Mount Apo is the highest mountain in the Philippines and is located in the southern region of the country, on the island of Mindanao. With a peak standing at 2,954 meters (9,692 feet) above sea level, it is a towering figure above Davao City, Digos City, and Kidapawan City. It is a stratovolcano with a flat summit that houses three peaks and is capped by a 500-meter-wide volcanic crater that contains Lake Venado, one of the highest lakes in the Philippines. The mountain and its surrounding area are known for a high level of biodiversity and are home to over 270 bird species, including the critically endangered Philippine eagle. The mountain is part of the Mount Apo National Park, which was established in 1936 and covers an area of about 54,974.87 hectares. Mount Apo is a popular destination for hikers and climbers, offering a challenge due to its height and its rugged terrain. The summit is covered with a cloud forest and offers extraordinary landscapes, as well as a contrast between the rich plant life and the rocky outcrops. It is also recognized as a potentially active volcano with solfataric activity.