Pico de Loro

Mountain

Pico de Loro is a prominent mountain peak on southern Luzon, Philippines, visited for its distinctive summit rock and coastal views. Hikers come for a forested day hike that finishes at a dramatic monolith and overlooks the coastline.

Pico de Loro ViganSagadaBanaueBaguioSubicManilaTaal VolcanoPuerto GaleraMarinduqueDonsolPico de Loro

Pico de Loro essentials

Address: Mounts Palay-Palay-Mataas-Na-Gulod National Park, Cavite, Luzon, Philippines

Pico de Loro sits on the Palay-Palay ridge within the Mounts-Palay-Palay-Mataas-Na-Gulod National Park on Luzon island. The name means “parrot’s beak” and refers to the jagged summit rock that defines the peak.

The mountain is covered in tropical forest and its trails climb through shaded vegetation to more exposed ridgelines; from higher points there are wide views out toward the coastal plain and the South China Sea. The terrain includes steep sections and rocky scrambling near the top, which gives the summit a sense of exposure and reward.

Visiting is commonly done as a day hike from towns in Cavite and nearby Batangas, though multi-day itineraries are possible when combining nearby peaks in the park. Facilities on-site are basic; visitors should expect simple park infrastructure and to carry water and snacks for the climb.

  • Parrot's Beak summit monolith: The craggy rock formation that gives Pico de Loro its name is the highlight and requires short scrambling to reach close views.
  • Coastal and sea vistas: On clear days the upper ridges offer sweeping views toward the coastline and the open sea to the west.
  • Shaded forest trails: The approach winds through tropical forest with varied undergrowth and tree cover that cools the climb on hotter days.
  • Ridgeline vantage points: Several smaller viewpoints along the ridge provide photo stops and quieter outlooks away from the summit.
Things to Do
When to Go

Best Time to Visit Pico de Loro#

The climate has a pronounced wet season and a drier season; aim for the drier months for safer, clearer hiking conditions.

Dry season (best)
November - February · 20°C - 28°C (68°F - 82°F)
These months have the lowest rainfall and cooler conditions on the trail, making hikes more comfortable and views more reliable.
Late dry / Pre-monsoon
March - April · 21°C - 30°C (70°F - 86°F)
Warmer temperatures and occasional showers start to appear but trails are generally passable; expect hotter climbs in direct sun.
Wet season (avoid if possible)
May - October · 21°C - 30°C (70°F - 86°F)
Rainfall increases substantially, with the heaviest downpours mid-year that make trails slippery and increase the risk of landslides and sudden storms.

Weather & Climate near Pico de Loro#

Climate

Pico de Loro's climate is classified as Tropical Monsoon - Tropical Monsoon climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C. Heavy rainfall (2511 mm/year), wettest in August with a pronounced dry season.

Air Quality: AQI 55 Moderate
Best Time to Visit
FebruaryMarchApril
Temperature & Rainfall
Temperature Range
36°
Warmest Month
20°
Coldest Month
Monthly Conditions
Month Comfort Temp Feels Rain Sky Humidity Wind UV Daylight
January Ideal 20° - 27° 24° 23 mm partly cloudy 83% 3.4 m/s 1.7 very high 11.3h
February Ideal 20° - 28° 24° 13 mm some cloud 80% 3.4 m/s 2.1 extreme 11.6h
March Ideal 21° - 29° 25° 16 mm mostly sunny 76% 2.7 m/s 2.5 extreme 11.9h
April Ideal 22° - 31° 26° 36 mm mostly sunny 72% 2.4 m/s 2.6 extreme 12.3h
May Very Good 22° - 30° 26° 183 mm partly cloudy 76% 2.4 m/s 2.4 extreme 12.7h
June Good 22° - 28° 25° 326 mm overcast 82% 2.3 m/s 2.2 extreme 12.8h
July Good 21° - 27° 24° 517 mm overcast 85% 2.9 m/s 2.0 extreme 12.8h
August Good 22° - 27° 24° 559 mm overcast 87% 2.9 m/s 1.9 very high 12.5h
September Good 22° - 27° 25° 392 mm overcast 86% 2.3 m/s 2.0 extreme 12.1h
October Good 22° - 28° 25° 225 mm partly cloudy 84% 2.4 m/s 1.9 very high 11.7h
November Very Good 21° - 28° 25° 148 mm partly cloudy 85% 3.4 m/s 1.7 very high 11.3h
December Excellent 21° - 27° 24° 73 mm partly cloudy 85% 3.5 m/s 1.6 very high 11.2h
Getting There & Around

How to Get to Pico de Loro#

Pico de Loro lies in southern Luzon within Cavite province; nearby urban centers include Tagaytay and Dasmariñas, which are common staging points for hikes. The nearest major airport is Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Metro Manila; from Manila most visitors travel by road to Cavite.

The final stretch to the park entrance is by road and is typically covered by private car, bus or local transport from nearby towns, with a short walk or jeepney/tricycle ride to the trailhead depending on the chosen access point; check locally for the current access route and trailhead location.

Tips for Visiting Pico de Loro#

  • Trails can be steep and rocky near the summit so wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for short sections of scrambling.
  • Bring adequate water and rain protection, especially during the wet season when trails become slippery.
  • Start early on weekends to avoid crowds at the summit and to return before afternoon rain showers.
  • Mobile signal can be patchy on the ridge; download maps or note directions before you set out.
  • Check local park rules and closures before you go.