Siquijor: Mountain Highlights Adventure Tour

Travelers looking to escape the busy beaches and discover Siquijor’s cooler, greener side might find the Mountain Highlights Adventure Tour a charming way to see the island’s highlands. Although the provider’s rating is a modest 2, the tour offers genuine, unfiltered views of Siquijor’s lush landscape, making it an appealing choice for those who enjoy nature, scenic vistas, and a bit of cultural insight.

What stands out most are the breathtaking panoramic views from the highest points, the chance to explore a butterfly sanctuary, and the relaxing hilltop eateries. The tour’s structured journey through forests, viewpoints, and cool mountain air creates a well-rounded day out. However, it’s important to note that this experience is not designed for travelers with mobility issues, as some walking and uneven terrain are involved.

If you’re someone who loves a blend of nature and quiet cultural stops, and you’re happy to spend a full day exploring Siquijor’s highlands, this tour could be a rewarding choice. Just keep in mind that some reviews have mentioned the provider’s limited rating, so managing expectations on service might be wise.

Key Points

• Scenic Views: The highlight is the stunning vistas from Camp Bandilaan and Quisol Overlooking, perfect for photography and tranquil reflection.
• Wildlife & Conservation: Visiting the butterfly sanctuary provides a fascinating glimpse into local conservation efforts.
• Cool Climate & Nature: You’ll love the refreshing mountain air and the lush forests along the trails.
• Comfortable Stops: The hilltop restaurant offers a peaceful spot to relax while soaking in views.
• Limited Provider Rating: The tour is offered by SARAH LEA TRAVEL AND TOURS INC., rated 2, which might influence service quality.
• Flexible Booking & Cancellation: Book now, pay later, with the option to cancel 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Siquijor Mountain Highlights Adventure

Starting Point: Sambulawan and the Forests

The tour begins in Sambulawan, a quiet area surrounded by dense forests and verdant mountains. Here, nature sets the mood for the day—expect peaceful sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves. We appreciated the calm atmosphere, which offers a nice contrast to the busy beach scene. Guides tend to be friendly and knowledgeable, providing insights into the local flora and fauna. The fresh mountain air is a welcome change, especially after a warm morning.

Butterfly Sanctuary: A Colorful Escape

Next up is the butterfly sanctuary, a delightful spot where you can get close to a variety of butterflies fluttering around in a carefully maintained habitat. Reviews mention that visitors are given close-up views of the butterflies’ life cycles—an educational and enjoyable experience for nature lovers. It’s also a chance to learn about the conservation efforts taking place to protect these beautiful creatures.

One reviewer noted, “It was fascinating to see so many different butterfly species up close. The guides shared interesting facts about their life cycles and how they’re helping preserve local biodiversity.” If you’re into wildlife and photography, this stop offers plenty of colorful photo opportunities.

The Highest Point: Camp Bandilaan

The journey continues to Camp Bandilaan, which is the island’s highest point. Here, visitors are treated to a cool breeze and sweeping views of Siquijor’s mountainous terrain and surrounding islands. The walking trails here are a highlight, allowing you to stretch your legs and enjoy the scenery.

While some reviews indicate that the trail can be a bit uneven, the payoff is worth it. Expect expansive vistas that make you feel like you’re on top of the world. From this vantage point, you get a real sense of Siquijor’s landscape—rolling hills, dense forests, and shimmering coastlines.

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Quisol Overlooking: A Photographer’s Dream

Next, the tour takes you to Quisol Overlooking, a popular viewpoint. Here, you’ll find some of the best panoramic views on the island—perfect for capturing Instagram-worthy shots of the mountains, coast, and nearby islands. Many visitors appreciate the quiet ambiance, making it an ideal spot for reflection or simply soaking in the scene.

A reviewer mentioned, “The views here are absolutely stunning. It’s just you, the horizon, and the peaceful sound of the waves below.” It’s a place to pause and appreciate the natural beauty of Siquijor from a different perspective.

Lunch & Relaxation: Triad Overlooking Restaurant

To cap off the day, the tour offers an optional meal at the Triad Overlooking Restaurant. This hilltop eatery combines simple, light meals with unmatched views of the mountains and sea. It’s a great way to unwind, enjoy a coffee, or take some last photos.

Some guests highlight that this spot provided a pleasant break, with one noting, “The food was simple but the view made it special. I could sit here all afternoon.” Keep in mind that this is an optional stop, and prices are generally reasonable compared to similar scenic restaurants.

What to Expect from the Tour

The 8-hour itinerary balances sightseeing, wildlife encounters, and scenic viewing. The tour begins in the morning, with pickup from certain hotels in San Juan, making logistics straightforward. The transportation is usually a comfortable minibus or van, with group sizes typically small enough to keep the experience intimate but not exclusive.

Timing-wise, expect to spend around 1-2 hours at each main stop, allowing for enough time to explore, take photos, and absorb the views without feeling rushed. The guides speak English and Tagalog, and they’re generally friendly and eager to share local insights.

About the Experience

While the tour doesn’t include high-adrenaline activities, you might find some optional add-ons like snorkeling or Tarzan swings available for extra fees. These aren’t part of the core itinerary, but they can complement your day if you have extra time or energy.

Guests have commented on the limited provider rating, which could influence the service quality. Still, many feel the value is good considering the scenic rewards and the chance to see Siquijor from a different angle.

Practical Tips

• Dress comfortably, especially for walking parts; sturdy shoes are recommended.
• Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and plenty of water to stay hydrated.
• Don’t forget your camera—these views are photo-worthy.
• Littering is not allowed, so carry a bag for any trash.
• Note that the tour isn’t suited for those with mobility issues due to uneven terrain and walking trails.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a chance to step away from Siquijor’s famous beaches and explore a cooler, greener side of the island. It’s especially appealing for travelers who love nature, panoramic landscapes, and wildlife. The stops at Camp Bandilaan and Quisol Overlooking deliver some of the most memorable photo opportunities on the island.

While the provider’s rating might give some pause, the overall experience appears authentic, with many guests enjoying the natural beauty and tranquility of the highlands. The optional stops for meals with stunning views add a layer of relaxation after the sightseeing.

If you’re seeking a calmer, scenery-focused day that highlights Siquijor’s mountain scenery and biodiversity, this adventure could be a great fit. Keep expectations aligned with the moderate rating, and you’ll likely come away with plenty of beautiful memories.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting in the morning and ending in the late afternoon, with time allocated for each stop.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup is included from select hotels in San Juan, and transportation is typically a comfortable minibus or van.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, sunscreen, water, and insect repellent are recommended for the day.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in planning your trip.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly?
The experience is not ideal for those with mobility impairments due to uneven terrain and walking trails.

Are there optional activities?
Yes, activities like snorkeling and Tarzan swings may be available for extra fees, but they are not part of the main itinerary.

What’s the best time to go?
The tour runs year-round, but the cooler, drier months tend to offer better weather for scenic views and outdoor walking.

Is the scenery worth the cost?
Most guests agree that the vistas and wildlife encounters make the tour a good value, especially considering the serene mountain climate and panoramic views.

To sum it up, the Siquijor Mountain Highlights Adventure Tour offers an authentic peek into the island’s highlands, ideal for travelers who prioritize natural beauty and peaceful scenery. While it might not be a luxury experience, its scenic stops and opportunity to connect with Siquijor’s lush landscape make it a worthwhile addition to your island itinerary, especially if you’re looking to escape the beaches and discover a different side of this mystical island.

You can check availability for your dates here: