General Santos: 14-Day Mindanao Adventure Motorcycle Tour

This 14-day guided motorcycle journey through Mindanao offers a unique blend of adventure, nature, and Filipino culture. While we haven’t taken the trip ourselves, extensive reviews highlight it as a well-organized and diverse experience. From riding through lush jungles and mountain vistas to relaxing on pristine beaches, it promises a genuine taste of the Philippines’ less-traveled side.

What we love about this tour: the opportunity to see breathtaking landscapes from the saddle, the chance to snorkel in vibrant coral reefs, and the chance to enjoy authentic Filipino cuisine—especially the communal Boodle Fight feast. It’s also praised for its varied activities, from adrenaline-pumping rides to peaceful lake views. A potential consideration is that the itinerary involves some challenging rides, so it suits those comfortable on a motorcycle. Perfect for adventure seekers who crave cultural insights and scenic beauty, this tour is best suited for travelers with a sense of adventure and a love for authentic experiences.

Good To Know

• Diverse landscapes: Ride through mountains, jungles, waterfalls, and beaches.
• Authentic Filipino experiences: Enjoy traditional Boodle Fights and local culture.
• Adventure and relaxation: Mix of adrenaline-filled activities and beach downtime.
• Snorkeling and water sports: Explore underwater beauty at Lemlunay and Tuka Marine Park.
• Comfortable accommodations: Stay at quality hotels and resorts, especially around Lake Sebu and Glan.
• Group size and guides: Small group experience with bilingual guides, ensuring personalized attention.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the 14-Day Journey

This tour is crafted for those eager to see a diverse side of Mindanao, combining scenic rides with cultural and natural highlights. Let’s break down what makes each part of this adventure stand out, and what you can expect along the way.

Starting Strong: Welcome and City Exploration in General Santos

Your journey begins at a cozy Bed & Breakfast, where the tour’s organizers have arranged your stay. The first day is all about easing into the Filipino vibe—riding through General Santos, a bustling city known for its vibrant markets and friendly locals. The highlight? A communal Boodle Fight feast, where heaps of rice, grilled meats, and vegetables are laid out for sharing, creating a true sense of camaraderie from the start. Reviews note this as a “great way to kick off the trip,” with one guest mentioning it as “a memorable and delicious introduction to Filipino hospitality.”

Rest and Acclimatization

The second day offers a break—perfect for adjusting to the tropical climate or exploring at your own pace. It’s a good chance to relax, exchange stories with fellow riders, or visit local markets. The flexibility here is appreciated, especially after the initial travel fatigue.

Adventure in the Mountains: Mt. Matutum

The third day kicks off with a scenic ride through lush landscapes, crossing streams and enjoying panoramic views. Ride enthusiasts will appreciate the varied terrain, with some challenging curves and off-road sections rated at difficulty levels 2-4. The highlight? A visit to natural hot springs and a cave dining experience—a unique way to connect with nature and local traditions. Riders often mention the “breathtaking views” and “refreshing hot springs,” making this a favorite among nature lovers.

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Hidden Paradise: Columbio Falls

Next, you’ll visit Columbio Falls, a lesser-known spot that offers crystal-clear waters and peaceful surroundings. It’s perfect for a cool-off and snapping photos of cascading waterfalls. Travelers highlight the “crystal waters and lush scenery” as a true highlight, though some note the journey involves some unpaved roads, so a comfortable ride is recommended.

Thrills and the Sea in Maitum

Day five ramps up the excitement with a ride along Sarangani Bay, followed by an exhilarating river tubing adventure. The rapids provide an adrenaline boost, and afterward, there’s time to relax on a secluded beach. Reviewers praise the balance of thrill and downtime here, describing it as “the perfect mix of action and relaxation.” Beach lovers will enjoy the chance to unwind and soak up the scenery.

Marine Adventure at Lemlunay

One of the trip’s highlights is the snorkeling trip at Lemlunay Resort’s Blue Lagoon. Expect vibrant reefs and a chance to see marine life up close. Kayaking is also available for a more laid-back exploration of the coastline. Guests often remark on the “vivid underwater colors” and “great equipment,” making it accessible even for less experienced snorkelers.

Soaring Heights and Jungle Trails: Sarangani Bay

Day seven combines the thrill of paragliding with an off-road jungle ride. The views from above are said to be spectacular, offering a different perspective of Sarangani Bay. The off-road trail is demanding but rewarding, with river crossings and mountain trails that challenge and excite experienced riders. Many reviews emphasize how these activities are “well-organized” and “perfect for adrenaline junkies,” with guides ensuring safety throughout.

Free Exploration and Local Shopping

The eighth day is a chance to step back and explore General Santos at your leisure. It’s an excellent opportunity to visit local markets, try street food, or simply relax. The flexibility of this day is valued, allowing travelers to tailor their experience and soak in the local vibe.

Beach Paradise at Glan and Tuka Marine Park

Days nine and ten transport you to Glan, where a four-star resort offers the ultimate relaxation. Snorkeling in Tuka Marine Park reveals a stunning underwater landscape, with reviews noting “crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs.” Evenings are spent enjoying fresh seafood and stunning sunsets, making this stretch of the trip feel like a true escape.

Lake Sebu: Mountain Serenity and Waterfalls

Over two days, the tour explores Lake Sebu, renowned for its cool climate, scenic waterfalls, and lush jungles. Guests rave about the Seven Falls, which can be viewed from a zipline or a boat ride across the lake. Hiking through the jungle trails offers a chance to see local flora and fauna, with many reviewers describing it as “a peaceful retreat with awe-inspiring views.”

Final Day: Personal Choices and Reflection

The last full day is flexible—whether you want to shop for souvenirs, revisit favorite spots, or relax by the pool, the choice is yours. It’s a nice way to wind down after two weeks of adventure.

Farewell and Departure

On day 14, after saying goodbye to your guides and fellow travelers, you’ll be transferred back to General Santos City Airport. The overall organization has been praised for smooth logistics, ensuring you end your trip on a high note.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Authentic Cultural Encounters: Sharing a Boodle Fight, trying local street food, and visiting traditional sites offers a genuine Filipino experience, far from touristy spots.

Diverse Landscapes: From the mountains of Mt. Matutum and Lake Sebu to the beaches of Glan and Tuka Marine Park, you get a well-rounded taste of Mindanao’s natural beauty.

Adventure & Relaxation Balance: Whether it’s paragliding over Sarangani Bay, snorkelling, or unwinding at a luxury resort, there’s a perfect mix to keep everyone engaged and refreshed.

Small Group Focus: With only up to 8 participants, the experience offers personalized guidance, making it easier to connect and ensure safety.

Value for Money: Considering the variety of activities, accommodations, and guided support, the tour offers a solid package for adventurous travelers seeking both thrill and comfort.

Practical Insights

Cost & Value: While the exact price isn’t specified, the inclusion of accommodations, guided rides, water activities, and some meals suggests good value—especially for those who want a hassle-free adventure without sacrificing quality.

Transportation & Logistics: Starting from a fixed base, all rides depart from the same location, simplifying logistics and ensuring everyone is ready before each day’s adventure. Rides vary in difficulty, with some challenging off-road sections, so riders should be comfortable on a motorcycle.

Group Size & Guides: The small group setup ensures a more intimate experience, with bilingual guides in English, German, and Spanish, catering to diverse travelers.

What to Bring: Essential items include your passport, driver’s license (international recommended), comfortable clothing, sun protection, swimwear, and personal medications. A helmet is provided, but bringing your own can enhance comfort.

Not Suitable For: Drivers under 18 are not allowed, and the tour involves some water sports and physically demanding rides, so it’s best suited for those comfortable riding motorcycles and physically active.

The Sum Up

This 14-day motorcycle tour in Mindanao offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the Philippines’ second-largest island in a way that’s both adventurous and authentic. You’ll experience stunning scenery, vibrant local culture, and exhilarating activities—making it ideal for travelers who seek more than just beaches and resorts.

The blend of off-road riding, cultural exchanges, and relaxing beach days ensures a memorable trip that balances thrill and leisure. The accommodations are thoughtfully selected, and the small group size guarantees personalized attention, making the experience even more rewarding.

While it’s best suited for those who are comfortable on a motorcycle and eager to discover new landscapes, even non-riders can enjoy the water-based activities and cultural highlights. If you’re craving an active, immersive adventure that showcases the lesser-known beauty of Mindanao, this tour is a compelling choice.

FAQ

Do I need prior motorcycle experience? Yes, participants should be comfortable riding motorcycles, as the itinerary includes riding on varied terrains with some challenging sections.

What is the group size? The tour is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a small, personalized experience.

Are accommodations included? Yes, the tour features stays at quality hotels and resorts, especially around Lake Sebu and Glan.

What should I pack? Bring passport, driver’s license, comfortable clothes, sun protection, swimwear, personal medication, and a helmet (though one is provided).

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, giving flexibility for last-minute changes.

What activities are included? Guided motorcycle rides, snorkeling, river tubing, paragliding, boat rides, waterfalls visits, and relaxation days at beaches and lakes.

Is food included? Some meals, like the Boodle Fight and seafood dinners, are included. You also have opportunities to explore local markets and street food at your leisure.

This 14-day adventure in Mindanao strikes a balance between adrenaline and relaxation, offering a comprehensive look at one of the Philippines’ most diverse and vibrant regions. It’s perfect for those eager to embrace the road less traveled with a group of like-minded explorers.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby