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Mayon Volcano crater

Crater

At Mayon Volcano in the Bicol Region, the crater draws visitors for volcano viewing, guided hikes and photography of its notable conical profile; access can be restricted during volcanic activity.

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In this guide

Mayon Volcano crater essentials

Website: phivolcs.dost.gov.ph
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About Mayon Volcano crater

The Mayon Volcano crater is the summit depression of Mayon, an active stratovolcano in Albay province, Bicol Region, Philippines; the volcano’s summit reaches approximately 2,462 meters above sea level.

The crater and summit rim offer dramatic panoramic views when the volcano is at low alert, and the mountain is famous for its near-perfect conical shape visible across the surrounding plains. Trailheads and guided climbs begin in nearby municipalities, and when conditions permit visitors may approach high-elevation viewpoints under supervision.

Mayon is one of the Philippines’ most active volcanoes with a long history of eruptions that have reshaped its crater and upper slopes; it is monitored closely by PHIVOLCS and has produced frequent activity throughout recorded history.

The crater sits within Albay province on southeastern Luzon, with popular viewing locations in Daraga (including the Cagsawa Ruins viewpoint) and from vantage points around Legazpi City to the southwest.

  • Volcanic activity: The volcano is active; check the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) alert level before planning visits to summit areas.
  • Best viewpoints and access: Classic cone views are best from Daraga and the Cagsawa Ruins viewpoint; summit climbs require permits and are allowed only when authorities declare conditions safe.

What to See#

  • Summit crater: The summit crater is the volcano’s topmost depression at the 2,462-meter summit and is the primary volcanic feature visible from the rim; access to the crater is commonly restricted for safety when the volcano is active.
  • Mayon Volcano Natural Park: Mayon Volcano Natural Park surrounds the volcano and provides formal access points, trails, and managed viewpoints for visitors and tourism operators.
Things to Do
When to Go

Best Time to Visit Mayon Volcano crater

Visit in the dry season (Dec-May) for the best views and safer access; always check current volcanic activity and restrictions.

Dry season
Dec-May · 24-32°C (75-90°F)
Best visibility and safer conditions for viewing and guided treks; mornings especially clear.
Wet season
Jun-Nov · 24-30°C (75-86°F)
Clouds and rain obscure views; higher chance of restricted access due to lahars and unsafe trails.
Post-eruption windows
Varies · Varies
When Mayon is quiet after activity, authorities may permit closer approaches; always confirm with local authorities.

Weather & Climate near Mayon Volcano crater

Climate

Mayon Volcano crater's climate is classified as Oceanic - Oceanic climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 12°C to 22°C. Heavy rainfall (3532 mm/year), wettest in November.

Air Quality: AQI 52 Moderate
Best Time to Visit
MayAprilJune
Temperature & Rainfall
Temperature Range
34°
Warmest Month
21°
Coldest Month
Monthly Conditions
Month Comfort Temp Feels Rain Sky Humidity Wind UV Daylight
January Acceptable 12° - 20° 16° 253 mm overcast 84% 5.1 m/s 1.6 very high 11.3h
February Good 12° - 20° 16° 164 mm partly cloudy 82% 4.9 m/s 2.0 very high 11.6h
March Good 12° - 21° 17° 183 mm partly cloudy 81% 4.0 m/s 2.2 extreme 11.9h
April Good 13° - 22° 18° 169 mm some cloud 79% 3.8 m/s 2.5 extreme 12.3h
May Very Good 14° - 22° 18° 262 mm partly cloudy 79% 3.2 m/s 2.3 extreme 12.6h
June Good 15° - 22° 18° 301 mm partly cloudy 81% 3.6 m/s 2.2 extreme 12.8h
July Acceptable 14° - 21° 18° 361 mm overcast 83% 3.1 m/s 2.1 extreme 12.7h
August Acceptable 14° - 21° 18° 279 mm overcast 84% 3.4 m/s 2.1 extreme 12.4h
September Acceptable 14° - 21° 18° 327 mm overcast 84% 3.3 m/s 2.1 extreme 12.1h
October Acceptable 14° - 21° 17° 386 mm overcast 84% 2.9 m/s 1.8 very high 11.7h
November Acceptable 14° - 21° 17° 434 mm overcast 84% 4.1 m/s 1.6 very high 11.4h
December Acceptable 13° - 20° 17° 413 mm overcast 85% 4.4 m/s 1.4 high 11.2h
Getting There & Around

How to Get to Mayon Volcano crater

Mayon is best approached from Legazpi City in Albay Province. From Legazpi, take a van or bus toward Daraga or the Cagsawa area for views; licensed guides and 4x4 services operate treks to higher observation points depending on volcanic alert levels. Always check PHIVOLCS alerts before attempting any higher-elevation approach.

Tips for Visiting Mayon Volcano crater

  • Check the local PHIVOLCS (Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology) alert level before planning any approach to the crater - access may be restricted.
  • The crater rim is dangerous and often closed; use official viewing points like the Sumlang Lake overlook or the Cagsawa ruins for safe vistas if conditions are active.
  • Hire a licensed local guide when trekking toward higher viewpoints - they handle permits and local route conditions.