Mount Kanlaon is an active stratovolcano and the highest peak in the Visayas (2,465m/8,087ft) — part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, with a recorded history of roughly 30 eruptions since 1819, most producing minor ash fall.

IMPORTANT — TIME-SENSITIVE SAFETY NOTE: access to Mt. Kanlaon has been restricted or fully prohibited during periods of volcanic unrest, including after a fatal 1996 eruption that killed climbers, and at least one recent source describes hiking as currently prohibited due to volcanic activity. Check current PHIVOLCS advisories and DENR permit status directly before publishing or acting on any specific hiking plan — do not assume the mountain is open based on older trip reports.

When open, treks typically launch from Canlaon City via the Guintubdan trailhead on the western slopes, running 2-3 days to reach the summit/crater saddle, with three hot springs (Bucalan, Bungol, Mambucal) in the wider park area. DENR permits (via offices in Canlaon City or La Carlota) and a registered guide are required even in normal conditions — this was never a casual walk-up hike.

HOW TO GET THERE: Via Canlaon City — reachable from Bacolod-Silay Airport by bus/taxi to Bacolod’s South Bus Terminal, then onward transport to Canlaon.

BEST TIME: N/A until current access status is confirmed — this is not a destination to plan around a fixed season without first checking whether the mountain is even open.