letting Go of Place and Things
No worries, I haven’t been to Crater Lake too – so my appreciation goes the other way too. Travel blogging definitely helps in introducing new places that you never thought existed. 🙂
Jerick recently posted..Filipino Friday: The Balut
It’s worth the hike/view at the summit of Taal. Easy walk, don’t let the horse (er ponies?) owners talk you into hiring one.
haha, I know! the only downside though is that you hike on the same path as the horses, so there are occassional shit on the road. 😛
That first photo is epic!
Neil recently posted..The cost of a weekend in Riga to my wallet and my health
The view of the crater of Volcano island – a must see! book your flight to the PH already. 🙂
Jerick recently posted..Filipino Friday: Taal Volcano