Hive Philippines Travel and Nature Photography #1132 - by Allmonitors

#1132 - Kabayan Benguet Shots for Thursday.

Here's to a bright and cheerful Thursday to us all beloved Hive community across the globe! May your day be smooth and your heart be content. Stay safe, keep shining and let's look forward to a wonderful weekend ahead. You are all appreciated here🌞🙏.

Moving on to our daily shots, it was around three in the afternoon when we finally begin the hike to the four lakes in Kabayan, Benguet. The sky was cloudy already casting a gray light over the landscape. I was here with my wife and our close friend Dandreb. Before we hit the trail, we dropped by the ranger station to secure a guide. We were assigned a young local female guide who is knowledgeable and enthusiastic about our trek ahead.

As we started walking, the temperature was starting to get cold which felt strange for an afternoon hike. Typically in other areas, the late afternoons offer some warmth but not here. We zipped up our jackets. Our guide explained that the cold was a result of several factors like the high elevation, the thick rain forest and the transition into a mossy forest zone. Clouds and fog drifted through the trees and the mountains, wrapping us in a misty veil as we climbed higher.

Our first stop was the Lake Ambulalacao. The walk to get there was an experience. The ground was soft and some covered with moss that carpeted the roots and trees looking ancient. As we navigated, our guide kept us entertained with stories. She tells the history and local legends surrounding the lake. She also started telling us about the other lakes.

Listening to her stories made the hike felt special. It wasn't just about walking or trekking from point A to point B, there was about understanding the spirit of the place also included. My wife, Dandreb and I were getting it all in, while putting mild jokes at some points. We were miles away from the civilization and surrounded by nothing but nature and the sound of our own breathing. It was a chill and magical start to our adventure. More to follow.

Follow me on my nature travels.
Shot taken in Kabayan Benguet, Philippines.