Coordinates Cebu: The Latin America of Southeast Asia
Activate Baja Sur
Coordinates Kauai: The Lost World
Kauai's North Shore coastline and tropical, mountainous interior invite outdoor enthusiasts to discover the mystical canyons, cascading waterfalls, secluded beaches, and rugged cliffs of this emerald gem of a paradise.
Coordinates Queenstown: The Real Middle Earth
With gorgeous Lake Wakatipu at its doorstep and dozens of other lakes and rivers a stone's throw away, Queenstown is simply made for water-related activities.
Coordinates Lantau: The Lungs of Hong Kong
While 70 percent of Hong Kong is considered green space, over half of Lantau Island's 56-square miles are dedicated parks.
Coordinates Kota Kinabalu: The Land Below the Wind
Kota Kinabalu is the gateway to one of the world's most fascinating islands where warm seas and white-sand beaches diminish into lush, tropical forests and Southeast Asia's 10th highest mountain looming over the city.
Coordinates La Paz: Greatest Underrated Downhill Mountain Biking in the World
From an adrenaline-infused day spent downhill mountain biking in the Andes to a five-mile hike on an easy-going trail across Isla del Sol in Lake Titicaca, discover both natural and cultural beauty in La Paz's altiplano playground.
Coordinates Antigua, Guatemala: European Romance in Central America's Highlands
Flanked by three volcanoes, Antigua's smoking mountainous backyard beckons to summit-seekers and pyromaniacs eager to try lava-roasted marshmallows.
Coordinates Croatia: Europe’s Adriatic Gem
Soft white beaches and rugged limestone cliffs fringe Croatia’s 3,900 miles of coastline, which wraps along the west coast and around the country’s 1,244 islands, islets, rocks, and reefs.
Coordinates Aviemore, Scotland: Scotch, Lochs & Highlands
In the eastern Scottish Highlands, about three hours north of Edinburgh by road.
Coordinates: Bryce Canyon National Park
Located off Scenic Highway 12 in Southern Utah, Bryce Canyon National Park is 56 square miles of sunset-colored rock, pine tree forests and varied trails.
Real-Time: Chile
Destination name: Moalboal, Cebu, Visayas, Philippines
Common nickname: Lechon Capital of the World
Location: Located between the South China Sea and the Pacific Ocean, the Philippine's ninth largest island (of 7,107 islands) is easily accessed via the Mactan-Cebu International Airport about a half hour taxi ride (~$6USD) from Cebu City. Cebu's adventure hub, Moalboal, is a three-hour bus ride from the capital city.
Primary active pursuits
From world-renowned diving to mountain biking around Cebu's 3,500-foot high peaks and limestone plateaus, Moalboal welcomes travelers seeking the ultimate off-the-beaten-path destination. Beginner snorkeling accessed from white-sand beaches, moderate trekking to Cebu's tallest mountain, and adrenaline-infused canyoneering to Kawasan Falls are a sampling of activities offered from Cebu's adventure basecamp of Moalboal.
Micro destinations
Kawasan Falls Canyoneering
Only a 30-minute drive from Moalboal lies a true oasis of turquoise-blue waters, cascading falls, and Cebu's most dynamic adventure that includes an action-packed combo of trekking, cliff jumping, exploring, and swimming. Not into 5-8 hours of canyoneering? Opt for the 20-minute easy walk to swim at the main falls. Snacks and water available for purchase.
Mountain Biking
Moalboal's adventure map has been developed in large part thanks to German expat, Jochen Hanika, and his wife, Jinky, both former competitive mountain bikers. For an unforgettable morning, afternoon, or multi-day trip, sign up for one of Jochen's cycling tours through farmlands, rainforests, streams, and Cebu's lush hills to experience expansive views and refreshing swims along the way. Jochen will cater to your technical ability, so simply communicate your level of expertise and saddle up! More info at www.action-philippines.com.
Mt. Osmena Trekking
Cebu's highest peak rests at a lofty 3,599-feet above the sea, surrounded by rolling hills, verdant valleys, and rugged, jungle-thick terrain. Plan on a moderate to difficult hike for 4-5 hours roundtrip, and take plenty of water and sun protection.
Still want more? Rock climbing in Cantabaco and caving at Argao are other great options, not to mention the world-renowned diving off Cebu's narrow coastline.
Best Season
Though it's a tropical climate (~78 percent humidity), Cebu's weather is relatively moderate, sunny and dry most of the year. Year-round temps average between 75 and 93 degrees. Most Cebu travelers would say the best time to visit is in the cooler season between November and January, with temperatures in the mountains hovering in the 60s. The third week in January features one of the Philippine's biggest festivals, the Sinulog, so book hotels early if you're traveling during this time. May is the hottest month, and rainy season starts around July. Typhoons are historically not an issue for Cebu, with one hitting land about once every 10 years.
Other Recreational and Cultural Gems
If you love flowers, don't miss Southeast Asia's largest orchid display at the Orchid Gallery in Moalboal. This farm grows over 200 types of orchid varieties from Asia, South America and Hawaii, as well as other rare tropical flowers, like Cattleyas and Vandas. Relax and unwind by the pool or explore the mini-aviary on the property. Entry is less than $1USD so you have no excuses. Located at Poblacion East in Moalboal.
Lodging and Dining
LunaseeStudios / Shutterstock.com
From 5-star resorts, like Shangri-La's Mactan Resort and Spa for $250USD/night, to open-air bungalows in sleepy beach towns for around $20USD/night, lodging options abound in Cebu. If you're camping, check out Archery Campground Moalboal (~$6USD per person/night. You can also rent a tent, mattress, pillow, bedsheet, towel, and shower). While you can definitely find McDonald's in Cebu City and a number of Western-inspired restaurants in the beach towns, Filipino food doesn't disappoint if you like a mix of Chinese, Japanese, and Spanish influences - and rice. Try Cebu's famous roasted pig dish, lechon, and their beloved dessert, halo-halo. And, for the truly adventurous, balut...you'll have to see it to believe it.
Best Single Reason to Visit
Cebu's warm, welcoming spirit of the Filipino people, cheap travel alternatives, delicious food, and perfect blend of outdoor adventure and relaxation are not to be missed in a lifetime. A true gem of Southeast Asia.
Getting Equipped
For more information on Cebu, visit www.cebu.gov.ph for updates on events, links to hotels and tour companies, and excited sales pitches on why Cebu should be your next destination. For adventure-specific guidance, the Planet Action Philippines is the most established company in Cebu.
Related Articles
CATEGORIES
