Osmeña Peak is a perfect destination for all backpacking enthusiasts. If you're in Cebu, you should not miss this chance to climb this famous peak. The trail is not so backbreaking but it really gets slippery especially during rainy season in the Philippines. Get your climbing shoes ready and don't forget an extra coat because it gets a little cold at nightfall.
From Mantalungon Market, you can hire a motorcycle to bring you at the foot of the mountain. It costs around PhP 75-80 per person (one-way fare). Drivers usually offer to wait for you if you're not going to camp overnight so that makes it Php 150-160 (back & forth) for a motorcycle ride.While negotiating with the drivers, it is best that you have someone with you from Dalaguete or a guide at least. Some drivers tend to take advantage and overprice (based on experience). Some just choose to hike from the market to the peak. It takes an hour from the market and another hour from the foot to the peak. The ride can be a little bumpy and rough so hold on tight! :)
Before trekking, it is a protocol to write your name on somewhat a guest book for security purposes. There could be a lot of possible trails but there's one easiest track to follow especially if you're a neophyte in mountaineering or when you're not a climber at all. It's an easy trail indeed plus the idyllic scenery alongside the trek.
While climbing, you may get a chance to encounter farmers carrying loads of agricultural produce. With its cold temperature, fertile land and green thumb locals, no wonder Dalaguete has been tagged as Vegetable Basket of Cebu. A variety of cabbage sprout everywhere like wild grass. You might even step on them during the trek. But it's quite surprising to find out that the prices of their products displayed in the market are the same with the ones you'd find in Cebu City.
Reaching the peak, you'd probably standstill in astonishment. The view is literally breathtaking.A magnificent bird's eye view of nearby island provinces is one thing you'll never miss to capture. The air starts to feel a little crisp that is just perfect for cooling down after an hour climb.
Camping is absolutely allowed with no fees whatsoever but you have to camp at your own risk and be ready with supplies. There are no water stations, food stalls, or toilets nearby which makes it really natural and not commercialized. You should not litter around the area as well. There is no signage that tells you that nor imposed fines but it's more of a social responsibility.
A spot at the peak! Perfect for your selfie. :P
The entire journey condensed (no, not milk! harhar) in a seven-minute video!
Till our next laag!
XOXO,
Travelsome Chic
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