Looking for an adrenaline-pumping adventure followed by a relaxing nature escape? Our recent weekend trip to Thrill Playgrounds and Tipi Cafe in Kinawe, Libona, Bukidnon, Philippines had it all—paintball battles, refreshing mango shakes, and a peaceful night under the stars. Here’s how it went down!
1. The Place: A Peaceful, Well-Thought-Out Escape 🌿
Thrill Playgrounds & Tipi Cafe is more than just an adventure spot—it’s a serene getaway that perfectly balances fun and relaxation.
What we loved about the place:
- Spacious & Scenic: Plenty of parking space, wide open areas for tents, and at least 10 hammocks under two giant trees.
- Chilly & Foggy: The place is naturally cold and gets beautifully foggy when it rains or early in the morning.
- Cozy Evenings: Garden lights illuminate the area at night, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. They also use solar lamps for eco-friendly lighting.
- Great for Camping: Lots of benches with tables, making it easy to relax and enjoy meals outdoors.
- Limited Mobile Signal: Dito has the best reception, followed by Smart (4G only), while Globe/TM is quite slow. But good news—the owner plans to install Starlink soon!
We also had two adorable companions on our trip! There was a chick named George, who was incredibly friendly and loved to stay by our side all the time. And then, there was Petra, a big, sweet dog who kept us company during our stay, adding even more charm to the place.
This place truly felt well-thought-out and peaceful, making it an ideal retreat for those who want to unplug and unwind.
2. Paintball Fun: Our First Battle Experience 🎯
We booked our paintball session at 3:30 PM, just in time after our graveyard shift and travel. Arriving at 1 PM, we had a chance to relax before gearing up for our very first paintball experience.
How it went:
- Before the game, we had a safety briefing, learned the rules, and signed waivers.
- We were provided with protective gear, helmets, and paintball guns loaded with 60 paintballs.
- There were two game modes: Elimination or Capture the Flag—we chose Elimination.
- The match was intense, thrilling, and surprisingly exhausting!
Two of us weren’t ready to stop, so we bought 200 extra paintballs (₱2 per ball with a minimum purchase of 500) and played a 1v1 match. It was an exciting way to wrap up the session!
3. Post-Game Refreshments at Tipi Cafe 🍹
After the game, we were sweaty, tired, and in dire need of a cool-down. What better way to refresh than with a sweet and icy mango shake from Tipi Cafe? It was deliciously refreshing—just what we needed to recharge!
Tipi Cafe highlights:
- Menu prices range from ₱50 to ₱120.
- They offer food and drinks, making it a convenient stop after intense activities.
4. Camping by the River: A Peaceful Escape 🌙
As the evening rolled in, we cooked our dinner by a nipa hut and had the whole place to ourselves. It was the perfect setting for deep conversations, laughter, and unwinding from the day’s adventure.
For our overnight stay, we:
- Pitched our tent near the cliff, where the gentle sound of the river became our lullaby.
- Enjoyed the cool night air and peaceful surroundings.
- Woke up to a breathtaking morning fog that made the experience even more magical.
Camping options:
- Bring your own tent (no extra charge).
- Rent a 3-person tent for ₱150 or a 4-person tent for ₱200.
- Car camping is available for ₱150 per vehicle.
5. Budget Breakdown & Final Thoughts 💰
Thrill Playgrounds & Tipi Cafe offer a budget-friendly yet adventure-packed getaway. Here’s a breakdown of the costs:
Entrance Fees:
- Locals: ₱25 (Day) / +₱25 (Overnight)
- Tourists: ₱30 (Day) / +₱20 (Overnight)
- Seniors & Kids (Under 12): ₱20 (Day) / +₱30 (Overnight)
Paintball: ₱300 per person (Extra paintballs available for purchase)
Campsite Fees:
- Bring your own gear: No extra charge
- Tent rentals: ₱150-₱200
Food & Drinks:
- Prices range from ₱50 to ₱120 at Tipi Cafe.
- Corkage fees apply if you bring your own food and drinks.
Overall, this trip was the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re in for the action-packed paintball experience or a peaceful night under the stars, Thrill Playgrounds & Tipi Cafe is a hidden gem worth visiting!
Would you take on a paintball battle or just relax by the river? Let us know in the comments!