About Mount Ugu
Mount Ugu, also known as Mount Ugo, is a prominent peak on the border of Kayapa in Nueva Vizcaya and Itogon and Kabayan in Benguet, Philippines. Standing at approximately 2,150 meters above sea level, it is one of the major hiking destinations in the Cordillera Central range. Notable for its pine forests, grassland ridges, sea of clouds, and panoramic views, it forms part of the popular Mount Ugo Traverse trail.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a challenging hike through pine forests, mossy forests, and open grassland ridges leading to a broad summit with panoramic views of the Cordillera mountains and sea of clouds at sunrise. The trail includes established campsites, village jump-off points, and ridge walks. The traverse route connects Kayapa in Nueva Vizcaya with Itogon and Kabayan in Benguet, passing through indigenous communities and scenic highland landscapes.
Key highlights
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Summit at approximately 2,150 meters above sea level with panoramic Cordillera views
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Sea of clouds and sunrise views from the summit and ridges
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Pine forests and grassland ridges along the traverse
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Popular Mount Ugo Traverse connecting Nueva Vizcaya and Benguet
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Campsites along the trail for overnight hikes
Culture & Context
The mountain lies within ancestral lands of Ibaloi and Kalanguya indigenous communities of Benguet and Nueva Vizcaya, where highland landscapes and forests hold traditional cultural importance.
Route
| By air | Fly to Clark International Airport or Loakan Airport in Baguio, then travel by road to Kayapa or Itogon |
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| By road | Access via Kayapa town proper in Nueva Vizcaya or via Itogon/Kabayan in Benguet. From Baguio City, travel by road to Itogon or Kayapa jump-off points, then hike to the summit. Private van or bus to Baguio followed by jeepney or hired vehicle to the jump-off is commonly used. |