Reigning supreme over the city of Cebu, Mt. Kan-Irag, otherwise known as Sirao Peak, stands at an imposing 2,300 feet (700 meters). And while views from the top of the monolith are unrivaled, hikers can reach the summit in just 30 minutes via an undemanding trail that begins in the mountain village of Busay.
For travelers with a passion for trekking, the most exciting way to ascend Mt. Kan-Irag is via the challenging Budlaan Trail. The safest way to climb is as part of a tour, which guides you over the boulders and waterfalls of the Budlaan River. If you’re happy to skip the exercise, you can access Sirao Pictorial Garden and Little Amsterdam—two mountaintop gardens with a myriad of excellent photo opportunities—by car or van.
Mt. Kan-Irag is a must-visit for nature lovers and avid hikers.
Wear comfortable shoes and plenty of sunscreen.
If visiting the peak by car, arrange round-trip transport before you leave as taxis at the top are few and far between.
Try to head to the mountain early to avoid Cebu City’s notorious traffic.
From Cebu City, you can take a taxi to the start of either the Budlaan or Busay trail, or continue all the way to the top to Sirao Pictorial Garden. Alternatively, some people choose to camp overnight at the top.
Cebu island experiences its driest weather between the months of December and March, when temperatures are cooler and rainfall is significantly less than during the midyear monsoon season. If taking the longer and more challenging trail, trekkers should leave early in the day to allow plenty of time to ascend and descend before nightfall.
If you’re a thrill seeker, no visit to Cebu is complete without going canyoneering in Badian. Accompanied by a guide, you’ll slide backwards down mini waterfalls, plunge into turquoise pools from heights of up to 49 feet (15 meters), and jump from the highest tier of Kawasan Falls. It’s not for the faint of heart, but it’s guaranteed to be one of the most exciting day trips you’ll experience in the Philippines.
EN
