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[av_heading heading=’NO FILTER | Where to next? (Bucari, Leon)’ tag=’h3′ style=’blockquote modern-quote’ size=” subheading_active=’subheading_below’ subheading_size=’15’ padding=’10’ color=” custom_font=”]
BY RHICK LARS VLADIMERALBAY
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Tuesday, April 18, 2017
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IT’S THE annual dilemma of our generation: Where should I go for the summer? How about rising local tourist destination Bucari, Leon?
‘Little Baguio’
Cool pine tree forests, cascading falls, verdant green rice terraces, surreal rock formations, steep hiking trails, open camping grounds, breath-taking views from dizzying heights –these are descriptions you’d attach to some of the most popular tourist spots found all over the Philippines, but all these are found in Iloilo’s thriving eco-tourism gem, the vibrant Bucari Leon.
Fifty-eight kilometres from Iloilo City, Bucari is a mountainous destination on average 2,000ft above sea level, reaching the highest at 4,300ft above sea level at Ambassador Hill or more popularly known as SusongDalaga because of its peculiar shape.Dubbed Iloilo’s “Little Baguio”, temperatures range from 18 to 20°C, dropping to as low as 10°C during Decembers, it’s a sanctuary away from the heat and hustle of the city.
Into the Woods
There is no better way to enjoy Bucari than by camping and trekking. The Bucari Pine Forest and Campsite in SitioTabionan is ideal for all types of happy campers, acool well-maintained paradise. You can pitch your tent under the shade of towering Pine Trees and it’s near numerous hiking trails. Entrance to the site is free but voluntary donations from guests are accepted.
You can bring your own tent or rent one from the camp, at 350pesos per tent (good for 3 to 4 people), it’s a bargain. For meals, you can bring “baon” from home or opt to build a bonfire at the camp and set-up a barbeque. There are also plenty of sari-sari stores outside the camp for your other needs.
For thrill-seekers, it’s best to try out the Imoy Falls trek first. This downward hike from the Pineforest Camp, is not for the weak-kneed or the faint-hearted. It’s nearly an hour’s trek through slippery and treacherous terrain, but the reward that is Imoy Falls washes all the exhaustion away.
The cool waters of Imoy Falls can comfort any weary traveler. Flanked on both sides by rocky terrain and awe-inspiring trees, it’s easy to forget all concept of time while taking a dip at one of the cold springs. Daredevils can cannonball into the falls’ gushing waters, with level rock formations ripe as diving spots.
The highlight for most visitors of Bucari is the Mansiga Peak viewing deck. With the hiking trail starting near the entrance of the campsite, it’s just a 15 to 30 minute trek through steep terrain, but with steps carved into the mountainous track and bamboo rails running along sharp cliff sides, even novice hikers can make the climb up.
At the peak, you’re treated to a 360 degree view of the foggy mountains of Central Panay. Easily scalable leaning trees offer up unique bird’s eye views and adventurous photo opportunities.
It’s rewarding and calming, the breath-taking views, the awe-inspiring scenery. I’m a beginner when it comes to hiking and trekking, and the steep climbs always wear me out. But there’s a feeling of renewal and accomplishment every time I reach a landmark or a peak, and again I’m ready to conquer the next destination, no matter how difficult the climb. (For photos you may visit my blog maverhick.blogspot.com/PN)
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