Sirao Peak comes in various names – Mt. Kan-irag and Sibugay to name a few. Whatever suits you, I’m sure you’ve come across or even hiked already this familiar highland within the borders of Cebu City. Despite the ongoing commotion and healthy arguments among local outdoorsmen, the highlands of Cebu remains as a beautiful sanctuary for those who seek refuge away from the hassles of the city. For this reason, many aspiring hikers would like to try hiking and camping at Sirao Peak.
As Sirao Peak is a favorite destination among trekkers these days, many beginning hikers are curious what the trail looks like. While there are various trails that lead to the summit, one of the most challenging ones begins at Barangay Budlaan. This trail consists of river trekking, direct ascent to Kabang Falls (Tinisik-uwang Falls) then up to the panoramic green meadow view of the peak. Sirao Peak is truly beautiful but once you’ve frequented the area, somehow, such beauty eventually loses its meaning. Hence, the desire to explore other places. But do you really have to? Or you can simply go with new set of individuals who will give you new perspective of the place.
How to get to Sirao Peak?
Just recently, I went with beginning hikers who messaged me on Facebook Page asking for help on how to get to Sirao Peak. As I was free on the designated day, I tagged along with them. They were new in Cebu and want to explore around the province. We met at Gaisano, Talamban. From there, we rode a habal-habal going to the jump-off area at Sitio Baugo, Budlaan. Fare is at P25 per person.
We logged in at the sari-sari store designated for registration before we began the hike. You may also hire local guides from the area if you are not familiar with the trail. From there, we took a short hike going to Kabang Falls.
After exploring around Kabang Falls, we made our way among the steep and slippery rocks going up to the top of the waterfalls – which then led to more cascades and enigmatic rock formations. This trail then directs to an open trail leading to a seemingly endless assault to Sirao Peak.
There is so much more that I have to learn in the great outdoors – this is what I have learned in our recent hike to Sirao Peak. Surely, it takes a lot of patience to hike with beginners but so as the lessons learned. We get to learn that our responsibility of taking care of the environment does not solely lie in our hands – but on those whom we have shared our love for nature and its sustainability. When newbies see this love, this will naturally radiate when they invite others to commune with nature. In this age of social media ranting and bashing, maybe all we need is a little time to hike with beginners for us to see life in a more appreciative perspective.
Suggested itinerary to Sirao Peak:
- via Budlaan Trail (best for hiking experience)
1:00pm – Departure to Budlaan, Talamban
1:30pm – Start of trek to Kabang Falls (Tinisik-uwang Falls)
3:00pm – Ascent to Malubog Golf Course
4:00pm – Judas Peak (campsite)
4:30pm – Sirao Peak
If you don’t want to get toasted by the raging heat of the sun, better hike in the afternoon. But if you want to make the most of your trip (take numerous photographs and walk on slow pace), then begin early morning.
- via Backdoor Trail – Ayala Heights (best for sunrise viewing)
3:30am – Assembly at JY Square; hire habal-habal to bring you to Sirao Peak
4:10am – Drop off at the Ayala Heights
4:30am – Start of trek up to Sirao Peak
5:00am – Sunrise viewing
GENTLE REMINDERS: Environmental sustainability lies in the hands of those who see the beauty of nature. Thus, please make sure to bring your trash along with you. Clean as you go. Do take some time to help in picking up and cleaning the area should there be litter there. Let’s not just end up ranting on social media, let’s be part of the solution. LEAVE NO TRACE.
Read about the other mountains that can be hiked in Cebu:
- Mago – and the boundaries I never thought I’d cross
- An All-Women’s Hike to Mt. Lanaya – and what it taught me about Girl Power
- Spartan Trail: Farewell to Cebu City’s Favorite Hiking Destination?
- Why keep Lake Bensis a Secret
- Argao: Back where it all Started (Mt. Lantoy, Bugasok Falls, and Balay sa Agta)
Dakilanglaagan 