Mayon Volcano: Exploring the Active and Majestic Landmark of Bicol

The Mayon Volcano has a towering height of 2,462 meters above sea level. Mayon is a volcano in Albay, Bicol Region of the Philippines. It is famous for having a precisely conical shape, whose pristine beauty has been the basis for some myths and works of art.

The Mayon volcano shares its geographic location with eight cities and municipalities, namely:

Legazpi
Daraga
Camalig
Guinobatan
Ligao
Tabaco
Malilipot
Santo Domingo

When you look at the political boundaries of these municipalities on a map, it’s thought that they cut the volcano’s cone into pieces like a pie. In addition, Lava, pyroclastic, and mud flows are produced during Mayon eruptions, endangering nearby communities.

A 6 km-radius danger zone permanently surrounds the volcano. It results from the potential for phreatic explosions and rockfalls from the volcano’s top and intermediate slopes.

According to legend, the word’s origins are in the Bicolano word “magayon,” which means “beautiful.” Mayon is more than adequate to convey the breathtaking beauty of this natural setting from every viewpoint.

Best Time to Explore Mayon Volcano

The dry season, typically from March through May, is the ideal time to visit the Bicol Region.

A considerable amount of rainfall is expected from July to September.
Budget-wise, visiting during the off-peak season from November to December will be less costly when fewer tourists travel to Legazpi.

TIP: Visit Albay tourist destinations with a view of Mayon Volcano early in the morning. It is to avoid the large crowds and take in the gorgeous volcano to make the most of your vacation.

Navigate in Your Direction to reach Legaspi.

By plane

The easiest way to get to Mayon Volcano is by plane.
Daily flights from Manila (MNL) to Legaspi City (LGP) take about 1.5 hours.
Legazpi and Bicol flights typically take an hour and a half to complete.
Additionally, there are daily nonstop flights from Bicol to Manila.
At Bicol International Airport, you will touch down. (DRP).

By Bus

Take a bus from Manila to Legazpi if you prefer to travel by land.
The journey lasts for 9 hours.
Pre-order tickets through well-known bus companies, including:
- Cagsawa
- DLTB
- Penafrancia.

Ferry

Through WG&A and Trans Asia maritime lines, travelers from Leyte or Cebu can make the 12–15-hour journey.
Both ferries depart from Masbate Port to Legazpi, Albay.

Must-see Attractions During your trip to Albay

There are many sites to check out around Mayon that make for an exciting day trip.

The Mayon Volcano Viewpoint:

The first stop is the Mayon Volcano viewpoint, located 6.5 kilometers from the city proper.
The best way to get there is by riding a jeepney or habal-habal (motorcycle) that can take you there in less than ten minutes.
From this viewpoint, you’ll see several volcanic cones, craters, and Lake Bombon.

Cagsawa Ruins:

The site houses a church built by Spanish conquistadors in 1620 and destroyed by lava flow in 1814.
It is among the most exquisite churches in the province of Albay.
It is 16 kilometers from the city, and you can get there by riding a jeepney or habal-habal.
Also, take a dip in Lake Bombon, popular among tourists as it offers some of the best views in Albay province.

Daraga Church (The Minor Basilica of Our Lady of the Gate Parish)

Fr. Francisco de Paula Rodriguez, OSA, from Spain, arrived in Daraga on June 11, 1867, and built it.
The church was completed by June 1868.
Its octagonal dome is an example of Moorish architecture.
It is an old church built in 1787 and located in Daraga town.
It is among the most exquisite churches in the province of Albay.

Mount Mayon Skyline Park and Crafts

A park is an ideal place for one to enjoy nature.
It features a wooden walkway leading to the mountain’s top, where you can see a stunning view of the Mayon Volcano and its craters.
Visitors can also try their hands at crafts, such as making woven baskets and hats made from palm leaves.
The park is open daily from 8:00 am – 5:00 pm.

Sto. Domingo Church

The church is open daily from 8:00 am – 5:00 pm.
You can reach the church in the town center, making it easy to find.
Visitors can also visit a nearby museum showcasing Legazpi City’s history.
The church also features a fantastic view of the Mayon Volcano and its craters.
Many tourists visit this place yearly due to its beautiful scenery and historical significance.

Lignon Hill Nature Park

Explore Lignon Hill Nature Park to better view Mayon Volcano and try zip-lining.

Explore Other Activities in Albay

4×4 Mayon ATV

You will travel through rice paddies, woodlands, and even volcanic rocks on a 4×4 Mayon ATV along a track that leads to the mountain’s Lava Wall.
It is also among the top things to do during the rainy season because rides are more fun when the paths are muddy.
ATVs are rented daily(7:00 am- 5:00 pm). You can pick between the Green Lava Trail and the Mayon Lava Trail for your ATV trip.

Mayon Volcano Hike/Trek

Trek up Mayon Volcano to add an extra element of adventure to your journey. Furthermore, hire a trusted guide and take the Farmer’s Trail, where you will appreciate nature at its finest.
Beginners should only climb to Camp 1, while more seasoned hikers can reach Camp 2.
However, both provide a memorable experience.

Albay Park and Wildlife

Are you traveling with kids? Then, it is a great place to take them in the park.
You may witness various wildlife, including crocodiles, bleeding heart pigeons, the Philippine Hawk Eagle, and more.
Additionally, you may take a boat ride, enjoy a picnic, and let your kids play on the playground.

Sumlang Lake

The lake is one of the province’s newest attractions.
The tiny lake provides a beautiful restaurant and a fantastic view of Mayon.
You can also rent a bamboo raft for Php 50 per person.

Comfortable Stay in Legaspi

Legazpi Tourist Inn

The Inn is at the corner of Quezon Avenue and Lapu-Lapu Street.
It is close to Lignon Hill Nature Park.
Features:
- Free Wi-Fi
- Airport Transportation
- Air conditioning and non-smoking rooms
- A coffee shop
- A 24-hour front desk

Mayon Backpackers Hostel

It is a small, family-run hostel in Maoyod Subdivision in Old Albay.
The hostel is within striking distance of tourist attractions.
Features:

Casablanca Suites

This boutique hotel is in the middle of the Legazpi Business District.
It offers free Wi-Fi, breakfast, bar, restaurant, and airport transportation.

The Oriental Legazpi

The location is in Sto. Nino Village.free internet
free parking
breakfast
air conditioning rooms
It’s only a 15-minute drive to the airport and a 20-minute drive to the city.
The hotel offers:

A fantastic view of the Mayon Volcano
Albay Gulf
Legazpi cityscape.

Hotel St. Ellis

The hotel centrally lies along Rizal Street.
It’s just a 3-kilometer drive from the airport.
Amenities:

A swimming pool
Essences Spa
Salon Mye
A fitness center
A kiddie activity room
Free Wi-Fi
A free parking
Family rooms

Practical Tips and Information

Legazpi is a tobacco-free city.
Wear light clothes to keep you comfortable
Bring sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
Always check the weather before visiting outdoor destinations.

Food trip in Legazpi

One of the most incredible things about Filipino delicacies is in the Bicol region. Also, take advantage of this opportunity to try Bicolano cuisine. Bicolanos love to cook and eat. Therefore, expect to enjoy delicious food. It is usually with hot spices and coconut creams, such as in two of their popular dishes, the Laing and Bicol Express.

Small Talk Cafe

The Cafe specializes in pizzas and pasta dishes.
They serve vegetarian and vegan-friendly options too.

Bob Marlin

Bob Martin is especially popular for its Crispy Pata, Laing, Pinangat with Crab, and Bicol Express.

DJC Halo-Halo

When it’s time for dessert, it’s time for Special Halo-Halo.
You can get it from this restaurant at the Landco Business Park.
You can try the other desserts on their menu too.