Adventure into the Volcano

• Author: johnnymestizo
• Filed under: Active CrossFit, Endurance and Physical Fitness Trainin, Johnny Mestizo Identity, Filipino & Philippines, Stomp the World
• Date: Feb 9,2008
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Setting off in a Jeep across sandy lahar plains I find myself wondering, ‘What is it like inside a Volcano?’ For 17 years since Mount Pinatubo’s earth shaking eruption few people have ventured. The people of the Philippines have lived through this aftermath and now as the volcano is well and truly settled guided tours will take you into the heart of a volcano.

On June 15th, 1991, the local economy was decimated by Mt Pinatubo with 10³ kilometres (2.3³ miles) of earth being blasted into the atmosphere. It is the largest volcanic explosion since Krakatoa in 1883 and 10 times larger than Mount St. Helens in the eigthies. Typhoon Yunya hit the same day as the event forcing ash clouds over the area. The eruption closed the 37km² US military Clark Air Base with ash rendering the base inoperable and saw the evacuation of approximately 15000 personnel, their family and supporting businesses.

During your weaving jeep ride across remnant rivers of sulphur streams the local populace smile and wave. At times a makeshift wooden chariot pulled by Carabao transports an elder and his wares. As if in a land of time past people live off the basics of the land – water, shelter, food.

Rocks present themselves on each side of the gorge as we approach the imminent mountainous terrain. The wide sandy lahar plains narrow, the streams become the rushing river. At the final clearing we park with the other jeeps, halted by boulders blocking our path. Our guide takes control in sandals and cotton shirt. It is time for the jeep to be left behind as we negotiate the bamboo stair frames to higher ground.

We negotiate between high rock walls carved out by the lava stream 17 years ago. In the centre lay boulders, volcanic rock, and gushing water. We solemnly walk where 1000 degree molten rock once flowed. Vegetation is scarce with little nourished soil available. The walls close in then ease out. Our path is known intimately by our tour guide so we trek confidently knowing our fate is secure.

From the rocky gorge the vegetation starts with the path hacked through the dense jungle . With the common Filipino smile the guide steers us into the rainforest path. He nimbly hops from rock to boulder across the pure mineral spring water. I seem hesitant yet he reassures me this water is masarap (delicious). We follow the fresh water stream from the above rocks as it flows abundantly into the bamboo chute. He cups his hands and sips instantly reinvigorated by its freshness. I too join in on this freshwater reverence.

Up and up we go. I see the tree tops end and I feel the top is near. For the third time the crest reveals another tough walk. No matter I think and carry on. As I gauge myself of moderate fitness I decide bringing extra water and food stores in my hiking pack a wise option.

The sky opens, the trees peel back, the summit 50 metres away. Out of the rainforest a path is formed, stairways built take us to the moment of revelation. The site before us delivers – we render awestruck.

Our perch overlooks the eighth wonder. An entire mountain summit wiped from the face of the earth by volcanic forces 17 years ago. Since then rainwater forms the crystal blue water lake in this volcano crater of Mount Pinatubo. We stand at attention in sheer adoration of mother nature. In the forces of destruction her touch brings infinite beauty.

I would class the 2.5 hour trek as easy-moderate. Bring food to the summit as no shops are available. With a fresh water point near the summit you should be fine with a 1.5L bottle. Commercial tour guides are available at a moments notice with several to choose from. All in all I found Mount Pinatubo to be a feast for the eyes and with one day jeep/treks available this trek is impossible to pass up.

Further Information:

Department of Tourism
Regional Office No. 3
City of San Fernando, Pampanga: Tel. No. (6345) 961 – 2665/2612
Angeles City Tourism Office: Tel. No. (6345) 322 – 0507/4484

U.S. Geological Survey - Facts and figures on all things Mt. Pinatubo