Rough Groove

Mt. Marami itinerary

I just have to post this one as I have received many requests. About this mountain, while it is a simple and leisurely trip, the many trails crisscrossing the path can mislead climbers. It would be better that for first time climbers, a guide is a must. Also, the trek can be very draining if it is hot and humid as forest cover is nonexistent except for cultivated or patches of vegetation and sometimes scant secondary growth and can also be very muddy and slippery if it rains. However, views are magnificent especially at the “stone pillars” that comprise the peak.

Below is the itinerary from Arvin Arcilla, Explocom Head, Smart Mountaineering Club:

Day 1

0400H – Assembly at McDo, Baclaran (along Roxas Boulevard )

0500H – ETD for Naic, Cavite

0700H – ETA, Naic, Cavite / Jeepney ride to Magallanes

0800H – ETA, Magallanes Police Station / Tricycle ride to Bgy. Ramirez

0830H – ETA, Bgy. Ramirez (jump-off) / Registration / Breakfast (or you can have it along the way)

0900H – Start trek

1045H – ETA, Nuestra Señora dela Paz signage

1200H – ETA, Nipa Hut / Lunch along the trail

1430H – ETA, First campsite

1630H – ETA, Bamboo forest

1800H – ETA, Campsite / Set camp / Dinner

2000H – Socials

2300H – Lights out

 

Day 2

0500H – Wake-up call / Summit assault

0630H – Back to campsite / Breakfast

0800H – Break camp

0845H – Group photos

0900H – Start descent

1200H – Lunch along the trail

1300H – Resume trek

1400H – ETA, Bgy. Hall / Wash-up

1600H – ETD for Magallanes jeepney terminal

1630H – ETA, Magallanes jeepney terminal / Jeepney ride to Naic, Cavite

1730H – ETA, Naic, Cavite / Bus ride to Baclaran

2000H – ETA, Baclaran

 

Budgeted Expenses (excluding food):

Reminders

1. Although this is a minor climb – a seeming insult to your training – do not take this mountain for granted. You still need the usual preparations. Never underestimate any mountain.

2. Refresh yourselves on dealing with the local community. We will also be trekking along farmlands, so be conscious. Remember low impact mountaineering.

3. Wear appropriate trekking shoes. Expect a muddy trail.

4. Water-proof your things. There will be rivers to cross.

5. To avoid unwanted delays during the trek, please observe the following:

Ø Packed breakfast and lunch for Day 1

Ø Packed lunch for Day 2 (to be prepared in the morning of the same day)

6. Bring adequate trail food.

7. Minimum water load is 4 liters. There are water sources available, but from exploration group’s experience, it’s not fit for drinking.

8. Others:

Ø Sun protection

Ø Rain gear

Ø Head lamp

Ø Malong (It’s a must!)

9. Remember what you have learned from your basics, and do not forget the lessons learned from Tapulao and from the Simply Amazing Race. Be responsible mountaineers.

10. Have a great time

By the way, I’m a member of Smart Mountaineering Club and every year we accept interested parties (not necessary employees of Smart) to be part of this vibrant group. If you’re interested, just drop me a line.