1. The Alpha
Standing out as the undisputed leader of the pack, the Alpha is the authoritative figure who organizes the trekking adventure. From setting expectations to handling the logistics for the trip, The Alpha does most of the leg work, when it comes to planning the hike. What’s more, the Alpha is the one who normally communicates with locals as well as makes the crucial decisions for the team in dire situations. As one of the most experienced hikers of the group, you’ll feel secure and in great hands with your leader by your side because you know that he or she has been tested by time and experience.
2. The boy/girl scout
The boy/girl scout can be a great boon for any hiking squad. From trail food and water to a complete first aid kit, these hikers have all the essentials you need for a mountain climbing adventure in the Philippines. Whether you forgot to bring a fork or a whistle, the boy/girl scout is the type of hiker that you can depend on, when you need something handy on the trail.
3. The competitive hiker
The competitive hikers, with their restless cutthroat spirit, take the whole climbing experience as a competition or a race to the top. Eve though there’s no trophy or gold medal waiting for them at the peak, these outdoor aficionados still take their hiking experience seriously, walking at a rather rapid pace, and at times leaving you in the dust. Often referred as the “Pusher”, the competitive hiker is not fond of taking five to rest, and always wants to push through to the summit as quick as humanly possible.
No Juan knows exactly what their goals are, but for the most part these people are trying to sustain their momentum, break their own records or train for their next major climb. Of course, there are also some of these outdoor buffs who climb mountains in a flash for bragging rights or they may be rushing to catch sunset shots for their Facebook feed.
4. The heartbroken (sawi sa pag-ibig)
Believe it or not, there are plenty of folks in the Philippines who hike and climb mountains just to mend a broken heart, hoping that the stunning bird’s eye view at the top and the journey to get there will help them get over their past relationship. These hikers can be pretty emotional during the trek, and would often compare climbing to moving on from a heartbreak (they also have tons of hugot lines along the hike).
As a way to forget all their heartaches and pains, these hikers consider each step in the trail as a step of moving forward and upward. And when they reach the summit, they will ask for some “me time”, so they can think deeply and heal their broken heart. Charaught!
Photo credit: kev.incredible
5. The hardcore hiker
The hardcore hikers, or also popularly called as “gigil sa bundok”, is known among their peers for their undying yearning for the mountains. They are as fit as a fiddle, and they are the ones who train the hardest, before any major climb. Furthermore, they have a seemingly endless list of mountains to hike, and they have a detailed record of their time taken to scale to the top for all their hikes. And like the competitive hiker, they like to prove something to themselves as well as to the folks around them.
6. The Amazona
The Amazona – the epitome of a modern Filipina – is an independent and strong-willed chic that can duke it out with the big boys, and challenges herself to go faster than the rest. Armed with an unquenchable thirst for adventure, the Amazona can also be classified as the competitive or hardcore hiker, except that she does not have anything to prove to any Juan. She treks on muddy trails, stands on a cliff, scrabbles through rocks, walks for hours and carries a ton of weight on her back. She rarely asks for help from others, preferring to be independent in her journey.
Want to a perfect example of the Amazona? Check out Angel Locsin’s latest Instagram snaps.
Photo credit: bisayatraveler
7. The Whiner
Steer clear of these kinds of people, once you have spotted them in your troop. Annoying and disruptive, these type of hikers complain and rant for the whole duration of the hike, sending off negative vibes as well as making you lose momentum and motivation. Normally, they are first-time hikers who never thought that climbing mountains would be so exhausting and tiring. But, it could also be a frequent hiker as well, who seems to feel that he or she is scaling a tough mountain for the first time. Surprisingly, though, these people would still be present on your next hike, in spite of their never-ending moans. Just try to channel your inner peace and try not to get affected by their moans!
8. The mountain Hokage
Ladies, please beware of the mountain Hokage and his stealthy ninja moves. While he really loves the outdoors, he does have another reason for climbing mountains – to chase beautiful girls. With his charm, wits and swift ninja moves, the mountain Hokage can steal the heart of his prey, even before the final descent. Don’t tell us we didn’t warn you!
9. The selfie expert
The selfie experts are enthusiastic hikers who love snapping pictures of themselves with the gorgeous views and peaks in the background. With their monopods and smartphones, their main goal is to find the best angles of their faces, while showcasing the beauty of Mother Nature behind. And though there’s nothing wrong with taking a selfie, it can be annoying at times, especially when they are blocking trail traffic by snapping pictures every step of the way.
Photo credit: gopole
10. The genuinely and wholeheartedly nice hiker
Unlike the mountain Hokage, this type of hiker does things with the pure intention of helping out the rest of the team, and without malice or ulterior motives. These hikers lend their legs, shoulders and hands for those who need a little help, which is why they are also known as the “Human Trekking Pole”. Likewise, they are extremely friendly, and can be your cheerleader in times when you are about to give up.
11. The photographer
The photographer is by far one the favorite types of hikers in any group. With their action camera, smartphone, GoPro or DSLR, they are ready to point and shoot whenever you ask them to. You’ll absolutely love having them as your Facebook friends since they upload everything in just a few hours after arriving home from your hiking adventure. They are also the ones responsible for the lovely cover photos and profile pictures to be shared with the team. And if you’re extra nice to them, they can make you look slimmer or more attractive on pictures, using their superb photo editing skills.
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