Lake Taal Travel Guide

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Going to Taal Lake is a long trek up. You must eat before you start the trek. There are not so many foliage you can cover yourself from the sun (almost a desert) so it would be wise to protect yourself from the sun and dehydration. It's a must therefore to:
1. wear sunblock
2. wear comfortable shoes or flip flops
3. wear light clothes
4. bring shades, cap or hat
5. bring a hand towel and extra shirt
6. bring bottled water
7. bring a packpack - to free your hands, you need it while passing through steep and narrow paths;
Of course, bring a camera. You don't want to miss the view.

My sister went to Taal one rainy weekend. She said that the waves and current were really strong. She even got news that a boat capsized and somebody drowned. Consider the weather when planning your trip and wear lifevests.

We were met at talisay by a man offering to take us across to the volcano for a cost of 1,500 peso. This seemed reasonable so we accepted. It wasnt until we were half way there that he informed us we would also need to pay 1,000 each for a horse to carry us up the volcano. we shoul;d also tip him 200 pesos for his " guide" service. we also then had to tip the guides of the horses (100peso each). also there is a registration fee of 50pesos each. You will also be hounded by people selling drinks, rain coats and gloves. the rain coat could be useful and its only 50 pesos, but avoid being bullied into buying anything that you dont need. All in all, for 2 of us, it cost 4,500 PP to get to the top of the taal volcano (sept '07) thats around £50. Ah and also when you land on the shore a man with a small wooden "bridge" to get you off and on the boat, will ask you for 50 pesos aswell.

Unique Suggestions: make sure you ask all the hidden extras before you set off in a boat. be aware that you will pay tips to various people.

Fun Alternatives: sorry there is no alternative. If you want to go up a volcano you have to do it this way and be prepared to pay for the privilage. you can save by sharing a boat with someone else and trying to keep the fare down to 1,500 or less.

Clothing/Shoes/Weather Gear: Nose mask to protect yourself from dust, especially if you're on foot. In case you forgot to bring one, some entrepreneurial residents sell these. Just ask...
Wear comfortable hiking shoes. Avoid open-toed sandals, else suffer the combination of sweat+dust.

Miscellaneous: Bring lots of water! The hike is long and you are sure to get thirsty along the way. There are also folks selling drinks when you get to the top.