The Taal Volcano in Tagaytay, Philippines

The Taal volcano in the Philippines is believed to be one of the world's smallest and lowest but yet active volcano. The Taal volcano stands on its own island amid a landscape of cinder and ash in Tagaytay. This place is considered the country's second summer destination of the Philippines due to the crisp and cool climate all year round. Its climate is similar to that of Manila but with cooler winds along with no pollution. Tagaytay is just an hour's drive from Manila.

Tagaytay is where one can view the Taal volcano which is 37 miles south of Manila in the mountains of the Cavite province. Tagaytay sits on a 600 meter ridge which gives an excellent view of the Taal volcano but because its cool climate, it is prone to fog. Tagaytay is recognized to be a city of scenic contrasts. The Taal volcano is situated in Taal Lake and orchards of fresh home grown fruits with modern suitable facilities and amenities such as the Casino Filipino Tagaytay. Whether you are a local or a tourist, one must really experience the sight of the Taal volcano in order to appreciate it for its breathtaking beauty. It is a rare opportunity and the natives of Tagaytay along with Filipinos are extremely proud of its magnificence. Tagaytay is also known to have congregational houses as well as retreat centers which houses spiritual seminars and where one goes to meditate. The retreat centers have been bestowed the title of Center of Spiritual Retreat.

Tagaytay City is located 2,500 feet above sea level and has a cool climate, low temperature, low humidity and is plentiful when it comes to rain. The average temperature is 22.7 Celsius. Tagaytay is a great place to visit in the summer for one to just relax and lay back and enjoy the cool climate. If a visitor is interested in a climb, a jumping off point is located in the small town of Talisay which is on the shore of the Taal Lake. Visitors can rent a boat along with a guide in Talisay for the price of P1000 or $21.28. Visitors can climb to the new crater or the old crater and both of them are active.

The Government Agencies which include the Department of Tourism (also known as DOT) as well as the Philippine Tourism Authority have constructed a public park and the Picnic Groove in the city which aids in the industrial growth of the city known as Tagaytay. These are perfect picnic spots for families. Anyone interested in having a delicious lunch, should try out one of the many native cuisine restaurants along the shore of Talisay. Visitors can find out more information about the Taal Volcano as well as other volcanoes at the Taal Volcano Science House which is roughly 3 miles west of Talisay in Buco, next to the Buco Resort.

The Taal Volcano is still active and occasionally there are tremors which causes the authorities to issue warnings in regards to evacuations to the local residents. The Taal Volcano last erupted in 1965, without causing extensive damage to the city itself. Major damage though was caused in 1754 which was considered to be the most devastating because afterward the town of Taal was in ruin and many people had perished.