Mount Naliwatan

Facts

• Elevation: 1,346 m (4,416 ft)
• Prominence: 1,346 m
• Ribu category:  Kurang Tinggi
• Region:  Central Philippines
• Island: Biliran
• Coordinates: 11.6500, 124.4617
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• World Ribus ID: 69536

The highest peak in the Tres Marias Range. Mount Naliwatan is renowned for its mossy forests, biodiversity, and scenic vistas. The Tres Marias Range includes:

• Peak 1: Mount Sugo (1,180m) near Mount Sua 

• Peak 2 (1,250m)

• Peak 3: Mount Naliwatan

The standard ascent begins at Barangay Sampao (320m) in Almeria, Biliran, where trekkers need to register before setting off. The trail initially follows local paths through the community, continues alongside irrigation canals, and weaves through farmland and coconut groves, following the Sampao river. Early in the hike, you cross several streams and encounter a succession of impressive waterfalls including Ulan-Ulan, Recoletos, and Nomads Falls. Once past the waterfalls, the route enters a mossy forest typical of high Visayan peaks. Campsites are conveniently spaced including Aeta Camp (960m) and the Naliwatan campsite at the summit. The other two lower Tres Marias peaks are to the north-west.

The final push requiring hikers to duck and crawl under tangled roots in the densely forested section. Most hikers complete the climb as a two-day trip: the first day is spent approaching and reaching the main campsite, while the second day’s early hours are reserved for the summit assault, which is rewarded with panoramic island views. The descent, which is faster, often includes stops at waterfalls for a refreshing swim before returning to the jump-off.

Practicalities

• • Getting there: To reach Mount Naliwatan from Manila, fly to Tacloban City in Leyte. From Tacloban, travel overland by van or bus for about two and a half to three hours to reach Naval, the capital of Biliran province. From Naval’s main terminal, local transport options—such as tricycles or habal-habal motorcycles—are available to reach Barangay Sampao, which serves as the main registration and jump-off point for the hike.

• • Permits: Registration is required at Barangay Sampao prior to the trek. Local guides, often members of the Mamanwa indigenous community, are recommended both for safety and to support responsible tourism. Although the area is not part of a formal national park, local rules apply, and large or organized groups should coordinate with the barangay ahead of time.

• • Water sources: Several reliable water sources are found along the trail, especially near the waterfalls and at points close to the campsites. 

Local Average Monthly Rainfall (in Cebu)

Location