Osmena Peak was another recommended sight in Cebu that I wanted to check off my bucket list. Osmena Peak is touted as an easy climb with incredible views—it is, after all—the highest peak in Cebu—and perfect for those who are new to more outdoorsy travel. It was a breeze to get there. We first took a bus from the South Bus Terminal to Oslob or Bato. If you’re headed here, tell the driver to drop you in Dalaguete—don’t worry, they usually know where you are going. Once there, we took a habal-habal (motorcycle ride) up to Osmena Peak. Each habal-habal typically takes on a minimum of two passengers per vehicle, and we were charge Php 100 per person, per way—so for a round trip to and from the peak, we paid Php 400 per person. If you’re traveling alone though, they’ll still charge you Php 400 for the passenger minimum, and they may ask for an extra tip for the waiting time on the ride back from the peak.
Though there was an option to traverse the famous Kawasan Falls to get there, we opted for this easier, but also scenic drive instead, and were rewarded with the sight of clustered verdant hills and lush vegetable fields against a cloudy sky—it was a dreamy landscape and well worth a slightly butt-numbing ride! We also got a peep of Osmena Peak itself along the way, a slightly craggy but incredible peak that is definitely worth the trip.
From the typical drop-off point for the habal-habal, it was only a brief 20-minute hike up to the very viewpoint of Osmena Peak. Seeing the glorious sunshine bathe all that greenery in a light veil of gold reminded me of some of the more famous views I’ve seen during my mountain hikes, and the evergreen trees that surrounded us made us feel so much closer to nature. We sat down, took some pictures of the wonderful scenery and just talked about life and enjoyed the awe-inspiring sunset—a welcome respite from the brief exertion of the hike. We also took the time to talk to a couple of German backpackers at the peak who were also admiring the stunning view. It’s always nice to swap stories with fellow travelers in such a splendid setting. There, it felt like we had all the time in the world.
My only regret is the fact that some parts we wanted to climb along the peak were blocked, but that did not detract from our serene little trip to the peak. We made our way down, happy to have gotten the chance to enjoy the Philippine countryside.
That looks like a beautiful outing and not for those with weak feet! I can’t climb peaks any more, but I do love a good hike with gorgeous scenery. Beautiful.
This one is a really easy hike though. Short one too. You might give it a second chance 🙂
What a gorgeous view! A view like that is totally worth the hike. Beautiful.
looks like you guys had a LOT of fun!
What a beautiful view! I would have loved to seen it in person. Although I have to admit…I am scared of heights!
Wow, I have to admit, I’m super jealous of your world travels! I also love to hike. beautiful photos!
What an adventure! Some amazing pics too. I’ve never been to this part of the world but this post has made me even more determined to go soon. Looks like the real wilderness, thanks for sharing!
wow thats excellent that you can drive to within 20 minutes of walking to the summit. Cebu always looks beautiful and interesting when ever i read articles about it. i can now add this to the list of great things to do in Cebu. I bet the sunset was amazing
I have to admit, I’ve never heard about Osmena Peak or Cebu. It seems there is a lot to see and do there, and I’d love to visit it someday. When it comes to beautiful nature and hiking I am the first in line.
If that’s the case, you will really enjoy this. Go for sunrise or sunset, it’s nice. Plus, during mid day, it can be hot.
Hey Karla, looks like it was a fabulous road trip to a sceneic place. All shots are great. Keep introducing such new places. Look forward to more.
Very timely as we intend to go ther week after next! How long is the habal-habal ride, and would you know if it’s possible to take/rent a van instead of habal-habal?
Thanks! 🙂
Hi it will take around 45 minutes to the jump off point. Try to go during sunrise or sunset or at least later in the afternoon. It’s open so it will be hot if you go in the afternoon.
Wow! So many travel blogs focus on the beaches of the Philippines, it is great to see something a bit different. We love hiking and those look like some pretty unique peaks! We’ve always wanted to go to the Philippines so we’ll have to keep this in mind!
We have a lot of worthwhile mountains to visit too.
I’m glad you made it to the peak. What a beautiful view. The mountains remind me of Hershey kisses.
Oh wow this place is stunning. Where is this place, Cebu? Great post, thanks for sharing 🙂
Hi, it’s in the Philippines. Come for a visit.
Loving the pictures, would really like to hike up this peak myself. The scenery is just… wow!
What an amazing view! I’ll look at adding this into my Philippines itinerary for later this year.
You’re going here? Wow,you will enjoy for sure.
Love love love the pictures. I had no idea the Philippines had such gorgeous mountains to hike. Very beautiful!
Wow! What a beautiful place! The photographs are great too! What awesome memories!
So beautiful!! Looks like you had a wonderful time!!
I’ve heard great things about Cebu before, but I know now I have to go! The views are fantastic.
Aaaaaaaaaaaaaamazingly beautiful. This is the reason I so love travel blogs.
What a unique view from the top. I didn’t expect that at all. We love finding the great nature spots while traveling. This looks like a keeper for sure!
Lovely view! It definitely looks like it’s worth the hike.
Another beautiful hike in the Philippines! Awesome! I’m keeping a list for the next time I visit! Keep them coming!
Looks like a lovely hike! I love the views! Well captured, Karla! If I visit Cebu, I should definitely do this hike too!
For a 20 minute hike, the view is priceless!
Super, that’s why its something I recommend people to visit.