Bataan National Park National Park

Bataan National Park is a protected area on the Bataan peninsula in Central Luzon, Philippines, conserving montane forests and volcanic highlands on the peninsula. It includes significant upland terrain rather than a single built attraction.

Hiking and nature activities are the main draws, with trails and viewpoints on the park’s volcanic ridges offering views across the peninsula and Manila Bay. The park also preserves watershed forests that supply local communities.

The protected area covers the mountainous interior of Bataan and includes the volcanic massifs of Mount Mariveles and Mount Natib, which form much of the park’s core highland terrain. The park was designated to protect these forested uplands and their watersheds.

The park lies on the Bataan peninsula in Bataan province, west of Metro Manila. The provincial capital, Balanga, is the nearest major town and is the usual starting point for trips into the park.

• Nearest city: Balanga is the provincial capital and the most common nearby urban centre for park access and services.

What to See#

• Mount Mariveles: A volcanic massif on the Bataan peninsula that forms one of the park’s principal highland areas and contains forested slopes and trails accessed from the lowland towns of Bataan.
• Mount Natib: A volcanic caldera and peak within the park that contributes to the area’s upland forest and watershed protection, with routes from nearby barangays and trailheads.

Bataan National Park is on the Bataan peninsula, west of Manila. From Manila, drive or take a bus to Balanga or Dinalupihan, then local transportation to the park entrance. Mount Samat is accessed via the park’s road.

• If hiking Mount Samat, go early to avoid midday heat and to see the memorial in clearer light
• Check local transport schedules; buses from Balanga to the park are intermittent
• Bring cash for small entrance fees and refreshments from local vendors