Mount Tapyas | Coron

Mount Tapyas is a prominent 210-meter (689-foot) mountain located directly behind Coron Town Proper on Busuanga Island, Palawan. It is the town's most iconic landmark, distinguished by a massive white cross and a "CORON" sign visible from the sea.

Visual Characteristics

The mountain is covered in cogon grass, giving it a golden appearance during the dry season and a lush green look during the wet season. The summit is relatively flat and features concrete viewing decks and benches. From the top, visitors have a 360-degree view encompassing Coron Town, the harbor, and the distant limestone peaks of Coron Island.

Location & Access Logistics

Address: Mount Tapyas, Coron, Palawan, Philippines.

Access: The trailhead is located at the end of San Agustin Street in Coron Town Proper.

Transport: * Walking: Accessible on foot from most hotels within the town center.

Tricycle: Can take you to the base of the stairs.

The Climb: Reaching the summit requires ascending approximately 721 concrete steps. There are several covered resting platforms along the way.

Entry: No entrance fee.

Historical & Cultural Origin

The name "Tapyas" means "chipped" or "sliced" in the local dialect, referring to the mountain's shape. The giant iron cross at the summit was erected to signify the town's predominantly Catholic faith and serves as a beacon for local fishermen. It was destroyed by Super Typhoon Yolanda in 2013 but was subsequently rebuilt and reinforced.

Key Highlights & Activities

Sunset Viewing: The premier activity. The summit offers an unobstructed view of the sun dropping behind the mountains of Busuanga.

Photography: Capture the town grid, the "CORON" sign, and the sweeping seascape of the Bacuit Archipelago.

Exercise: The stairs are frequently used by locals and tourists for cardiovascular training.

Stargazing: Once the sun sets, the summit provides a dark vantage point for viewing the night sky.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The summit has a large viewing deck, a concrete pavilion for shade, and several benches. The entire path is well-lit at night, making evening descents safe. There are no shops or restrooms at the top; vendors usually sell bottled water and snacks at the base and occasionally at the mid-way resting points. 4G/5G cellular coverage is strong.

Best Time to Visit

16:30 to 18:00: To reach the summit in time for sunset while avoiding the peak afternoon heat.

05:00 AM: For those who prefer a sunrise view and cooler temperatures during the climb.

Dry Season (December to May): Ensures clear horizons and dry, non-slippery steps.

Rules

Waste Management: Do not leave trash at the summit; carry all waste back down to the town bins.

Vandalism: Prohibited on the cross, the sign, and the viewing deck structures.

Safety: Stay within the fenced areas at the summit, as the drop-offs beyond the cogon grass can be steep.

Nearby Landmarks

Coron Town Proper: Directly at the base.

Maquinit Hot Springs: 5.0 km East.

Coron Port: 1.5 km South.