Although Osmeña Peak, which is part of the Mantalungon Range in Dalaguete, is recorded as the highest point of the province of Cebu at 1013 MASL, it is actually one of the shortest and easiest hikes in the province.

Regardless, OPeak still amazes its visitors with cool temperatures and a breathtaking view that will make you forget that you are in the Philippines.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced hiker, a visit to Osmeña Peak should definitely be in your bucket list.

How to Get to Osmeña Peak

Getting to Osmeña Peak takes around 3-4 hours from Cebu City.

First, you need to make your way to the South Bus Terminal and hop aboard a bus bound for Bato or Oslob but tell the driver to drop you off at the Mantalungon-Dalaguete junction. The ride costs around PHP 100 per person and you can take your brunch, lunch or other last minute purchases at the Dalaguete Public Market.

Even before you get off the bus, there will already be a lot of habal-habal drivers waiting to take you to your destination. Get on one and ask to be taken to the foot of Osmeña Peak. This ride will cost PHP 100 per person, one way.

Some more experienced hikers will opt to be taken to the Mantalungon Public Market and start hiking from there, saving PHP 50 in the process. Last minute purchases may also be done from here.

Once you get to the foot of the famed mountain, register yourself and prepare to pay PHP 30 per person for the environmental fee. There is also a comfort room there which costs PHP 5 per person.

Camping in Osmeña Peak

Camping at OPeak is a very popular activity among Cebuanos and non-Cebuanos alike. The peak itself is off-limits to campers (it is just an area for viewing and taking pictures) but there is a huge area to pitch tents below.

Beach tents are okay for use in the campsite but the winds can blow very strong here especially as night approaches so make sure that you bring a sturdy one and that they are properly secured on the ground.

There will be locals roving around the area to check people and a few portable stores where you can buy snacks, softdrinks and even alcoholic drinks. You can also request for water in case you run out while camping.

When to Visit Osmeña Peak

If you are only visiting the peak to see what its beauty, it is highly suggested to visit there very early in the morning or some time late in the afternoon, before sunset.

If you are planning to camp overnight, time your travel so you arrive there when the sun is no longer hot as there are no trees at the peak to keep you shaded.

It may get a little difficult to visit OPeak during the rainy season as the trail may become slippery and wet. It is also recommended to visit during the weekdays when it is less crowded.

Other Things to Remember

What to Bring

Light, breathable clothes should be worn when hiking in OPeak especially if you are not planning to stay long. Also make sure to bring at least two liters of water per person to keep you hydrated.

If you are camping overnight, bring along your camping gears as well as a jacket to keep you warm through the night. You can also bring socks, a hat and even thin gloves if you like.

Guides and Fees

Registration Area

There is no entrance fee to get to the peak but you will have to pay for the PHP 30 environmental fee upon registration. There are guide services offered at the registration fee but they cost PHP 200.

First-time experienced hikers who begin their walk at the Mantalongon market can also get guides from there.

Leave No Trace

No matter where you go, you should always remember to leave no trace to help preserve the beauty of the place. Don’t pick the flowers nor leave trash behind. Follow the trail and don’t make a new one. Visit the place and only take pictures — as if you have never been there at all.

Where To Go Next

For more adventurous (and fit) hikers, a 4-hour traverse to Kawasan Falls in Badian located on the other side of the island is the most common activity after camping in OPeak.

However, if that is too much for you, you can go back the other way and check out the beauty of Dalaguete from buying its fresh vegetables and delicacies to visiting the museums, lighthouses, Obong Spring and many more.