Thursday, August 13, 2009

Backpacking West Bataan Part 2

Bagac and Morong are both 4th class municipalities in the western part of Bataan. Bagac was made famous recently by a prime-time GMA show, Zorro, which was shot on location in Real de Acuzar. Morong, on the other hand is where the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant is located. It is also a sanctuary of marine turtles or pawikan. Other than that, this part of Bataan has become a favorite trekking and camping place for adventurers out there. For one, the locals in the area are hospitable and welcoming. Second, the trail isn't that arduous that even novice trekkers and climbers can do it. And most of all, the place is a showcase of pristine coastal and marine marvels.


The rugged mountain terrain and the fine-sand beaches are the primary destinations in Bagac and Morong. Along the way, you will discover rain forests, caves and even waterfalls. And if you are an intrepid nature lovers, there are just so many things to discover here and explore.

For this second part of my backpacking trip in West Bataan, let me share to you some more pics as well as some basic backpacking tips:

RAINY DAY BLUES. The threat of flashfloods, landslides and rockslides increases during the rainy season. So from June to November, it really pays to be cautious of the trips you are planning. Always check the weather and if you are not really familiar with the place, then it is better to postpone the trip.

PACK LIGHT. Always plan what you do beforehand. Unnecessary things mean extra weight on your backpack. Save your back the burden by bringing only the most essential things.

LOVE YOUR FEET. Always wear sturdy trekking shoes or sandals. Hours of walking can really take its toll on your sole so better make 'em as comfortable as possible.

WATER. Do not ever forget to hydrate. A liter of water every hours of walk is ideal but be sure to consume more if it is hotter. In some cases, there are clear mountain waters for refill but if you are unsure, try to avoid these specially if your stomach easily spoils.

TRAIL MIX. Always bring some food to munch on during the trip. You need energy as you traverse your way. My favorite trail mix is a combination of cashew nuts, raisins, pili and m and m's.

PROTECT. If it is hot and sunny, bring sunscreen and apply it every 30 minutes or so. If it is a forest trail, bring a mosquito repellent. If it is rainy, bring your light waterproof jacket with hood.

BE HAPPY. Trekking is useless if it not fun for you. Take in the sights and the sounds of the place and enjoy the experience of the different world that you are in.

26 comments:

  1. great tips and great photos as always. water is very important when hiking. i was always too lazy to bring a big bottle of water because it's heavy but after an experience in Sagada, i promised myself i will never be lazy to bring water again.:P

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  2. true! i usually miss bringing food for munching.

    okay ba ang snorkeling diyan?

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  3. ngayon palang kahit papasok nako nakalimutan kong magdala rin ng tubig, mainit kasi ngayon dito sa lupang buhangin.

    again pards,may drama yung picture pasok sa mga notes mo.penge nga akong talent sa ganyan. he he he

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  4. mukha ngang kailangan mo ang mosquito repellent. medyo madilim at moist ang paligid. Ingat lagi

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  5. Sigh, I think I need a vacation again... hehehehehhe... Sarap ulit magrelax...

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  6. wow... ang ganda... hehehe gusto ko mag soul searching sa mga place na ganyan...

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  7. hindi ko pa natry ang mag treking... mukhang okay din kaso wala naman pwede makasama :(... pwede bang sumabit na lang sa lakad mo? :D

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  8. backpacking is fun

    ayos pala dyan sa bataan, ah

    lagi ko lang sya nadadaanan papunta subic
    dyan din pala daming pwedeng puntahan!

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  9. awesome tips lawstude... you are truly adventurous!

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  10. thanks sa tips. i dont think kaya kong magtrekking pag umuulan. mas mahirap yata.

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  11. The photos are awesome. I love to try trekking. Thanks for sharing and tips.

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  12. Beautiful photos as usual...your eye for themes is magical!
    Sandi

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  13. Great tips from an experienced trekker. I always wanted to see that part too. Really nice photos.

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  14. love that piece of coral!

    question: do you guys ever carry umbrellas? i guess not...raincoats only, right? :P

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  15. GOOD DAY EVERYONE!!!

    @ dong - meron mga starfish at corals so malamang bro prede rin snorkling. maulan kasi that time kaya limited lang beach activities.

    @ fortuitous faery - for trekking, it is not advisable to bring umbrellas, just waterproof jackets with hood.

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  16. since i first saw ur blog araw araw nako nagbabasa nito. Pagdating ko sa work ito agad ang inoopen ko...Honestly, nkk draw ako from here ng kakaibang feelings i can't explain. nature lover kase ako. Im so thankful dhl sayo na eexplore ko n rin ang iba't ibang places...More power and God bless u!

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  17. nice photos...really luv it...

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  18. Love your feet. It sounds romantic. Thanks, your photos made my day!

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  19. It is always perfect to go with you traveling here. I love the 4th photo very much. Beautiful, sabi nga ni Marian sa commercial niya.

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  20. I love the serenity of the place. Can't wait to see part 3.

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  21. Excellnet tips! And I so agree on the insect repellent. Most travellers always forget to bring it!

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  22. feeling ko peace and quiet and the greatness of nature in this place. Lovely evening shots :)

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  23. Great advice. I used to always wear trek boots than found out that sandals work as well. Except for the last one I bought. A sandal but closed toe... big mistake!!! The gravel that gets in can't get out!! Wahh! It was pretty much torture all the way. :-p

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  24. The last photo looks so peaceful. Great set again Lawstude.

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  25. I love to go trekking and be in touch with nature. Good advice on those sunscreen and mosquitoes repellant. A real disaster if forgot to bring them!

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  26. Such a adorable clicks taken, indeed, Oman is a beautiful island.
    long stay parking luton
    long stay parking heathrow

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