Tuesday, March 23, 2010

Mt. Tampurong (An Un-spoiled Mountain on Mt. Apo's Foot)


Last February 27, 2010 I was invited by a mountaineering group named HADAMS ( Habagatang Davao Mountaineering Society) to join their training climb in Mt. Tampurong , Matti , Davao del Sur and due to my eagerness to climb the area and conduct a mapping ,, I joined without any doubt of what lies ahead of this adventure.


Tampurong as they call is one of the neighboring mountains of Mt. Apo with an elevation of 1,694 masl based on my Etrex Legend GPS by Garmin. Even with the low elevation compared to Apo, it still features several wild orchids and moss carpeting along the trail as proof of the area’s flora diversity. Also wild boars presence can be seen along the trail and also serpent eagle hawks and birds soaring in the area .


Our trek started in Brgy. Matti following a horse trail for about two hours goin to the base of Mt. Tampurong where we had our lunch and load water which would last until tomorrow for there is no water source at the campsite. Also we cooked our food for dinner so we would not require to bring more water for cooking.

On our way up , I consider it as a very technical one for there is no established trail and we just followed a hunters trail which was not used for a long period and according to Jun Aligway ( Hadams VP and Head of Operations) they climb Tampurong only once a year with not more than 30 participants that’s why it stays untouched that way plus considering the many Romblon leaves and other plants with thorns that could give you scratches .


The campsite situated in the summit is covered with ferns and moss under forest trees which could accommodate around 50 climbers or around 20 tents.


On the second day, we took the route on the left side of the mountain facing Brgy, Balutakay which brought us to Tampurong River that lead to what they Virgin falls where we refill water ,take lunch and had a splash on the clear water to refresh our warm bodies . After a while we continue the trek for around thirty minutes where we arrive at Campo 1 where our vehicle bound for Digos City awaits.


My experience to Mt. Tampurong gives me a different experience in mountain climbing and brought me to the most untouched place in my mountaineering carrier,,,,with a consolation of knowing new friends and gorgeous models for my blog,,,,,,Alright..