Mount Lanhan Peak is a newly discovered hiking destination that has quickly captured the attention of adventure seekers. Its raw trails and charm offer a medium-level trek that even first-time hikers can conquer. The climb usually takes around forty-five minutes to an hour, depending on one’s pace, and at the summit, a breathtaking view awaits. From the top, you can marvel at the sight of Negros, Bohol, and Cebu City, while on certain mornings, you may even witness the enchanting sea of clouds.
Sunrise, Sunset, and the Sea of Clouds
The beauty of Mount Lanhan lies in its beauty from dawn to dusk. Early risers are rewarded with a glowing sunrise that slowly unveils the landscape, while those who linger until late afternoon are treated to a golden sunset casting vibrant colors across the horizon. On clear days, the horizon stretches endlessly, making it one of the best places to pause and take in the wonders of nature.
No Entrance Fee, Just Pure Adventure
One of the unique features of this mountain is that it does not require an entrance fee. This makes it an ideal destination for budget-friendly trips, whether for solo adventurers or groups of friends. Since vendors are far from the area, trekkers need to bring their own water, food, and other essentials before starting the journey. With its natural state preserved, the mountain invites visitors to follow the principle of leaving no trace to protect and respect its environment.
The Local Hospitality
A visit to Mount Lanhan is made even more memorable by the warmth and friendliness of the locals. Residents of Basak are known for their hospitality and are always willing to guide visitors to the trailhead or even accompany them along the way. This sense of community not only ensures safety for trekkers but also adds to the overall charm of the experience, making it feel like more than just a climb but also a cultural encounter.
How To Get There
Location: Basak, Sibonga, Cebu
- By Car: Head south from Cebu City along the Cebu South Road. From Sibonga proper, the route continues toward Barangay Basak, where the residence of Betty or Toper Abellana is known by locals as the reference point for the starting trail.
- By Commute: Ride a Ceres bus or a minibus bound for Sibonga and alight in front of Sibonga Church. From there, a short ride on a sika or pedicab will bring you to Acacia Habal-Habalan. At this point, a habal-habal (motorbike taxi) can take you to Barangay Basak with a stop either at the Abellana residence or directly at the foot of Mount Lanhan. The fare for the ride is around seventy pesos each way. From the drop-off point, the trek to the summit begins.
Mount Lanhan remains a hidden treasure waiting to be explored. Its raw beauty, untouched trails, and welcoming locals make it a destination worth visiting for those who seek peace and adventure. With no entrance fee, it offers a rare chance to enjoy nature without the distraction of commercialization. However, its delicate environment is also a reminder for everyone to be responsible trekkers. Bringing enough supplies, respecting the mountain, and leaving no trash behind are small yet meaningful ways to ensure that this newfound gem in Sibonga will continue to inspire future explorers.
