Wandering Soul Scamper

Tag Trekking

Sep, Wed, 2017
Trail Tweaks: Trekking for Beginners

 Malungcay Trail

Getting Started with Trekking

Dying to head into the hills but don’t know how? Well, before you jump in into the activity, there are few tricks and tips that you might consider before you and your fancy gears tackle any of the great sierras on your list. These tricks and tips on trekking for beginners are worth considering before you take on the trail which could mean a little less painful trek and a lot more pleasure. For all first timers, here are a few tips to keep in mind. Trekking for beginners can be of course has a lot of dimension to it and involves detailed planning before you can actually be in the wild. This will be your guide to look through when you decide to get away from all of the chaos in the city life and hop into an enlivening trek in the great outdoors and be one with nature!

Read: 13 Reasons why you should start trekking

Trekking for beginners: Deciding where to go.

When you have decided to start trekking, choosing where to start the activity is crucial. The first trek experience usually is the deciding factor for the many, whether they will continue engaging in this type of activity or drop it in the trash bin.

Mount Mago

  • Choose an Easy Trek First

Don’t rush. You may start with small or medium level treks. Remember that most people who rush to the wild because they’ve been pumped up by few episodes of an outdoor show usually end up badly in the wild. We really need to take it slow. This is not a competition nor a race. You need to take baby steps. Baby steps will bring you to the most treacherous mountains someday if that’s where you want to go. So, if you are new to the trekking scene, ease yourself in.

For beginners, you should not go for the tough treks immediately as they are generally meant for the experts and the experienced. Be wise. Choose an easy trek first. It will be a wise move as you will get experience, enjoy the thrill and can relish a wonderful tour on such trek as a beginner. A tough trek may prove hazardous for you.

Read: How to make Trekking a lot Easier

  • Trekking for beginners needs research

Search for decent trekking spots nearby your city. It is sensible to look up first on the web for information around places you want to go or new places you want to discover. I suggest you choose a spot good for a one-day trek. Although it is ‘cool’ to say ‘Let’s just go for it’, but doing research about the place and getting the general information on the route. Getting lost there then is fun too! But by doing so, can turn the whole experience into a complete disaster.

Trekking for Beginners

Find a place appropriate to you and your group’s capability levels and experience. You may choose common trails initially so you get comfortable with the activity. Then with experience, you can be more adventurous in your succeeding jaunts and maybe chart out new trails!

It is worth noting that planning and research for the trek should be done very cautiously. A proper research is extremely important and its prominence grows even bigger if you are a beginner. Only after you have done proper research on the location and climate that you may encounter during the trek, you can do further planning of your jaunt.

  • Trekking for beginners needs proper scheduling

Make a comprehensive schedule when you are planning for your first trekking activity.  One must deliberate the schedule as per the climate and situation of the destination. Make sure that you have informed a relative or a friend about your schedule, as they can come to your aid if you get into any trouble while in the verge of your activity.

Coordinate with the proper authorities (LGU’s, etc) or the local tourism office, as they will be in the front line when misadventures happened. Register in any registration site when needed.

Trekking for beginners:  What preparations are needed?

  • Make Certain That You Are Perfectly Fit to do this strenuous activity

Get a medical clearance. Medical checkup should be the first and foremost priority before planning a trekking trip. Many trekkers suffer from cold, cough, stomach upset, etc while trekking. These can cause the whole journey less enjoyable and worst case, aborting the entire activity. It is every joiner responsibility to inform the trek organizer or leader if you have any medical problems.

Moreover, while on the trail, you must tell the lead if you are suffering from any discomforts like dysentery, bad blisters, headaches or dizziness, cramps, etc.

Being physically fit for your trek is a must. That way you can enjoy the climb and not get bogged down by sheer fatigue of walking and make the whole experience fun. Easier said than done right?  Trekking requires practice and getting used to carrying a backpack on ascent and descent.  So how to master and get used to with it?  Well, a good way to start off is jogging and eventually increasing the tempo steadily to build stamina.

A good trekker going on major ascents needs not only strong legs but good core strength. Always remember that there are no short cuts to this kind of activity and a little exercise like jogging or going to the gym never killed anybody. It is very important to keep in mind that different treks may require different training regimes. So make necessary adjustments.

  • What is the Budget?

One of the important factors to consider when starting this kind of activity is the budget. Expenses for food, accommodation, etc, should be given enough consideration while planning a budget. It is wise that the money you will be carrying should be a little more than the estimated. It is because there are many unforeseen expenses that may come up on the trekking trip.

Trekking for beginners:  What to wear?

Here is a rule of thumb – When starting on your flirting affair with trekking, wear too much rather than too little. It is always better being too warm and be able to take off a layer than being too cold and not having anything to wear on top. The mountains you choose may have very cold winds that can froze your bones. So, always carry a change of clothes that can help you in the rain and as an extra layer on top. An extra pair of socks and windbreaker or poncho may be of great help to shield you in case of rains.

To protect yourself from the fiery heat of the sun, wear a cap or hat. These can keep you warm also when in the cold. As much as possible, wear dri-fit shirts (wool or fleece). Wear protective accessories like arm sleeves or leg sleeves/guards. Scarfs can be a better alternative too. However, if you are like me, you can use an umbrella as protection from heat. Yes, you read it right. (Payong mountaineer here 🙂 ). But do not use umbrella when trekking on trails that need you to free your hands.

Footwear is one of the most crucial and important thing to consider when trekking. Wear comfortable hard-soled trekking or walking shoes for off-road or unpaved trails. Most outdoor enthusiasts suggest that the best trekking shoes are the ones that keep your ankles stable. If you are buying a new pair of shoes for the trek, break-in those shoes so that shoe bites do not ruin your trek.

For river crossing, hiking sandals are recommended or you can just remove your socks when crossing rivers. One can wear boots too, but boots are not advisable to wear during cold weather.

What not to Wear?

Keep in mind that sneakers are not recommended when trekking. Avoid cotton clothing as it does not dry quickly and does not keep you warm in the rains. Go for wool or fleece instead if you have one. Never wear cotton socks either as much as possible. Thick synthetic or woolen socks  can help prevent from getting blisters when wet or sweaty.

Trekking for beginners:  What to pack?

  • Pack All the Essentials Carefully

People have different views on this and it does depend on how long and where you are going. Pack the less required heavy stuff like the medical kit, cook sets, burners, or change of clothes at the bottom. Food in the middle and quick energy bites, water and other needed stuffs while on the trail at the top.

Trekking for Beginners

As you are a beginner, you must know that the foodstuffs and clothes are something that may not be available during the trek. Hence, you must carry food and clothes in sufficient amount. Please consider the quality of the clothes you will be wearing and bringing in, as there will be a possibility of clothes being torn while on the trail.

While packing your stuffs, you may follow these sub-divisions:

  1.  What you are going to wear on the trail?
  2.  What are the things you have to carry in the day pack?
  3.  What you are going to pack in the duffel bag?
  • What are the Trekking Essentials?

Being well equipped with essentials is mandatory for a pleasant and enthralling trekking activity. Here is the list of suggested items you may bring along with you on your trekking:

* Waterproofed trekking boots /Trekking shoes (Running shoes will do but no sneakers please)
* Jacket or something that has a hood
* A sweater as the weather may get chilly
* Extra shirt / shorts
* Pairs of underwear as you may need to change while on the trek
* Wind-gear and rain-gear * Sun hat
* Gloves / socks
* Personal first-aid kit including medication for common ailments such as headaches, dysentery etc., moleskin, antiseptic cream, surgical tape, band aids, sun cream and medicines
* Water bottle that can hold sufficient water
* Trash bags
* Day pack

  • Optional Accessories that You May Carry

* Camera  / fully charged batteries / Power bank
* Binoculars / Umbrella
* Extra water bottle

How to be safe?

You must be Familiar with Your Limitations. If you have no habit of walking very long distances, you should try covering short distances first. Fatigue is a general problem that the beginners usually face while engaging in this activity.

Make your own decision. You are one who best know about your capabilities. Be aware of your physical strength and endurance. Keep your limitations in consideration always.

You should keep up your confidence while trekking. As a beginner, you will feel the ultimate thrill on the trekking tour. If you follow all the tips and guidelines properly, you will complete a memorable jaunt that you will never forget in your entire life!

Mount Mago

What you need to know?

  • Camping Etiquette

Respect fellow trekkers by not being too loud and leaving markers alone is an unsaid rule. Remember to follow the etiquette always. Enjoy the adventure, click pictures and don’t forget to stop and smell the flowers!

Read: Camping Etiquette

  • Leave No Trace Principles

There are no trash pickers in the countryside, no one to clean away your waste. So take away what you take in – plastics, packets, food (and of course that toilet paper too if it is not biodegradable!)

Read: Leave No Trace Principle

  • Responsible Tourism

Pay attention to keeping our nature pristine and untouched. Avoid much impact to the place you are visiting.

Here are some useful trekking tips for beginners:

* Water. Carry enough water depending on how long your trek is. Water is an essential thing that everyone must carry because it is easy to get dehydrated while it’s warm. Do not rely on finding drinkable water along the trail unless there is a safe water source with drinkable water. Natural spring water is sometimes potable but discretion is important. Bring enough water if you have a very sensitive stomach.

* Food. Trekking can take up a lot of energy. Carry lightweight high-energy food. For short day treks, carry energy fruits like bananas. Avoid bringing perishable foods when in long treks. Instead, bring with you some dry fruits, energy bars or biscuits. You can bring also trail snacks like jelly ace, salted peanuts, etc.

* Sunscreen. Bring protection from the scorching heat of the sun especially when your destination is an open peak. Scarfs, hats, umbrellas can be very useful. When crossing swampy areas or bushes, you might want to apply some insect repellant especially if you have the sweetest blood. J

* First aid kit. Pain relievers, antihistamine, and bandages may be useful. Avoid bringing in your Med cabinet.

* Miscellaneous. Bring pocket knife, flashlights with extra batteries / torch.  Bring navigation tools if you are heading a little deeper into the woods. And don’t forget biodegradable toilet paper (you don’t know when shit happens :))

* Carry IDs and money in case of emergencies.

* During the trek, keep a lookout for potential dangers. Don’t touch suspicious looking flora. Poisonous plants are another hiking hazard.

* Do not use strongly scented skin/hair products. It can ignite the strong senses of animals around. Protect yourself against scrapes, plants and insects by wearing full-length garments.

You may want to read other tips here:

Trekking Like a Pro?

How to make your Camping Experience more comfortable?

How to stay clean and fresh on multiple day trekking?

There you have it, a basic guide in trekking for beginners. This is a long read but it maybe helpful when you are really serious about pursuing this activity.

Trekking is more enjoyable with a fellow adventurer. Going in groups means being able to help each other along. With the companionship, you can have a better shared moments and an exciting adventure. Before you head out in your adventure, always inform friends and family about where you intend to go. Inform them when they can expect you back.  Enjoy the adventure and keep in mind that when you’re in the mountains, every day is Friday!

When engaging in this physical activity, chances are that not all will go as per plan. But, that is the fun part though. Don’t forget to tag along some of your friends for the trek if still you are not sure to go all by yourself. The easiest way is to contact any local trek club. Cheers and Enjoy!

Wandering Soul Scamper Wandering Soul Scamper
Tips , Travel , Trekking
Trail Tweaks: Trekking for Beginners

 Malungcay Trail

Getting Started with Trekking

Dying to head into the hills but don’t know how? Well, before you jump in into the activity, there are few tricks and tips that you might consider before you and your fancy gears tackle any of the great sierras on your list. These tricks and tips on trekking for beginners are worth considering before you take on the trail which could mean a little less painful trek and a lot more pleasure. For all first timers, here are a few tips to keep in mind. Trekking for beginners can be of course has a lot of dimension to it and involves detailed planning before you can actually be in the wild. This will be your guide to look through when you decide to get away from all of the chaos in the city life and hop into an enlivening trek in the great outdoors and be one with nature!

Read: 13 Reasons why you should start trekking

Trekking for beginners: Deciding where to go.

When you have decided to start trekking, choosing where to start the activity is crucial. The first trek experience usually is the deciding factor for the many, whether they will continue engaging in this type of activity or drop it in the trash bin.

Mount Mago

  • Choose an Easy Trek First

Don’t rush. You may start with small or medium level treks. Remember that most people who rush to the wild because they’ve been pumped up by few episodes of an outdoor show usually end up badly in the wild. We really need to take it slow. This is not a competition nor a race. You need to take baby steps. Baby steps will bring you to the most treacherous mountains someday if that’s where you want to go. So, if you are new to the trekking scene, ease yourself in.

For beginners, you should not go for the tough treks immediately as they are generally meant for the experts and the experienced. Be wise. Choose an easy trek first. It will be a wise move as you will get experience, enjoy the thrill and can relish a wonderful tour on such trek as a beginner. A tough trek may prove hazardous for you.

Read: How to make Trekking a lot Easier

  • Trekking for beginners needs research

Search for decent trekking spots nearby your city. It is sensible to look up first on the web for information around places you want to go or new places you want to discover. I suggest you choose a spot good for a one-day trek. Although it is ‘cool’ to say ‘Let’s just go for it’, but doing research about the place and getting the general information on the route. Getting lost there then is fun too! But by doing so, can turn the whole experience into a complete disaster.

Trekking for Beginners

Find a place appropriate to you and your group’s capability levels and experience. You may choose common trails initially so you get comfortable with the activity. Then with experience, you can be more adventurous in your succeeding jaunts and maybe chart out new trails!

It is worth noting that planning and research for the trek should be done very cautiously. A proper research is extremely important and its prominence grows even bigger if you are a beginner. Only after you have done proper research on the location and climate that you may encounter during the trek, you can do further planning of your jaunt.

  • Trekking for beginners needs proper scheduling

Make a comprehensive schedule when you are planning for your first trekking activity.  One must deliberate the schedule as per the climate and situation of the destination. Make sure that you have informed a relative or a friend about your schedule, as they can come to your aid if you get into any trouble while in the verge of your activity.

Coordinate with the proper authorities (LGU’s, etc) or the local tourism office, as they will be in the front line when misadventures happened. Register in any registration site when needed.

Trekking for beginners:  What preparations are needed?

  • Make Certain That You Are Perfectly Fit to do this strenuous activity

Get a medical clearance. Medical checkup should be the first and foremost priority before planning a trekking trip. Many trekkers suffer from cold, cough, stomach upset, etc while trekking. These can cause the whole journey less enjoyable and worst case, aborting the entire activity. It is every joiner responsibility to inform the trek organizer or leader if you have any medical problems.

Moreover, while on the trail, you must tell the lead if you are suffering from any discomforts like dysentery, bad blisters, headaches or dizziness, cramps, etc.

Being physically fit for your trek is a must. That way you can enjoy the climb and not get bogged down by sheer fatigue of walking and make the whole experience fun. Easier said than done right?  Trekking requires practice and getting used to carrying a backpack on ascent and descent.  So how to master and get used to with it?  Well, a good way to start off is jogging and eventually increasing the tempo steadily to build stamina.

A good trekker going on major ascents needs not only strong legs but good core strength. Always remember that there are no short cuts to this kind of activity and a little exercise like jogging or going to the gym never killed anybody. It is very important to keep in mind that different treks may require different training regimes. So make necessary adjustments.

  • What is the Budget?

One of the important factors to consider when starting this kind of activity is the budget. Expenses for food, accommodation, etc, should be given enough consideration while planning a budget. It is wise that the money you will be carrying should be a little more than the estimated. It is because there are many unforeseen expenses that may come up on the trekking trip.

Trekking for beginners:  What to wear?

Here is a rule of thumb – When starting on your flirting affair with trekking, wear too much rather than too little. It is always better being too warm and be able to take off a layer than being too cold and not having anything to wear on top. The mountains you choose may have very cold winds that can froze your bones. So, always carry a change of clothes that can help you in the rain and as an extra layer on top. An extra pair of socks and windbreaker or poncho may be of great help to shield you in case of rains.

To protect yourself from the fiery heat of the sun, wear a cap or hat. These can keep you warm also when in the cold. As much as possible, wear dri-fit shirts (wool or fleece). Wear protective accessories like arm sleeves or leg sleeves/guards. Scarfs can be a better alternative too. However, if you are like me, you can use an umbrella as protection from heat. Yes, you read it right. (Payong mountaineer here 🙂 ). But do not use umbrella when trekking on trails that need you to free your hands.

Footwear is one of the most crucial and important thing to consider when trekking. Wear comfortable hard-soled trekking or walking shoes for off-road or unpaved trails. Most outdoor enthusiasts suggest that the best trekking shoes are the ones that keep your ankles stable. If you are buying a new pair of shoes for the trek, break-in those shoes so that shoe bites do not ruin your trek.

For river crossing, hiking sandals are recommended or you can just remove your socks when crossing rivers. One can wear boots too, but boots are not advisable to wear during cold weather.

What not to Wear?

Keep in mind that sneakers are not recommended when trekking. Avoid cotton clothing as it does not dry quickly and does not keep you warm in the rains. Go for wool or fleece instead if you have one. Never wear cotton socks either as much as possible. Thick synthetic or woolen socks  can help prevent from getting blisters when wet or sweaty.

Trekking for beginners:  What to pack?

  • Pack All the Essentials Carefully

People have different views on this and it does depend on how long and where you are going. Pack the less required heavy stuff like the medical kit, cook sets, burners, or change of clothes at the bottom. Food in the middle and quick energy bites, water and other needed stuffs while on the trail at the top.

Trekking for Beginners

As you are a beginner, you must know that the foodstuffs and clothes are something that may not be available during the trek. Hence, you must carry food and clothes in sufficient amount. Please consider the quality of the clothes you will be wearing and bringing in, as there will be a possibility of clothes being torn while on the trail.

While packing your stuffs, you may follow these sub-divisions:

  1.  What you are going to wear on the trail?
  2.  What are the things you have to carry in the day pack?
  3.  What you are going to pack in the duffel bag?
  • What are the Trekking Essentials?

Being well equipped with essentials is mandatory for a pleasant and enthralling trekking activity. Here is the list of suggested items you may bring along with you on your trekking:

* Waterproofed trekking boots /Trekking shoes (Running shoes will do but no sneakers please)
* Jacket or something that has a hood
* A sweater as the weather may get chilly
* Extra shirt / shorts
* Pairs of underwear as you may need to change while on the trek
* Wind-gear and rain-gear * Sun hat
* Gloves / socks
* Personal first-aid kit including medication for common ailments such as headaches, dysentery etc., moleskin, antiseptic cream, surgical tape, band aids, sun cream and medicines
* Water bottle that can hold sufficient water
* Trash bags
* Day pack

  • Optional Accessories that You May Carry

* Camera  / fully charged batteries / Power bank
* Binoculars / Umbrella
* Extra water bottle

How to be safe?

You must be Familiar with Your Limitations. If you have no habit of walking very long distances, you should try covering short distances first. Fatigue is a general problem that the beginners usually face while engaging in this activity.

Make your own decision. You are one who best know about your capabilities. Be aware of your physical strength and endurance. Keep your limitations in consideration always.

You should keep up your confidence while trekking. As a beginner, you will feel the ultimate thrill on the trekking tour. If you follow all the tips and guidelines properly, you will complete a memorable jaunt that you will never forget in your entire life!

Mount Mago

What you need to know?

  • Camping Etiquette

Respect fellow trekkers by not being too loud and leaving markers alone is an unsaid rule. Remember to follow the etiquette always. Enjoy the adventure, click pictures and don’t forget to stop and smell the flowers!

Read: Camping Etiquette

  • Leave No Trace Principles

There are no trash pickers in the countryside, no one to clean away your waste. So take away what you take in – plastics, packets, food (and of course that toilet paper too if it is not biodegradable!)

Read: Leave No Trace Principle

  • Responsible Tourism

Pay attention to keeping our nature pristine and untouched. Avoid much impact to the place you are visiting.

Here are some useful trekking tips for beginners:

* Water. Carry enough water depending on how long your trek is. Water is an essential thing that everyone must carry because it is easy to get dehydrated while it’s warm. Do not rely on finding drinkable water along the trail unless there is a safe water source with drinkable water. Natural spring water is sometimes potable but discretion is important. Bring enough water if you have a very sensitive stomach.

* Food. Trekking can take up a lot of energy. Carry lightweight high-energy food. For short day treks, carry energy fruits like bananas. Avoid bringing perishable foods when in long treks. Instead, bring with you some dry fruits, energy bars or biscuits. You can bring also trail snacks like jelly ace, salted peanuts, etc.

* Sunscreen. Bring protection from the scorching heat of the sun especially when your destination is an open peak. Scarfs, hats, umbrellas can be very useful. When crossing swampy areas or bushes, you might want to apply some insect repellant especially if you have the sweetest blood. J

* First aid kit. Pain relievers, antihistamine, and bandages may be useful. Avoid bringing in your Med cabinet.

* Miscellaneous. Bring pocket knife, flashlights with extra batteries / torch.  Bring navigation tools if you are heading a little deeper into the woods. And don’t forget biodegradable toilet paper (you don’t know when shit happens :))

* Carry IDs and money in case of emergencies.

* During the trek, keep a lookout for potential dangers. Don’t touch suspicious looking flora. Poisonous plants are another hiking hazard.

* Do not use strongly scented skin/hair products. It can ignite the strong senses of animals around. Protect yourself against scrapes, plants and insects by wearing full-length garments.

You may want to read other tips here:

Trekking Like a Pro?

How to make your Camping Experience more comfortable?

How to stay clean and fresh on multiple day trekking?

There you have it, a basic guide in trekking for beginners. This is a long read but it maybe helpful when you are really serious about pursuing this activity.

Trekking is more enjoyable with a fellow adventurer. Going in groups means being able to help each other along. With the companionship, you can have a better shared moments and an exciting adventure. Before you head out in your adventure, always inform friends and family about where you intend to go. Inform them when they can expect you back.  Enjoy the adventure and keep in mind that when you’re in the mountains, every day is Friday!

When engaging in this physical activity, chances are that not all will go as per plan. But, that is the fun part though. Don’t forget to tag along some of your friends for the trek if still you are not sure to go all by yourself. The easiest way is to contact any local trek club. Cheers and Enjoy!

Mar, Tue, 2017
Trail Tweaks: How to Dispose Poop Tissues

So what will you do when you are in the mountains with no hygienic provisions? What will you do if you are going to answer the call of nature but you don’t have anything for cleaning the mess like toilet papers, etc?

When on the wild, people cleaned themselves with various materials such wood shavings, leaves, grass, hay, stone, sand, moss, water, snow, maize, ferns, many plant husks, fruit skins, or seashells, and corncobs, depending upon the country and weather conditions or social customs.

For campsites with water sources, cleaning after pooping is a lot easier. Just have enough water for cleaning the mess. But be mindful that the use of soap is not advisable when in the mountains, especially near water sources. So have your hand sanitizer or alcohol ready after doing the deed.

This article is a continuation to the previous Trail tweak series, How to Poop in the mountains like a pro. So how to dispose properly the tissues you have used when pooping in the mountains? Do you simply bury them all?

Before anything else, let’s talk a bit about tissue and its applications. Tissue papers are mainly used as hygienic tissue paper, facial tissues, paper towels, wrapping tissue, toilet tissue, table napkins, and some use it as an acoustic disrupter.

Tissue paper is made literally from the raw paper pulp and manufactured to have a high wet tensile strength and good water holding capacity. This tissue papers are manufactured according to its uses. For example, most modern toilet paper in the developed world is designed to decompose in septic tanks, whereas some other bathroom and facial tissues are not.

Due to the other tissue papers will not decompose, we should be extra cautious when using it in places with no proper facilities for disposal.

Back with the topic on how to dispose these poop tissues after pooping in the mountains, I have short listed a few tips below.

1. Do not bury poop tissues / toilet papers with high tensile strength

As much as possible, do not use wet wipes or wet tissues for cleaning after pooping. This kind of tissues has material properties that are almost non-biodegradable. Let’s say that some manufacturers will say that the wet wipes is biodegradable, but it will take longer. Before you know it, someone will dig it sooner or later, or wild animals will.

Dry toilet tissues are specifically made to optimize advance decomposition. This is usually made from paper pulp with shorter fibers than facial tissue or writing paper.

It’s the tissue manufacturer’s dilemma to reach an optimal balance between rapid decomposition which requires shorter fibers and sturdiness which requires longer fibers.

Most people just recommend burying the used toilet paper after pooping. Yes, at certain times we can bury it especially if it’s a dry tissue. But always remember that if the tissue has a great tensile strength, the longer it decomposes. So better use those tissues with less tensile strength.

2. Pack the wet wipes and bring it back for proper disposal

Pack the wet wipes / Poop Tissues

For instances that no dry tissues are available, you are obliged to pack those wet wipes and bring it back for proper disposal. Those wet wipes are nearly or non-biodegradable at all. Those wet wipes contain plastic fibers, thus it is nearly impossible for it to decompose.

I cannot stress this enough. But please don’t bury the high tensile toilet papers especially wet wipes when used as poop tissues.

3. Collect and burn Poop Tissues

Collect those used poop tissues / toilet papers and burn them. The trick is to use a paper bag, and collect all toilet paper of the day in it. Then burn it in the campfire (if it is allowed) at the end of the day. This is good idea, but, can you imagine it’s grossness if you burn it near dinner? This is a good idea that can turn into a gruesome experience.

4. Use the Poop Can Technique

This might be the best idea for places that are implementing a very strict policy on burying even those toilet papers that decompose quickly. What you’ll need is a Poop can, the perfect necessity when pooping in the mountains.

What is a Poop Can? Well, it is not what you think, this is not a can where you will Poop. Instead, this is a can where you will burn your used toilet papers after doing the deed.

How? All you need is a large can, a lighter and a few dry twigs or few dry leaves. If you have used large can (from canned goods), you can use it. Puncture holes at the bottom of the can. Have at least 4-6 holes.

Before pooping, put few dry leaves or twigs at the bottom of the can. After pooping, put your poop tissues / toilet paper on the can on top of the twigs/grasses.

Place your Poop Can in a stone or rock for safety purposes. You don’t want to burn the whole forest right? Then place a match stick at one of the holes in the bottom and let the contents of the can burn safely.

That’s it!  Everyone wins, you don’t have to carry poop toilet paper out from the mountains. At the same time the mountains don’t have those piles of white toilet paper litter if wild animals will dig it.

I hope this helps you have a better pooping experience!

 

Wandering Soul Scamper Wandering Soul Scamper
Tips , Trekking
Trail Tweaks: How to Dispose Poop Tissues

So what will you do when you are in the mountains with no hygienic provisions? What will you do if you are going to answer the call of nature but you don’t have anything for cleaning the mess like toilet papers, etc?

When on the wild, people cleaned themselves with various materials such wood shavings, leaves, grass, hay, stone, sand, moss, water, snow, maize, ferns, many plant husks, fruit skins, or seashells, and corncobs, depending upon the country and weather conditions or social customs.

For campsites with water sources, cleaning after pooping is a lot easier. Just have enough water for cleaning the mess. But be mindful that the use of soap is not advisable when in the mountains, especially near water sources. So have your hand sanitizer or alcohol ready after doing the deed.

This article is a continuation to the previous Trail tweak series, How to Poop in the mountains like a pro. So how to dispose properly the tissues you have used when pooping in the mountains? Do you simply bury them all?

Before anything else, let’s talk a bit about tissue and its applications. Tissue papers are mainly used as hygienic tissue paper, facial tissues, paper towels, wrapping tissue, toilet tissue, table napkins, and some use it as an acoustic disrupter.

Tissue paper is made literally from the raw paper pulp and manufactured to have a high wet tensile strength and good water holding capacity. This tissue papers are manufactured according to its uses. For example, most modern toilet paper in the developed world is designed to decompose in septic tanks, whereas some other bathroom and facial tissues are not.

Due to the other tissue papers will not decompose, we should be extra cautious when using it in places with no proper facilities for disposal.

Back with the topic on how to dispose these poop tissues after pooping in the mountains, I have short listed a few tips below.

1. Do not bury poop tissues / toilet papers with high tensile strength

As much as possible, do not use wet wipes or wet tissues for cleaning after pooping. This kind of tissues has material properties that are almost non-biodegradable. Let’s say that some manufacturers will say that the wet wipes is biodegradable, but it will take longer. Before you know it, someone will dig it sooner or later, or wild animals will.

Dry toilet tissues are specifically made to optimize advance decomposition. This is usually made from paper pulp with shorter fibers than facial tissue or writing paper.

It’s the tissue manufacturer’s dilemma to reach an optimal balance between rapid decomposition which requires shorter fibers and sturdiness which requires longer fibers.

Most people just recommend burying the used toilet paper after pooping. Yes, at certain times we can bury it especially if it’s a dry tissue. But always remember that if the tissue has a great tensile strength, the longer it decomposes. So better use those tissues with less tensile strength.

2. Pack the wet wipes and bring it back for proper disposal

Pack the wet wipes / Poop Tissues

For instances that no dry tissues are available, you are obliged to pack those wet wipes and bring it back for proper disposal. Those wet wipes are nearly or non-biodegradable at all. Those wet wipes contain plastic fibers, thus it is nearly impossible for it to decompose.

I cannot stress this enough. But please don’t bury the high tensile toilet papers especially wet wipes when used as poop tissues.

3. Collect and burn Poop Tissues

Collect those used poop tissues / toilet papers and burn them. The trick is to use a paper bag, and collect all toilet paper of the day in it. Then burn it in the campfire (if it is allowed) at the end of the day. This is good idea, but, can you imagine it’s grossness if you burn it near dinner? This is a good idea that can turn into a gruesome experience.

4. Use the Poop Can Technique

This might be the best idea for places that are implementing a very strict policy on burying even those toilet papers that decompose quickly. What you’ll need is a Poop can, the perfect necessity when pooping in the mountains.

What is a Poop Can? Well, it is not what you think, this is not a can where you will Poop. Instead, this is a can where you will burn your used toilet papers after doing the deed.

How? All you need is a large can, a lighter and a few dry twigs or few dry leaves. If you have used large can (from canned goods), you can use it. Puncture holes at the bottom of the can. Have at least 4-6 holes.

Before pooping, put few dry leaves or twigs at the bottom of the can. After pooping, put your poop tissues / toilet paper on the can on top of the twigs/grasses.

Place your Poop Can in a stone or rock for safety purposes. You don’t want to burn the whole forest right? Then place a match stick at one of the holes in the bottom and let the contents of the can burn safely.

That’s it!  Everyone wins, you don’t have to carry poop toilet paper out from the mountains. At the same time the mountains don’t have those piles of white toilet paper litter if wild animals will dig it.

I hope this helps you have a better pooping experience!

 

Nov, Wed, 2016
Mount Labalasan (Osmeña Peak): Cebu’s Highest Point

Osmeña Peak

After our Mount Takliad trek and camping, we continued our jaunt for another fun-filled camp to Cebu’s highest mountain – the Mount Labalasan or commonly known as Osmeña Peak. It was my nth time visit to Osmeña Peak. Despite of the fact that I visited Osmeña Peak multiple times already, I would never grow tired or lost my interest to go back in this wonderful place. Because in trekking, I really do believe that no matter how many times you have been into the same mountain, you will never get to have the same experience and will never trek the same trail twice. The trail will always change and the experience will always be unique.

Osmeña Peak
Wandering Soul Scamper @ Osmeña Peak

I would be like a broken record if I will keep on describing Osmeña Peak every time I write about it after my trek. So I won’t. Instead I will just jump directly what happened during this journey. But you may want to read my previous experience during my first visit to Osmeña Peak here.

Osmeña Peak
View of the camp site from Osmeña Peak

The trip was a continuation to our Argao Multi-peak trekking plan that focuses on Mount Takliad and Mount Lantoy. Part of being a traveler is being able to adapt easily to changes on the plans due to uncontrollable influences like hostile weather conditions and the likes. Our Multi-Peak and caving adventure plans were cut short so we decided to proceed for another adventure – Trek to Osmeña Peak and traverse to Kawasan Falls to satisfy our adventure hungry and wandering souls. We were eight in the group and half of us decided to proceed and half of the group went home right after Mount Takliad Trek.

IMG_4250.JPG
The Squad

The four of us hired a tricycle from Argao to Dalaguete since the two towns were just few kilometers apart and we hired motorcycle taxis from Poblacion Dalaguete to Mantalongon Public Market. We had our lunch at the public market and started our trek right after. We chose to trek from Mantalongon Public Market to the foot of Osmeña Peak as it was more enjoyable and had more fun on the trek while conversing with each other rather than just riding a motorbike throughout. It took us about an hour trek with minimal stops in between.

Osmeña Peak
F4 @ Osmeña Peak?

The weather was excellent. The afternoon sun was not that fierce and the skies had some clouds giving us protection while we followed the open trail going to Osmeña Peak. We can’t even feel the exhaustion of the trek as we were constantly conversing and making the most out of it with some funny and diverse topics and silly jokes.

After an hour, we arrived at the tourism office and paid 30 pesos each as entrance fee. They will also collect 50 pesos camping fee per tent for the overnight campers, but will do the collection in the morning as Osmeña Peak sometimes will be subjected to strong and growling winds that in some cases, few of the camper’s tent won’t even survive the night. If such unfortunate circumstances do happen then no fees will be collected for the camping fee.

Osmeña Peak
Tourism Office

We chose a strategic location for our camp and settled a bit after pitching our tents before enjoying the beauty of Osmeña Peak. The weather was perfect, no fog and has a very stunning sea of clouds formation on the background when the sun was about to set. The clouds added an ethereal hint to the majestic scene at the summit of Osmeña Peak! Picture perfect isn’t it? We took several photos and went back to our camp after the setting of the sun!

Osmeña Peak
Groufie @ Osmeña Peak
Osmeña Peak
Photo Credits : WanderingfeetPH

Osmeña Peak

Osmeña Peak

Osmeña Peak

Osmeña Peak

IMG_5526_20161030-163931.JPG

Osmeña Peak sunset

Osmeña Peak sunset

Osmeña Peak

We had our dinner as early as 6pm. We had nothing to do again but to talk with each other. Everyone seemed even more comfortable that we had this silly game to make stories and translate it from English to tagalog, Bisaya and Ilonggo. Everyone had taken turns throughout the game. Few hours later we called it a night. Good night Bes!

Osmeña Peak has been known for its strong wind gusts at nighttime. We had few gruesome experiences before wherein our tents were almost damaged by the strong howling winds especially when the weather was too aggressive. We had this funny experience in one of our camp outs wherein other group of campers asked us if we saw their tent passed by! He meant if we saw their tent flown away by the strong winds.  (“Mga migo, kita mo ug tent ni agi?”). But this time, we were too fortunate that the weather was so friendly that we only experienced a little drizzle and a mild wind gusts throughout the night. Thus, everyone had a very good night sleep.

IMG_5579_20161030-171625.JPG

There is nothing more fulfilling than the feeling of waking up at the right side of the bed right? The feeling of waking up in an open field with the cool breeze is really invigorating.

We’re awake, had our quick breakfast and broke camp to start our traverse to Kawasan Falls early. We were excited to reach Kawasan Falls for a dip as we had no shower for 3 days already. LOL. The traverse from Osmeña Peak to Kawasan Falls was a fun-filled journey. It was full of conversation with diverse and funny topics again that spiced up the mood of everyone. At some point, we found ourselves singing random songs along the trail and doing silly stuffs and silly poses in front of the camera. LOL.

IMG_8066.JPG

IMG_5699_20161106-124728.JPG

IMG_8091.JPG

After 4 hours of trekking, we arrived at Kawasan Falls and had the ever wanted dip on its ice cold waters that made our strained muscles alive once more.

Here are few Need-To-Know information about Osmeña Peak that most travelers and tourists alike may not know at all or had a totally different info all along.

  • Osmeña Peak stands at an approximate elevation of 1,013 meters above sea level (MASL).
  • It is the highest peak in Cebu island that was formerly known as Mount Labalasan and later on was commonly known as Osmeña Peak.
  • It is located within the boundaries of Patung, Badian and Mantalongon, Dalaguete and is part of Patung, Badian mountain range. Osmeña Peak is said to be part of Patung, Badian and not from Mantalongon, Dalaguete as most mountaineers, tourists and travelers had assumed for a while now. I stand corrected as I was one of those who thought that Osmeña Peak is part of Mantalongon, Dalaguete.
IMG_8102.JPG
Exhausted?

IMG_8120.JPG

IMG_8129.JPG

IMG_8175.JPG
Look who just jump!

How about you? Have you been to Osmeña Peak? Don’t miss out your opportunity to visit and enjoy the stunning beauty that Osmeña Peak could offer you for free! Well the view is free but you have to pay the entrance fee! 😂

How to get there?

From Cebu South Bus Terminal:

  • From Cebu South Bus Terminal, ride a bus bound to Dalaguete or any bus that would pass Dalaguete
  • Alight at the Town Proper (Poblacion). Just tell the bus conductor to drop you off at the junction going to Mantalongon Market (Osmeña Peak).
  • Hire a motorcycle taxi (habal-habal) going to Mantalongon Market
  • Register at Tourism Office.

From Osaka Terminal inside Caltex Gasoline Station (Near Carbon Market)

  • Ride a minibus here bound to Mantolongon Market.
  • Alight at Mantalongon Market.
  • Hire a motorcycle taxi (habal-habal) going to the foot of Osmeña Peak.
  • Register at Tourism Office.

Few Tips:

  • Wear proper trekking attire for comfort even though the trail is established.
  • Parts of the trail have loose soil that can be slippery especially on rainy season.
  • There is a vast area for camping, but on peak seasons it can be overcrowded so if you’re planning to camp overnight, target to arrive early on the campsite.
  • Bring durable tents as Osmeña peak is notorious for having brutal gusting winds at night especially on hostile weather conditions.
  • Preserve the cleanliness of the place by observing the leave no trace principle. Whatever you bring in, pack it out. Do not throw garbage anywhere or leave anything behind rather pack it out and dispose it properly.

Expenses:

  • Mini Bus Fare from Cebu City to Mantalongon Market: Php 100 – 120
  • Motorcycle Taxi (Habal-Habal) Fare:
    • From Dalaguete Town Proper to Manatalongon Market – Php 75/pax (Php 150 /per motorcycle)
    • From Dalaguete Town Proper to foot of Osmeña Peak – Php 100/pax (Php 200 /per motorcycle)
  • Onsite Registration fee: Php 30 / pax
  • Camping fee: Php 50 / tent

Note: Food expenses are not included here, as you may have different preferences as ours.

Wandering Soul Scamper Wandering Soul Scamper
BackPacking , Falls , Mountains , Philippines , Travel , Trekking , Visayas
Mount Labalasan (Osmeña Peak): Cebu’s Highest Point

Osmeña Peak

After our Mount Takliad trek and camping, we continued our jaunt for another fun-filled camp to Cebu’s highest mountain – the Mount Labalasan or commonly known as Osmeña Peak. It was my nth time visit to Osmeña Peak. Despite of the fact that I visited Osmeña Peak multiple times already, I would never grow tired or lost my interest to go back in this wonderful place. Because in trekking, I really do believe that no matter how many times you have been into the same mountain, you will never get to have the same experience and will never trek the same trail twice. The trail will always change and the experience will always be unique.

Osmeña Peak
Wandering Soul Scamper @ Osmeña Peak

I would be like a broken record if I will keep on describing Osmeña Peak every time I write about it after my trek. So I won’t. Instead I will just jump directly what happened during this journey. But you may want to read my previous experience during my first visit to Osmeña Peak here.

Osmeña Peak
View of the camp site from Osmeña Peak

The trip was a continuation to our Argao Multi-peak trekking plan that focuses on Mount Takliad and Mount Lantoy. Part of being a traveler is being able to adapt easily to changes on the plans due to uncontrollable influences like hostile weather conditions and the likes. Our Multi-Peak and caving adventure plans were cut short so we decided to proceed for another adventure – Trek to Osmeña Peak and traverse to Kawasan Falls to satisfy our adventure hungry and wandering souls. We were eight in the group and half of us decided to proceed and half of the group went home right after Mount Takliad Trek.

IMG_4250.JPG
The Squad

The four of us hired a tricycle from Argao to Dalaguete since the two towns were just few kilometers apart and we hired motorcycle taxis from Poblacion Dalaguete to Mantalongon Public Market. We had our lunch at the public market and started our trek right after. We chose to trek from Mantalongon Public Market to the foot of Osmeña Peak as it was more enjoyable and had more fun on the trek while conversing with each other rather than just riding a motorbike throughout. It took us about an hour trek with minimal stops in between.

Osmeña Peak
F4 @ Osmeña Peak?

The weather was excellent. The afternoon sun was not that fierce and the skies had some clouds giving us protection while we followed the open trail going to Osmeña Peak. We can’t even feel the exhaustion of the trek as we were constantly conversing and making the most out of it with some funny and diverse topics and silly jokes.

After an hour, we arrived at the tourism office and paid 30 pesos each as entrance fee. They will also collect 50 pesos camping fee per tent for the overnight campers, but will do the collection in the morning as Osmeña Peak sometimes will be subjected to strong and growling winds that in some cases, few of the camper’s tent won’t even survive the night. If such unfortunate circumstances do happen then no fees will be collected for the camping fee.

Osmeña Peak
Tourism Office

We chose a strategic location for our camp and settled a bit after pitching our tents before enjoying the beauty of Osmeña Peak. The weather was perfect, no fog and has a very stunning sea of clouds formation on the background when the sun was about to set. The clouds added an ethereal hint to the majestic scene at the summit of Osmeña Peak! Picture perfect isn’t it? We took several photos and went back to our camp after the setting of the sun!

Osmeña Peak
Groufie @ Osmeña Peak
Osmeña Peak
Photo Credits : WanderingfeetPH

Osmeña Peak

Osmeña Peak

Osmeña Peak

Osmeña Peak

IMG_5526_20161030-163931.JPG

Osmeña Peak sunset

Osmeña Peak sunset

Osmeña Peak

We had our dinner as early as 6pm. We had nothing to do again but to talk with each other. Everyone seemed even more comfortable that we had this silly game to make stories and translate it from English to tagalog, Bisaya and Ilonggo. Everyone had taken turns throughout the game. Few hours later we called it a night. Good night Bes!

Osmeña Peak has been known for its strong wind gusts at nighttime. We had few gruesome experiences before wherein our tents were almost damaged by the strong howling winds especially when the weather was too aggressive. We had this funny experience in one of our camp outs wherein other group of campers asked us if we saw their tent passed by! He meant if we saw their tent flown away by the strong winds.  (“Mga migo, kita mo ug tent ni agi?”). But this time, we were too fortunate that the weather was so friendly that we only experienced a little drizzle and a mild wind gusts throughout the night. Thus, everyone had a very good night sleep.

IMG_5579_20161030-171625.JPG

There is nothing more fulfilling than the feeling of waking up at the right side of the bed right? The feeling of waking up in an open field with the cool breeze is really invigorating.

We’re awake, had our quick breakfast and broke camp to start our traverse to Kawasan Falls early. We were excited to reach Kawasan Falls for a dip as we had no shower for 3 days already. LOL. The traverse from Osmeña Peak to Kawasan Falls was a fun-filled journey. It was full of conversation with diverse and funny topics again that spiced up the mood of everyone. At some point, we found ourselves singing random songs along the trail and doing silly stuffs and silly poses in front of the camera. LOL.

IMG_8066.JPG

IMG_5699_20161106-124728.JPG

IMG_8091.JPG

After 4 hours of trekking, we arrived at Kawasan Falls and had the ever wanted dip on its ice cold waters that made our strained muscles alive once more.

Here are few Need-To-Know information about Osmeña Peak that most travelers and tourists alike may not know at all or had a totally different info all along.

  • Osmeña Peak stands at an approximate elevation of 1,013 meters above sea level (MASL).
  • It is the highest peak in Cebu island that was formerly known as Mount Labalasan and later on was commonly known as Osmeña Peak.
  • It is located within the boundaries of Patung, Badian and Mantalongon, Dalaguete and is part of Patung, Badian mountain range. Osmeña Peak is said to be part of Patung, Badian and not from Mantalongon, Dalaguete as most mountaineers, tourists and travelers had assumed for a while now. I stand corrected as I was one of those who thought that Osmeña Peak is part of Mantalongon, Dalaguete.
IMG_8102.JPG
Exhausted?

IMG_8120.JPG

IMG_8129.JPG

IMG_8175.JPG
Look who just jump!

How about you? Have you been to Osmeña Peak? Don’t miss out your opportunity to visit and enjoy the stunning beauty that Osmeña Peak could offer you for free! Well the view is free but you have to pay the entrance fee! 😂

How to get there?

From Cebu South Bus Terminal:

  • From Cebu South Bus Terminal, ride a bus bound to Dalaguete or any bus that would pass Dalaguete
  • Alight at the Town Proper (Poblacion). Just tell the bus conductor to drop you off at the junction going to Mantalongon Market (Osmeña Peak).
  • Hire a motorcycle taxi (habal-habal) going to Mantalongon Market
  • Register at Tourism Office.

From Osaka Terminal inside Caltex Gasoline Station (Near Carbon Market)

  • Ride a minibus here bound to Mantolongon Market.
  • Alight at Mantalongon Market.
  • Hire a motorcycle taxi (habal-habal) going to the foot of Osmeña Peak.
  • Register at Tourism Office.

Few Tips:

  • Wear proper trekking attire for comfort even though the trail is established.
  • Parts of the trail have loose soil that can be slippery especially on rainy season.
  • There is a vast area for camping, but on peak seasons it can be overcrowded so if you’re planning to camp overnight, target to arrive early on the campsite.
  • Bring durable tents as Osmeña peak is notorious for having brutal gusting winds at night especially on hostile weather conditions.
  • Preserve the cleanliness of the place by observing the leave no trace principle. Whatever you bring in, pack it out. Do not throw garbage anywhere or leave anything behind rather pack it out and dispose it properly.

Expenses:

  • Mini Bus Fare from Cebu City to Mantalongon Market: Php 100 – 120
  • Motorcycle Taxi (Habal-Habal) Fare:
    • From Dalaguete Town Proper to Manatalongon Market – Php 75/pax (Php 150 /per motorcycle)
    • From Dalaguete Town Proper to foot of Osmeña Peak – Php 100/pax (Php 200 /per motorcycle)
  • Onsite Registration fee: Php 30 / pax
  • Camping fee: Php 50 / tent

Note: Food expenses are not included here, as you may have different preferences as ours.

Sep, Wed, 2016
13 Reasons why you should start trekking
Start trekking - Mount Lanaya
Lanaya Peak – Alegria, Cebu

Have you taken a peek outside your window? Watch as the sun shines through the glass or the rain trickles down the pane? The world outside your window is so beautiful an absolutely inspirational place. And where nature lies, there is a potential for exploration.

As trekkers and adventurers, the Great Outdoors is our haven. It provides a sense of fulfillment and serenity. As you trek up every mountain in the world, the idea of becoming ‘one with nature’ becomes an actuality, it becomes a reality. Trekking does just that. Being one with nature means you become more aware of your surroundings. The crisp breeze carrying leaves past and tickling your neck or just the snaps and cracks of twigs at your feet. Every sense strengthens and a peaceful calmness pushes all your worries away.

Trekking has many health benefits too. It is proven to boost creativity, and helps those suffering depression. We all can self-help a bit by hiking, whether it be just dropping the technology at the door for a few hours, or getting some much-needed exercise, the nature awaits.

As trekkers, we trek not to escape life but for life not escape us. Our hectic and busy lives do not always give us the luxury of time to realize that we are just merely surviving and not living. Sometimes we need to give ourselves the happiness and freedom that we all deserve. So why stay in the four corners of our room?

Here are the reasons why you should Start Trekking/ hiking:

1. Trekking gives you freedom and technology break

start trekking
Mago Peak – Carmen, Cebu

How often do you find yourself rushing from one point to another? Doing something with no time to breathe? Whether you are building your own business, assuming family responsibilities, doing the stern work, or climbing the corporate ladder, it is really easy to get caught in a mundane scripted life. Is it?

Spending a few days and or a full week off the radar and away from corporate world … that was exactly the way things were, when you were just a kid. It actually feels quite good being carefree once more – away from worries of this digital age, enjoying the simplest form of life, at least for a while.

Disconnect once in a while and give yourself the freedom you deserve. Do not rush things up, slow down! You’ve been running too fast already that you might forget what matters and who you really are! Just breathe, for life is not meant to be a time-table. It’s meant to be lived the way you wanted it to be and thrive by your own rules!

2. It will make you MORE responsible

Start trekking
Usmad River – Argao, Cebu

Trekking offers us the freedom to choose which trail to follow which results in discovery of new terrains also reaffirms the fact that we are traversing into nature and we must be vigilant of our freedom. It’s essential to make sure that we are fully equipped, in proper attire for our treks and prepared for the extremes both physically and mentally. We need to make sure that we carry sufficient supplies like food, water, little snacks (trail food) like glucose bars, peanuts, jelly ace, to munch on in case we feel hungry along the trail. We need to ascertain also that we carry medication and are aware of the weather condition. Thus, even though trekking makes us free, it reminds us that we have to be responsible for ourselves and to others when they are trekking with us, and to the environment as well.

We need to maintain certain levels of discipline when trekking. Also, we need to respect nature and ensure that we would be responsible enough as travelers and don’t do anything to spoil the purity of a landscape – practice the leave no trace principle. We need to be extra careful in arduous terrains and unexplored rivers as well as look out for our fellow trekkers. These teaches us a feeling of responsibility, leading to a sense of discipline. This doesn’t only help us in our treks, but greatly reflects on how we handle things in our daily lives.

3. It will test how strong the relationships you’ve had

start trekking
Osmena Peak trail – Mantalongon, Cebu

Whether it’s your relationship with a friend, a lover, a family member, or a coworker, committing to a long and exhausting trek together will put any relationship to a test. This will test how will you react to each other’s whining, mood swings, temper, bad odors resulting from the lack of showering. Treks can be really tough and may bring out the worst in us. Will we still love and care for one another after seeing each other’s dark sides? Would those shortcomings affect how we treat each other after the trek? Most often than not, we can really see the best or worst in people in times like these. Your trekking company really matters; it will be one great deciding factor if your trek will be impeccably amazing or dreadfully depressing!

4. Helps you lose weight and stay fit!

start trekking
Legazpi Trail to Mount Lanaya – Alegria, Cebu

 Who doesn’t want to burn those extra calories?

Trekking doesn’t require a vigorous training method as such. It’s said that if you can walk, you can most certainly trek. However, since trekking involves climbing mountains, jumping over boulders, running over small streams, crossing treacherous passes by the use of ropes, it requires us to exert a lot more than how we usually carry out our day-to-day activities at home. Trekking at high altitudes, makes it a more grueling task due to the thinning oxygen levels. Thus, frequent trekking helps us work our muscles and keep our body fit.

While trekking, your entire focus is on the beauty of the surroundings that you get exposed to. You will focus on the mesmerizing scenery on the course of your jaunt. You tend to forget the fact that you are actually burning calories in the process. The whole experience of walking in the glory of the mountains is extremely relaxing and refreshing.

Sometimes, going into the gym won’t help, instead of losing weight you will end up getting more! In trekking, aside from fun and excitement it brings, it is also a very challenging and physically exerting task which involves excellent coordination of muscles and bones. Such physical effort helps us lose weight fast, and trekkers almost never gain concerning amount of weight because physical fitness doesn’t just become a goal to achieve an appealing look, but rather it becomes a lifestyle. In fact, trekkers focus more on being healthy and enhancing their endurance levels rather than looking thin. This approach is better as it has a long-term effect of losing extra pounds and also keeping it off! So, ditch the gym and trek!

5. It will expand your friend network

start trekking
Legazpi Trail to Mount Lanaya – Alegria, Cebu

When you choose a trail for trekking, there is a possibility that you’ll meet people who are out to feed their hungry souls just like you. It is highly likely that you will come across like-minded people who share your enthusiasm for the unknown, and if you’re lucky to meet experienced trekkers, you will get the chance of hearing their amazing stories.

The stories of experienced trekkers are almost gallant and may benefit you up to undertake the journey even more! So don’t be shy to approach trekkers, small talks won’t hurt, they will most likely welcome you with open arms.

I found the moments in between the actual hiking most delightful. Playing around with other trekkers and interacting with the locals, sitting around during socials or getting to know sessions while sharing stories, exchanging trek experiences, listening to the sounds of nature, looking up at the millions of stars –  all those things are just simply Priceless.

6. It will break away the tedious life     

start trekking
Usmad River – Argao, Cebu

Following the same routine everyday can enervate our brains and make us internally demotivated and dull. As the famous Tyrion Lannister in Game of Thrones had said that just as a sword needs a whetstone, our minds need new challenges that will excite us and affect our hearts in a good way. Trekking offers a lot of challenges that will in turn help our minds stay sharp, healthy and more creative!

7. It will make you an explorer    

start trekking
Usmad River – Argao, Cebu

We usually go for the trails that have been established by previous explorer. But many often find the courage to traverse through the off-beaten paths only to discover something new and even more breath-taking view and exhilarating experience. Trekking offers you the opportunity to chance upon something interesting that made anyone compelled to explore into uncharted terrains. Don’t be afraid to take the road less traveled, but do it responsibly.

8. It will make you a story teller

The more pain you felt on the trek and the more horrible moments you had, the better the story will be. The great experiences, the sliding moments, the trek under the rain or storm, the creepy experiences, the dreadful night treks, etc, these are all the ingredients to have a well-cooked story that you can share in dinner parties. The funny moments, the mistakes you’ve done can make it more interesting. The more you go on trekking, more and more stories you’ll have. At least you’ll never run out of some funny anecdotes to tell to anyone.

9. It will bring out the leader in you

IMG_5312.JPGTrekking can be both an exhilarating as well as a frightening experience! It truly rejuvenates us from within, but at the same time, it can also be a little intimidating to face nature in its raw, pristine form. This can especially be true for amateurs. In such cases, it’s important to remind ourselves that everything is going to be all right, and we need to find our motivation and keep going further. Not only do we push ourselves to go ahead but we also help others to move along with us. This reflects upon our leadership qualities, which may have been concealed, and thus polishes it more.

10. Trekking will definitely teaches Life Lessons

IMG_2371.JPG
Sunset at Kalanggaman Island – Palompon, Leyte

You’re far from civilization and the only thing you can embrace is the serenity of the world. “You get a chance to meet people from diverse backgrounds, and build lasting relationships. The purity of the mountains teaches us to embrace experiences, cultures and relationships that are outside our comfort zone”.

Trekking humbles you enough to learn that it’s not all about you. You are often put in challenging situations that make you realize that the world is so much bigger than your perspective on it. You weren’t really the big fish in the ocean but a tiny minnow in a pothole.

11. Trekking will make you appreciate things in life

IMG_2419.JPG
Sunset at Kalanggaman Island – Palompon, Leyte

With no showers, enough water supply, electricity, good things to eat, your favorite kind of entertainment, warm and soft bed, your friends, love ones or family around, remind you of all the great things you have in life. It’s a fantastic feeling to return home and be so thankful for everything you have. “You don’t know what you’ve got till it’s gone”, right?

12. Trekking will bring you closer to nature

Mount Babag Trail - Start Trekking
Mount Babag Trail

You’ll never get this close to nature anywhere else but through trekking. Truly.

It is an attractive way of travelling. It’s Real! Yes, the experience is unscripted and filled with so much excitement and full of surprises. Take a chance and see the world without any filter.  The views along the trail and the undiscovered spots you get to see are ones that no world class tour can even promise. I have seen trekkers burst into joy every time they see a fascinating view, and so I am. It’s like magic that makes all the exhaustion gone away in an instant. The mountains have the ability to touch everyone’s heart and soul if you just let them. It’s one of the most beautiful feeling you could ever get.

13. Trekking is an addictive experience

Lanigid Hill - start trekking
Lanigid Hill – Lilo-an, Cebu

Finally, trekking is a momentous experience not only because it is exhilarating but also because it is a reminder that place we occupy in this world is so small and that we are at the nature’s mercy. This helps us see the larger picture as we realized that we should not worry too much over trivial matters. This will help each one of us in developing a healthier approach towards life. It is an experience that once you’re hooked into with, you can’t stop and keeps wanting for more!

If you are into trekking now, join us. Let’s chill together in our treks and create lasting memories together… See you in the mountains!

Wandering Soul Scamper Wandering Soul Scamper
Tips , Trekking
13 Reasons why you should start trekking
Start trekking - Mount Lanaya
Lanaya Peak – Alegria, Cebu

Have you taken a peek outside your window? Watch as the sun shines through the glass or the rain trickles down the pane? The world outside your window is so beautiful an absolutely inspirational place. And where nature lies, there is a potential for exploration.

As trekkers and adventurers, the Great Outdoors is our haven. It provides a sense of fulfillment and serenity. As you trek up every mountain in the world, the idea of becoming ‘one with nature’ becomes an actuality, it becomes a reality. Trekking does just that. Being one with nature means you become more aware of your surroundings. The crisp breeze carrying leaves past and tickling your neck or just the snaps and cracks of twigs at your feet. Every sense strengthens and a peaceful calmness pushes all your worries away.

Trekking has many health benefits too. It is proven to boost creativity, and helps those suffering depression. We all can self-help a bit by hiking, whether it be just dropping the technology at the door for a few hours, or getting some much-needed exercise, the nature awaits.

As trekkers, we trek not to escape life but for life not escape us. Our hectic and busy lives do not always give us the luxury of time to realize that we are just merely surviving and not living. Sometimes we need to give ourselves the happiness and freedom that we all deserve. So why stay in the four corners of our room?

Here are the reasons why you should Start Trekking/ hiking:

1. Trekking gives you freedom and technology break

start trekking
Mago Peak – Carmen, Cebu

How often do you find yourself rushing from one point to another? Doing something with no time to breathe? Whether you are building your own business, assuming family responsibilities, doing the stern work, or climbing the corporate ladder, it is really easy to get caught in a mundane scripted life. Is it?

Spending a few days and or a full week off the radar and away from corporate world … that was exactly the way things were, when you were just a kid. It actually feels quite good being carefree once more – away from worries of this digital age, enjoying the simplest form of life, at least for a while.

Disconnect once in a while and give yourself the freedom you deserve. Do not rush things up, slow down! You’ve been running too fast already that you might forget what matters and who you really are! Just breathe, for life is not meant to be a time-table. It’s meant to be lived the way you wanted it to be and thrive by your own rules!

2. It will make you MORE responsible

Start trekking
Usmad River – Argao, Cebu

Trekking offers us the freedom to choose which trail to follow which results in discovery of new terrains also reaffirms the fact that we are traversing into nature and we must be vigilant of our freedom. It’s essential to make sure that we are fully equipped, in proper attire for our treks and prepared for the extremes both physically and mentally. We need to make sure that we carry sufficient supplies like food, water, little snacks (trail food) like glucose bars, peanuts, jelly ace, to munch on in case we feel hungry along the trail. We need to ascertain also that we carry medication and are aware of the weather condition. Thus, even though trekking makes us free, it reminds us that we have to be responsible for ourselves and to others when they are trekking with us, and to the environment as well.

We need to maintain certain levels of discipline when trekking. Also, we need to respect nature and ensure that we would be responsible enough as travelers and don’t do anything to spoil the purity of a landscape – practice the leave no trace principle. We need to be extra careful in arduous terrains and unexplored rivers as well as look out for our fellow trekkers. These teaches us a feeling of responsibility, leading to a sense of discipline. This doesn’t only help us in our treks, but greatly reflects on how we handle things in our daily lives.

3. It will test how strong the relationships you’ve had

start trekking
Osmena Peak trail – Mantalongon, Cebu

Whether it’s your relationship with a friend, a lover, a family member, or a coworker, committing to a long and exhausting trek together will put any relationship to a test. This will test how will you react to each other’s whining, mood swings, temper, bad odors resulting from the lack of showering. Treks can be really tough and may bring out the worst in us. Will we still love and care for one another after seeing each other’s dark sides? Would those shortcomings affect how we treat each other after the trek? Most often than not, we can really see the best or worst in people in times like these. Your trekking company really matters; it will be one great deciding factor if your trek will be impeccably amazing or dreadfully depressing!

4. Helps you lose weight and stay fit!

start trekking
Legazpi Trail to Mount Lanaya – Alegria, Cebu

 Who doesn’t want to burn those extra calories?

Trekking doesn’t require a vigorous training method as such. It’s said that if you can walk, you can most certainly trek. However, since trekking involves climbing mountains, jumping over boulders, running over small streams, crossing treacherous passes by the use of ropes, it requires us to exert a lot more than how we usually carry out our day-to-day activities at home. Trekking at high altitudes, makes it a more grueling task due to the thinning oxygen levels. Thus, frequent trekking helps us work our muscles and keep our body fit.

While trekking, your entire focus is on the beauty of the surroundings that you get exposed to. You will focus on the mesmerizing scenery on the course of your jaunt. You tend to forget the fact that you are actually burning calories in the process. The whole experience of walking in the glory of the mountains is extremely relaxing and refreshing.

Sometimes, going into the gym won’t help, instead of losing weight you will end up getting more! In trekking, aside from fun and excitement it brings, it is also a very challenging and physically exerting task which involves excellent coordination of muscles and bones. Such physical effort helps us lose weight fast, and trekkers almost never gain concerning amount of weight because physical fitness doesn’t just become a goal to achieve an appealing look, but rather it becomes a lifestyle. In fact, trekkers focus more on being healthy and enhancing their endurance levels rather than looking thin. This approach is better as it has a long-term effect of losing extra pounds and also keeping it off! So, ditch the gym and trek!

5. It will expand your friend network

start trekking
Legazpi Trail to Mount Lanaya – Alegria, Cebu

When you choose a trail for trekking, there is a possibility that you’ll meet people who are out to feed their hungry souls just like you. It is highly likely that you will come across like-minded people who share your enthusiasm for the unknown, and if you’re lucky to meet experienced trekkers, you will get the chance of hearing their amazing stories.

The stories of experienced trekkers are almost gallant and may benefit you up to undertake the journey even more! So don’t be shy to approach trekkers, small talks won’t hurt, they will most likely welcome you with open arms.

I found the moments in between the actual hiking most delightful. Playing around with other trekkers and interacting with the locals, sitting around during socials or getting to know sessions while sharing stories, exchanging trek experiences, listening to the sounds of nature, looking up at the millions of stars –  all those things are just simply Priceless.

6. It will break away the tedious life     

start trekking
Usmad River – Argao, Cebu

Following the same routine everyday can enervate our brains and make us internally demotivated and dull. As the famous Tyrion Lannister in Game of Thrones had said that just as a sword needs a whetstone, our minds need new challenges that will excite us and affect our hearts in a good way. Trekking offers a lot of challenges that will in turn help our minds stay sharp, healthy and more creative!

7. It will make you an explorer    

start trekking
Usmad River – Argao, Cebu

We usually go for the trails that have been established by previous explorer. But many often find the courage to traverse through the off-beaten paths only to discover something new and even more breath-taking view and exhilarating experience. Trekking offers you the opportunity to chance upon something interesting that made anyone compelled to explore into uncharted terrains. Don’t be afraid to take the road less traveled, but do it responsibly.

8. It will make you a story teller

The more pain you felt on the trek and the more horrible moments you had, the better the story will be. The great experiences, the sliding moments, the trek under the rain or storm, the creepy experiences, the dreadful night treks, etc, these are all the ingredients to have a well-cooked story that you can share in dinner parties. The funny moments, the mistakes you’ve done can make it more interesting. The more you go on trekking, more and more stories you’ll have. At least you’ll never run out of some funny anecdotes to tell to anyone.

9. It will bring out the leader in you

IMG_5312.JPGTrekking can be both an exhilarating as well as a frightening experience! It truly rejuvenates us from within, but at the same time, it can also be a little intimidating to face nature in its raw, pristine form. This can especially be true for amateurs. In such cases, it’s important to remind ourselves that everything is going to be all right, and we need to find our motivation and keep going further. Not only do we push ourselves to go ahead but we also help others to move along with us. This reflects upon our leadership qualities, which may have been concealed, and thus polishes it more.

10. Trekking will definitely teaches Life Lessons

IMG_2371.JPG
Sunset at Kalanggaman Island – Palompon, Leyte

You’re far from civilization and the only thing you can embrace is the serenity of the world. “You get a chance to meet people from diverse backgrounds, and build lasting relationships. The purity of the mountains teaches us to embrace experiences, cultures and relationships that are outside our comfort zone”.

Trekking humbles you enough to learn that it’s not all about you. You are often put in challenging situations that make you realize that the world is so much bigger than your perspective on it. You weren’t really the big fish in the ocean but a tiny minnow in a pothole.

11. Trekking will make you appreciate things in life

IMG_2419.JPG
Sunset at Kalanggaman Island – Palompon, Leyte

With no showers, enough water supply, electricity, good things to eat, your favorite kind of entertainment, warm and soft bed, your friends, love ones or family around, remind you of all the great things you have in life. It’s a fantastic feeling to return home and be so thankful for everything you have. “You don’t know what you’ve got till it’s gone”, right?

12. Trekking will bring you closer to nature

Mount Babag Trail - Start Trekking
Mount Babag Trail

You’ll never get this close to nature anywhere else but through trekking. Truly.

It is an attractive way of travelling. It’s Real! Yes, the experience is unscripted and filled with so much excitement and full of surprises. Take a chance and see the world without any filter.  The views along the trail and the undiscovered spots you get to see are ones that no world class tour can even promise. I have seen trekkers burst into joy every time they see a fascinating view, and so I am. It’s like magic that makes all the exhaustion gone away in an instant. The mountains have the ability to touch everyone’s heart and soul if you just let them. It’s one of the most beautiful feeling you could ever get.

13. Trekking is an addictive experience

Lanigid Hill - start trekking
Lanigid Hill – Lilo-an, Cebu

Finally, trekking is a momentous experience not only because it is exhilarating but also because it is a reminder that place we occupy in this world is so small and that we are at the nature’s mercy. This helps us see the larger picture as we realized that we should not worry too much over trivial matters. This will help each one of us in developing a healthier approach towards life. It is an experience that once you’re hooked into with, you can’t stop and keeps wanting for more!

If you are into trekking now, join us. Let’s chill together in our treks and create lasting memories together… See you in the mountains!

Sep, Wed, 2015
Mount Kapayas: A journey to the elusive mountain and an exhilarating Lumanoy Cave Experience (Part 2/4)

IMG_0029(Photo of me with Phi-Pi at mt. Kapayas Summit. Gisungayan pa jud ko.. tsk tsk tsk.                Photo Credits to Norman)

Day1  – 09/19/2015 : Travel to Jump Off, Trek to Base camp and Lumanoy Cave Exploration (Part 2/2)

I decided not to go caving since I was so sleepy and tired and some of my group members too. Even though its too hot inside the tent due to the scorching sun just past mid-day, I didn’t mind it and had a quick nap. When someone from our group called me to prepare for caving, I said I’ll pass. But after some peep-talks and all,  I suddenly changed my mind. and I  thought that it’s my best chance to experience Lumanoy Cave coz I’m not certain if there will be other chances soon enough. So, we all went caving except for one of our guests.

The group was divided into two, one group went caving and the other went to the peak. NCR Trekkers went caving at Lumanoy Cave and Accenture Outdoor Enthusiasts went to the summit.

Lumanoy Cave:

Lumanoy Cave is amazing. It was not what I expected, it was really worth it. Thank God that I changed my mind though. Thee cave is just few minutes away from our Base camp (around 15 minutes or so). Like exploring any other caves, we need to adhere to some Do’s and Dont’s inside the cave. Everyone was excited for the adventure ahead of us but I can’t deny the fact that I’m still sleepy though and sometimes becoming grumpy. I even made an alibi that I am a claustrophobic but I need to coz adventure is fun!

Before going in to the cave, we had our third prayer of the day led by non other than the Prayer Lady herself, Welnee from “Clever Young Guide” These group is very prayerful I think.

1 (1)(Short prayer before caving)

2(Going up to the cave mouth, through a narrow and very rocky trail. Rocks are very pointed.)

Going in the cave was a bit technical, coz you will need to descend in a narrow opening (cave mouth) and a slippery path going down. Good thing, we brought our ropes with us and used it as safety line going in. Some of us really struggled their way into the cave, but we are very fortunate that were all safe and sound after the cave exploration.

3(Going inside the cave with the ropes help)

4.1 (1)(Cave mouth)

4.2(Going further down the cave. It’ s really dark on the side and can be fatal if you will fall)

Due to some difficulties encountered by few of our members in the cave, we were divided into three groups. We were the last group to explore the cave, only the six of us, Phi Pi, Eddu, Norman, Me and the two guides (Veber and the other one, I forgot the name). Everyone was extra careful during our descent because one wrong step and one will have a deadly fall into an at least 15 ft rock edge with pool of water deep down that everyone doesn’t know what is in there and how deep the water is.

In order to reach to the bottom of the cave, right below the entrance (cave mouth) we need to cross to the other side by stretching our legs as possible to reach to the other side of the cave. Its very dangerous coz the rocks were slippery and one wrong move you will really fall to the rocks below then to the pool of water. This was the hardest part iin our exploration I guess. Good thing, the guides helped us cross to the other side safely with the help of Eddu. Except for Pebz who opt to stay coz she thought she can’t make it to the other side safely. Well if she really think she can’t, it’s a bit sad to leave her behind but its good also coz safety is our first priority. Better safe than sorry as they say.

4(Inside the cave, where we need to cross rock edges just to reach there)

We were behind the other groups for several minutes, the first group started to exit while we are about to start exploring. It’s nice that way, we don’t have a lot of competition for pictures, I have my camera, Norman and Veber… ahahaha.

5 (1)(Let’s have a pose before going in)

6 (1)(Rock curtains)

7 (1)(Veber and the other guide with Phi-Pi)

8 (1)(The rock looks amazing right? never mind me in there.. LOL)

9(The struggle is real. You need to crawl and slide yourself into this narrow opening. Veber is covering the action)

10 (1)(Sorry Group 1, you’re not here. The second group waited for us to have this group picture. They don’t have wide-angle camera with them at that time.. So, they waited for the cameras , este camera guys from last group 🙂 )

11(Exploring  further)

12 (1)(At my back, the second group started to find their way out of the cave)

13 (1)(All that’s left are the 6 of us. Explore pa more)

14 (1)(The scenery inside is worth picture-taking for, hehehe.. We don’t mind if our DSLRs will get muddy though!)

15 (1)(The path is very muddy and slippery. “lapok pa more!)

16 (1)(Exploring further and further, the air is getting thin)

17 (1)(The water below the path looks creepy.)

18 (1)(Eddu trying to climb on an unexplored area of the cave)

19(These two can’t get enough, they want to explore further to the area that seems nobody had explored yet. But the guide told us, not to go in there as we’re not sure whats waiting on the other side of that little opening)

20(Finding our way out of the cave. On the third picture is the hardest part.)

21(Exiting the cave.)

We were back at the campsite past 4:00PM. We then prepared for dinner. Dinner followed and some games after dinner. Thanks to Kresia of  “The Wander Full Life” for the cards, we had fun. Unfortunately, no socials for everyone since we had to sleep early to beat the 11:00AM target time the next day and we also need to reach the peak early in the morning while the Accenture  Outdoor Enthusiasts and individual trekkers will be going to explore the cave.

(Base camp)

2 (1)(Group 1 [Kring’s group] cooking their dinner)

3 (1)(Me and Welnee started cooking our dinner too. “Suling” pa more!)

4 Cooking(Group 2 [Our group] cooking and preparing for dinner. Full house na! 🙂 )

5 (1)(Story telling while cooking… “Kids, listen.. Once upon a time…..” 🙂 )

6 (1)(Photoshoot while cooking with Pabebe kids, este… Pabebe Girls)

7(The group that cooks together, laughs together! ohrayts!  Hahaha)

8 (1)(When you’re bored while waiting for the food to be cooked! Let’s jump and have fun!)

(“What you call this…” 🙂  – the popular phrase we used in a very loud voice when we’re playing spot it! just to intimidate the opponent. hahaha.. Group 1 playing 7 Ate 9 and spot it! Photo Credits to Kring2x for this one)

Krings group had socials before us and had several rounds of spot it, resistance, etc. We borrowed some cards from Kring and only had 2 rounds of each game (spot it and 7 ate 9) in our group since the skies started to bless us with its divine waters. No, its just started to drizzle few minutes past 10PM and we called it a night. However, Krings group had to cook something ahead for breakfast and stayed awake a bit longer. Bet we ‘re ready and excited for summit assault the next day plus our mission, the coastal cleanup. Find out what happen on day 2 on my next post! Stay tuned!

admin admin
BackPacking , Trekking
Mount Kapayas: A journey to the elusive mountain and an exhilarating Lumanoy Cave Experience (Part 2/4)

IMG_0029(Photo of me with Phi-Pi at mt. Kapayas Summit. Gisungayan pa jud ko.. tsk tsk tsk.                Photo Credits to Norman)

Day1  – 09/19/2015 : Travel to Jump Off, Trek to Base camp and Lumanoy Cave Exploration (Part 2/2)

I decided not to go caving since I was so sleepy and tired and some of my group members too. Even though its too hot inside the tent due to the scorching sun just past mid-day, I didn’t mind it and had a quick nap. When someone from our group called me to prepare for caving, I said I’ll pass. But after some peep-talks and all,  I suddenly changed my mind. and I  thought that it’s my best chance to experience Lumanoy Cave coz I’m not certain if there will be other chances soon enough. So, we all went caving except for one of our guests.

The group was divided into two, one group went caving and the other went to the peak. NCR Trekkers went caving at Lumanoy Cave and Accenture Outdoor Enthusiasts went to the summit.

Lumanoy Cave:

Lumanoy Cave is amazing. It was not what I expected, it was really worth it. Thank God that I changed my mind though. Thee cave is just few minutes away from our Base camp (around 15 minutes or so). Like exploring any other caves, we need to adhere to some Do’s and Dont’s inside the cave. Everyone was excited for the adventure ahead of us but I can’t deny the fact that I’m still sleepy though and sometimes becoming grumpy. I even made an alibi that I am a claustrophobic but I need to coz adventure is fun!

Before going in to the cave, we had our third prayer of the day led by non other than the Prayer Lady herself, Welnee from “Clever Young Guide” These group is very prayerful I think.

1 (1)(Short prayer before caving)

2(Going up to the cave mouth, through a narrow and very rocky trail. Rocks are very pointed.)

Going in the cave was a bit technical, coz you will need to descend in a narrow opening (cave mouth) and a slippery path going down. Good thing, we brought our ropes with us and used it as safety line going in. Some of us really struggled their way into the cave, but we are very fortunate that were all safe and sound after the cave exploration.

3(Going inside the cave with the ropes help)

4.1 (1)(Cave mouth)

4.2(Going further down the cave. It’ s really dark on the side and can be fatal if you will fall)

Due to some difficulties encountered by few of our members in the cave, we were divided into three groups. We were the last group to explore the cave, only the six of us, Phi Pi, Eddu, Norman, Me and the two guides (Veber and the other one, I forgot the name). Everyone was extra careful during our descent because one wrong step and one will have a deadly fall into an at least 15 ft rock edge with pool of water deep down that everyone doesn’t know what is in there and how deep the water is.

In order to reach to the bottom of the cave, right below the entrance (cave mouth) we need to cross to the other side by stretching our legs as possible to reach to the other side of the cave. Its very dangerous coz the rocks were slippery and one wrong move you will really fall to the rocks below then to the pool of water. This was the hardest part iin our exploration I guess. Good thing, the guides helped us cross to the other side safely with the help of Eddu. Except for Pebz who opt to stay coz she thought she can’t make it to the other side safely. Well if she really think she can’t, it’s a bit sad to leave her behind but its good also coz safety is our first priority. Better safe than sorry as they say.

4(Inside the cave, where we need to cross rock edges just to reach there)

We were behind the other groups for several minutes, the first group started to exit while we are about to start exploring. It’s nice that way, we don’t have a lot of competition for pictures, I have my camera, Norman and Veber… ahahaha.

5 (1)(Let’s have a pose before going in)

6 (1)(Rock curtains)

7 (1)(Veber and the other guide with Phi-Pi)

8 (1)(The rock looks amazing right? never mind me in there.. LOL)

9(The struggle is real. You need to crawl and slide yourself into this narrow opening. Veber is covering the action)

10 (1)(Sorry Group 1, you’re not here. The second group waited for us to have this group picture. They don’t have wide-angle camera with them at that time.. So, they waited for the cameras , este camera guys from last group 🙂 )

11(Exploring  further)

12 (1)(At my back, the second group started to find their way out of the cave)

13 (1)(All that’s left are the 6 of us. Explore pa more)

14 (1)(The scenery inside is worth picture-taking for, hehehe.. We don’t mind if our DSLRs will get muddy though!)

15 (1)(The path is very muddy and slippery. “lapok pa more!)

16 (1)(Exploring further and further, the air is getting thin)

17 (1)(The water below the path looks creepy.)

18 (1)(Eddu trying to climb on an unexplored area of the cave)

19(These two can’t get enough, they want to explore further to the area that seems nobody had explored yet. But the guide told us, not to go in there as we’re not sure whats waiting on the other side of that little opening)

20(Finding our way out of the cave. On the third picture is the hardest part.)

21(Exiting the cave.)

We were back at the campsite past 4:00PM. We then prepared for dinner. Dinner followed and some games after dinner. Thanks to Kresia of  “The Wander Full Life” for the cards, we had fun. Unfortunately, no socials for everyone since we had to sleep early to beat the 11:00AM target time the next day and we also need to reach the peak early in the morning while the Accenture  Outdoor Enthusiasts and individual trekkers will be going to explore the cave.

(Base camp)

2 (1)(Group 1 [Kring’s group] cooking their dinner)

3 (1)(Me and Welnee started cooking our dinner too. “Suling” pa more!)

4 Cooking(Group 2 [Our group] cooking and preparing for dinner. Full house na! 🙂 )

5 (1)(Story telling while cooking… “Kids, listen.. Once upon a time…..” 🙂 )

6 (1)(Photoshoot while cooking with Pabebe kids, este… Pabebe Girls)

7(The group that cooks together, laughs together! ohrayts!  Hahaha)

8 (1)(When you’re bored while waiting for the food to be cooked! Let’s jump and have fun!)

(“What you call this…” 🙂  – the popular phrase we used in a very loud voice when we’re playing spot it! just to intimidate the opponent. hahaha.. Group 1 playing 7 Ate 9 and spot it! Photo Credits to Kring2x for this one)

Krings group had socials before us and had several rounds of spot it, resistance, etc. We borrowed some cards from Kring and only had 2 rounds of each game (spot it and 7 ate 9) in our group since the skies started to bless us with its divine waters. No, its just started to drizzle few minutes past 10PM and we called it a night. However, Krings group had to cook something ahead for breakfast and stayed awake a bit longer. Bet we ‘re ready and excited for summit assault the next day plus our mission, the coastal cleanup. Find out what happen on day 2 on my next post! Stay tuned!

Sep, Tue, 2015
Mount Kapayas: A journey to the elusive mountain and an exhilarating Lumanoy Cave Experience (Part 1/4)

IMG_6254 (1)(One of the scenic views at Mount Kapayas summit)

Day1  – 09/19/2015 : Travel to Jump Off, Trek to Base camp and Lumanoy Cave Exploration (Part 1/2)

It all started with a survey conducted by our Trekkers President “Tats” on which September weekend we would like to have our Monthly Trekkers outdoor activity.

Most of us had chosen Sept 19-20. Our NCR Trekkers adviser ask if it will be in conjunction with the National Clean Up Day on Sept 20 that our Trekkers Club and NCR Ambassadors had anticipated for few weeks already.

Unfortunately, we were behind of the registration date for the activity and had decided that even if it is not official, we will pursue the clean up drive to one of the mountains in Cebu. Good thing is, one of the Lets Do It Philippines coordinator (Liz Burra) was a member of our Facebook community. She invited us to join them in adopting Mount Kapayas in Catmon and will be having a coastal brgy cleanup after.

NCR Trekkers officers and organizers had an immediate meeting regarding the activity and agreed to join the Summit to Sea Clean Up Drive.

The activity was supposedly for NCR Trekkers only for the reason that it will involve long hours of trekking, camping, etc. But one of our NCR Trekkers member happened to be an NCR ambassador also who suggested that it would be nice to reach out other individuals who share the same advocacy as ours, thus the invitation was extended to all employees. Unfortunately only one non-NCR trekker responded to the call and joined our cause. Its understandable for the others not to join since it will be a strenuous activity ahead for them it they did join.

There was a total of 40 volunteers who joined the cause, 23 were from NCR employees and guests and the rest were from Accenture and individual mountaineers.

Initial headcount for the NCR participants was 34 but due to some reasons, the others cancelled their attendance. We (group representatives) had a meeting with Liz and Cherry prior to the activity for final details and clarifications, etc.

Original meetup on our itinerary was supposedly at North Bus Terminal @4:30AM but on a very late notice (the night before Sept 19, 2015), PENRO had provided us free transportation from Cebu Provincial Capitol to Catmon. We had to contact everyone including the guests that there was a change in assembly place and time. We were told to wait at the Governor’s Entrance in the Provincial Capitol where the 2 buses will be on standby at 4:00AM.

Most of us arrived before 4:00AM, some were a bit early and some were few minutes behind the call time. Upon our arrival, there were no buses on standby, so I decided to check the attendance ahead and distribute our name tags. It was 4:30AM (ETD) and all of the participants were there, but the bus was late delaying our departure to around 5:30M. Supposedly,  two buses will be hauling us from Cebu Provincial capitol to Catmon Police Station but only one was available. We’re too many and can’t be accommodated with just one minibus leaving some of us no choice but to ride the FX that was bound to Catmon also by some PENRO associates.

MeetUp(Name tags distribution and Attendance check)

AJ(Guess they’re excited to have one of these tags :))

We were behind our itinerary by one hour. We arrived in Catmon at roughly 7:10AM, gathered at Catmon’s mini Park and headed to police station across the Park for registration.

Arrival(That pink minibus was one of our service bus provided by PENRO)

3 (1)(The group started flocking in to the Police Station)

We were asked for an ID but most from our group didn’t bring one, we didn’t know that it was a requirement. Someone had not registered, only 39 had written their names in the logbook. The other group confirmed that all of them had registered so I went inside to double check with the police officer if its one of ours since I have the attendance list. It turns out that it was from our group indeed, hahaha. I had also a chance to talk with the Police Officer regarding the ID requirement, he said that they will encourage to have an ID upon registration for security purposes but they will consider for those registrants that had left their IDs of course. Thank you Sir for letting us pass.

4 (1)(Checking something from our printed itinerary)

5 (1)(These guys love to pose for the camera while waiting for the registrants verification to be completed)

After the registration, we went to the mini park for the opening of the event. It started with a prayer led by our prayer lady “Welnee” from NCR Trekkers and followed by the message of Lets Do It Philippines Coordinator Liz and a quick background about the LDI Ph’s initiative. next would be the briefing by our Head Guide Kyno, but since he was giving an orientation to the other group the “Tribu Hubo”, we had a short Getting to know each other while waiting. Few moments after, Kyno then announced that we were behind our itinerary that we need to depart immediately and be brief on the jump off instead.

6 (1)(Short getting to know session with the group and few words from LDI PH coordinator about the event)

7 (1)(Kyno was briefiing the Tribu Hubo group)

2 rides were provided, an ELF and a mini-dump truck. When I was about to board on the ELF as most NCR Trekkers boarded already, the driver said that the ELF was already full that I need to board to the mini-dump truck with the Accenture peeps and the Tribu Hubo guys and gals with Phi Pi’s Kuya Porter. NCR Trekkers opt to ride the ELF while me and the rest of the gang boarded the other one. Bet I will be so silent for the 1 hour+ trip to the jump off then. 🙁

(The group who boarded the ELF, me at the far end was about to board the mini-dump with Phi Pi’s Kuya Port. Photo Credits to Kring2x)

Hold on tight as it will be a very bumpy ride. Just as I thought, I was silent throughout the bumpy ride, but it was not boring at all, with all the shouting and all the bloopers that I witnessed. Though I literally do not know most of them, the situation opened my mind to blend in and enjoy the spur of the moment with these funny and amazing people around. Guessed it was a bumpy, grumpy roller coaster ride but interestingly elated and fun.

(We were following a very narrow road as we went up the mountainside, we crossed that river too as depicted in the photo. Photo Credits to Kring2x)

After an hour and a few minutes ride, we reached the jump-off at Purok Catang, Can-Ampao. Few minutes after fixing our things, Kyno gave a short briefing and another Prayer by our Prayer lady “Welnee”. Kyno then told us that he will be guiding the day -trekkers (Tribu Hubo group) and they will be commencing the trek ahead of us, and assign us with the remaining guides. At 9:45AM, we commenced our trek to the base camp. The trail was a rough road until reaching a basketball court at Sitio Lumanoy, Brgy Cambangkaya, Catmon, Cebu where we started to follow a narrow trail.

1 JumpOff(Arrived at the Jump Off after a bumpy ride. Kyno briefing the group and the photogs behind the scene)2 (1)(NCR Trekkers and guests group picture after the briefing)3 (1)(Accenture Outdoor Enthusiasts)4 StartTrek(The trek to the base camp has commenced)

First Stop:

IMG_5341 (1)
IMG_5346 (1)
IMG_5356 (1)
IMG_5358 (1)
IMG_5343 (1)

Second Stop:

IMG_5365 (1)
IMG_5371 (1)
IMG_5373 (1)

Third Stop:

IMG_5383 (1)IMG_5394 (1)IMG_5399 (1)IMG_5404 (1)
IMG_9152 (1)

Fourth Stop:

4 (1)

After 2 hours of trekking and four stops, we arrived near the based camp and had our fifth and last stop at the house just before the base camp to have our lunch. It was still very hot to proceed to the base camp that we opted to stay at the shades of the coconut trees near the house – relax, ate lunch and ordered buko and had some picture taking.

Fifth and Last Stop:

  1 (1)3 (1)2 (1) 4 (1)5 (1) (That buko face 🙂 )

After a while I asked Liz the location of the base camp, and asked if we can proceed in a while to set camp as I am so sleepy that time, no sleep for more than 30 hours already. Liz answered that we can setup camp ahead if we want. I informed our group to move ahead at around 1:00PM so that we can select the camp site that we wanted and they agreed. Our group moved ahead and the others were still relaxing and having some games and followed to the campsite 30 minutes later. My mind really want to go caving but my body does want me to have some rest and sleep. Ah! can I push my body to its limits? It feels like I can’t make it inside the cave if I push through caving in just few minutes.

6 (1)(At last,  we’re done setting up our camp.)

 Did I made it  inside the cave or did my weak body needs what was due? Find out in my next post! (Part 2/2).

 

admin admin
Trekking , Uncategorized
Mount Kapayas: A journey to the elusive mountain and an exhilarating Lumanoy Cave Experience (Part 1/4)

IMG_6254 (1)(One of the scenic views at Mount Kapayas summit)

Day1  – 09/19/2015 : Travel to Jump Off, Trek to Base camp and Lumanoy Cave Exploration (Part 1/2)

It all started with a survey conducted by our Trekkers President “Tats” on which September weekend we would like to have our Monthly Trekkers outdoor activity.

Most of us had chosen Sept 19-20. Our NCR Trekkers adviser ask if it will be in conjunction with the National Clean Up Day on Sept 20 that our Trekkers Club and NCR Ambassadors had anticipated for few weeks already.

Unfortunately, we were behind of the registration date for the activity and had decided that even if it is not official, we will pursue the clean up drive to one of the mountains in Cebu. Good thing is, one of the Lets Do It Philippines coordinator (Liz Burra) was a member of our Facebook community. She invited us to join them in adopting Mount Kapayas in Catmon and will be having a coastal brgy cleanup after.

NCR Trekkers officers and organizers had an immediate meeting regarding the activity and agreed to join the Summit to Sea Clean Up Drive.

The activity was supposedly for NCR Trekkers only for the reason that it will involve long hours of trekking, camping, etc. But one of our NCR Trekkers member happened to be an NCR ambassador also who suggested that it would be nice to reach out other individuals who share the same advocacy as ours, thus the invitation was extended to all employees. Unfortunately only one non-NCR trekker responded to the call and joined our cause. Its understandable for the others not to join since it will be a strenuous activity ahead for them it they did join.

There was a total of 40 volunteers who joined the cause, 23 were from NCR employees and guests and the rest were from Accenture and individual mountaineers.

Initial headcount for the NCR participants was 34 but due to some reasons, the others cancelled their attendance. We (group representatives) had a meeting with Liz and Cherry prior to the activity for final details and clarifications, etc.

Original meetup on our itinerary was supposedly at North Bus Terminal @4:30AM but on a very late notice (the night before Sept 19, 2015), PENRO had provided us free transportation from Cebu Provincial Capitol to Catmon. We had to contact everyone including the guests that there was a change in assembly place and time. We were told to wait at the Governor’s Entrance in the Provincial Capitol where the 2 buses will be on standby at 4:00AM.

Most of us arrived before 4:00AM, some were a bit early and some were few minutes behind the call time. Upon our arrival, there were no buses on standby, so I decided to check the attendance ahead and distribute our name tags. It was 4:30AM (ETD) and all of the participants were there, but the bus was late delaying our departure to around 5:30M. Supposedly,  two buses will be hauling us from Cebu Provincial capitol to Catmon Police Station but only one was available. We’re too many and can’t be accommodated with just one minibus leaving some of us no choice but to ride the FX that was bound to Catmon also by some PENRO associates.

MeetUp(Name tags distribution and Attendance check)

AJ(Guess they’re excited to have one of these tags :))

We were behind our itinerary by one hour. We arrived in Catmon at roughly 7:10AM, gathered at Catmon’s mini Park and headed to police station across the Park for registration.

Arrival(That pink minibus was one of our service bus provided by PENRO)

3 (1)(The group started flocking in to the Police Station)

We were asked for an ID but most from our group didn’t bring one, we didn’t know that it was a requirement. Someone had not registered, only 39 had written their names in the logbook. The other group confirmed that all of them had registered so I went inside to double check with the police officer if its one of ours since I have the attendance list. It turns out that it was from our group indeed, hahaha. I had also a chance to talk with the Police Officer regarding the ID requirement, he said that they will encourage to have an ID upon registration for security purposes but they will consider for those registrants that had left their IDs of course. Thank you Sir for letting us pass.

4 (1)(Checking something from our printed itinerary)

5 (1)(These guys love to pose for the camera while waiting for the registrants verification to be completed)

After the registration, we went to the mini park for the opening of the event. It started with a prayer led by our prayer lady “Welnee” from NCR Trekkers and followed by the message of Lets Do It Philippines Coordinator Liz and a quick background about the LDI Ph’s initiative. next would be the briefing by our Head Guide Kyno, but since he was giving an orientation to the other group the “Tribu Hubo”, we had a short Getting to know each other while waiting. Few moments after, Kyno then announced that we were behind our itinerary that we need to depart immediately and be brief on the jump off instead.

6 (1)(Short getting to know session with the group and few words from LDI PH coordinator about the event)

7 (1)(Kyno was briefiing the Tribu Hubo group)

2 rides were provided, an ELF and a mini-dump truck. When I was about to board on the ELF as most NCR Trekkers boarded already, the driver said that the ELF was already full that I need to board to the mini-dump truck with the Accenture peeps and the Tribu Hubo guys and gals with Phi Pi’s Kuya Porter. NCR Trekkers opt to ride the ELF while me and the rest of the gang boarded the other one. Bet I will be so silent for the 1 hour+ trip to the jump off then. 🙁

(The group who boarded the ELF, me at the far end was about to board the mini-dump with Phi Pi’s Kuya Port. Photo Credits to Kring2x)

Hold on tight as it will be a very bumpy ride. Just as I thought, I was silent throughout the bumpy ride, but it was not boring at all, with all the shouting and all the bloopers that I witnessed. Though I literally do not know most of them, the situation opened my mind to blend in and enjoy the spur of the moment with these funny and amazing people around. Guessed it was a bumpy, grumpy roller coaster ride but interestingly elated and fun.

(We were following a very narrow road as we went up the mountainside, we crossed that river too as depicted in the photo. Photo Credits to Kring2x)

After an hour and a few minutes ride, we reached the jump-off at Purok Catang, Can-Ampao. Few minutes after fixing our things, Kyno gave a short briefing and another Prayer by our Prayer lady “Welnee”. Kyno then told us that he will be guiding the day -trekkers (Tribu Hubo group) and they will be commencing the trek ahead of us, and assign us with the remaining guides. At 9:45AM, we commenced our trek to the base camp. The trail was a rough road until reaching a basketball court at Sitio Lumanoy, Brgy Cambangkaya, Catmon, Cebu where we started to follow a narrow trail.

1 JumpOff(Arrived at the Jump Off after a bumpy ride. Kyno briefing the group and the photogs behind the scene)2 (1)(NCR Trekkers and guests group picture after the briefing)3 (1)(Accenture Outdoor Enthusiasts)4 StartTrek(The trek to the base camp has commenced)

First Stop:

IMG_5341 (1)
IMG_5346 (1)
IMG_5356 (1)
IMG_5358 (1)
IMG_5343 (1)

Second Stop:

IMG_5365 (1)
IMG_5371 (1)
IMG_5373 (1)

Third Stop:

IMG_5383 (1)IMG_5394 (1)IMG_5399 (1)IMG_5404 (1)
IMG_9152 (1)

Fourth Stop:

4 (1)

After 2 hours of trekking and four stops, we arrived near the based camp and had our fifth and last stop at the house just before the base camp to have our lunch. It was still very hot to proceed to the base camp that we opted to stay at the shades of the coconut trees near the house – relax, ate lunch and ordered buko and had some picture taking.

Fifth and Last Stop:

  1 (1)3 (1)2 (1) 4 (1)5 (1) (That buko face 🙂 )

After a while I asked Liz the location of the base camp, and asked if we can proceed in a while to set camp as I am so sleepy that time, no sleep for more than 30 hours already. Liz answered that we can setup camp ahead if we want. I informed our group to move ahead at around 1:00PM so that we can select the camp site that we wanted and they agreed. Our group moved ahead and the others were still relaxing and having some games and followed to the campsite 30 minutes later. My mind really want to go caving but my body does want me to have some rest and sleep. Ah! can I push my body to its limits? It feels like I can’t make it inside the cave if I push through caving in just few minutes.

6 (1)(At last,  we’re done setting up our camp.)

 Did I made it  inside the cave or did my weak body needs what was due? Find out in my next post! (Part 2/2).

 

Jun, Sun, 2014
Osmeña Peak: The highest peak in Cebu South

IMG_3120 (1) - Copy(06/20/2014) – Photo of Osmena Peak before sunrise

It’s been a long time that I had been into mountain trekking. The last time I found myself camping in the mountains was during my 5th year in college , that was 2006.

After being away from everyone and being alone for about 3 months for business trip in  Japan, I realized a lot of things and top 4 on my list were:

  1.  Life is too short to waste on something that doesn’t really matter and doesn’t make you happy. 
  2. All I needed was to be placed in another country to be more expressive and less reserved.
  3. I’ll do what needs to be done for a purpose, what others think of me is none of my business anyway.
  4. The worst regret we can have in life is not the wrong thing we did, but for the thousands of right things we did for the wrong people.

I was very busy looking for something that I forgot to appreciate the little things that helped made me who I am now. Been very busy for a lot of things and forgetting to appreciate life with friends and getting lost and straying too far from the things that I really love in the first place. Why not ask for more when I have plenty already? Everything was just right under my nose, the things that I overlooked for such a period of time that I am now going to value more than ever – family, friends, passion and hobbies.

One night when we had our usual dine out with my team mates, we were talking a lot of things while we’re walking back to the office. The weather was good, the skies were full of stars and the moon shined so bright. It was so enticing to just lie down on the grounds and star gazed. We happened to talked in passing about camping under the moonlight. And that was it, one of our trekker team mate told me that he can go with us and vouched to trek again if we want to. They had stopped trekking for quiet sometime due to some reasons though.

Out of the eagerness to do what I have been missing, we came up with a plan to climb Cebu’s highest peak on the next weekend and tried to revive the other member’s hobby that was in hiatus.

I contacted the other team members about our plan and to my surprise, they were very supportive of it! Unfortunately, I don’t have mountaineering gears at that moment, so I decided to buy whats necessary the following week. Fortunately, they were very willing to help and even accompanied me shopping for gears.

This was my first time in the mountains together with my team mates, they have been climbing few mountains before, but I was not comfortable joining them during those times but I am now.

Our first climb was set on the weekend of June 21-22 , 2014. We climbed the highest peak in Cebu South – the Osmena Peak and then traversed to Kawasan Falls the day after.

Osmena Peak is known as the highest peak in the province of Cebu (at least among the  explored and recorded mountains in the island). It stands at around 1010 meters above sea level. It is  located in the vicinity of Mantalungon Dalaguete that is known as the vegetable basket of Cebu due to its cold temperature that is very conducive for growing variety of vegetables.

What differentiates Osmena Peak from other mountains in Cebu is its Mantalungon range – the multiple jagged and sharp pointed hills grouped together overlooking the nearby towns and shorelines. The Mantalungon range looks like Chocolate hills but is more pointed albeit more like peanut kisses shaped hills.

The day has came and almost everything went as planned (except for the transportation issue) and we’re so blessed that nobody was injured in the span of our outdoor activity. Initial Plan was to ride the minibus near Carbon Market that is bound to Mantalungon Public Market, but some of us including me came in late, due to some miscommunication on the itinerary.  Since there were no buses scheduled on the afternoon, we then opted to ride the buses at CSBT ( Cebu South Bus Terminal).

We departed at Cebu South Bus Terminal at around 1:45PM and arrived in Poblacion Dalaguete at 4:16PM. We hired a motorcycle going up to Mantalungon Public Market for 50 pesos / pax (2 passengers per motorcycle). It was a hell of a bumpy ride coz we had heavy backpacks and the rough road going up is  steep and have a lot of curves.

WaitingForBus(waiting for the bus at CSBT)

Arrived at Mantalongon Public Market at 5PM, bought some food for dinner and off for approximately an hour trek to Osmena Peak at 5:30PM.

Darkness fell and it was a challenge for everybody since, we had limited headlamps and flashlight. At that time, I even used my phone camera flash as flashlight using an app.
We arrived at the peak at around 7:30PM. We immediately setup our camp, had dinner and had socials but was cut short due to the pouring rain.

Had a talk with my tent mate for the rest of the night until past 2AM. Had to take a doze after coz we needed some sleep for the traverse the next day.

Breakfast(Cooking breakfast and lunch)

IMG_8421 (1)(Fork, you want? :))

IMG_8476 (1)(View of campsite from above)

Osmeña Peak(Group Picture before commencing our trek to Kawasan Falls)

Osmeña Peak(Another groupie)

IMG_8531 (1)(An astonishing view from the Peak, the mountains behind it look like peanut kisses :))

IMG_8554 (1)(And of course, he’s ready for the camera, di lang halata :p )

IMG_8564 (1)(Ah, that thinker pose again )

IMG_8571 (1)(Meditating at the top of Osmena Peak, why not?)

IMG_8578 (1)(Commencing our journey to Kawasan Falls)

IMG_8586 (1)(Let’s have a break)

IMG_8598 (1)(Despite always complaining, he managed to pose like that)

Traverse.

We started our trek at around 10AM and we are expecting to arrived at Kawasan Falls by 2PM. We had lunch along the way near the water source and then resumed trekking down to Kawasan Falls. Arrival at Kawasan Falls is a bit late at around 3PM. We decided to have a short dip of its inviting and cold waters. Too bad, we’re in a hurry that I forgot to take pictures.

We rented one hut for 250 pesos to house our things. At 3:45PM we prepared to go down to the highway by 4:00PM, but we’re a little late again. We arrived at the highway around 4:40 PM and waited for the bus. 30 minutes past 5PM, we had our bus ride going back to the city.

Indeed my first climb with these awesome guys was worth it! And I’m so thankful also that I had tried to reach out a little more to these guys. ‘Till the next adventure!

Have you been to Osmena Peak?
How was your experience?
Let us know your thoughts by leaving some comments below.

admin admin
BackPacking , Mountains , Trekking , Visayas
Osmeña Peak: The highest peak in Cebu South

IMG_3120 (1) - Copy(06/20/2014) – Photo of Osmena Peak before sunrise

It’s been a long time that I had been into mountain trekking. The last time I found myself camping in the mountains was during my 5th year in college , that was 2006.

After being away from everyone and being alone for about 3 months for business trip in  Japan, I realized a lot of things and top 4 on my list were:

  1.  Life is too short to waste on something that doesn’t really matter and doesn’t make you happy. 
  2. All I needed was to be placed in another country to be more expressive and less reserved.
  3. I’ll do what needs to be done for a purpose, what others think of me is none of my business anyway.
  4. The worst regret we can have in life is not the wrong thing we did, but for the thousands of right things we did for the wrong people.

I was very busy looking for something that I forgot to appreciate the little things that helped made me who I am now. Been very busy for a lot of things and forgetting to appreciate life with friends and getting lost and straying too far from the things that I really love in the first place. Why not ask for more when I have plenty already? Everything was just right under my nose, the things that I overlooked for such a period of time that I am now going to value more than ever – family, friends, passion and hobbies.

One night when we had our usual dine out with my team mates, we were talking a lot of things while we’re walking back to the office. The weather was good, the skies were full of stars and the moon shined so bright. It was so enticing to just lie down on the grounds and star gazed. We happened to talked in passing about camping under the moonlight. And that was it, one of our trekker team mate told me that he can go with us and vouched to trek again if we want to. They had stopped trekking for quiet sometime due to some reasons though.

Out of the eagerness to do what I have been missing, we came up with a plan to climb Cebu’s highest peak on the next weekend and tried to revive the other member’s hobby that was in hiatus.

I contacted the other team members about our plan and to my surprise, they were very supportive of it! Unfortunately, I don’t have mountaineering gears at that moment, so I decided to buy whats necessary the following week. Fortunately, they were very willing to help and even accompanied me shopping for gears.

This was my first time in the mountains together with my team mates, they have been climbing few mountains before, but I was not comfortable joining them during those times but I am now.

Our first climb was set on the weekend of June 21-22 , 2014. We climbed the highest peak in Cebu South – the Osmena Peak and then traversed to Kawasan Falls the day after.

Osmena Peak is known as the highest peak in the province of Cebu (at least among the  explored and recorded mountains in the island). It stands at around 1010 meters above sea level. It is  located in the vicinity of Mantalungon Dalaguete that is known as the vegetable basket of Cebu due to its cold temperature that is very conducive for growing variety of vegetables.

What differentiates Osmena Peak from other mountains in Cebu is its Mantalungon range – the multiple jagged and sharp pointed hills grouped together overlooking the nearby towns and shorelines. The Mantalungon range looks like Chocolate hills but is more pointed albeit more like peanut kisses shaped hills.

The day has came and almost everything went as planned (except for the transportation issue) and we’re so blessed that nobody was injured in the span of our outdoor activity. Initial Plan was to ride the minibus near Carbon Market that is bound to Mantalungon Public Market, but some of us including me came in late, due to some miscommunication on the itinerary.  Since there were no buses scheduled on the afternoon, we then opted to ride the buses at CSBT ( Cebu South Bus Terminal).

We departed at Cebu South Bus Terminal at around 1:45PM and arrived in Poblacion Dalaguete at 4:16PM. We hired a motorcycle going up to Mantalungon Public Market for 50 pesos / pax (2 passengers per motorcycle). It was a hell of a bumpy ride coz we had heavy backpacks and the rough road going up is  steep and have a lot of curves.

WaitingForBus(waiting for the bus at CSBT)

Arrived at Mantalongon Public Market at 5PM, bought some food for dinner and off for approximately an hour trek to Osmena Peak at 5:30PM.

Darkness fell and it was a challenge for everybody since, we had limited headlamps and flashlight. At that time, I even used my phone camera flash as flashlight using an app.
We arrived at the peak at around 7:30PM. We immediately setup our camp, had dinner and had socials but was cut short due to the pouring rain.

Had a talk with my tent mate for the rest of the night until past 2AM. Had to take a doze after coz we needed some sleep for the traverse the next day.

Breakfast(Cooking breakfast and lunch)

IMG_8421 (1)(Fork, you want? :))

IMG_8476 (1)(View of campsite from above)

Osmeña Peak(Group Picture before commencing our trek to Kawasan Falls)

Osmeña Peak(Another groupie)

IMG_8531 (1)(An astonishing view from the Peak, the mountains behind it look like peanut kisses :))

IMG_8554 (1)(And of course, he’s ready for the camera, di lang halata :p )

IMG_8564 (1)(Ah, that thinker pose again )

IMG_8571 (1)(Meditating at the top of Osmena Peak, why not?)

IMG_8578 (1)(Commencing our journey to Kawasan Falls)

IMG_8586 (1)(Let’s have a break)

IMG_8598 (1)(Despite always complaining, he managed to pose like that)

Traverse.

We started our trek at around 10AM and we are expecting to arrived at Kawasan Falls by 2PM. We had lunch along the way near the water source and then resumed trekking down to Kawasan Falls. Arrival at Kawasan Falls is a bit late at around 3PM. We decided to have a short dip of its inviting and cold waters. Too bad, we’re in a hurry that I forgot to take pictures.

We rented one hut for 250 pesos to house our things. At 3:45PM we prepared to go down to the highway by 4:00PM, but we’re a little late again. We arrived at the highway around 4:40 PM and waited for the bus. 30 minutes past 5PM, we had our bus ride going back to the city.

Indeed my first climb with these awesome guys was worth it! And I’m so thankful also that I had tried to reach out a little more to these guys. ‘Till the next adventure!

Have you been to Osmena Peak?
How was your experience?
Let us know your thoughts by leaving some comments below.