Known in local folklore as Daragang Magayon (beautiful lady), this landmark volcano in the Bicol region gets its name from a local legend about ill-fated lovers, and it is said that if a person has a glimpse of its beautiful nearly perfect cone in full view–one is pure of heart.
Mayon Volcano in Albay is known in local folklore as Magayon, the maiden in a legend who finds herself dying in the arms of her lover, then rising to live as this gorgeous but raging volcano. The clouds ('Ulap') is her lover, protective of her beauty, and it is more often that visitors in Legazpi City wishing to see this volcano only see parts of it, the jealous clouds covering its peak.
It is widely known by locals and mentioned to tourists that only the pure of heart and intention have the privilege of having a glimpse of Mayon in full stunning view, so one feels extra special and lucky whenever the shy volcano reveals itself. Mysterious, alluring, and a natural beauty, Mayon has inspired artists of all kinds. Perhaps it's because of her near-perfect cone and gorgeous symmetry, or the timeless love story behind it all.
Where: Mayon Volcano (Mt. Mayon), Albay, Philippines (vantage point from Legazpi City)
Getting There: It is approximately 50 minutes to fly from Manila to Legazpi. Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and Tigerair have flights from Manila to Legazpi City. Land transportation (bus liners) from Manila to Legazpi also available, travel time approximately 12 hours.
Tip: Cagsawa Ruins in Barangay Busay, Cagsawa, is a top tourist spot of Legazpi City with an iconic view of the tower and Mayon. This place gets crowds of tourists regularly, and if they get in your way of picture-taking, head to Ligñon Hill Nature Park, the highest hill in the city with a sweeping 360-degree view of Legazpi. If the park wasn't able to deliver a picture-perfect Mayon for you, perhaps in Daraga Church (Nuestra Señora de la Porteria/Our Lady of the Gate Church), you will be more lucky. The church overlooks the town of Daraga, and just as soon as you step outside if it, a panoramic sight of Mayon. If you want a more exclusive experience with Mount Mayon, Misibis Bay offers a private sunset cruise so that you can greet her as the sun is setting, or avail of the special chopper tour for an unparalleled aerial experience of Mayon, Pili Nut Hills, and Nag-Aso lake.
