"Vulcan- Exploring Mount Pinatubo" Angeles by IccaDantes

Pinatubo is an active volcano which can be found in the borders of provinces like Zambales, Tarlac and Pampangga. This majestic volcano produced the second largest terrestrial eruption of the 20th century when it wreaked its anger in 1991.

The eruption was felt worldwide ejecting billions of metric tonnes of magma adn millions of tonnes of SO2. I remember as a child seeing the skies turn dark, a thick layer or ash covering everything like it snowed and the funky smell of sulfur.

800 people were killed by the climactic eruption and millions of livestock and properties were damaged. The awakening of the giant was simply devastating to all Filipinos and the rest of the world since it was recorded that the eruption caused a severe damage to the already depleted ozone layer.

Now, Mount Pinatubo lays quietly in the surrounding provinces of Luzon. Its majesty awed by those who got the chance to climb the sleeping giant.

4x4 ride

In order to reach the crater, you must go to an approximate hour drive using a 4x4 truck to reach the summit and the volcano's crater. 4x4 Jeeps costs around 4,500 for a group of 5. You need to register in the Local Travel Office for safety and record purposes. Travelling to the the place is at your own risk and the government will ask for you to sign a waiver.

The ride was certainly a treat since you would have a first hand experience of the bizarre canyons formed by the eruption way back in '91. The view is simply spectacular and you would not help but take photos after photos.

Local tribes called the 'Aetas' have also settled in the area and their only means of livelihood are livestock, farming and the donations they get from tourist who visits the village in which they reside.

swimming in the crater

With an hour's drive and a short 15 minute walk, there it was... A shade of aquamarine and teal... The crater's grandeur was so inviting that you could not resist but take a dip in its surprisingly cold waters.

However, one should be very careful as the depth of the crater's water is undetermined. One is also asked to keep their voice down as loud sounds causes the walls of the crater to erode causing landslides.

It makes you feel one with nature due to the silence and picturesque scenery. Pristine beauty and tranquility You cannot help but marvel at the beauty of this enchanted place.

A definite must to visit...

• Pros:An amazing adventure for everyone
• Cons:Can be dangerous during the rainy season
• In a nutshell:I've died and gone to aquamarine heaven