Exploring Volcano Island
A Journey to the Heart of Taal
13 minute read ∼ Tagged with : Philippines • Tagaytay ∼ Filed in : Travel • Landscape • OutdoorExploring Volcano Island
Before the pandemic, Volcano Island in the middle of Taal Lake was accessible to everyone. Local residents and tourists alike flocked to this island to experience the thrill of climbing the inner volcano. Here’s a glimpse into my unforgettable trip to Volcano Island, nestled within the active Taal Volcano.
My journey began in Tagaytay, a city known for its stunning view of Taal Volcano.
From there, I took a motorized boat, locally known as a bangka, across Taal Lake to reach Volcano Island.

A Bangka
(cc by) Zaldy Fabia

Parked Bangkas by the Lakeside
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Bangka Ride to the Island
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A Bangka Going to the Island
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View of the Island from a Bangka
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Upon arrival, I was greeted by the warm and friendly community residing there.
To reach the summit of the inner volcano, visitors had two options: a scenic walk or a horseback ride.

Trail To The Top
(cc by) Zaldy Fabia

People and Horse Going To and From the Top
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Tourists Coming Down the Volcano
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Horses Ride to teh Top
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Tourists Enjoying the Ride
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Along the winding trail, I encountered numerous fumaroles—steaming holes in the ground that offered a stark reminder of the island’s volcanic nature.

Fumarole
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Volcanic Smoke Coming Out of a Small Fumarole
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Volcanic Smoke Coming Out of a Big Fumarole
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The journey was filled with other captivating sights, making every step worthwhile.

Flora on the Island
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Viewing Deck on Top of the Volcano
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Rocky Trail
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Rocks and Plants
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Upon reaching the top, the view was nothing short of spectacular. The inner lake of Taal Volcano stretched out before me, while the outer lake and surrounding landscape completed the breathtaking panorama.

The Inner Lake from the Viewing Deck
(cc by) Zaldy Fabia

The Inner Lake from the Viewing Deck
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The Inner Lake from the Viewing Deck
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The Inner Lake from the Viewing Deck
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The Inner Lake from the Viewing Deck
(cc by) Zaldy Fabia

The Inner Lake from the Viewing Deck
(cc by) Zaldy Fabia


Small Island on Taal's Inner Lake
(cc by) Zaldy Fabia

Small Island on Taal's Inner Lake
(cc by) Zaldy Fabia

People Enjoying the Inner Lake of Taal
(cc by) Zaldy Fabia

View of the Side of Taal's Main Creater from the Viewing Deck
(cc by) Zaldy Fabia

Volcanic Smokes from the Ground
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Volcanic Smokes from the Ground
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Volcanic Smokes from the Ground
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Volcanic Smokes from the Ground
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Filling Up the Inner Lake
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The Other Side of Taal's Main Creater
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View From The Deck
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Fish Pens on the Outer Lake of Taal
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View of Taal Lake and Tagaytay from Volcano Island
(cc by) Zaldy Fabia

View of Taal Lake and Tagaytay from Volcano Island
(cc by) Zaldy Fabia

View of the Island and Outer Lake from the Viewing Deck
(cc by) Zaldy Fabia

Binintiang Malaki (Big Leg) from the Viewing Deck
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Binintiang Malaki (Big Leg)
(cc by) Zaldy Fabia

Trail View
(cc by) Zaldy Fabia

Trail View
(cc by) Zaldy Fabia
Sadly, due to the recent volcanic activity, Volcano Island is now off-limits. The government has declared it a “No Man’s Land,” prioritizing safety over exploration.
I cherish the memories of my visit to Volcano Island, and while it’s no longer accessible, the stories of its beauty and power continue to captivate those who hear them.