Mt. Daraitan

In my experience this by far one of the hardest to climb 4/9 trall class i think it's 5/9 because of its difficulty .the guide told us its 90% assault and 10% flat and it's the truth punishing your legs and knee going up .It's reminds me Mt. Irid because of the sharp rocks ,rock formations along the way. Not ideal for newbie and first time climber you will seriously get injured once u slip fractured your leg and hit your head or get killed on those shard edge rocks or fell on the ravine going up and down the mountain.The catch here so slippery during rainy season which bring u to be more mindful about your steps . If u had the courage and adventure seeking heart go for Daratian. In the end it's worth it reaching the summit

My first hiking experience. They say this is for beginners, but I think it's not. Especially when it is raining. I slipped a couple of times. Your knees and thighs will hurt after climbing here. Overall the view on top is surely breathtaking. Rock formations are beautiful. The heart peak is picturesque. Good to shoot a prenup. I will come back here for sure.

However heavy or light, take a balanced load with you while climbing because every step is a risk to be averted and balance is a must. Gloves are a must because your fingers will take a beating after hundreds of grappling, grabbing, hooking into rocks, roots, stems and ropes. You will crawl at many points; hug the ground in order not to topple or lose balance. The trail ranges from dry to muddy, flat to very steep; mostly needing holding something, no need for walking sticks use your hands. Buy some 3L cheap hydration bladder from shopee etc wash it, fill it and use it because your body will need those replacements after sweating a ton. There are buko vendors at almost every station. It is crowded (like 100 people queuing to pose on the rocks) at midday weekend at the summit. Don't stray from any of your groupmates esp your guides the trail is tricky at many points. Every step up or down has an impact on your body, better to train beforehand. Tinipak area along Agos River is a meandering geologic wonder with very wide variety of sediment size from fine sand to 3m-high boulders, there are also rocks looking like white marbles with veins (it may be dusty when the wind blows, the wind is channeled through the deep canyon carved by the meandering river). The water ranges from very shallow and white to deep and dark green. You can practice smooth water photography by bringing a light tripod. Always wipe your camera lens to make sure you capture a clear photo in order not to miss a memory. Cobra, gatorade and water do the trick for me. Bring at least 3 cobra and 3 gatorade, or you can buy gatorade at Heart Peak for 60pesos. Heart Peak and Tinipak Area (Agos River) can be seen from each other.