Mount Kanlaon Natural Park National Park

Address: Mount Kanlaon Natural Park, Negros Island (spans Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental), Philippines

Mount Kanlaon Natural Park protects Mount Kanlaon, an active stratovolcano and the highest peak on Negros Island in the central Philippines. The mountain rises to about 2,435 meters and is a focal point for biodiversity and watershed protection on Negros.

Trails lead through lowland and montane forest to higher mossy forest and the volcanic summit area, which includes summit craters and fumarolic activity. The park is used for regulated trekking, biological research and watershed conservation.

The area was set aside as a protected area under national legislation and later integrated into the country’s system for protected landscapes and seascapes to conserve its forests and volcanic features. Management combines visitor regulations with conservation of endemic flora and fauna.

Mount Kanlaon sits near the central spine of Negros Island, straddling provincial boundaries between Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental; the park covers highland and montane terrain surrounding the volcano and is accessible from several towns on the island.

• Permits and management: Climbing routes and park visits are regulated by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and local rangers; permits and briefings are required for summit attempts.
• Elevation: The volcano reaches roughly 2,435 meters above sea level, making it the highest point on Negros Island and a dominant feature of the island’s central range.

• Check PHIVOLCS volcanic-alert levels and contact the local DENR/park office before planning a climb - access and permits are restricted whenever seismic or gas activity increases.
• Schedule climbs during the drier months (roughly November-May) and start very early in the day to avoid the common afternoon thunderstorms and reduce altitude-sickness risk by allowing time for gradual ascent/overnight rest at designated camps.
• Register with park rangers and hire an accredited local guide; trails and campsites are managed and closures are enforced when weather or volcanic conditions pose hazards.