Kalatungan Mountain Range

A Sacred Peak of Biodiversity and Indigenous Heritage!

Mt. Kalatungan Range Natural Park photo by Kenneth Aniero Magbanua, CC, via Wikimedia Commons

Rising in the heart of Bukidnon in northern Mindanao, the Kalatungan Mountain Range is one of the Philippines’ most awe-inspiring and least explored natural frontiers. Often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor, Mount Kitanglad, Kalatungan is a treasure of ancient forests, cascading rivers, sacred peaks, and rich cultural heritage. It is home to Mount Kalatungan, the fifth-highest peak in the Philippines, standing at 2,880 meters above sea level.

Beyond its rugged beauty, the mountain range is a living sanctuary of biodiversity and spiritual significance. It is a critical watershed, a declared protected area, and part of the ancestral domain of the Manobo and Talaandig Indigenous Peoples, who consider the mountains sacred and call it "Apu"—a term of deep reverence for nature.

The Kalatungan Range attracts trekkers, conservationists, and cultural travelers seeking more than just adventure. It offers a deeper experience rooted in respect—for nature’s resilience and for the traditions of the communities that have long protected it. Whether you are drawn by its ecological wonders, its spiritual pull, or the challenge of its trails, Kalatungan invites you to discover one of Mindanao’s last great wilderness sanctuaries.

Location and Geography

The Kalatungan Mountain Range is in the province of Bukidnon, on the island of Mindanao, Philippines. It stretches across the municipalities of Pangantucan, Talakag, Maramag, and Valencia, forming a rugged highland spine in central Bukidnon. The range covers an estimated 213 square kilometers and is one of the highest elevated forested areas in the country.

This mountain range plays a crucial ecological role as one of the primary watersheds of Northern Mindanao, feeding major river systems including the Muleta, Maradugao, and Pulangi Rivers. These rivers irrigate lowland farms, provide drinking water, and support hydropower generation throughout the region. The forests of Kalatungan help stabilize the climate, regulate water flow, and prevent soil erosion.

Geographically, the Kalatungan range is part of the larger Bukidnon Plateau, distinguished by its steep slopes, deep valleys, mossy forests, and volcanic soil composition. The highest peak, Mount Kalatungan, towers at 2,880 meters above sea level, often blanketed in mist and flanked by lesser known but equally majestic peaks such as Mount Lumpanag (Wiji) and Mount Kilakron.

With its remote location and relatively undeveloped landscape, the Kalatungan Range remains one of the Philippines’ last strongholds of intact highland forest—a vital refuge for biodiversity and a vital source of life for communities downstream.

Peaks and Trails

The Kalatungan Mountain Range is a revered destination for experienced hikers and those seeking a spiritual journey through the highlands of Bukidnon. Known for its rugged terrain, steep ascents, and dense forests, the range offers several challenging yet rewarding routes.

Here are the key peaks and trails that define the Kalatungan hiking experience:

Mount Kalatungan (2,880 MASL)

The fifth-highest mountain in the Philippines, this towering summit is the crown jewel of the range.

• Expect long, steep ascents through moss-covered trails and rich forest canopies.

• Offers panoramic views of Bukidnon and nearby mountain ranges on clear days.

Mount Lumpanag (Mount Wiji)

Often paired with Mount Kalatungan in the Kalatungan–Wiji Traverse.

• Known for its quiet, forested trails and the sacred rituals conducted by local Indigenous communities before the climb.

• Considered a spiritual twin to Mount Kalatungan.

Other Peaks: Kilakron, Maluso, and Itabingon

Lesser known but equally scenic, these peaks offer routes for those seeking solitude and untouched trails.

• Some trails are steep and forested, requiring local guide knowledge to navigate.

Trekking Routes and Rituals

• Most treks start from Pangantucan, Bukidnon, and last 2 to 3 days depending on the trail and weather.

• Climbers must observe Indigenous rituals led by Talaandig or Manobo elders—acknowledging the spiritual guardians of the mountain.

Climbing in Kalatungan is more than just a physical feat—it’s an immersive journey through ancestral lands where nature and culture converge.

Mt Kalatungan Range view from Lake Napalit, Pangantucan side photo by Precipitated, CC, via Wikimedia Commons

Biodiversity and Ecosystems

Designated as a Key Biodiversity Area (KBA), the Kalatungan Mountain Range is a sanctuary for some of the Philippines’ most endangered species and ecologically vital habitats. Its combination of high elevation, old-growth forests, and relative isolation has made it one of the last strongholds of highland biodiversity in Mindanao.

Here’s what makes its ecosystem extraordinary:

Rare and Endemic Wildlife

The mountain range shelters over 129 animal species, including:

• Philippine eagle (Pithecophaga jefferyi) – Critically endangered and frequently sighted in Kalatungan’s mossy forests.

• Philippine hawk-eagle and mindoro scops owl – Forest-dependent raptors that rely on old canopy cover.

• Philippine warty pig (Sus philippensis) and mindanao moonrat – Vulnerable mammals native to the region.

Rich Flora and Vegetation Zones

With over 340 plant species, Kalatungan supports a range of forest types:

• Lowland dipterocarp forests – Rich in timber species and medicinal plants.

• Mossy cloud forests – Cloaked in fog and covered in orchids, ferns, and lichens.

• High-altitude grasslands – Home to unique alpine shrubs and hardy flowering species.

River Systems and Watersheds

Numerous rivers originate here, including the Muleta and Maradugao Rivers, which flow into the Pulangi River, serving as essential water sources for Bukidnon and neighboring provinces.

Kalatungan’s biodiversity is not just rich—it is fragile. Its preservation is vital to the survival of endangered species, to the Indigenous Peoples who depend on its resources, and to the larger ecological balance of Mindanao.

Would you like to continue with Part Five: Indigenous Culture and Sacred Significance?

Indigenous Culture and Sacred Significance

The Kalatungan Mountain Range is not only a haven for biodiversity—it is also a deeply sacred landscape for the Manobo and Talaandig Indigenous communities who have lived in its shadow for generations. For these groups, the mountain is more than a geographic feature—it is a living ancestor, protector, and spiritual realm known respectfully as “Apu Kalatungan.”

Before any trek begins, visitors are required to participate in a pananghid—a traditional ritual performed by tribal elders to seek permission from the mountain spirits. This practice reflects a long-standing cultural code that recognizes nature as alive and deserving of reverence. Offerings such as betel nut, native tobacco, and coins are presented at ritual sites near the base of the trail.

Throughout the range, sacred spaces are marked not by signs but by silence. Hikers are encouraged to move respectfully, avoid loud behavior, and refrain from leaving behind waste. Local guides, often members of the community, help explain the cultural significance of certain forested areas and trails.

These cultural practices are not symbolic—they are integrated into the Indigenous Peoples’ sustainable management of the land. Their traditions have helped protect Kalatungan’s forests for centuries, making it one of the best-preserved highland ecosystems in the country. Visiting Kalatungan is not only a journey through nature but a rare chance to walk through a living cultural landscape shaped by generations of spiritual guardianship.

Conservation and Protected Area Status

The Mountain Range is not only culturally sacred and ecologically rich—it is also legally protected. In recognition of its environmental value, the range was declared a protected area under the National Integrated Protected Areas System (NIPAS) and is now officially known as the Mount Kalatungan Range Natural Park. It was further strengthened under the Expanded NIPAS Act of 2018, ensuring long-term conservation and management.

The park is managed through a collaborative approach involving the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), local government units, and Indigenous communities. This multi-stakeholder model recognizes that protecting a place as complex and sacred as Kalatungan requires both scientific conservation strategies and deep cultural knowledge.

Key conservation efforts in the area include:

• Biodiversity monitoring of endangered species such as the Philippine eagle and warty pig.

• Watershed protection to sustain rivers that flow from the range into agricultural lowlands.

• Cultural preservation programs supporting Indigenous rituals, land rights, and traditional ecological practices.

Despite these efforts, the park faces ongoing threats from illegal logging, agricultural encroachment, and climate change. Still, Kalatungan stands as a national example of how environmental protection and Indigenous stewardship can go together.

For visitors, stepping into Kalatungan means not just exploring a remote wilderness—but entering a landscape that communities have fought to protect for generations.

Pitcher Plant from Kalatungan Range photo by Kleo Marlo Sialongo, CC, via Wikimedia Commons

How to Visit: Access, Permits, and Guidelines

Visiting the Kalatungan Mountain Range requires careful planning and adherence to local protocols. Here's a concise guide to help you prepare:

Entry Point and Transportation

• Pangantucan, Bukidnon serves as the primary gateway to the Kalatungan Range.

• From Cagayan de Oro, take a Rural Transit bus bound for Wao, alighting at Pangantucan. The journey takes approximately 5 hours.

• From Davao City, board a bus to Maramag, then transfer to a van or bus heading to Pangantucan, totaling around 4 hours of travel.​

Permits and Fees

• Secure a Mountain Park Permit at the Pangantucan Municipal Tourism Office. As of the latest information, the fee is ₱300 per person.

• Hiring a local guide is mandatory; rates are approximately ₱350 per day, with porters available at ₱400 per day.

• A ritual offering is customary, involving items like a white chicken, local wine, coins, and fabric pieces. This practice honors the traditions of the Talaandig and Manobo communities.​

Climbing Guidelines

• Climbing slots are limited and must be booked in advance.

• Participate in a pre-climb orientation conducted by the Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) and local Indigenous leaders.

• Adhere strictly to the Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural environment.​

Best Time to Visit

• The optimal climbing season spans from October to April, offering clearer skies and more stable trail conditions.​

By following these guidelines and respecting local customs, your journey to the Kalatungan Mountain Range will be both enriching and responsible.

Food, Dining, and Accommodation Options

While the Kalatungan Mountain Range offers remote wilderness, nearby towns such as Pangantucan and Valencia City provide basic food and lodging for travelers preparing for or returning from their trek.

Where to Stay

• Pangantucan Town Proper offers homestays and modest inns, typically run by local families. These provide basic amenities and serve as ideal pre- or post-climb lodging.

• In Valencia City, about an hour’s drive from Pangantucan, you'll find more developed accommodations such as:

  • GV Hotel Valencia – Budget-friendly with air-conditioned rooms.

  • Double M Hotel – A mid-range option with dining facilities and comfort amenities.

Where to Eat

• Local carinderias (small eateries) in Pangantucan serve home-style Filipino meals like adobo, tinola, and sinigang at affordable prices.

• For a wider variety, Valencia City has casual dining spots and fast-food chains, as well as local restaurants like:

  • Casa Verde Valencia – Known for generous servings and local fusion cuisine.

  • Café sa Bukid – A rustic café serving native coffee and snacks in a scenic countryside setting.

Food for the Trek

• Trekkers are encouraged to bring pre-packed meals and trail food. Guides can assist in arranging cooked meals for multi-day hikes, often prepared in traditional styles using local ingredients.

Planning ahead ensures that your Kalatungan adventure is both nourishing and restful, even in the most remote corners of the Bukidnon highlands.

Nearby Attractions

While the Kalatungan Mountain Range is the main draw for trekkers and eco-tourists, the surrounding areas of Bukidnon offer a variety of attractions that complement your visit with cultural, natural, and recreational experiences.

Lake Apo (Valencia City)

A serene volcanic crater lake just 30 minutes from Valencia City, Lake Apo is perfect for kayaking, bamboo raft rides, and lakeside relaxation. Its calm waters and mountain backdrop make it an ideal spot for post-hike recovery.

Mount Kitanglad Range Natural Park

Located northwest of Kalatungan, this protected area features Mount Dulang-Dulang, the second-highest peak in the Philippines. It offers a similarly biodiverse and sacred trekking experience, often paired with Kalatungan in a dual-hike challenge.

Dahilayan Adventure Park (Manolo Fortich)

For adrenaline seekers, Dahilayan offers Asia’s longest dual zipline, ATV rides, rope courses, and alpine slides—all set in Bukidnon’s cool highland climate.

Talaandig Cultural Village (Lantapan)

This Indigenous heritage site features traditional earth houses, musical performances, and cultural immersion programs that deepen your understanding of Bukidnon’s native peoples.

Valencia City’s Market and Plaza

If you’re staying in Valencia, don’t miss the vibrant public market, where you can shop for locally grown vegetables, coffee, woven crafts, and native delicacies.

These destinations offer rich detours for travelers eager to explore more of Bukidnon’s highland charm—before or after their Kalatungan expedition.

Kalatungan Falls photo by Kleomarlo, CC, via Wikimedia Commons

Takeaway

The Kalatungan Mountain Range is more than a trekking destination—it’s a profound intersection of biodiversity, cultural heritage, and sacred tradition. With its towering peaks, ancient forests, and critical watershed systems, it stands as one of the Philippines’ last true wilderness sanctuaries.

But what makes Kalatungan truly special is the deep reverence with which it is cared for. Protected not only by law but by the spiritual guardianship of the Manobo and Talaandig Peoples, the mountain offers an experience that goes beyond the physical. Every step through its trails becomes a journey through living culture and ecological harmony.

For hikers, conservationists, and mindful travelers, Kalatungan is both a challenge and an invitation—to explore respectfully, to learn from Indigenous wisdom, and to witness the powerful beauty of a mountain that has endured through time.

Whether you come to reach its peak, to observe its wildlife, or to connect with the stories held in its forests, Kalatungan offers an experience that is as humbling as it is unforgettable.