How to get to Mt. Manunggal and The Monolith, Balamban Cebu, The Philippines

Wanna go camping, trekking, or just plain nature tripping that is not so far from Cebu City?

Check out Mt. Manunggal and The Monolith.

Most of us have different work/schedules/loads and can't afford to get away from them for days, however, if you want to just get a quick breather, the place is worth to consider.

With just an hour away from the City, you can already do a day hike an overnight camp that's guaranteed with great views and adventure. On top of it, consider the possibility of meeting new people with the same interest for the outdoors not to mention that it's FREE. - Well, except ofcourse for your food and fare. 

Mt. Manunggal

Is located in Barangay Magsaysay, Balamban Cebu, The Philippines. The mountain has an elevation of 1,003 meters above sea level overlooking the sea of Cebu and Negros Islands. It is a historical site as it is where the plane carrying a Philippine President crashed in 1957. You will see part of the crashed plane's engine and a monument of the late President on your way to the campsite.

Safety

• Overall the campsite is safe. There are houses close to the area you can go to if assistance is needed.

What to expect

• Since the place is considered a historical site where a commemoration gets to be held for the late President, some structures like comfort/shower rooms - you can use for free, are present in the area. 

• A road going to the campsite from the transcentral highway that ends with a good parking area is available.

• The campsite gets to be foggy at times and expect some moist to build up on your tents.

• There are dogs in the area so keep your food items in check.

Note: Some of the dogs are good ones and can guide you to The Monolith. Please do take care of them.

Things to bring

For Campers :

• Sim Sealed Tent  - Food and Water - First Aid kit - Camping Jacket

• Camping Knife - Flashlight/Headlight - Cooking sets if needed

For Day Trekkers/Hikers:

• Hiking shoes - Food - Water -  First Aid kit - Poncho or Waterproof Jacket

IMPORTANT: Please do consider the Seven Principles of Leave No Trace (LNT)

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare
2. Travel and Camp on Durable Ground
3. Dispose of Waste Properly
4. Leave What You Find
5. Minimize the Effects of Fire
6. Respect Wildlife and Farm Animals
7. Be Considerate of Others

Getting to Mt. Manunggal's Campsite

Taking your own vehicle

If you want to bring your own vehicle, take the transcentral highway. To better give you a sense of direction and it's location, you will need to pass the "Welcome to Balamban" road signage before turning right for the road going to Mt. Manunggal.  A direction signage going to Mt. Manunggal is available at the right side of the road. If you are not able to see it, you can always ask the locals and they'd be happy to give directions.

Taking the Public transportation

1. Get to the Ayala Center Cebu's PUJ/PUV terminal then take a Van going to Balamban. Tell the driver to drop you off at the corner road going to Mt. Manunggal. (Ayala PUV terminal is the one right across Quest Hotel)

2. From the drop off road going to Mt. Manunggal, you can either hike up to the campsite or take a Habal2x(Motorcycle for hire).

Note: If you choose to take the hike up to the campsite, it could take 2 or more hours before you reach it depending on your speed as although you will be walking through a barangay road, the hike will be quite a climb. Estimated distance from the Transcentral corner road to the campsite is 5KM.

Fare:

V-Hire :  Php 120.00

Habal2x:  Php 70.00 + -  (Negotiation needed)

Additional information: The place is accessible for a hike through many trails, like the Tagba-o and Cantipla in Tabunan however it is recommended to have a guide when taking them.

Getting to The Monolith

From Mt. Manunggal's campsite a walk down  and a technical climb for about 30-40 mins will get you to The Monolith. There is not much people who have been to the rock formation as one of the locals told us that the trail leading to it was just recently cleared.

Recommended: Ask owners of the houses in the campsite if they can provide you a guide.