Things to see and do Mambucal

Within the hotel complex, it is possible to go up the river with seven waterfalls, punctuated with fresh water pools, but it is no longer allowed to swim there. To the great displeasure of the inhabitants who try to keep a clean place, the edges of the pools are regularly decorated with potato chip wrappers and Coke cans. Several pools, both hot and cold water, are grouped together at the bottom of the rivers. Rafting and canoeing were once available. Not really a must-do activity.

This active volcano has two craters and three hectares of ridge. It is the highest mountain of Negros Island, with a peak of 2,465 meters. Its national park is home to various species of birds and a varied flora, including the fruit dove of Negros, a kind of endemic pigeon. Given the risks of eruption, one cannot decide on a whim to make the ascent. It is necessary to organize its journey. The camp Guintubdan is the starting point for the trek. From the summit, the view on the province of Bacolod is superb. If the weather is good, we can see the whole island of Negros, the islands of Panay, Siquijor and Cebu. The big lake between the two mountains is almost supernatural. The ascent can start from Carlota. From Mambucal, it is best to start the adventure by Jeepney. The volcano is a favorite site for mountaineering enthusiasts, especially since the park has adopted the universal trail marking system, making the place more attractive.

Practicalities. To obtain the permit to enter the volcano (500 PHP), you have to inquire at the tourist office of Bacolod. Attention: a limited number of hikers are allowed to make the ascent each year (from March to May or from October to December). The guides who accompany you for two nights and three days share their knowledge and the camping is very well organized. You can find a guide through the tourist office (about 700 PHP/day) or a global package through a local agency (about 6 000 PHP).