Travel Guide Philippines

Cadapdapan Rice Terraces, Can-Umantad Falls, and Canawa Spring: A Travel Guide to Candijay, Bohol

The sun was almost touching the horizon. Its angle had caused the trees to cast stretched shadows on the surface. It radiated less heat. The alternating shade and exposure gave me a comforting mix of chill and warmth as I traversed the highlands of Candijay on a motorbike.

The setting sun seemed conducive to a long, uncovered motorcycle ride. However, despite the favorable condition, I couldn’t not rule out the possibility of running out of time. I have three destinations on my list: Cadapdapan Rice Terraces, Can-Umantad Falls, and Canawa Cold Spring. I was afraid that I could not cover all three.

*A stunning man-made creation, Cadapdapan Rice Terraces*

Miscalculation did cause the deviation of the plan. The late departure and arrival of the fast craft I took from Cebu, the time lost for waiting other passengers at Tagbilaran’s public transport terminal, and the influx of the crowd in various locations further caused the delay.

I also never expected for the bus to eat 3 hours of travel time. That day, all the odds were against me.

I did not raise a white flag though. I pursued my quest and accepted to the fact that I could miss one of my goals that afternoon.

Stunned at Can-umantad Falls

*The scene before the dirt eat my feet.*

We arrived at Cadapdapan Rice Terraces first. I was so excited to cross the field. With my carelessness, I accidentally buried my feet in the mud. Kuya suggested to wash at the waterfalls, so we immediately headed to Can-umantad Falls and decided to return after.

The two-tier cascade and the strong downstream flow created deep, aquamarine pools that are perfect to relieve the summer heat.

Guides were provided for the safety of the guests.

Marveled at Cadapdapan Rice Terraces

We returned to Cadapdapan just in time for sunset. At the golden, the real beauty of the terraces got unleashed.

Lush vegetation decorated the stunning, flat surfaces on the slopes of Cadapdapan, as if they were cut and created by the gods.

It wasn’t all about effective farming, but a showcase of artistry and agricultural engineering.

Skipped Canawa Cold Spring, For Now

We had no time for Canawa Spring, so I agreed skip it. However, I made a promise to return to Candijay to experience it.

Tour Fees and Other Expenses

The cost for the motorcycle ride is 100 pesos per head for each way. You can haggle it to 300 pesos for the round trip tour for two persons. The tour only includes Cadapdapan Rice Terraces and Can-Umantad Falls.

If you want to visit Canawa Spring, you need to add 100 pesos on top of the 300-peso package.

Candijay collects 20 pesos as entrance or environmental fee. The property owner of Cadapdapan Rice Terraces collects another 20 pesos.

How to Get There

From Manila, take a flight to Tagbilaran City. From Tagbilaran Airport, you may take the airport shuttle to get to the Integrated Bus Terminal (IBT) in Barangay Dao.

From Cebu, take a ferry to either Tagbilaran or Tubigon, and then take any public transport to IBT in Barangay Dao.

Ferries to Tagbilaran, Bohol are also available from Dumaguete and Siquijor.

From Tagbilaran City’s Integrated Bus Terminal (IBT), take a bus or van to Candijay or any bus that will pass Candijay, such as Ubay (via Jagna) or Alicia, and then ask the driver or conductor to drop you off at Mercado Candijay. Travel time is two to three hours and may cost you up to 200 pesos, depending on the type of public transport you take.

Tips, Notes, and Reminders

*Cadapdapan Rice Terraces is a lot more stunning at sunset*

Candijay is two to three hours away from Tagbilaran. To make the most of your visit, book your stay in either Candijay town proper or any beach property in Anda.
Nearby areas of interest are Cabagnow Cave Pool and Anda de Boracay.
Visit Canawa Spring first, and then explore Can-Umantad Falls next. Do Cadapdapan Rice Terraces last. I suggest you wait for the sunset.
If you still need to return to Tagbilaran, take note of the last bus trip. The last bus may pass Candijay between 6:30PM to 07:00PM. If you won’t be able to catch your ride home, then you can stay at any humble accommodations in Anda.
There’s no cellular signal in Cadapdapan and Can-umantad.

Canigao Island, Hitoog Cave, and Karap-agan (Mahayahay) Falls: A Travel Guide to Matalom Leyte

When I set my eyes on something, I’ll make sure to do everything to achieve it. I will only stop if pursuing is really impossible and life-threatening, especially when it comes to travel goals.

That was why, when I set my course to Matalom, Leyte, I set my expectation pretty clearly—that before I cross to Canigao Island, I should experience Hitoog Cave and Karap-agan Falls first. That was the only viable option then since we had to return to Hilongos early the following day to catch our ferry back to Cebu.

While I was securing our return ferry tickets, my friends were able to strike a deal with a van driver. For ₱1,200, he could bring the 16 of us to Matalom from Inopacan with a stop at Hitoog Cave, and if possible, Karap-agan falls. By the way, we already spent an awesome night in Digyo Island, one of the four scenic islands of Cuatro Islas, before heading to Matalom.

The squeaky-clean water of Canigao Island

Everything was going smoothly until we passed the unpaved portion of Caridad-Elevado Road. Kuya driver suddenly became distasteful. He asked every person we met along the way about the distance between our location and our destination. The first person answered one kilometer, the second told us two, and the third said it is three.

The last man destroyed everyone’s cool when he said that we need to drive four more kilometers. It was quite shady though since the distance between each person we asked is just less than a hundred meters. Kuya, however, believed the last person. He suddenly abandoned the plan, and then maneuvered the van back to Matalom town proper without asking us. That was completely rude! We were about midway, assuming that the Google Maps direction is correct.

I did not note the driver’s contact number because his services are not worth recommending.

Places to Visit in Matalom, Leyte

While the rest of the group somewhat accepted the driver’s foul gesture, I was uneasy. I parted from the group, which was en-route to Canigao Island, and then looked for a motorbike taxi or habal-habal to bring me to Hitoog Cave. Luckily, I found one. The driver asked ₱100 for the two-way trip.

Hitoog Cave

From the highway, we traveled along a mix of paved and unpaved road. It was more of a rough ride though.

It is true that Hitoog Cave is more than 4 kilometers away, but that distance was from the highway. When we took the van, we were about midway when the last person we asked told us to drive four more kilometers. That means nobody really told us the right information since the beginning.

Hitoog Cave features a cave pool, which water source is a spring. Fronting it is an array of makeshift cottages and a man-made swimming pool. The swimming pool serves as a catch basin of the water overflow from the cave, channeled using PVC pipes. With the natural and man-made pools, guests to Hitoog can enjoy two swimming options.

However, despite being quite hard to reach, the cave goes jam-packed, especially on long weekends.

Karap-Agan (Mahayahay) Falls

From Hitoog Cave, my habal-habal driver offered to bring me to Karap-agan Falls in Sitio Mahayahay of Barangay Elevado. Being located in Mahayahay, some people started calling it Mahayahay Falls.

By the way, the falls is closer to the town proper compared to Hitoog Cave.

Karap-agan Falls in Sitio Mahayahay, Barangay Elevado, Matalom, Leyte

From the road, I crossed Esperanza River twice to get to Karap-agan Falls. Along the way was a stunning amalgamation of greens. The reflection of the foliage on the serene surface of Esperanza created a vision of an enchanting world.

Karap-Agan is a two-tiered waterfall. With safety in mind, I carefully searched my way up to the middle section of the falls. Up there is a deep pool created by the strong pressure of the upper tier. The powerful current and the slippery rocks limited my movements.

Canigao Island

Immediately from Kapag-agan Falls, I headed directly to Matalom port to secure a seat for Canigao Island.

Big outrigger boats transport up to 60 passengers from Matalom to Canigao and vice versa. The tourism office collects ₱105 per person, wherein ₱65 is the two-way fare and the remaining ₱40 is the environmental fee.

After less than 30 minutes of travel time, I rejoined the group, and then spend another awesome day with them.

How to get to Matalom Leyte

From Manila, take a flight to Tacloban, and then hop on a Van to Maasin, Southern Leyte. Tell your driver to drop you off in Matalom town proper.

From Cebu, take a ferry to either Bato or Hilongos, and then transfer to a trike or jeepney to Matalom. You may also opt to take Weesam Express to Maasin, and then transfer to a jeepney bound for Hilongos.

From Kalanggaman Island, return to Palompon town proper, transfer to van bound for Maasin, and then alight at Matalom. Total travel time from Palompon is up to 6 hours and may cost you ₱350.

From Cuatro Islas, return to Inopacan, transfer to a jeepney bound for Hilongos, board a jeepney or van to Maasin, and then alight at Matalom town proper. Total travel time from Inopacan is up to 1 hour.

Depending on how you design your itinerary, you can take a habal-habal to Hitoog Cave and Karap-agan Falls, and then spend a night in Canigao Island.

Matalom Fees

The two-way habal-habal fare to both Hitoog Cave and Karap-agan Falls is usually ₱150, If the driver asks more, make sure to negotiate.

The entrance fee to Hitoog Cave is ₱20 per person while there is no fee for you to experience Karap-agan falls.

The boat fare to Canigao Island is ₱65 per person and the environmental fee is ₱40 each.

During the lean season, Canigao Island collects ₱200/tent as a tent space rental. Cottage rental starts at ₱500 for day use or ₱700 for overnight use.

Notes, Tips, and Reminders

You can bring your own food and cook set. However, if you pack light, you can use the common grill area to cook your lunch or dinner. Remember that you will share the area with other guests as well and the island usually goes very crowded on weekends.
Drinking water is sold in 20-liter containers, but I doubt the quality because some taste like it was coming from a deep well source.
Sari-sari stores sell basic stuff, such as soap, shampoo, coffee, fruits, bread, noodles, etc.
The water running on the comfort rooms and showers is brackish. You may find it harder to make your soap bubble.
Cellular signal is available for all networks. Globe offers 4G/LTE reception.
Cuatro Islas in Inopacan is also worth a visit. The jump off area is just an hour away from .
Though not an island policy, I suggest you bring your garbage with you back in the mainland for proper disposal.
BE A RESPONSIBLE TRAVELER OR TOURIST. Always remember to internalize and follow the “traveler’s creed”: Leave nothing but footprints, take nothing but pictures, and kill nothing but time.

Original na paglathala: Mayo Desi Siete, 2017

Max’s Rice Bowls: Enjoy Real Food For Every Mood

Dining is a social event. We want to share the moment with family, friends, and acquaintances. We wanted it intimate with our special someone. Most of us dine as a reward to ourselves for a job well done or a completed milestone. For many, dining is a way to celebrate.

Solo Dining

However, in some cases, we love to eat alone. Probably to vent out our sorrow, to spend a me-time, to self-reward, or to simply avoid the long hours of chitchat associated with group dining.

When we talk about dining alone, only fast food chains come to mind. The service is fast, mostly. Food options are fewer, you don’t need to spend that much time to choose. Lastly, you won’t get out of place because there are a lot of solo diners around.

*Max’s Rice Bowls are ideal for budget solo diners*

But then, your discriminating palate wanted more. You seek only real food. That is why, Max’s Restaurant enters the scene to offer only real food to every solo diner.

Max’s Rice Bowl Classic

Max’s solution is its wide selection of Rice Bowls. They take a solo serving of their best-selling dishes, and then put them on the top of the bowl of rice. Prices are made even affordable for solo diners. The rice bowls with a glass of your Pepsi product of choice start at 149 pesos.

Your rice bowl topping choices are:

Sizzling Chicken – Made with coarsely chopped fried chicken and chicken liver spiced up with white onions, celery, and chili.
Beef Caldereta – Tender beef chunks in thick sauce topped with fried potatoes and carrots.
Beef Salpicao – Spanish-style, cubed beef sirloin that is stir-fried in a hot pan with minced garlic and lots of spices
Adobo Ribs – A classic Pinoy adobo with a unique twist.
Crispy Pata – Deep-fried pig knuckles served with banana slices and pickled papaya (achara).
Kare-Kare – Traditional, slow-braised ox tripe and beef shanks in thick peanut sauce with mixed tropical veggies.
Bangus Belly Paksiw – This is my favorite. Premium milkfish belly cooked in traditional, vinegar-based sauce.
Fish Fillet in Black Beans – Lightly breaded cream dory fillet with read bell pepper strips, spring onions, ginger slices, and black bean sauce.

New Rice Bowl Toppings

In March 2019, new exciting and yummy flavors and topics are also added in the menu.

The Seafood Kare-Kare Rice Bowl is topped with a luscious combination of shrimp, squid, and fish that are slow cooked in a creamy peanut sauce. Your favorite tropical veggies are also in your yummy bowl.

*Seafood Kare-kare Rice Bowl includes shrimp, squid, and fish in a thick peanut sauce*

Max’s Spicy Tofu is topped with deep-fried tofu cubes in a spicy mayo, served with fried egg on the side.

The Sweet and Sour Fish Fillet is made with breaded cream dory doused in a sweet and tangy sauce.

*Max’s Spicy Tofu (top) and Sweet and Sour Fish Fillet (bottom)*

The Chopsuey rice bowl features a symphony of sautéed fresh vegetables, pork, shrimp, chicken liver, and gizzard.

The latest rice bowl additions are perfect for the Lenten season.

“We understand our customers when they say that their mood affects the food they want to eat,” said Paolo Serrano, Max’s Restaurant Chief Operating Officer.

“That’s why we want to make sure that whatever mood they are in, they can always come to Max’s Restaurant and enjoy a bowl of rice topped with their all-time Pinoy favorites,” he added.

About Max’s Restaurant

Max’s Restaurant started in 1945. Thanks to Mr. Maximo Gimenez for opening his home to diners. Ruby, Mr. Gimenez’ nice served what many love and know today as Max’s Fried Chicken.

Over the years, Max’s Restaurant popularly grew and became the known as “the restaurant that fried chicken built.” The 2018 People’s Choice Award winner for Favorite Classic Restaurant has strongly established itself a household name in the Philippines, an institution, and a proud Filipino tradition.

Moalboal Travel Guide: Home of Cebu’s Famed Underwater Wonders

That elusive photo chasing a sardine run, that priced selfie with a marine testudine, and that noteworthy beach camp gracing the sunset are just few of the expectations listed on every Moalboal goer.

Moalboal, a once sleepy town seating 90 kilometers southwest of Cebu City, offers a laid-back vibe. Stunning white strips adorn its edges, where clear and calm ripples regularly wash off the shore.

Beneath are unassuming underwater wonders. Sea turtles are frequently seen feeding on seaweeds, not minding the snorkelers hovering over as they search for nutrition.

A bit further is a conglomeration of coral blooms, resembling an underwater meadow. Surrounding these stationary creatures are fishes of different colors, vividness, and stripes. And just sneaking around are invertebrates of different shapes and sizes.

For daredevil swimmers who are unafraid of the blue, a plethora of marine swimmers might greet you. A sardine run regularly graces near the edge of the abyss.

Turtles regularly swim around the water of Panagsama

How to Get There

Via Cebu City

From any point of the Philippines, take a flight to Cebu, and then a cab or any means of public transport to Cebu South Terminal.

MyBus operates from Mactan Cebu International Airport to SM City Cebu every hour from 07:00AM to 09:00PM. The fare is ₱25. From SM City Cebu, take a jeepney to Labangon, Bulacao, or Pardo, and then get off at Caltex Gas Station fronting Cebu South Terminal (fare is ∼₱8.00).

From Cebu South Terminal, hop on a Ceres Bus to Bato via Barili, and then disembark at Moalboal bus stop. Note that there are two bus routes to Bato, one is via Oslob, which takes the East Arterial Road and one is via Barili, which passes along the West Arterial Road. Make sure you take the via Barili route. Travel time is 2-3 hours depending on traffic conditions.

From Moalboal bus stop, trikes and motorcycle taxi (habal-habal) will bring you to either Panagsama (Basdiot) or Basdaku Whitebeach for only ₱150 per way. Trikes can carry up to 5 passengers while the habal-habal can carry two.

If you are coming from Kawasan Falls or from the canyoneering area, return to the highway, and then wait for a bus to Cebu City. Moalboal is less than an hour away.

If you visit Moalboal after your waterfall hopping in Samboan, return to the highway, and then hop on a Cebu-bound bus.

Via Dumaguete (Sibulan-Liloan)

From Manila or Cebu, you may take a flight to Dumaguete [DGT]. Take a Sibulan-bound multicab from the highway just outside the airport. Walk towards Sibulan Ferry Terminal, and then board a fast craft to Liloan (fare ₱62).

From Liloan, hop on a trike or habal-habal to Bato Terminal (fare ₱25). From Bato Terminal, board a Ceres Bus to Cebu via Barili, and then get off at Moalboal bus stop.

Via Dumaguete (Tampi-Bato)

From Manila or Cebu, you may take a flight to Dumaguete [DGT]. Take any Northbound-bus from the highway just outside the airport and get off at Tampi Port. You can hop on any bus to Mabinay, Tanjay, Bais, Manjuyod, or Canlaon.

Take a Ro-Ro boat or Ferry to Bato. Walk towards to Bato Terminal from Bato Port, and then board a bus to Moalboal.

Via Oslob

Take a bus to Bato Terminal, and then transfer to a Cebu-bound bus with via Barili route.

Corals beneath the Water of Panagsama Beach

Where to stay in Moalboal

A beach camp along Basdaku white beach is a great experience. Sleeping on the sand with easy access to the beach is something every backpacker dreams of. However, access to fresh water is a bit of a challenge.

Beach Camps along Basdaku Whitebeach Moalboal

If the beach camp is not among your options, you may choose from the list below:

Places to stay in Basdiot (Panagsama Beach)

Turtle Bay Dive Resort – Turtle Bay Dive Resort is a premium accommodation near Panagsama Beach. Its location is quite isolated, thus giving the resort guests an exclusive feel. A short beach strip fronting it is exclusive for those who are checked in. Turtle Bay is also manned with PADI-certified instructors for your diving needs. The well-landscaped resort also houses a nice pool.
Online Booking: www.Agoda.com/TurtleBay

Turtle Bay Dive Resort, a premium accommodation in Moalboal

Quo Vadis Dive Resort – Quo Vadis is located along Panagsama beach, and is pretty accessible to restaurants and PADI-Certified dive centers in Moalboal.
Online Booking: www.Agoda.com/QuoVadis

Marcosas Cottages Resort – Marcosas offers rooms and suites equipped with amenities that cater utmost comfort. Being located along Panagsama Beach, the resort has easy access to food and entertainment spots. It has a nice pool too.
Online Booking: www.Agoda.com/Marcosas

Dacozy Beach Resort – Dacozy Beach Resort features a pool, furnished rooms, and easy access to Panagsama beach. Food spots and dive centers are also walking-distance away.
Online Booking: www.Agoda.com/Dacozy

Cabana Beach Club Resort – Cabana, aside from its comfortable and cozy beachfront accommodation, the resort is also the closest spot to Moalboal’s main attraction, the sardine run. A room for two starts at ₱3,000, while the suites for three starts at ₱4,000.

Marina Village – Marina Village is the sister resort of Cabana Beach Club catering the mid-range market. If you are checked in at Marina Village, you can use and access the facilities of Cabana.

Places to stay in Basdaku

HK Beach Resort – HK resort offers a stunning beachfront view and rooms equipped with LCD TV and oher basic amenities. A restaurant is also open to serve guests with delectable meals.
Rates:

Cottages ₱600/day
Tables ₱500/day
A/C Room for two – ₱2,500/night
A/C Room for four – ₱3,500/night
Family Room (good for eight) – ₱5,000/night

Booking: +63 919 476 6385 | (032) 511 2499 | hkbeachresort@yahoo.com

Asian Belgian Resort – Asian Belgian Resort sits on a rock cliff with awesome view of the ocean and easy access to the underwater wonders below it.
Online Booking: www.Agoda.com/AsianBelgianResort

You may also check our trusted accommodations partner, Agoda.com, for more hotel options.

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Things to Do in Moalboal

Snorkeling at Talisay Point – Witness the wonders below the water of Moalboal. Corals are protected, and so with the other marine organisms that depend on it. Make sure you do your part in protecting them as well. No touching and stepping on the corals, please!

Chasing a Sardine Run – Moalboal’s main attraction is its million swimmers, synchronizing their movements near the coral edge of Basdiot. For convenience, you may book your accommodation at Cabana Beach Club Resort or to any of their affiliate resorts. The sardine run is a mainstay just below the water gazebo of Cabana.

The sardine run as viewed from the surface

Pescador Island – With just a short boat ride away, be amazed with the amazing underwater creatures of Pescador Island. If you are game for an adrenaline rush, try cliff jumping. Do it only when it is high tide though. Boat rentals to Pescador Island starts at ₱3,000.

Beach Bumming – You can simply go swimming on the shallow water or just feel the sand and the heat along Panagsama Beach in Basdiot or Whitebeach in Basdaku.

Local kids playing with the awesome Panagsama sunset as backdrop

Gracing the Sunset – Moalboal is one of the Philippine beachfronts that face the sunset. See how the sky bursts in colors as the sun disappears from the horizon.

Basdaku Beach fronting HK Resort Moalboal

Important Tips, Notes, and Reminders

Cellphone signal is stable in Panagsama Beach. However, in Basdaku, the reception is intermittent. Getting a data could be worrisome sometimes.
ATMs are available in the town proper. Transportation to the town proper could be expensive, so bring enough cash.
Transportation within Moalboal is serviced only by habal-habal and tricycles.
To save on your trip to Pescador Island, travel as a group or merge with smaller groups so you could divide the boat rental.
If you camp at Basdaku Whitebeach, make sure you collect and dispose your garbage properly. Don’t make someone do it for you, and never throw any of your waste to the sea. Be a RESPONSIBLE camper.

First posted on May 18, 2016

Cebu Canyoneering and Kawasan Falls Travel Guide: Beyond the Canyons and Waterfalls

We’d barely slept the night before. A friend and her daughter missed their flight so they had to re-book an alternative route. Aside from the extra chunk of cash that they needed to shell out for re-booking, the hassle of transferring to another airport and the struggle to get a seat at the busiest time of the busiest day at Cebu South Bus Terminal was a hell of peskiness. I could understand the troubles of the mother trying to secure her child a comfortable journey while keeping all the cumbersome backpacks.

While the first batch arrived early in Oslob, where they would spend their night, they could not rest until Nalie and her daughter arrive from the metro, as I pleaded. They were all gathered only after midnight.

In a parallel time at a different location, I was busy closing my projects for the week while keeping in constant communication with Nalie to guide her. From work, I immediately headed home, packed my stuff for the long weekend trip, and tried to have a power nap before taking the 2:30AM bus to Oslob.

I met the team at their hotel in Oslob around 6:30AM. The other batch from Dumaguete joined us after 30 minutes. We had our breakfast before moving to our first stop, whale shark watching in Barangay Tan-awan. Yes we did, and it was because we were too curious. I will tell you more about it in my future article.

Canyoneering was already part of our plan, but getting to the drop off point from Tan-awan wasn’t fixed yet. We thought of trying our luck with public transport. But later, we realized that it could cause us delays.

We asked around for options. With the help of some accommodating folks from BCD’s Place, we were able to rent a multicab, which was enough to carry the ten of us, for only ₱2,500. By the way, I ask the driver’s contact number but he wasn’t able to provide me one. He’s probably not interested of getting blogged.

Anyway, we met Kuya Ronald’s team, around 11:00AM. He, Cyrus, and one Kuya (sorry, I forgot his name) would be our guides for the canyoneering. We headed to his place to put on our life jackets, helmets, and trekking shoes. These stuff are already included in the package. You can also bring your own trekking sandals or shoes. Finding a suitable and comfortable size may not be easy.

Cebu Canyoneering or Canyoning: Traversing Canlaob, Alegria and Matutinao, Badian

I met Kuya Ronald during my previous attempt to do the canyoneering. It was cancelled because of the typhoon that struck Visayas days prior my arrival. So, when I got a new schedule, I contacted him again.

After the preparation, we took a habal-habal (extended motorcycle) to the drop off point. No one was allowed to go canyoning without undergoing the safety orientation. We had it at the drop off point.

Canyoneering orientation at the drop off point

The First Waterfall Jump

From the drop off, we trekked for about 15 minutes to get to the first jump off. All the ladies were reluctant, so I gathered all my courage to take the first leap. It was about 15 feet high but the narrow waterway below it made others doubt. Teddy followed me later while the rest were brought to another jump off area for them to get into the river.

After that awesome jump, we carefully followed the current downstream. We climbed on a slippery rock, managed to get to the higher portion, and then slid. Again, that was awesome! Watch the video below.

Our guide was waiting for us below to teach us on how to counter the current. The waterfall beside the slide could imperil us if we would not execute the escape tactic properly. The undercut of the opposing rock was menacing. It was rainy season by the way, so the river current and waterfall plunges were double in strength.

The Canyons

After surviving the slide was an enchanting scenery. The foliage-rich canyons blended perfectly with the blue water that cut through it. If pixies and nymphs do exist, they would probably prefer to reside there.

There was an area where our guides had to set up ropes for us to hold while getting to the steeper section of the cliff; for us to land safely in the water once we jumped. We had inexperienced members in the group, and jumping off a sloping cliff could be very risky. Those who couldn’t push themselves to a perfect projectile might hit the rocks below.

We jumped four waterfalls, climbed challenging boulders, swam across strong currents, trekked on the edge of a cliff, and crawled on a makeshift bridge.

The Sumptuous Treat at Kawasan Falls

We actually finished the canyoning or canyoneering for almost 4 hours, which is quite reasonable because we are a large group. We were dog-tired, thirsty, and hungry. Good thing that a meal was waiting for us at the end of the trail. And yes, it was also included in our package. We had a feast at Kawasan Falls after that escape.

Kuya Ronald allowed us to fix and wash at his humble abode. When everybody was ready, we boarded the multicab that brought us in Matutinao to bring us to Liloan Port in Santander. We went to Dumaguete afterwards where the continuation of our adventure was waiting.

Kawasan Canyoneering Guide

Kawasan Deep Blue Canyoneering Services
Contact Person: Kuya Ronald Diluvio
Contact Number: +63 905 968 2225 | +63 916 988 7319
Package Fee: ₱1,500/pax
Package inclusions: Life vest, helmet, guide, environmental fees, habal-habal ride to the drop off point, dry bag, trekking shoes (if you forgot to bring one), drinking water, and a set meal

Travel Expenses

Transport Fee: Bus from Cebu City to Matutinao, Badian is more or less ₱140 per person per way. Double that for a two-way fare. Transportation from Matutinao to Canlaob, Alegria is already included in the Canyoneering package.

Guide and Environmental fee [as of May 2016]: ₱1,500/pax and that also includes lunch [or late lunch] and life vest, helmet, and trekking shoes rental.

Meal: ₱100, just an estimate on how much to spend for breakfast. If you want, you can contact your guide to prepare a breakfast for you for an additional fee.

Suggested Itinerary

04:00AM Leave Cebu City. Take a Bato-bound bus with via Barili Route at Cebu South Terminal

07:00AM Arrival in Matutinao, meet up with your guide, and breakfast. Note that breakfast is not included in the package.

08:30AM Proceed to Canlaob to start with Canyoneering

12:30PM Finish Canyoneering and lunch at Kawasan Falls

02:00PM Enjoy rafting at Kawasan Falls.

04:00PM Take a Bus back to Cebu City.

Tips, Notes, and Reminders

Matutinao is a rural area. There are no ATMs for cash withdrawals available. The closest bank is 40 minutes away and that is in Moalboal.
There is a decent cellphone signal in the village.
Accommodation are available at Kawasan if you plan to stay overnight. Fan room rentals start at ₱900/night.
Before you do the canyoneering, make sure that you are fully hydrated – there is higher risk to cramps when you spend more time in the canyon.
Follow your guides instructions at all times. They know exactly how to get you to safety. Remember, overconfidence could cause you harm.

Danjugan Island Travel Guide: More Than a Wildlife Sanctuary

Leaving Sipalay was heartbreaking. We could have stayed longer if time permitted. Due to the uncooperative weather condition, we missed some of its priced natural attractions, which made us feel that the trip was incomplete.

Also, I will surely miss the acquaintance I made, especially the staff of Easy Diving and Beach Resort, who had been very helpful.

The receiving hall and restaurant in Moray Lagoon

To negate the sadness, I thought of good memories and better pictures of what lies ahead of our adventure. Danjugan Island was our next stop. The stunning photographs of its lagoons and surrounding beaches started to populate my brain.

About Danjugan Island

Danjugan Island floats three kilometers off the cost of Barangay Bulata in Cauayan, Negros Occidental. It measures half a kilometer on its widest point and 1.5 kilometers long. The island is made mostly of limestone, covered with saline water-sustaining vegetation, and dotted with white, pebbly strips on its edges.

Through the efforts of Philippine Reef and Rainforest Conservation Foundation, Inc. (PRRCFI), the island was designated as a protected marine reserve and wildlife sanctuary. Its sustainable programs on conservation, environmental education, livelihood, and research made the island an esteemed ecotourism destination.

Today, the island serves as an outdoor classroom for students, a research area for conservationists, and a haven for tourist eager to experience nature at its purest. Please visit us with and open heart and open mind

-PRRCFI

How to Get There

From Manila or from any point of the Philippines, take a flight or ferry to either Bacolod or Dumaguete City.

From Bacolod City, hop on a bus bound for Hinoba-an, and then alight at Crossing Remollos in Barangay Bulata. Travel time is up to four hours and the fare will cost you ₱260.

From Dumaguete City, board a bus to Kanbankalan City, and then transfer to a Hinoba-an or Sipalay-bound bus. Tell the driver to drop you off at Crossing Remollos.

If you are coming from Sipalay like us, you can take a bus for Bacolod, and then disembark at the same crossing. Travel time is just 20 minutes and the fare is ‎₱30.

A PRRCFI staff will greet you at Crossing Remollos to arrange your onward transfers. Make sure that you have already booked your visit and communicated your estimated time of arrival.

Booking a Tour to Danjugan Island

You are required to book your tour slot 3 weekdays in advance if you wish to visit Danjugan Island. That is to allow the management to process your insurance policy, which is already included on your package.

Here are the tour packages you can avail:

Overnight Stay at Typhoon Beach – ‎₱3,950/pax

You and your friends can choose a bed from their mud house and dolphin house to spend the night. The mud house has 1 room with four beds and an en-suite toilet and bath. On the other hand, the dolphin house has two rooms each with 4 beds and with comfort room.

The overnight stay package also includes full-board meals with 2 snacks, boat transfers, use of snorkeling gear and kayak, guided tour, and conservation fees.

Overnight Stay at Moray Lagoon Camp – ‎₱2,950/pax

The inclusions for this package is the same with the inclusions of the Typhoon beach package. The mere difference is the type and the location of the accommodation. At Moray Camp, you’ll share a cabana with other guests, but you will be provided with your own bed, pillow, and mosquito net. Shower rooms and toilets are also shared.

The check in time for the overnight stays is 12:00 noon while the check-out is 10:30AM the following day. Note that on bed counts, a queen bed is counted as two.

Day Trip – ‎₱1,950/pax

The day trip package is an 8-hour immersion and tour around the island. The activity will start at 08:00AM. It includes boat transfers, guided tour, use of snorkel and kayak, and lunch with 2 snacks. The payment is already inclusive of the conservation fee and accident insurance policy.

Eco-Tour – ‎₱950/pax

The eco-tour is only a 3-hour guided tour. But if you still have time, you can do snorkeling and kayaking, yet on separate fees. The 950-peso bill only includes your boat transfers, conservation fees, and insurance. If your group does not meet the 7-person minimum requirement, you have to shell out an additional ₱600 for the group.

All guests are allowed to bring food and drinks.

Discounts are also available. Senior citizens with ID can enjoy 20 percent off. Children with ages six to 12 years old will only need to pay half the price, while children ages 5 years old and below are free of charge.

To book your trip, email experience@danjuganisland.ph. Make sure that you indicated your date of visit.

Things to do in Danjugan Island

Being an ecotourism destination, Danjugan Island will bring you closer to nature while feeding your thirst of adrenaline-pumping activities. The island will revive your passion for environmental protection and fortify your love for Mother Earth. The experience will surely inspire you to participate in other ecological advocacy.

Our guide, Tikyo, briefed us about the island and the advocacy

Trekking and Nature Walk – the guided tour will bring guests to different places of interest within the island. Guests are toured around, visiting beaches, lagoons, mangroves, limestone forests, rock formations, caves, and makeshift view decks.

Lagoons and Beaches

Moray Lagoon is one of the serene locations in the island. Its calm water is nurturing to the marine inhabitants beneath it. The lagoon is also a good place to kayak. Aside from Moray, Danjugan is a host to 4 other lagoons.

Tabon Beach is a nesting ground of the Philippine megapod or scrubfowl, also known as Tabon. So make sure to minimize your excitement when you happen to visit the beach to avoid disturbing them. By the way, Tabon Beach is one of the perfect places in Danjugan to grace the sundown.

Turtle Beach is an unadulterated white strip that faces the west. And when we say west, it is perfect vantage point to watch the sunset. Remember, sea turtles regularly lay eggs along beach, so listen to your guide before you go frolicking.

Wildlife Encounters

The bat cave is a home to thousands of nocturnal pollinators, the fruit bats. When visiting these creatures, keep your voices slow to not stun them.

On the background is the mouth of the bat cave

Snorkeling is an activity that you should not miss in Danjugan. The island is surrounded with beautiful coral gardens that host a variety of colorful marine organisms. Feed your senses with the amazing wonders of the deep.

PRRCFI also offers marine and wildlife camps which provides training, workshops, retreats, and even volunteer programs. Participating one of those is truly fulfilling.

Enjoying the fresh air and the awesome view

Contact PRRCFI

Address: Door 7, Teresa Bldg., Mandalagan Highway, Bacolod City 6100, Negros Occidental
Website: www.prrcf.org | www.danjuganisland.ph
Contact numbers: +63 915 234 7145 | +63 908 525 4108 | +63 (34) 441 6010
Email address: experience@danjuganisland.ph
Facebook page: Facebook.com/DanjuganIsland

If you have no time to visit, you can also help through their “adopt-a-camper” program or via small donations.

Bank: Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI)
Account name: Philippine Reef and Rainforest Conservation Foundation, Inc.
Account number: 1393-1583-08

P.S. Original posting was on Sep 2016.

Sipalay Travel Guide: Exploring the Jewels of Negros

Sipalay was a long ride from Cebu City. I had to wake up around one at dawn to hop on the 2AM bus that travels to the southern tip of Cebu Island, and then catch the earliest ferry ride to Dumaguete. Despite leaving early, it was already 5PM when I reached Sipalay City proper. That included my 2-hour stopover at our humble abode in Siaton.

I actually celebrated my birthday on the road. Solitary and hungry. Because of the long trip, busy holiday traffic, and jam-packed terminals, I skipped some meals just to keep my travel arrangements and schedule.

Sipalay City

Sipalay, in spite of being a city, emanates a rustic feel. Only a small proportion of its total land area is urban, while the rest are farmlands, forest, and rural villages.

Anyway, people frequent the place not for its urban jungle, but because of the fine natural jewels that lurk on its waterfronts.

Verdant karst massifs dot the city edges forming a photogenic conglomeration of land masses. Surrounding these mounds are clear and calm aquamarine waters that are perfect for kayaking activities.

Sipalay is also a home to awesome ivory and white strips, such as Punta Ballo Beach, Campoquino Bay, and Sugar Beach. All these beaches are perfect spots to grace beautiful sunsets.

Striking a pose at the makeshift bamboo bridge in Tinagong Dagat

Furthermore, the beauty of Sipalay is not limited to what is readily visible at a normal vantage point. When you dive deep below its seas, wonderful underwater communities awaits to give you an awe.

How to Commute to Sipalay

From Manila or any point of the Philippines, take a flight or ferry to either Bacolod or Dumaguete City.

From Bacolod, hop on a bus or van to Sipalay. You can also take a bus to Hinoba-an, and then get off at Sipalay bus stop. Fare is around ₱300 and travel time is 4 – 5 hours.

You have two options if you are coming from Dumaguete. You can take a Bayawan- or Hinoba-an-bound bus and then transfer to a bus for Sipalay. The fare from Dumaguete to Bayawan is ₱120, Bayawan to Hinoba-an is ₱80, while Hinoba-an to Sipalay is ₱50. Travel time is 4 – 5 hours, and that excludes the waiting time at terminals when making bus transfers.

The other option from Dumaguete is to take a bus to Bacolod (via Mabinay), and then alight at Kabankalan City terminal. Travel time is up to 3 hours and the fare is ₱190 – ₱230, depending on the type of bus you hopped on. From Kabankalan, transfer to a van or bus to Sipalay. Travel time is up to 2 hours and the fare is less than a hundred pesos.

If you are coming from Apo Island, return to Barangay Malatapay and then wait for a bus to either Bayawan or Dumaguete City.

From Cebu City, the easiest way is to take a bus to Liloan, Santander, embark on a ferry to Sibulan, and then hop on a multicab (jeepney) to Dumaguete.

By the way, there’s an island that sounds like Sipalay. You may also check Sipaway, also in Negros Occidental.

Things to Do in Sipalay

To make the best of your stay in Sipalay, it would be nice to cross out everything from the list below. If not possible, you can choose a couple and it would be equally fun.

1. Join the DiveSafari

The DiveSafari is exclusively offered by Easy Diving and Beach Resort. It is a 5- or 6-day diving experience to the famed dive spots in the Visayas, such as Apo, Sumilon, Pescador, Balicasag, Panglao, and Sunken Islands. Depending on the package you book, your accommodation will be at the nearest resort or on the deck of the DiveSafari boat.

However, you must be a certified diver to join the tour. If you need one, Easy Diving and Beach Resort has in-house dive center for your PADI training and certification needs. The resort has over 40 dive spots on its list including the ones in Sipalay.

2. Tinagong Dagat

Tinagong-dagat offers a stunning view of the island clusters at the south of Sipalay City proper. The green mounds rising from the turquoise deep creates a complementing charm to the waters around it.

Since the property is operated by private individuals, the resort standing on it collects ₱30 as entrance or viewing fee.

3. Campoquino Bay

Campoquino is a gorgeous strip that offers spacious space for beach bummers and good shade for campers.

Hi-jo Beach Resort, a budget resort in Sipalay, is the closest accommodation option.

4. Danjugan Island (Must-Do)

Danjugan Island is not located within the jurisdiction of Sipalay. However, the boat station to the island is just 20 minutes away from the city. So when you visit Sipalay, it would be perfect to include Danjugan in your itinerary.

Danjugan Island is actually a protected marine sanctuary which provides asylum to a veritable cornucopia of wildlife species. The island operates under the care and supervision of the Philippine Reef and Rain Forest Conservation Foundation, Inc. or PRRFCFI.

Aside from the wildlife encounter, you can make the most of your visit by checking its five lagoons, four white beach strips, and a number of makeshift watch towers.

5. Punta Ballo Beach

Punta Ballo is one of the most amazing place to grace the sunset in Sipalay. The sand is ivory on a gloomy day but is white under a bright sunlight.

Punta Ballo beach in front of Easy Diving and Beach Resort

Not far from the beach are remarkable reefs which are homes to colourful marine life.

6. Sugar Beach

Sugar beach is another gorgeous strip in Sipalay and is a home to a number of resorts that host regular beach parties and other gimmicks.

7. Punta Ballo Parrot Farm

Punta Ballo Parrot Farm is located within the Easy Diving Resort complex. Meet and greet with their collections of parrots and hornbills. The farm is a licensed exotic birds breeder and conservationist. It serves as a satellite conservation site of Talarak Foundation.

8. Poblacion Beach and Sipalay Food Park

Poblacion Beach is the wide strip on the west edge of the city proper. It is the most accessible beach of the city.

Sipalay Food Park is one of the best spot to taste the local food. Seating adjacent to Poblacion beach, getting there is pretty easy.

Food stalls start grilling at sundown. Chicken inasal and barbecue are usual mainstays.

Live bands and karaoke are also available.

9. Perth Paradise Resort Infinity Pool

The overlooking scenery at the infinity pool of Perth Paradise Resort is undeniably one of the most picturesque spot in Sipalay.

If you are not a guest, you can access the infinity pool with a fee. Viewing will cost you ₱80/pax. If you can to take a dip to its famed pool, you have to shell an additional ₱100/pax.

A view from the infinity pool of Pert Paradise Resort

10. Learn the Art of Archery with Archery-Asia

Learn the art of archery at Archery-Asia Sipalay. If it is your first time, you will be trained with the basics and practice your first arrow release at their target range.

Afterwards, you will be brought to the parkour course to test what you have learned. The parkour has 23 stops and each stops has inanimate targets for you to shoot.

Where to Stay in Sipalay

Your Sipalay getaway wouldn’t be complete without booking your resort of choice that fits your budget. The list below will give you an idea.

Easy Diving Beach Resort offers premium accommodations. It seats on a sloped terrain along Punta Ballo Beach. The resorts offers a stunning sunset view, a gorgeous beachfront, and a scenic neighborhood. Standard fan starts ₱1,600 for two while the standard airconditioned room starts at ₱1,950 for two.
Tinagong Dagat Island Resort seats on a cliff that is overlooking a charmed setting. An overnight stay at Tinagong Dagat for two individuals starts at ₱1,200.
Perth Paradise Resort is nestled at one of Sipalay’s most picturesque scenery. Peak season rate for a standard room that can accommodate two individuals will cost you ₱2,000 while the cabana room with two single beds and fan starts at ₱1,000. Family rooms are also available.
Artistic Diving Resort seats at an amazing beachfront of Barangay Puntaballo. Room rates start at ₱1800.

Other places to stay in Sipalay are:

Jamont Hotel, Manna Pension House, and Tourism Lodging Center within the city proper;
Drift Wood Village, Takatuka Lodge, Big Bamboo Beach Resort, and Sulu Sunset Beach Resort along Sugar Beach; and
C View Haven, Hi-jo Beach Resort and Nataasan Beach Resort at the city’s south.

If you have questions or suggestions, let us know by commenting below.

This article was first published on September 17, 2016 and has been republished to include updates.

Exploring the Rustic Charm of Siquijor: A DIY Travel Guide

When I was a kid, all I heard about Siquijor were tales of sorcery and witchcraft. Thus, even though we were almost a stone-throw away from the island and despite having close relatives residing in one of its growing communities, I never asked my parents to pay a visit.

When the child’s mind has become mature and the adventurous genes are getting dominant, those stories have become a weaker hindrance. Just recently, I visited Siquijor all by myself.

Siquijor bestows an exquisite charm. Despite being a popular destination, the island retains the rustic ambiance and the tranquil milieu. The gorgeous beaches that dot its shorelines, the stunning greens that cover the hills, the beautiful water wonders, and the antiquated churches will never get you weary on your stay.

So, if you are planning to see Siquijor soon, the guide below might help you.

How to Commute to Siquijor

Via Dumaguete City

The closest airport with frequent commercial flights to Siquijor is the Dumaguete-Sibulan Airport. Philippine Airlines flies from Manila multiple times daily, while Cebu Pacific flies from Manila, Cebu, and Davao. From Dumaguete City’s seaport, you can choose either to take a RoRo or a fast craft to the municipalities of Siquijor or Larena. Fare starts from ₱150 up to ₱250 depending on the vessel type.

Via Cebu City

There is a Cebu-Dumaguete direct bus from Cebu City’s south terminal. The earliest schedule is around 7:00 AM and leaves every 1 hour & 30 minutes until 1:00 PM. If you won’t be able to catch this trip, take a bus that travels to Liloan or Bato. There are RoRo and fast crafts from both Liloan and Bato port to Negros Oriental. The port of arrival is either Tampi or Sibulan where you can easily wait for a bus or multicab along the highway to Dumaguete City. From Dumaguete City, follow the instructions above.

*Saint Francis of Assisi Church in Siquijor, Siquijor*

Maayo Shipping offers a direct trip from Liloan Port in Santander to Larena Siquijor. The ferry leaves Liloan Port at 10 AM. The return trip leaves Larena at 05:00 PM. Note that this route is sometimes canceled. Make sure that you contact Maayo Shipping (+63 917 710 7080) in advance to check if there are sailing cancellations or not.

The faster option from Cebu is to hop on a plane. AirJuan flies to Siquijor from Mactan-Cebu International Airport multiple times a week. For more information, see the airline’s website. Chartered (non-scheduled air taxi) flight from the General Aviation Terminal of the Mactan-Cebu International Airport to Siquijor. This is offered by Midsea Express using BN 2A-21 Islander plane. The fare can be divided between 8 passengers (max). You can contact Midsea Express via: (032) 512 4241, (032) 495 6976, or +63 949 894 1129.

*Get a chilly dip at Capila’y Spring Park*

Where to Stay in Siquijor

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If you visit Siquijor during summer, I advise you to book your accommodations in advance. Top hotels in Siquijor like Coco Grove Beach Resort, Salamangka Beach and Dive Resort, Blue Wave Inn, Casa de la Playa Beach Resort, Princesa Bulakna, etc. are available for booking in Agoda.

If you visit on a regular non-peak day, you can always hire a trike to look for a good place to stay.

When I visited Siquijor, I stayed at Princesa Bulakna Resort and Tori’s Backpackers Paradise Inn.

Princesa Bulakna Resort
Booking: www.Agoda.com/PrincesaBulakna
Rates: *As of January 2015

Polynesian Cottages ( Standard Room )
₱950 w/o breakfast
₱1,250 with breakfast
Polynesian Cottages ( Family Room )
₱2,000 w/o breakfast
₱2,300 with breakfast
Princesa Kiram Suite ( Superior Room )
₱2,600 w/o breakfast
₱2,900 with breakfast
Extra Mattress
₱250 / pax
Day Tour Package
₱3,000 for a group of 5-15-pax
Evening Swimming (inclusive of dinner and use of amenities)
₱500
Van Service Pick Up/Send Off
₱2,000

Tori’s Backpackers Paradise
Booking: www.Agoda.com/TorisBackpackers
Address: Maite, San Juan 6227, Siquijor Island, Philippines
Contact Number: +63 907 132 6666
Rates: Couple room starts at ₱450

Things to do in the Island

Cambugahay Falls

Sway yourself across the pools created by the majestic cascades of Cambugahay. The three-tier waterfalls create natural pools that are perfect for you to vent out the summer heat.

Salagdoong Beach and the mand-made Molave Forest

The man-made forest is 60 years in the making and stretches nearly two kilometers. The forest offers comforting shades and exhibits a relaxing ambiance to all beachgoers.

*Salagdoong Beach in the Town of Maria, Siquijor*

The other end of the woodland is Salagdoong Beach, which offers cliff diving platforms to satiate your thirst for adventure.

Capilay’s Spring Park

You don’t need to spend a lot of effort to enjoy the summer. Capilay’s Spring is smack at the town proper wherein you don’t need to hike for hours, walk long distances, or battle with unpaved roads.

Old Enchanted Balete Tree and Fish Spa

Believed to be 400 years old, the enchanting balete or banyan provides a good shade to visitors who have their feet cleaned by the tiny swimmers.

Cantabon Cave

Conquer your claustrophobia and prepare to get wet, dirty, and sweaty as you traverse the dark caverns of Cantabon. To explore the cave, you must register at the Barangay Hall. With the 500-peso caving fee for three persons, you will have your own guide with free use of a helmet and flashlight.

Lazi Church and Convent

Lazi Church, also known as San Isidro Labrador Parish, is one of the oldest churches in Siquijor. It seats next to an equally old and silent convent. Both are testaments to the island’s long history and traditions.

Mount Bandilaan National Park

During Holy Week, healers and shamans from surrounding villages converge at the mountain top. With them are herbs they collected the whole year. They prepare a special mixture and perform their rituals. Guests may try their services and experience what Siquijor is really known for.

Tulapos Marine Sanctuary

As diving and snorkeling heaven, expect to see a school of barracudas, turtles, a couple of reef sharks, giant clams, various species of fish, and verdant corals.

Unang nilathala noong Marso 2015

Kansalakan Enchanted River and Hinakpan Mystical Hills: A Travel Guide to Guihulngan City

A marquee of ultramarine and viridescence rolls like phantasms. Images of sandbars, islets, foliage, water cascades, and streams are flashing back and forth, teeming my imagination. They are like unachieved dreams that toy with you every time they come to your attention.

I could not help but to give in to the mystifying call of conquest, a call to find the underrated destination of the Philippines.

*Kansalakan Enchanted River in Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental*

My itchy feet and thirst for adventure brought me to Guihulngan. I did not invite a friend to travel with. It was completely random, and I did not make any research prior to the trip. I just went to Guihulngan one Saturday morning; willing to accept whatever misadventure that I will meet along the way.

My plan was a day tour since I still have a dinner to catch up in the evening that day.

Since I came from Cebu, I left the city the earliest possible. I took a van to Toledo City, crossed the Tañon Straight, and then hopped on a bus to Guihulngan. And eventually, I found myself navigating through the infamous highlands of Negros Oriental.

Kansalakan Enchanted River

It was around noon when I finally had a glimpse of Kansalakan Enchanted River. This is Negros Oriental’s answer to Hinatuan. Hinatuan, however, is blue, Kansalakan is virescent. Hinatuan is brackish, Kansalakan is fresh.

The deepest portion of the river is calm, so it is safe to swim across or float with your inflatables. Some sections of its edges are high enough for cliff diving.

*The emerald waters of Kansalakan Enchanted River makes it regal.*

If you are not a confident swimmer, you can settle at the shallow part of the river, which offers equally satisfying experience.

Hinakpan Mystical Hills

Around 15 minutes ride from Kansalakan is Hinakpan Mystical Hill, a pilgrim site.

A beautiful array of mounds adorns the entire landscape. In some way, it resembles the Chocolate Hills of Bohol, though Hinakpan has fewer. Some have pointed tips contrary to Chocolate Hills’ rounded peaks.

*The stunning array of mounds in Hinakan, Guihulngan City*

How to get there

The easiest route is via Dumaguete. Fly in to Dumaguete, and then take a Ceres bus to Guihulngan.

From Guihulngan Public Market, hire a motorcycle (habal-habal) to both Kansalakan Enchanted River and Hinakpan Mystical Hills. The round-trip fare is 400 pesos for two passengers.

If you visit after your Majuyod Sandbar adventure, return to Bais City proper, and then wait for a bus to Guihulngan.

From Apo Island, hop on an outrigger boat to Malatapay, and then from the highway, hop on a bus to Dumaguete. From Dumaguete, transfer to another bus to Guihulngan.

*Hinakan Mystical Hills is also a pilgrim site. There are stations of the cross along the stairway.*

If you are coming from Cebu City, take a van to Toledo City. The van terminal is located along Junquera Street near the corner of Sanciangko Street. From Toledo, take a ferry to San Carlos. Travel time is 1 hour for Fast Cat. It may cost you up to 2 hours if you take the Ro-Ro. From San Carlos City, take a bus to Dumaguete, and then disembark at Guihulngan terminal.

From Bacolod City, hop on a bus to San Carlos City, and then from San Carlos, transfer to another bus bound for Dumaguete. Make sure that you get off at the Guihulngan terminal.

If you are coming from Sipaway, return to San Carlos City, and then hop on a bus to Guihulngan.

Notes, Tips, and Reminders

*A huge cross at the end of the Stations of the Cross, Hinakpan Mystical Hill summit*

To save on your habal-habal expenses, make sure that you travel by groups of two.
Small makeshift stores that sell bottled water are available at Kansalakan Enchanted River vicinity, but I am not sure if they are open all-year round, so make sure that you bring enough snack and drinking water.
There is no store around Hinakpan Mystical Hills.
Hinakpan is also a pilgrim site. You need to register before you can take the stairway of the Stations of the Cross.
Going to Hinakpan and Kansalakan is a 40-minute motorcycle ride, so make sure that you cover yourself from the sun’s heat. A sarong could do the protection.

Stunned at Can-umantad Falls

Marveled at Cadapdapan Rice Terraces

Skipped Canawa Cold Spring, For Now

Tour Fees and Other Expenses

How to Get There

Tips, Notes, and Reminders

Places to Visit in Matalom, Leyte

Hitoog Cave

Karap-Agan (Mahayahay) Falls

Canigao Island

How to get to Matalom Leyte

Matalom Fees

Notes, Tips, and Reminders

Solo Dining

­­Max’s Rice Bowl Classic

New Rice Bowl Toppings

About Max’s Restaurant

How to Get There

Via Cebu City

Via Dumaguete (Sibulan-Liloan)

Via Dumaguete (Tampi-Bato)

Via Oslob

Where to stay in Moalboal

Places to stay in Basdiot (Panagsama Beach)

Places to stay in Basdaku

Things to Do in Moalboal

Important Tips, Notes, and Reminders

Cebu Canyoneering or Canyoning: Traversing Canlaob, Alegria and Matutinao, Badian

The First Waterfall Jump

The Canyons

The Sumptuous Treat at Kawasan Falls

Kawasan Canyoneering Guide

Travel Expenses

Suggested Itinerary

Tips, Notes, and Reminders

About Danjugan Island

How to Get There

Booking a Tour to Danjugan Island

Overnight Stay at Typhoon Beach – ‎₱3,950/pax

Overnight Stay at Moray Lagoon Camp – ‎₱2,950/pax

Day Trip – ‎₱1,950/pax

Eco-Tour – ‎₱950/pax

Things to do in Danjugan Island

Lagoons and Beaches

Wildlife Encounters

Contact PRRCFI

Sipalay City

How to Commute to Sipalay

Things to Do in Sipalay

1. Join the DiveSafari

2. Tinagong Dagat

3. Campoquino Bay

4. Danjugan Island (Must-Do)

5. Punta Ballo Beach

6. Sugar Beach

7. Punta Ballo Parrot Farm

8. Poblacion Beach and Sipalay Food Park

9. Perth Paradise Resort Infinity Pool

10. Learn the Art of Archery with Archery-Asia

Where to Stay in Sipalay

Other places to stay in Sipalay are:

If you have questions or suggestions, let us know by commenting below.

How to Commute to Siquijor

Via Dumaguete City

Via Cebu City

Where to Stay in Siquijor

Things to do in the Island

Cambugahay Falls

Capilay’s Spring Park

Old Enchanted Balete Tree and Fish Spa

Cantabon Cave

Lazi Church and Convent

Mount Bandilaan National Park

Tulapos Marine Sanctuary

Kansalakan Enchanted River

Hinakpan Mystical Hills

How to get there

Notes, Tips, and Reminders

Watch our travel video

Max’s Rice Bowl Classic