Osmena Peak is one of the most sought after tourist destination in the island of Cebu. It is the highest point in the island standing 1, 013 meters above sea level. This spot is often compared to the Chocolate Hills in Bohol but its hills are jagged and sharp making it look a lot more interesting than any other hiking spots in the country. It is located in the town of Mantalongon in the Municipality of Dalaguete which is also known as the "Little Baguio of Cebu", due to its cool climate and vegetable plantations same with the ones in Baguio.
Going to Osmena peak is quite an awesome experience as it was my first time to go hiking. We started with a panoramic motorcycle ride from the downtown area to the actual location in Mantalongon which only took us 20-25 minutes to reach. The road going to the place was a bit bumpy, but it was breathtaking as you will pass through some stunning landscapes and twisted mountain roads.
After the breathtaking motorcycle ride, we headed to the hiker's registration area where we hired a local guide. Our local guide also worked as our photographer as he know all the best angles to take while we are on trail. Here are some of the pictures that he had taken on our behalf.
Admittedly, the entire hike was a bit draining for me. Probably because I don't do cardio. I fell on my knees and tumbled a couple of times, so I went home with bruises on my knees. Savage! Instead of 30 minutes as the normal time frame to get to the peak, we finished it in an hour. Hahaha. Thank God our guide was patient. But it was hell of an adventure for me since I was with favorite travel buddies.
I highly recommend this place for those who just started hiking as a hobby because it is not as rough as the other hiking spots in the Philippines. The guides are also very cool to be with and can work as your personal photographer, not to mention that they are so good in doing such. The place is also good for camping if you plan to stay overnight. Camping fee is only for 50 pesos per person. Sunrise and sunset watching? Why go far if you can do it in the highest point in the island of Cebu. Osmena Peak is the place to go.