Hidden in the highlands of Cebu lies a gorgeous destination with historical significance – Mt Manunggal Campsite. Despite being close to Cebu City, it is often quiet and offers one of the best hiking experiences on the island.
Mt Manunggal History:
Mt. Manunggal holds a solemn place in Philippine history as the site of the tragic 1957 plane crash that claimed the life of President Ramon Magsaysay. The Douglas C-47 aircraft named “Mt. Pinatubo” crashed on this mountain on March 17, 1957, forever marking this location as a historical landmark and a place of remembrance.
Today, Mt. Manunggal has become an epic adventure site in Cebu.
Standing at 1,000 meters above sea level, the mountain offers spectacular panoramic views, a refreshing climate, and plenty of activities.
Where is Mt Manunggal Located?
Mt. Manunggal is situated in Barangay Magsaysay, Balamban, Cebu, approximately 40 kilometres northwest of Cebu City. The location offers accessibility while boasting a serene atmosphere and nature escape from Cebu City.
Baguio de Cebu
Before reaching the actual Mt. Manunggal campsite, visitors will encounter Baguio de Cebu. This area is the first stop and registration point for those heading to Mt. Manunggal.
Baguio de Cebu, now part of what’s officially called the Mt. Manunggal Eco-Adventure Park, has been developed to provide tourists with more activities and experiences than just camping. The cool climate here has earned it the nickname “Little Baguio of Cebu,” reminiscent of the famous summer capital in northern Luzon.
Activities & Facilities Available
The Eco-Adventure Park offers various activities that make your Mt. Manunggal journey worthwhile even before reaching the summit:
- Sky Biking: Experience the thrill of pedalling across a cable suspended high above the ground, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
- Horseback Riding: Explore the area on horseback for a unique viewpoint.
- Basic Amenities: Comfort rooms, water sources, and small stores selling necessities
- Picnic Areas: Designated spots for day visitors who prefer not to camp overnight
How to Get There
Reaching Mt. Manunggal requires some planning, but is relatively easy to find. There are two primary ways to access Mt Manunggal’s Campsite.
Private Car Option
Travelling by private vehicle is the most convenient option, especially if you’re camping and carrying equipment. Here’s the route:
- From Cebu City, head to Transcentral Highway
- Continue through the mountain highway, passing through Busay, Balamban Road
- Upon reaching Gaas, Balamban, watch for signs pointing to Mt. Manunggal
- The road eventually leads to Baguio de Cebu Eco-Adventure Park, the entry point to Mt. Manunggal
This journey takes approximately 1.5 – 2.5 hours depending on traffic conditions. The road is mostly paved but becomes rough as you approach the mountain area. A vehicle with high clearance is recommended, especially during rainy seasons when the dirt roads become slippery and challenging.
Commuting Option
For budget travellers or those who prefer public transportation, here’s how to reach Mt. Manunggal:
- Get a van at IT Park or Ayala terminal and ask the driver to drop you off at Manunggal Highway. Ride a habal habal going to the site.
The commute to Mt Manunggal Campsite takes approximately 3-4 hours total. While more affordable, this option requires more time and flexibility. It’s advisable to start early in the morning to allow sufficient time for hiking before sunset.
Hiking to Mt Manunggal Viewpoint
While I can highly recommend staying overnight at Mt Manunggal Campsite, camping is not the only option! Instead, you can visit for the day and hike to the famous viewpoint.
The trek to Mt. Manunggal’s viewpoint is one of the highlights of visiting this historic site. From the Eco-Adventure Park entrance, the hike to the summit viewpoint takes approximately 40 minutes for those with average fitness levels.
Due to the difficulty in finding the trail, it is best to go with one of the guides, who I can confirm are extremely talkative and friendly!
The trail starts gently but gradually increases in steepness as you approach the viewpoint. Along the way, you pass through fields and forests, spotting plenty of birds and butterflies.
For those interested in Philippine history, the crash site memorial is located near the start of the trail. This monument serves as a solemn reminder of the tragedy that occurred here.
The most rewarding part comes at the viewpoint – a clearing that offers spectacular 360-degree views of central Cebu, neighbouring islands on clear days, and even glimpses of Cebu City in the distance. The viewpoint is especially popular during sunrise and sunset when the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colours.
Just make sure to wear trainers and not sliders!
Mt Manunggal Campsite
Formerly known as Baguio de Cebu Eco-Adventure and now officially called Mt. Manunggal Eco-Adventure Park, the campsite offers various accommodation options and activities for visitors.
The campsite area is relatively flat and spacious, accommodating multiple tents with designated areas for cooking and socializing. The cool mountain climate makes camping enjoyable, with temperatures often dropping to refreshingly cool levels at night (arguably rather cold)!
Accommodation Options:
- Camping: Bring your own tent or message in advance to see if they have tents for rental.
- Tiny Cabin: The campsite has recently built a new small cabin, for those who prefer glamping. While basic, the cabin offers extra privacy, warmth and incredible views.
- Hammock Areas: Some areas are suitable for hanging hammocks between trees
The campsite has basic amenities including:
- Potable water sources (though it’s still recommended to bring your own)
- Simple toilet and washing facilities
- Small stores selling necessities and refreshments
Activities at the Campsite:
- Sky Biking: Pedal across suspended cables while enjoying breathtaking mountain views
- Trekking: Several trails of varying difficulty levels branch out from the main campsite
- Stargazing: The minimal light pollution makes this an excellent spot for observing the night sky
- Photography: Capture stunning landscape shots, particularly during golden hours
- Sunrise/Sunset Viewing: The viewpoint offers spectacular views of both sunrise and sunset
Mt Manunggal Campsite Packing List
If you have read this far, you are probably eager to camp here! Try not to be like us and get so excited you forget to pack warm clothes and other camping essentials!
Useful Things To Bring:
- Tent with rainfly (weather can change rapidly in mountain areas)
- Sleeping bag or blankets (temperatures can drop at night)
- Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
- Power bank for charging devices
- Insect repellent
- Portable camping stove
- Small daypack for viewpoint hikes
- Playing cards or small games for evening entertainment
More Things To Do In Cebu
- Explore North Cebu
- Beach bum on Bantayan Island
- Chase waterfalls in South Cebu
- Roadtrip down South
- Explore Samboan’s tourist spots
Thank you for reading our blog!
We are Em & Yul – An English & Filipino Travel Couple. Now based in Cebu, we frequently explore the best destinations, hidden gems and cultural attractions across the Philippines.
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