Mt. Victoria

Mount Victoria in Narra, Palawan, is one of the “last frontiers for Philippine mountaineering.” Standing at 1,726 meters above sea level, it is the second tallest mountain in Palawan. It remains relatively unscaled and unexplored, and is home to a variety of plants and animals that can only be found on its slopes.

Climbing the mountain can be difficult, even for veteran hikers, as the trail involves several river crossings and a few near-vertical rock faces. All told, an expedition to the summit requires a minimum of three days.

But the adventure and sense of exploration that Mount Victoria inspires makes up for the challenge. The mountain has at least two peaks that can be scaled, and a few others that have yet to be traversed. There are plenty of opportunities to sight wild boars and other creatures, as well as exotic flora, such as the famous rat-eating pitcher plant. As it is home to the Tagbanua tribe, a trek up the mountain also offers a chance to interact with the native community.

A journey up Mount Victoria is a dream come true for any would-be explorer, full of unique plants and animals, and new trails just waiting to be discovered.