Sunday Escape: Hiking in Foressa Trails

Couldn't think of your next weekend escapade? Foressa Trails has something adventurous for you.

If you are into hiking or trekking or mountain climbing, or if you are a nature lover and you appreciate everything about it, then hiking at Foressa Trails can be one in your adventure bucket list.

Foressa Mountain Town is located in Cansomoroy, Balamban, Cebu and is owned by the AboitizLand Inc. It is an hour and a half ride from Cebu City by private car. A van for hire, usually called the V-Hire passes by Foressa through the Trans-Central Hi-way from Ayala Center Cebu Terminal and fare is about more or less 120.00 (not sure, though).

A weekend getaway at this place which they call the "the great backyard" is perfect for someone who seeks an escape from a busy and stressful city life. It can be a bolt for your freedom to see what nature can offer as you rekindle your spiritual being in this mountain paradise without thinking about your worries and fears in life.

The price of hike trails is 150.00 per person and the tour guide is 250.00 maximum of 10 persons. More prices of possible activities here: https://www.facebook.com/ForessaTrails/

At the site, a guide can bring you to a hike of up to 10.7 km. Along the hike, you can see some trail guides that lead you to some spots including the waterfalls inside a cave and the way to Binuthan cave.

The hike trails

Trail guide

Trail precaution

You also cross the stream many times and you may take unlimited photos along the way. According to a guide, they do not allow hikers to go on a hike if it is raining as the water usually increases and the trails are slippery and steep.

There is a mini swimming pool along the way, but it is slightly narrow so don't expect too much.

The little swimming pool

At the stream you can take a rest and pose by big piles of rock and savor the moment as you feel the gentle touch of its flowing water.

A quick pose at this beautiful scenery

If you are a new hiker, it would take you 2 hours to reach Binuthan cave and another 2 hours to go back to the jump off point. The trails going back are a little steep and more difficult than the initial trails as you encounter a lot of cogon grasses along the way.

Unknown name but it has falls inside

A pose outside Binuthan cave

If you want to hike at Foressa trails, you should start earlier than 9 AM so you can come back earlier too. You can bring your food and have a picnic or you can stay overnight and camp. For more details, you may visit their Facebook page through the link mentioned above.

It is always fun to do common things with people who have the same interest as you. While hiking at Foressa can be done alone, it is better to do it as a group as well to enjoy more and feel nature's spirit within yourselves.

What are you waiting for? Plan your next hike and go to Foressa Trails.

A Quick Ride and Traipse in Tapaz

I was not born in the Municipality of Tapaz but I was raised there and completed my elementary and high school education. Tapaz is the center town of the island of Panay with 58 barangays in total. Mountains dominate the town and these are accessible by motorcycle as the primary mode of transportation.

The motorbikes we used on our "lagaw"

I have never been to these mountain areas of my hometown so my friends and I including my brother decided to go to a beautiful spot in the mountainous part of the town which locals call "Bulod." The place was a little far from the town proper. We had to ride on a motorbike as the slope got steep and the stones were big enough to let it tumble down if the driver doesn't know how to take control. Good thing our drivers are a little expert. Hahaha.

Tapaz as seen from Bulod

View of the highlands

The sun was already up when we got there. The heat did not matter to us. We took photos and enjoyed the scenery as it was our first time to reach that place without a guide. Soon after we finished taking beautiful shots, we went on and continued to be amazed with God's natural masterpiece painted with green and brown.

Pose before we leave the area

Panay River

Watch video here: https://bit.ly/2NnzAsw

We reached Brgy. Aglinab but we had to pass by the Panay River. Then we reached their hanging bridge which connects one end of the barangay to the other end. It was swaying, though but we managed to smile and continued until we reached the so-called grotto privately owned by a local family.

The panoramic view of Panay River in Brgy. Aglinab

If you are a first-time hiker just like my friend, Eden, you have at least 3 rests before you reach the grotto. Good thing I have an experience in mountain climbing and trekking so I did not have difficulty climbing that little mountain too, although I felt tired, of course. The hike was worth it. I say it because I appreciate nature the most.

The place, Brgy. Aglinab, can only be accessible by motorcycle via Brgy. San Miguel Ilaya and Ilawod, through Brgy. Gebio-an (if I am not mistaken). It is fine to go there through this route but I would not suggest to go back to the same route if you go to the mainland because the stones on the road are so big that wheels of the motorbikes seem to dance. The road going back is a little steep too. For a safer way back to the highway, it is better to take the Brgy. Katipunan road through Brgy. Libertad as the barangay road is plane and not steep in spite of the slippery way caused by small stones with sands.

A pose on the hanging bridge

Regardless of the difficult road, we chose to be courageous and determined because we wanted to achieve something. That was taking a quick traipse in the highlands of my own hometown, Tapaz in the Province of Capiz.

Conquering Mt. Hibok-hibok

Never in my wildest dreams that I climb a high mountain until I was driven by an urge to challenge myself; yet, this happened because of a planned team building - climbing the summit of the famous Mt. Hibok-hibok in the island born of fire, Camiguin - with my team. Mt. Hibok-hibok is one of the active volcanoes in Camiguin Island with an elevation of 1,332 meters ASL. 

a photo of Mt. Hibok-hibok as seen from White island

On June 29, 2019, my team went on an early hike to the summit of Mt. Hibok-hibok. Planning to chase for the sunrise, we set off our hike at 1:49 AM via the Yumbing trail with our tour guides. Beginners as we are, we were not discouraged to continue pushing through our plan as we were all determined to reach the summit. 

The dawn was so dark that we used our cellphone flashlights to see the trails. We could not see anything from afar but we were able to see beautiful flowers and birds sleeping deeply as we went along. The mossy forest seemed to be a jungle stealing light from the sun and the dense fog covered the entire area that anyone unfamiliar may think of it as a heavy rain. The sweat we had and the fog we felt were meeting in our bodies. We could not even feel any coldness.

Bob, one of my COs, posed in this mossy forest

The plan of seeing the sunrise at the summit failed. It was already 6 AM when we arrived at Mt. Hibok-hibok's crater which was really impossible for us to see the sunrise. Nevertheless, the breath-taking view at the crater was incredibly amazing despite the denseness of the fog that surrounded the area.

our group pose at the Hibok-hibok crater

After an hour of rest, we went on our hike and experienced the "rope-course-look-alike" way to get to the top. But it was not the summit yet. It was just a way to pass through one of the most difficult trails. Every trail was difficult, anyway, but this was the hardest. There were slippery slopes and rocks were mossy which could lead you to sliding if you are not careful of your steps. After an hour, we reached the first peak where we were supposed to see the first view of the entire island including the crater but we failed. The dense fog covered everything and we could only see a white background - nothing more. After picture taking, we continued until we reached the summit.

This was it. We reached the summit at past 8 AM. Imagine how long we have walked just to reach this scenic view. Although our expectations did not meet the reality, we were still amazed with the view at the top. Despite not having achieved our "clearing goals" to see the whole island of Camiguin, we were still enthralled with what nature can offer. Mt. Hibok-hibok is one of Asia's preserved forests which is truly one of the Supreme Being's beautiful creations.

a captured photo at the summit
Photo credit from Ms. Sissel

Waiting for the clouds to clear out so we can witness what we expected, we got tired. Time to go home now. At 10 AM, we descended from the summit. If you think it is easy to descend, then you are wrong. We realized that climbing was a lot more easier than going down. The feeling of not wanting to go home was within us at that time. We were like, "Is there a zipline here?" that we just wanted to take the easiest and shortest trail as quickly as possible because our feet were already swelling and shaking upon every step.

a quick pose as we took a rest from a tiring descent

By the time we reached some of the plain areas near the foot of Mt. Hibok-hibok, we were all exhausted but we still continued on our hike just to get to Ardent Hot Spring. Yes, it was our end point. We looked back and asked ourselves, "Did we really just climb there?" "Were we really there few hours ago?"

a view of Mt. Hibok-hibok summit as seen from above the Ardent Hot Spring

At last, we descended safely. We could not believe that beginners like us were able to conquer one of Camiguin's highest peaks and it was awesome. Our tiredness was paid off.

our tired faces and bodies as we took a rest and fetched water for a drink

Our end point was in Ardent Hot Spring which was a little far from the place where we took longer rest (photo above). There we met a Spanish tourist named Martha and started a small talk which resulted to a beginning of friendship.

Our photo with Martha at Ardent Hot Spring

We experienced hardships as we traverse the dense forest of Mt. Hibok-hibok. We ate nothing but loaf bread and drank an inadequate amount of water. We slipped on mossy rocks, pulled up ourselves to surmount the hardest trail, but we made ourselves proud for successfully achieving our team's goal: to conquer Hibok-hibok as a team.

The mantra "leave no trace" is common for all travelers but we left our traces and footprints but the memories we had there will always be with us.

Post notes:

♣ More photos and videos in this link: https://www.facebook.com/ymgygar12/media_set?set=a.881938032175005&type=3

♣ If you wish to climb Mt. Hibok-hibok, feel free to leave a message or contact our tour guide Jerald Rabile through his Facebook account: https://www.facebook.com/jerald.rabile.98

Things you can do in the Island Born of Fire

When you're looking for a simple but relaxing getaway, Camiguin island is one of the best places to visit in the Philippines. It is known as the island born of fire because of its number of volcanoes - Mt. Hibok-hibok is one of them. The island is 64 kilometers and consists 5 municipalities namely Mambajao, the capital town, Catarman, Sagay, Guinsiliban, and Mahinog.

Planning for your next trip? Here are some things that you can do in the island born of fire.

1. Climb Mt. Hibok-hibok
With an elevation of 1,300 meters above sea level, this famous volcano is not new to hikers. You can plan for a hike in just a day or camp near its summit and enjoy the overlooking view of the island at night. But make sure that you hire a guide when you go there as the forest is dense and the trails are confusing (sometimes). Contact Jerlald Rabile through his Facebook account: https://m.facebook.com/jerald.rabile.98 to guide you.

2. Eat at Northern Lights
Platter servings good for 4-5 persons are best when you travel as a group. Their homemeade ice cream is highly recommendable for those who love ice cream for Php 20.00 per scoop. At one scoop, your tummy is already full. Their lomi soup is delicious too.

3. Take a dip in Ardent Hot Spring
Although the temperature is warm, the hot spring is a great aid to lessen body and muscle pains. It is best to soak and stay longer in the warm water after a long and tiring Hibok-hibok hike.

4. Swim in the cold flowing waters of Tuasan and Katibawasan Falls
Katibawasan Falls is the highest falls in Camiguin. Its beautiful flowing water cascades to a pool surrounded by rocks and flows through a little creek. Tuasan Falls is not so high but it has the strongest current that you can really feel even before you reach the area. The abundant water of the falls entices one to take a quick dip in its cold flowing water.

5. Take photos at Tongatok Cliff
The view of the old Mount Vulcan and Bohol Sea can be clearly seen from Tongatok Cliff. It is situated just right along the highway and is known to be a nice spot for picture taking where you can have both Mount Vulcan and Bohol Sea as your background. No entrance fees here, it is totally free.

6. Go uphill the Walkway to the Stations of the Cross
The Wallkway, as locals call it, is famous for its 14 stations where devotees climb and celebrate the Holy Week. If you opt not to be disturbed by a crowd of people, do not go there in summer. The best time to climb and reach the last station is early in the morning. You can walk for an hour going uphill and less than an hour going downhill. One can enjoy the scenery on top, overlooking the Bohol Sea and the famous cross landmark at the Sunken Cemetery. An early morning walk at the walkway can make you sweat more and feel the morning breeze when you reach the top.

7. Dive and take panoramic photos at the Sunken Cemetery
The big cross at the Sunken Cemetery serves as a landmark of the sunken cemetery which was affected by a volcanic eruption. You can dive and snorkel as locals say these activities can be done there but you just have to pay for a fee. Boatmen can also take beautiful panoramic pictures with many poses and shots while you just wait for a great result. Boat fee is 100 pesos for 4 people. Sunset watching is also possible at the Sunken Cemetery.

8. Be refreshed in the cold waters of Bura Soda Spring and Sto. Niño Cold Spring
As its name says, Sto. Niño Cold Spring is literally cold. There is also a fish spa where you can have your feet kissed by a school of fish as you relax and unwind by the pool. In addition, Bura Soda Spring is a place where flowing water can be drunk. It is a little deep so if you are not good at swimming, you can stay at the children's pool instead. In Bura Soda Spring, you can also ask the restaurant crew to cook a dish for you at lunch. Price is affordable especially for a group.

9. Ride a boat and take scenic photos at the famous White Island
You cannot say you have been to Camiguin Island if you have not been to its popular White Island. The sandbar represents the island's sea gem which is actually a favorite picture-perfect destination for tourists. Mt. Hibok-hibok and its surrounding mountains can be clearly seen from White Island and is a beautiful background for picture taking. Sometimes, the sandbar gets smaller because of the high tide. Boat fee is 450 good for people and a 50.00 environmental fee. If your hostel provides a boat ride, then you can negotiate with them for faster transactions.

10. Buy souvenirs in Pasalubong sa Camiguin and Vjandep
One cannot go home without something to bring for their loved ones. The famous Pastel of Vjandep is delicious enough for you to be enthralled and feel delighted because of its savory taste. Another product of the island is the tart which comes from different flavors. Both the stores sell various souvenirs including T-shirts, bracelets, anklets, and other stuff designed and inspired by the well-known lanzones in the island of Camiguin.

There are other things and places you can do there like island hopping to Mantigue Island, flying on a zipline at the Tanguines Lagoon, sightseeing in the Camiguin landmark, or enjoying the sea breeze in the mangroves at Katunggan Park. In fact, you can tour the island in just one day. You can opt to have a tour by yourself or hire a tour guide. Tour guides can drive you all throughout the island and take your photos as you enjoy the spots. If you are a solo traveler, you can rent a motorbike. If you are with a group, you can rent a multicab, a jeepney or a van. In October, you can witness the Lanzones festival where you can see flamboyant costumes of the street dancers.

Where to stay in Camiguin Island?

Camiguin White Island Resort
Yumbing, Mambajao, Camiguin
Contact Person: Mai-mai
Contact Number: 09177947896

Paguia's Cottages
Yumbing, Mambajao, Camiguin
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paguiasownpage/

Pabua's Cottages
Yumbing, Mambajao, Camiguin
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ToursandCottagesinCamiguinIsland/
Contact Person: Rochelle Pabua
Contact Number: 09177023010

Havendwell Beach Resort
Contact number: 09773313371
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/havendwellbeachresort/

Bintana sa Paraiso
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bspbinunsaran/
Website: https://bintanasaparaiso.com
Contact Number: 09970683570

For more booking and tour inquiries, contact MR. JUNREY P. TUTOR, an island tour guide. See details below:

Contact number: 09757206450
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/junrey7tutor
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/junrey7tutor5/