Destination: Taal Volcano - 10

We arrived safely at the foot of the mountain. Well, it was a fun-filled experience for all of us though our sight-seeing trip was short. I suggest that you'll climb the crater in the earliest possible time so that you'll have ample time to enjoy the view and you'll also have enough time to freely roam around.



The banca that we rode this morning had been waiting for us. During the afternoon, waves start to grow bigger. You have to wear your life vest to secure yourself. But since it was just a 20-minute ride, you don't have to be that afraid during the course of the trip. Anyway, from time to time, bancas are just within your sight. Just enjoy the trip and ride high with the waves.



We had lunch at our contact's place. Though part of the package was a sumptuous lunch, we had other things in mind about the food. There was nothing extra-ordinary about the food. But since we were already hungry, we simply enjoyed our food.



After lunch, we still had enough time to enjoy the day. We agreed to visit other places in Tagaytay, since we were already there. And so we had to endure again the zigzag ride going to Tagaytay, praying that we will have a safe passage.

Destination: Taal Volcano - 9

It was almost 11:30am when we decided to return to Talisay. For sure, this will be another adventure for all of us since we were going to have another horse ride down the mountain.



When going down the mountain, this time, you have to lean backwards in order to balance the ride. It was a good experience because from time to time, little lessons could be learned along the way.



Our downhill ride was a bit slow because it would be a dangerous one if you are going to hurry given the nature of the place. Sharp rocks and narrow pathways should be carefully considered and you should be extra careful not to get hurt in the process.



Since the trail was dry and when riders converged all together, dusts freely fly all over the place. You must have something to cover your nose or even your face.



There was one funny moment during our downhill ride. There was a lady tourist who rode a small horse. If the horse could only say its piece, for sure, it will not take the lady for another ride. There was an instance in the trail when the horse seemed to lost its balance because of its load. Luckily, the guide was quick enough to help the horse and they had to stay stationary for a while in order for the horse to regain its balance, allowing other riders to move ahead of them.

Destination: Taal Volcano - 8

It was interesting to know that a portion of the mountain was red in color. There could be reasons behind this fact. I had seen likewise grounds that are red but they were not part of any volcanic region. Anyway, as we continue to explore the other side of the mountain, our eyes continue to feast on the beauty of this nature.



Even though it was high noon, we did not mind the scorching heat of the sun. From time to time, clouds would cover the sun and the blowing wind made us feel that the heat of the sun was not really that hot.



And we also enjoy the liberty of filling our lungs with fresh air. Since the city offers only 20% of oxygen, here at Taal volcano, it was definitely 100%. You could actually feel the big difference of the air you breathe the moment you stepped out of the city. And if it was possible to bring home some fresh air, definitely we could have filled some bottles in the process. Hehe



When your skin is sensitive, you have to consider wearing a protective piece of clothing. Wild grass and other shrubs may cut through your arms and legs. So, you have to be ready and be prepared for this kind of adventure.

Destination: Taal Volcano - 7

As we admire its beauty and enjoy the moment, we also make sure that we will have souvenirs in the process. And from the very moment that we set foot on the viewing deck, picture taking was definitely inevitable.



These steps were provided in order for tourists to have another perspective of the crater. Admittedly, though it seemed that I was enjoying the pic, I was not comfortable of my position due to heights.



We moved around, trying to explore the place. Our plan was to go down to the main crater but the guide was quite expensive. They will charge you an extra amount as high as 2500 pesos. OMG. That was an extortion in a subtle manner. We were able to negotiate up to 1000 pesos but we were not permitted by our contact since it was dangerous. We did not push our luck.



From our distance, we could see a portion of the crater that emits smoke. It is better safe than sorry so we did not insist anymore on landing to the main crater and have the feel of the hot water there (except perhaps if we were to jump from the cliff, hehe). I wonder what could be the feel of a volcanic smoke?



And during the course of our sightseeing, I happened to notice this interesting image on the crater? Hmmm? I wonder if there is a giant sperm whale here? What dya think?

Destination: Taal Volcano - 6

When I finally reached the end of the road, I rushed to the summit to join my group. I rushed to the top through the sandbag steps. And from my end, I could see that they were already enjoying taking pictures.



Welcome to the world's smallest active volcano. There is a small island in the main crater. The volcano itself is situated in an island within a lake. And it was such a delight seeing bodies of water being contained and divided by mountains. It was really an adventure worth spending for.



I asked one of our tour guides to take pictures of us. This very moment was indeed a memory to cherish. I knew that we were all ecstatic about this wondrous journey and the reward of reaching this part was simply beyond words to describe.



The view was simply breathtaking and personally, I would not mind spending a couple of days here just to admire its beauty. I could simply find a comfortable area, stare at the crater and its surroundings, and unload my woes.



As I savor the gentle sensation of the place, it did not entered my mind that this volcano was in active level 2 at that time. It can be most beautiful when it is calm and when it erupts, it could be a monster at its best. I felt lucky that I was able to spend some time here and most probably, this will not be my last.