Bukidnon is a province in the Philippines situated in the Northern Mindanao region occupying the northern-central section of Mindanao. From vast highlands, deep canyons, and valleys to rolling grasslands, Bukidnon offers quite a picturesque scene that is ideal for both adventure seekers and visitors looking for some quality relaxation.
I originally planned for us to stay longer in Bukidnon but as I was able to research and found out that just by doing a day trip, we'd be able to visit at least 2 locations on my list, I had to adjust the plan and it gave us an opportunity to squeeze in and explore Camiguin and Cagayan De Oro (more details on these two, SOON!).
Our Bukidnon adventure started off with climbing Paminahawa Ridge - we left Cagayan De Oro at around 1am as it'll be a 2 hours drive to Bukidnon and we would like to reach the top of Paminahawa Ridge before sunrise. We arrived in Bukidnon at exactly 3am, but due to the miscommunication with our guide, we're able to get to the registration area by 4am, signed some waivers and started trekking.
The trail was muddy and a bit slippery so we really had to take our time as still safety is our priority. When the sun started to appear it uncovered the real beauty if Paminahawa Ridge.
Paminahawa Ridge is also good for stargazing and camping overnight, there was only one group who stayed the night as probably because it was raining all night which wasn't a good idea to go camping.
Hiking might be tiring, but it's the view on top that makes it worthwhile! We descended after staying an hour and head straight to CEDAR farm to wash up before heading to Roty Peaks. I was unable to take photos of CEDAR farm as we went swimming in the public pool for a bit then washed up. The place was a bit crowded probably because it was Sunday.
Last on our list for Bukidnon was Roty Peaks Ridge Camp - another great location for camping. It's located 30 minutes away from the town center of Impasugong and can be reached only by 4x4 or rent a local habal habal (motor) transport with a charge of PHP250/head one way.
HEADS UP! We thought that the fare was too much, but we eventually understood why -- it was a "buwis-buhay" ride going up. Before you'll be rewarded with some jaw-dropping view on top that would surely take your breath away, you get to experience a *heart-throbbing*, *jaw-dropping*, *nakakalokang, sakit sa pwet* experience going up. No, I'm serious, if you're up for some adrenaline, then go for it but if you're someone who gets easily nervous, I won't recommend riding a habal habal. It was a muddy, bumpy and mabangin na daan and you just have to relax and trust your habal rider.
 |
| Linking my IG post here if you want to see a short clip of the habal ride. :) |
We had the place to ourselves, so we took advantage and took a lot of photos. If you're looking for an IG-worthy place, then this is for you. Sharing photos below for reference so you can plan your "awra" shots! :p
Most people would go here for a day tour, but it was also recommended to stay overnight if you plan to stay longer in Bukidnon - waking up with a picturesque view while drinking your morning coffee.. Who wouldn't want that? :) Just get ready as there are no lights in the camp at night and the water source is very limited. Also, aside from the PHP500/each (RT) habal ride, we are also asked to pay for another PHP250/each for the entrance fee.
Overall, I did enjoy our short trip to Bukidnon. Aside from these 2 locations there are more spots to explore which gives me more reason to visit again! Bukidnon can be compared to the scenic views of Tagaytay and Tanay Rizal only this is better. The serene atmosphere of the province is just perfect.
Ang ganda mo, Bukidnon. ❤️
--
More of my MINDAwow adventures:
.JPG)
