Siquijor: Mountain Highlights Adventure Tour

Siquijor: Mountain Highlights Adventure Tour

Exploring Siquijor often brings to mind its mystic beaches or underwater adventures, but this Mountain Highlights Adventure Tour offers something quite different — a chance to see the island’s lush highlands and scenic peaks. While it’s rated a modest 2 out of 5 by the provider, the experience promises authentic sights, fresh mountain air, and stunning vistas that make it worth considering if you’re craving a break from the beachfront crowds.

We love how the tour includes a visit to a butterfly sanctuary, provides sweeping panoramas from the island’s highest point, and offers a peaceful hilltop dining spot. The ride through Siquijor’s cool, forested landscapes is genuinely refreshing. That said, the 8-hour duration might feel long for some, especially if you’re not into early mornings or extended outdoor time. This tour suits travelers who appreciate nature, scenic views, and a slower pace away from the busy beaches.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Good To Know

• Authentic Highland Experience: Enjoy cool mountain air and lush forest scenery.
• Wildlife Encounters: Visit a butterfly sanctuary and learn about conservation efforts.
• Panoramic Views: Capture breathtaking vistas from Camp Bandilaan and Quisol Overlooking.
• Cultural & Scenic Stops: Discover the island’s natural beauty beyond its coastlines.
• Relaxing Hilltop Meal: End with a laid-back lunch at a vantage point restaurant.
• Value for Nature Lovers: This tour offers a genuine escape into Siquijor’s highlands for those seeking quiet, scenic beauty.

An Overview of the Siquijor Mountain Highlights Adventure Tour

This 8-hour excursion invites you to breathe in the mountain air of Siquijor, away from its more famous beaches, giving a fresh perspective on the island’s natural landscape. It’s run by SARAH LEA TRAVEL AND TOURS INC., rated 2 stars by the provider, which suggests that while it might not be the most polished experience, it has authentic charm and plenty of value for lovers of scenic views and nature.

The tour begins in Sambulawan, a peaceful spot surrounded by thick forests, setting the tone for a day immersed in nature. The guides are generally friendly and informative, with bilingual options in English and Tagalog, making it accessible for most visitors.

What’s Included

• Pick-up from some hotels within San Juan (or nearby areas)
• Visits to a butterfly sanctuary, high-altitude viewpoints, and the highest point of Siquijor
• A scenic meal at a hilltop restaurant with views of mountains and the sea
• Optional activities like snorkeling or the Tarzan swing, which may incur extra costs

Practical considerations:

• Duration of 8 hours means plenty of time for sightseeing, but it can be tiring if you prefer shorter, more relaxed trips.
• The small-group setting offers a personalized feel, but group size and transport quality aren’t specified.
• Bring essentials such as comfortable shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera for capturing the vistas.

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The Itinerary: What Makes Each Stop Special

Starting Point: Sambulawan

You’ll begin in Sambulawan, a quiet area surrounded by lush forests. The calm, cool environment is a perfect way to start the day, especially if you’re coming from the coast feeling the heat. It’s a peaceful setting where you can simply enjoy the greenery and fresh air before heading into more active stops.

Butterfly Sanctuary

Next, the tour takes you to a butterfly sanctuary — a highlight for nature lovers. This sanctuary hosts a variety of butterfly species, and visitors can observe their vibrant wings up close. According to reviews, visitors appreciate learning about the butterflies’ life cycles and conservation efforts, which adds an educational component to the experience. Some travelers note that it’s a “beautiful haven” and a great chance to see local wildlife up close.

Camp Bandilaan: The Island’s Highest Point

The journey continues to Camp Bandilaan, the tallest peak on Siquijor. Here, you’ll enjoy the cooler, crisper mountain air, walk along trails, and take in panoramic views of surrounding islands and seas. The vistas from this vantage point are a big draw, providing perfect photo opportunities and a sense of scale for the island’s natural beauty. Reviewers mention that the views from here are quite expansive, offering a different perspective from the usual beach scenes.

Quisol Overlooking: A View Worth Stopping For

Moving on, Quisol Overlooking offers sweeping vistas of Siquijor’s mountains, coastlines, and neighboring islands. It’s a popular spot for photography and quiet contemplation. The peaceful atmosphere and stunning scenery make it clear why this is a favored stop among visitors.

Lunch at Triad Overlooking Restaurant

The tour concludes at a hilltop restaurant with stunning views. Travelers report that this is a relaxed spot where you can enjoy light meals, coffee, or snacks while soaking in the mountains and ocean below. It’s an ideal way to unwind after a day of exploring.

Transport, Timing, and Group Dynamics

While specific details on transport are limited, the tour includes hotel pickups within San Juan where available. Expect a shared vehicle, likely a minibus or van, with a small group of fellow travelers. The 8-hour duration indicates a full day of activity, starting at a flexible time depending on availability.

Timing is flexible — check your selected start time when booking. Some reviews suggest that the early start allows for cooler temperatures and more comfortable sightseeing, especially at higher altitudes.

What You’ll Love About This Tour

Stunning Views from Multiple Vantage Points: The highlight of this tour is undoubtedly the vistas. From the highest peak to scenic overlooks, you’ll get plenty of opportunities for memorable photos and quiet reflection.

Authentic Nature Encounters: Visiting a butterfly sanctuary adds a charming, educational touch. The sanctuary is described as a “beautiful haven,” and learning about butterfly conservation enhances the experience.

Cool Mountain Air and Peaceful Atmosphere: For travelers tired of the beach scene, the highlands offer a refreshing change — cooler temperatures, peaceful forests, and a slower pace.

Relaxed, Scenic Dining: The hilltop restaurant provides a laid-back environment to rest and take in the views, making it a perfect ending to your mountain adventure.

What Could Be Improved

While the tour offers stunning scenery and a gentle pace, some might find the 8-hour duration a bit long, especially if they prefer shorter excursions or have limited mobility. The provider’s rating of 2 suggests some room for improvement, perhaps in organization or guide expertise, but travelers seem to find value in the authentic experience and breathtaking sights.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This adventure is ideal for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone seeking a tranquil escape into Siquijor’s highlands. It’s also suitable for travelers interested in wildlife and conservation, given the butterfly sanctuary stop. However, it may not be suitable for those with mobility issues or looking for a fast-paced, activity-packed day.

The Sum Up

If you’re after a genuine, scenic experience away from Siquijor’s busy beaches, this mountain highlights tour delivers. It offers a chance to breathe in fresh air, marvel at incredible viewpoints, and enjoy quiet moments in nature. Though it’s a longer day, the views and tranquility make it worth considering, especially if you want to see a different side of the island.

For travelers who love scenic landscapes, wildlife encounters, and peaceful mountain air, this tour provides a balanced mix of all three. It’s not about adrenaline or high-energy adventures but about appreciating Siquijor’s natural beauty at a relaxed pace.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup in San Juan (if applicable), visits to a butterfly sanctuary, the highest point at Camp Bandilaan, Quisol Overlooking, and a scenic hilltop restaurant. Optional activities like snorkeling or the Tarzan swing may cost extra.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 8 hours, making it a full-day experience. Timing can be flexible depending on availability.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking, a camera to capture the views, sunscreen, insect repellent, and water to stay hydrated.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
This tour might not be ideal for those with mobility limitations, as walking trails and outdoor terrain are involved. Children who enjoy nature and scenery may find it enjoyable.

Are meals included?
The tour includes a stop at a hilltop restaurant where you can buy light meals and refreshments, making for a relaxed way to conclude the day.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for changing travel plans.

What language do guides speak?
Guides speak English and Tagalog, making the commentary accessible for most travelers.

Is this tour worth the price?
Considering the scenic vistas, wildlife encounter, and the chance to explore Siquijor’s highlands, many find the cost reasonable, especially since it covers multiple viewpoints and a relaxed day in nature.

In summary, the Siquijor Mountain Highlights Adventure Tour offers a peaceful yet visually stunning glimpse into the island’s highland landscape. Perfect for those seeking quiet, scenic beauty and authentic wildlife encounters, it provides a memorable escape into Siquijor’s lush mountain scenery.

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