Mount Matutum
Volcano Active volcanic peak in Mindanao with dense forests
Stratovolcano in South Cotabato with forested lower slopes and cloud forest higher up. Climbers plan multi-day ascents for summit panoramas and to study the area’s biodiversity and indigenous communities.
Mount Matutum is a forested stratovolcano in South Cotabato, on the island of Mindanao in the Philippines. It is a prominent regional peak with significant ecological and cultural value and is covered by a protected landscape designation.
Hikers access trails that pass through montane and lowland forest zones; the mountain is valued for biodiversity, water catchment functions and views across the surrounding plains and neighboring provinces. Local indigenous communities have cultural connections to the mountain.
The volcano is a long-standing natural feature rather than a constructed monument; management focuses on conservation and regulated recreational use within the protected area.
Geographically it rises in southwestern Mindanao within the Soccsksargen administrative region; the supplied coordinates place it within South Cotabato province.
- Conservation status: The mountain is a prominent, forested stratovolcano in South Cotabato and is important for watershed protection and local biodiversity.
What to See #
- Mount Matutum Protected Landscape: A legally designated protected landscape that covers the mountain and surrounding forests, managed for watershed protection, biodiversity and controlled public access.
Tips for Visiting Mount Matutum #
- Climb during the region's dry months (generally December-May) to reduce the chance of afternoon storms and muddy trails that commonly form in the wet season.
- Obtain permits and hire an experienced local guide from nearby towns (General Santos/Polomolok area); Matutum sits in a protected landscape and local guides know permitted routes and culturally sensitive areas.
- Start very early to avoid daytime cloud build-up and to get clearer summit views; respect Indigenous B'laan sacred sites encountered on the mountain and follow guidance from community guides.
Best Time to Visit Mount Matutum #
Plan a visit to Mount Matutum during the dry season (roughly November-May) for the most dependable hiking conditions.
Weather & Climate near Mount Matutum #
Mount Matutum's climate is classified as Oceanic - Oceanic climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 13°C to 25°C. Heavy rainfall (2501 mm/year), wettest in May.
January
January is mild with highs of 23°C and lows of 13°C. Significant rainfall (171 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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February
February is mild with highs of 23°C and lows of 13°C. Significant rainfall (143 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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March
March is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 14°C. Significant rainfall (157 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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April
April is mild with highs of 25°C and lows of 14°C. Significant rainfall (191 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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May
May is the warmest month with muggy conditions (dew point 23°C). The wettest month with heavy rain (305 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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June
June is mild with muggy conditions (dew point 22°C). Heavy rain (285 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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July
July is mild with muggy conditions (dew point 22°C). Heavy rain (243 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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August
August is mild with muggy conditions (dew point 22°C). Heavy rain (215 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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September
September is mild with muggy conditions (dew point 22°C). Heavy rain (201 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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October
October is mild with muggy conditions (dew point 22°C). Heavy rain (213 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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November
November is mild with muggy conditions (dew point 22°C). Significant rainfall (194 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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December
December is mild with muggy conditions (dew point 22°C). Significant rainfall (183 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
