About Mayon Volcano
Mayon Volcano is an active stratovolcano located in Albay Province, Bicol Region, about 10 km northwest of Legazpi City. Renowned for its near-perfect symmetrical cone, it is considered the most active volcano in the Philippines. Protected as Mayon Volcano Natural Park, it dominates the landscape of Albay and is a national natural landmark and iconic symbol of the region.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect distant viewing of Mayon's iconic perfect cone from designated viewpoints around Legazpi City and nearby municipalities. The volcano is viewed from parks, hills, and ruins rather than climbed to the summit. The setting includes lava fields, grasslands, and agricultural plains at its base. Common experiences include photography, ATV rides on old lava trails, and panoramic views from Lignon Hill and Cagsawa Ruins Park. The crater itself is not accessible to tourists.
Key highlights
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Near-perfect symmetrical cone considered the world's most perfect volcanic cone
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Most active volcano in the Philippines with over 50 recorded eruptions
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Centerpiece of Mayon Volcano Natural Park, a protected landscape covering 5,775 hectares
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Views from Cagsawa Ruins Park where the 1814 eruption buried the town of Cagsawa
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ATV adventure trails across volcanic boulders, lava fields and lahar channels at the base
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Panoramic viewpoints from Lignon Hill Nature Park in Legazpi City
History of Mayon Volcano
Mayon is the most active volcano in the Philippines, with more than 50 eruptions recorded since 1616. Its most destructive eruption on February 1, 1814 buried the town of Cagsawa and killed an estimated 1,200 people, leaving only the Cagsawa Church bell tower. Declared a national park in 1938 and reclassified as Mayon Volcano Natural Park in 2000 under Proclamation No. 413, it is managed as a protected landscape.
Culture & Context
Mayon is central to Bicolano identity and folklore, most notably the legend of Daragang Magayon (Beautiful Lady), from whom the volcano's name is said to derive. The volcano is a symbol of Albay Province, featured on local seals and crafts, and the Cagsawa Ruins are a cultural heritage site commemorating the 1814 eruption.