Things To Do
in Mataas Na Kahoy
Mataas Na Kahoy is a highland municipality in Batangas known for its cool climate and verdant farmland. The town sits on gentle hills with sweeping views toward Taal Lake and the surrounding ridge lines on clear days. Its life revolves around agriculture, coffee farming, and a warm, rural hospitality that welcomes visitors.
Travelers seeking a slower pace and rural Filipino charm will find plentiful photo-worthy landscapes just a short drive from the bay area.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day early with a hearty breakfast at a local eatery before heading to Taal Lake. Your adventure begins with a boat ride across the serene waters, offering picturesque views of the surrounding landscape. As you approach the volcano, take a moment to appreciate the lush greenery and the tranquil atmosphere that envelops the lake.
After a guided trek to the summit, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the crater and the surrounding area. Treat yourself to a packed lunch with local delicacies while soaking in the stunning scenery. Spend some time exploring the unique geological features before descending back to the boat for the return journey.
Conclude your day with a leisurely dinner at a lakeside restaurant, savoring fresh seafood caught from the waters. As the sun sets, witness the vibrant colors reflecting on the lake, creating a picturesque backdrop. Relax and unwind while sharing stories about your day's adventure with fellow travelers.
Begin your day by visiting the local market, where you can experience the vibrant culture of Mataas Na Kahoy. Stroll through the colorful stalls filled with fresh produce, handicrafts, and local delicacies while engaging with friendly vendors. This delightful morning gives you a taste of community life and an opportunity to buy souvenirs.
After lunch, head to the barangay hall to participate in a traditional weaving workshop, learning the art of crafting intricate textiles. Guided by skilled artisans, you'll gain insight into the cultural significance of weaving in the local community. As you create your own piece, feel the connection to the rich heritage of the area.
Enjoy a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, where you can sample regional specialties prepared with fresh ingredients. Engage in conversations with locals and fellow travelers, sharing experiences and stories. As the evening unfolds, listen to traditional Filipino music, immersing yourself further into the culture.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🧃Local drink or bottled water | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🍰Snack or dessert | $1-3 |
| 🚍Local transport (short ride) | $0.5-2 |
| 🏨Basic hotel room per night | $25-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Cooler climate and scenic rural landscapes
- Warm, welcoming local communities with rich agricultural culture
- Limited nightlife and some remote areas may have infrequent public transport
- Travel times can be longer due to winding rural roads and traffic around major hubs
- "Magandang araw" - Good day
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Magkano ito?" - How much is this?
- "Saan ang banyo?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Mataas Na Kahoy
Visit one of these nice places.
Elevated outlook along the ridgeline offering warm sunset colors over fields and distant Taal Lake on clear days.
A stand of pines along a hillside ideal for atmospheric morning light, misty landscapes, and nature portraits.
The plaza features local life, rustic architecture, and gentle evening light for candid shots and street photography.
Food in Mataas Na Kahoy
Mataas Na Kahoy Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A comforting beef shank stew simmered until tender, typically served with corn, cabbage, and potatoes. Look for it in local eateries around Poblacion.
Must-Try!
A rare freshwater sardine from nearby Taal Lake, often fried and served with garlic, rice, and calamansi.
A hearty noodle soup with thick egg noodles, meat or seafood toppings, and a glossy, savory sauce, popular at local eateries.
Bold, robust coffee grown in the region; try a cup in a family-run cafe.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub of farmers, fishers, and street snack stalls; sample banana cue, turon, and freshly squeezed fruits.
Evening stalls along the plaza offer fried snacks, maize on the cob, and sweet desserts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, remove hats when entering sacred spaces, and ask for permission before taking photos of people or inside temples and churches.
Greet locals with a smile, speak politely in Tagalog or Filipino dialects, and form orderly lines in markets and transport hubs.
Safety
Tipping in Mataas Na Kahoy
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not always expected in casual eateries, but rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is appreciated in restaurants and hotels.
Cash is widely accepted; many places also accept cards in larger establishments and mobile wallets like GCash, PayMaya, and Coins.ph in town shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season from roughly March to May brings hot days and cooler nights; carry water, sunscreen, and a hat. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography and outdoor activities.
June to October brings frequent afternoon showers and occasional heavy rain; plan for flexible outdoor time and protect gear with rain covers and waterproof bags.
November to February brings cooler mornings and evenings with possible mist; ideal for hiking, long walks, and clear skies for astronomy.
Mataas Na Kahoy at Night
Hiking in Mataas Na Kahoy
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular day hike with a rocky summit and majestic 'Rockies' overlook; typically a 2-4 hour round trip depending on the route.
Scenic viewpoints around the Taal Lake area offering volcanic crater scenery and photography opportunities; combine with a boat ride if available.
Airports
How to reach Mataas Na Kahoy by plane.
Main international gateway; about 60-90 minutes by fast land transport to the Batangas region, depending on traffic.
Alternative gateway in northern Pampanga; drive south toward Batangas via SCTEX.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Tagalog-speaking residents with strong agricultural roots and family-centered culture.
A mix of land-based workers and craftspeople who contribute to the town’s farming and small-business scene.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the area; local courts host pickup games and community leagues.
Common in schools, barangays, and beach resort areas; informal games are frequent in the evenings.
Filipino martial arts are practiced in community gyms and school programs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mataas Na Kahoy.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Mataas na Kahoy, you can navigate as a vegetarian by sticking to fresh vegetables, tofu dishes, seaweed salads, and fruit; ask for vegetable- and oil-free preparations where possible, and look for garlic- and ginger-based flavorings to avoid meat broths.