Mayon Volcano is known to be one of the most admired tourist spots in the country. Many are truly mesmerized by its perfect cone. In fact, it is the symbol of Albay province, being its main attraction. This can be found in Legazpi City, Albay. It is 10 kilometers from the Gulf of Albay, in the cities of and municipalities of Legazpi City, Daraga, Camalig, Guinobatan, Ligao City, Tabaco City, Malilipot and Sto. Domingo. It has an unusually perfect conical form and rises 2462 meters from sea level. Mayon Volcano is the most active volcano in the Philippines with the record of 49 eruptions for the past 400 years. It is a part of the Ring of Fire.

There had been periods in the recent past when Mayon erupted almost yearly. It appears in the records of the Commission on Volcanology now the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology or PHIVOLCS that the earliest eruption happened about 1616, but its first eruption to be described at length was that of July 20, 1776 which lasted six days.

Despite that fact, it is still loved by many tourists. On October 13, 2008, it was included in the New 7 Wonders of Nature Top 10 list. Tourists would even take pictures of the volcano amidst its eruption. Scenes of eruption are like fireworks display on New Year’s Day. It is said that no matter how many times this beauty would show its tantrums, people’s admiration toward it will never cease.

If you are in Manila, all you have to do is to take an airplane to Legazpi City, or if you want to travel longer to see more interesting spots around, you can take a bus. After 10 hours, you will reach Legazpi City. You need not to go farther; upon arrival at the airport you will be able to see the majestic volcano.

In order to enjoy a closer glimpse at the volcano’s beauty, tourists should head to Ligñon Hill Nature Park. It is located near Legazpi Airport Washington Drive, Legazpi City. Cagsawa Ruins is also the best place to have a close encounter with the volcano. This can be found in Daraga. With a clearer view, photographs of Mayon that will be taken will look more realistic and enchanting. You can also find Mayon Volcano souvenir items on these places like shirts, handbags, key chains and decorative items.

The name Mayon is derived from Mayon Volcano’s famous legend featuring the heroine Daragang Magayon which means beautiful maiden. The legend has been retold many times through stage plays, books and magazines.