Cagayan De Oro: Bukidnon Communal Ranch & Dahilayan Day Tour

Planning a day trip from Cagayan De Oro to Bukidnon offers a mix of lush landscapes, authentic local culture, and fun outdoor activities—all within a comfortable, budget-friendly package. This tour, costing around $103 per person, is a well-rounded option for those seeking a blend of natural beauty, cultural insights, and a touch of thrill, without the hassle of planning each element independently.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its variety: you’ll visit a pineapple farm, stroll through peaceful lanes, experience a traditional motorbike ride, and enjoy the cool highland air at Dahilayan Forest Park. The experience is designed to feel seamless, thanks to a knowledgeable guide, included transportation, and easy access to the highlights of Bukidnon.

A potential consideration is that certain activities, like Dahilayan’s rides, are not included in the price, so if you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, you’ll need to plan for extra expenses. The tour is best suited for travelers who love scenic views, nature, and cultural sights but don’t mind a full day of activity. It’s also ideal for those who prefer group tours with transportation taken care of, rather than solo exploring.

Key Points

• Inclusive and Convenient: Round-trip transfers, guide, and entrance fees make for a hassle-free day.
• Authentic Experiences: Visit local farms, iconic landmarks, and enjoy traditional sights like Lovers Lane.
• Scenic Views: Expect stunning mountain vistas, lush forests, and open pastures.
• Active and Relaxing Mix: From gentle walks to exciting habal-habal rides, there’s variety.
• Flexible Add-ons: Optional rides at Dahilayan can spice up your day, but will cost extra.
• Ideal for: Culture enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those seeking a day out of the city.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Bukidnon: What to Expect

This tour offers a well-paced journey through some of the most picturesque and culturally significant spots in Bukidnon. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want a taste of the highlands without spending days in transit or on their own. Let’s unpack what each part of the itinerary involves and what you’ll gain from each stop.

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins with round-trip transportation, picked up from your hotel within Cagayan De Oro’s city proper. This means you don’t have to worry about booking separate transport—your guide and driver are part of the package. The ride itself is a highlight, as it takes you through winding mountain roads with beautiful views gradually unfolding as you leave the city behind.

Travel time from Cagayan De Oro to Bukidnon is usually around 2 hours, depending on traffic and stops along the way. The comfort of the van or car ensures you arrive rested and ready for the day ahead.

Visit to a Pineapple Farm and the Pineapple Marker

One of the first stops is a pineapple farm, where you’ll learn about Bukidnon’s major agricultural product. The farm visit isn’t just a quick photo op; it provides insights into the region’s farming practices, and you get a chance to see how pineapples are cultivated on a large scale. This gives a more tangible sense of local livelihood and the importance of agriculture in Bukidnon.

Next, you’ll stop at the Pineapple Marker, an iconic photo spot that’s become a symbol of Bukidnon’s pineapple industry. It’s a great place to capture pictures amidst the bright, cheerful signage with mountain scenery in the background. Many reviews highlight how memorable and fun the photo op is, especially for social media enthusiasts.

Impasugong and Lovers Lane

Driving further, you arrive in Impasugong, home to the impressive Giant Statue that pays homage to the indigenous roots of the area. Visitors often comment on how this sculpture beautifully symbolizes the local cultural identity—it’s not only a photo-worthy landmark but also a meaningful symbol of the region’s history.

Following this, a walk along Lovers Lane offers a peaceful, romantic break. The lanes are quiet, shaded by trees, and perfect for a leisurely stroll. It’s a refreshing contrast to the busier city life and gives you a chance to soak in the tranquil surroundings and maybe snap a few more photos.

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Communal Ranch and Habal-Habal Ride

The highlight for many adventurous travelers is the habal-habal ride—a traditional motorcycle taxi—that takes you to the Communal Ranch. This part of the tour is often described as unique and fun, offering an authentic local experience. The ride itself provides vistas of open pastures, rolling hills, and mountain peaks, making it a scenic highlight.

At the ranch, you’ll find expansive pastures, livestock, and views that stretch to distant mountain ranges. It’s a perfect spot for photos and simply enjoying the fresh air. Some reviews mention the guides’ professionalism and friendliness, which heightens the comfort and enjoyment of this part of the tour.

Del Monte Pineapple Plantation & Colonial-Style Clubhouse

Next, the tour takes you to a Del Monte Pineapple Plantation and the rustic Clubhouse House. The plantation visit expands your understanding of Bukidnon’s agricultural economy, with some travelers noting how informative and engaging the guide is—”We loved the way he explained the process from planting to harvest.” The plantation’s expansive fields and the neat rows of pineapples stretch endlessly, offering excellent photo opportunities.

The Clubhouse House is recognized for its colonial-style architecture, surrounded by serene gardens. It’s a peaceful stop that offers a glimpse into the area’s colonial past and provides a relaxing environment to unwind before heading to Dahilayan.

Dahilayan Forest Park & Adventure

The final part of the day is at Dahilayan Forest Park, a well-loved highland destination known for its cool climate, pine trees, and outdoor fun. While the tour does not include rides, visitors often find it worthwhile to explore the various activities available (at their own expense). The park features forest walks, zip lines, and other adventure rides that appeal to thrill-seekers.

Many reviewers praise the stunning views here—“You’ll love the lush green scenery and the fresh mountain air,” is a common sentiment. The relaxed atmosphere makes it a perfect spot to unwind after a busy day, and the cooler temperatures are a bonus, especially if visiting during warmer months.

Returning to Cagayan De Oro

After a full day of sightseeing and light adventure, the tour wraps up with the return journey. The transportation makes the experience stress-free, allowing you to relax and reflect on the highlights of the day.

Value and Practical Considerations

At $103, this tour offers a lot of value when you consider the inclusion of round-trip transportation, entrance and environmental fees, and a guide. It’s a convenient way to explore Bukidnon’s top sights without the hassle of arranging each component independently.

However, activities at Dahilayan like ziplining or other rides are not included in the price, so if you’re eager to add some adrenaline, expect to pay extra. For many, the scenic views and cultural stops are enough to make the day memorable without the rides, but if you love adventure, budgeting for additional activities makes sense.

The tour is designed for groups, which enhances the social aspect and often means more engaging interactions. It’s not suitable for very young children (under 6), pregnant women, or those with back problems, largely due to the habal-habal ride and physical walking involved.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and rougher terrain.
• Bring warm clothing, especially at Dahilayan where temperatures can be cooler.
• Don’t forget your camera—the scenery and landmarks are picture-perfect.
• Carry water and sunscreen to stay hydrated and protected from the sun.
• A hat is recommended for sun protection during outdoor stops.
• Respect local customs and rules, especially around farms and protected areas.
• Consider extra funds if you want to enjoy the rides at Dahilayan, which are not included.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect for nature lovers and cultural explorers who want to see Bukidnon’s highlights in one day. It’s a good fit for travelers who prefer guided tours, value convenience, and are interested in authentic local experiences. If you’re comfortable with a bit of adventure and outdoor activity, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

It’s less suitable if you’re on a tight budget looking for only the cheapest options, or if you’re traveling with very young children, pregnant, or have mobility challenges. The tour’s pace is moderate, and some walking and riding are involved, so it’s best for active travelers with a reasonable fitness level.

Final Thoughts

This Bukidnon day tour from Cagayan De Oro offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and light adventure. It’s a fantastic way to get a taste of highland life, sample local agriculture, and enjoy stunning mountain vistas—all comfortably organized and at a reasonable price.

Travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides and picturesque settings will find this experience rewarding. The inclusion of transportation and entrance fees makes it straightforward and stress-free, allowing you to focus on soaking up the views and enjoying each stop.

While it’s not a full adrenaline package, the combination of peaceful farm scenery, cultural landmarks, and cool highland air makes it an appealing choice for most travelers looking for a memorable day out in Bukidnon. It’s especially suited for those who value authentic experiences over high-intensity thrills, with enough flexibility to add optional rides for the more adventurous.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip transportation by car or van from your hotel within Cagayan De Oro is included, making it very convenient.

Are entrance fees covered?
Yes, all entrance and environmental fees for the stops are included, so there are no hidden costs on-site.

Can I do the rides at Dahilayan?
The tour does not include the rides at Dahilayan; these are at your own expense if you choose to participate.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour is designed as a full-day experience, typically lasting around 8 hours from pickup to return.

Is this suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 6 years old, mainly due to the habal-habal ride and walking involved.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a hat, camera, water, and sunscreen are advised for comfort and protection.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your plans.

Is this tour available in multiple languages?
The guiding service generally offers English and Tagalog, accommodating most travelers’ language needs.

This Bukidnon tour strikes a good balance between sightseeing, cultural authenticity, and outdoor fun. It’s a memorable way to experience the scenic, calmer side of Northern Mindanao, especially if you’re after genuine local flavor paired with stunning vistas.

You can check availability for your dates here: