Facts
- Elevation: 1,603 m (5,259 ft)
- Prominence: 1,577 m
- Ribu category:
Kurang Tinggi
- Region:
Central Philippines
- Island: Palawan
- Coordinates: 10.1242, 118.9950
- Rating:
- World Ribus ID: 69525
Bagging It!
Cleopatra Needle is the highest in Puerto Princesa City area and its name comes from a distinctive natural stone obelisk or “needle” formation visible at the peak, evoking Cleopatra’s famed monument. Although primarily known via local trip narratives, formal guide or trail reports are rare.
It is typically done as a 3– or 4‑day backtrack or traverse hike. Advanced booking with the Batak Visitor Center and use of local Batak guides are required.
Practicalities
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- Getting there: Most expeditions begin via Barangay Tanabag or Cabayugan, accessible from Puerto Princesa (via bus or van to the Batak Visitor Center). From there, trekkers pass through Batak village and multiple river crossings including the Amanturunon, Riandakan, Silpan, Buragat, and Nagbidok rivers before reaching campsites en route to the summit.
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- Permits: Hiking requires registration through the local DENR/Batak Visitor Center and coordination with the Batak community.
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- Water sources: River crossings are frequent, offering multiple opportunities to refill water in the approach days (especially during the first 8+ hours of trekking).
Local Average Monthly Rainfall (in Puerto Princesa)
Location
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Origins and Meaning
This peak’s name derives from a needle‑shaped rock formation atop the summit, likened to Cleopatra’s Needle obelisk.