Osmena Peak is an awesome beginners level hike in Dalaguete, South Cebu. At 1013 metres above sea level, it stands as the highest point on the island of Cebu. The great thing about Osmena Peak, unlike many other “highest peaks”, is that it requires very little physical exertion to summit. It’s an easy day trip for just about anyone from the city or surrounding towns, and the view from the top makes the drive all the more worth it. It’s a must visit destination while you’re in Cebu, and pairs up perfectly with the neighbouring Casino Peak hike.
BEST TIME TO VISIT THE PHILIPPINES
HOW TO GET TO OSMENA PEAK
Osmena Peak is in South Cebu, pretty much in the centre of the island between the towns of Badian and Dalaguete. If you’re coming from towns on the west coast like Moalboal you’ll take the road that goes through Alegria. If you’re like us and you’re coming from Cebu City, you’ll take the east coast road and go through Dalaguete. It’s best to take your own car or motorbike, or if you just want to sit back and relax you can book a private car charter through Klook here.
WHEN TO VISIT OSMENA PEAK
Most people will spend the night in Moalboal and head to Osmena Peak early the next morning, but our schedule was jam packed so we had to travel all the way from Cebu City. Our drive was around 3 hours so we weren’t able to make it for the best time which is sunrise. Try and time it so you’re there at sunrise or sunset and avoid wet weather. Our guide joked that rain turns it from Osmena Peak to Osmena Falls, but aside from that, cloud coverage may block the view completely.
HOW MUCH DOES OSMENA PEAK COST
The entrance fee to Osmena Peak in Cebu is ₱50/$1 USD plus you’ll be required to hire a guide for ₱100/$2. It’s the kind of hike where you don’t really need a guide as long as you follow the path, but there’s no point arguing. Guides are mandatory. The parking area at the bottom of the hill is in front of an old lady’s house, so it’s up to you if you want to tip or not, but we tipped ₱20/$0.40 which is standard.
WHAT TO BRING TO OSMENA PEAK IN CEBU
Prepare for your trip to Osmena Peak in Cebu with our must have travel essentials.
Light waterproof jacket: Columbia Men’s Watertight Jacket (click for price), Columbia Women’s Waterproof Jacket (click for price)
Insulated water bottle: Hydro Flask Vacuum Insulated Water Bottle (click for price)
Drone: DJI Mavic 2 Pro (click for price)
Optional: model wearing a pretty dress.
To see our complete camera gear read this post here.
OUR EXPERIENCE HIKING TO OSMENA PEAK CEBU
The overall hike is only around 15 minutes. That’s the beauty of Osmena Peak – it takes no time at all and you hardly break a sweat if you go at the right time, which we did not, but at least it was overcast. Despite being the highest peak, it’s not that steep at all and is an easy, beautiful hike.
The area has been nicknamed ‘Little Baguio’ for its cooler climate and abundant cabbage farms. Along the way we met a cabbage farmer off to harvest his crop. Several areas of the path are lined with cabbages, which is pretty unique for a hike.
The higher you climb, the more incredible the view becomes. The colourful village and windy road surrounded by all the greenery is just so picturesque. You also start to notice the peculiar shape of the hills, which take on a pointy “Chocolate Hills” kind of look. Much like the Chocolate Hills of Bohol, Osmena Peak is also made up of limestone cliffs covered in grass.
THE TOP OF OSMENA PEAK IN CEBU
Once we reached the top, we were seriously blown away by the view, and we went during crappy weather! We can only imagine how it must look at sunrise. The rolling hills, tiny cottages and Badian Bay in the distance were a real sight to behold.
We were lucky enough to have the place to ourselves after the only other couple left, so Zowie crouched behind a rock and changed into a dress for photos. How very “influencers in the wild” of her. Seriously though, it’s really windy up there so a long dress adds a nice touch of dramatic flair to photos. We also recommend packing a windbreaker as it can get a little chilly with the strong winds.
Osmena Peak really is a stunning spot that everyone should visit at least once if they’re in Cebu. We spent a long time up there, taking photos and just enjoying the unique landscape. After a little while, we made our way to the neighbouring Casino Peak, which you can read about here.
READ: 28 BEST TOURIST SPOTS IN CEBU
READ: 19 BEST SOUTH CEBU TOURIST SPOTS
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WHERE TO STAY IN SOUTH CEBU
Southern Cebu is where all the adventure is at, from waterfalls and whale sharks to island hopping and diving. When visiting anywhere in the south, the best place to stay is Moalboal. It has the most accommodation options, and is a fun little town with dozens of cafes, restaurants and bars. Check out our top four picks below for where to stay in Moalboal.
BUDGET/HOSTEL: CHIEF MAU
Right on the main strip of Panagsama Road you’ll find Chief Mau, a fun and social hostel that dubs itself the chillest place in town. Clean, modern and affordable, boasting a restaurant, bar and billiards, Chief Mau is a favourite amongst backpackers
MIDSCALE: ADAM’S VIEW HOTEL
Simple but with all the amenities and facilities you need – including a massive pool – Adam’s View Hotel is our top pick for those looking for a little more luxury than a backpackers. Located in the main town, Adam’s View Hotel is right next to Gaisano Mall, but still close enough to the action of Panagsama Beach to remain convenient.
LUXURY: TURTLE BAY DIVE RESORT
If you have deep pockets and an appreciation for the finer things in life, Turtle Bay Dive Resort is the place for you. Tucked away on a private cove in the quieter part of town, this luxury resort is perfect for couples looking for a little exclusivity.
AIRBNB: LRS APARTMENT
We can personally attest to how great LRS Apartment is, having spent two weeks there. Aside from a beautiful private pool, the apartment itself is modern, well furnished and spacious enough for a couple. (And a cat!) It’s just a 5 minute drive from the hustle and bustle of the restaurants and bars along Panagsama Road, but far enough away to offer a little peace and quiet. We can’t recommend LRS Moalboal enough!
SEARCH ALL HOTELS & RESORTS IN MOALBOAL
MORE CEBU TRAVEL GUIDES
Pescador Island Moalboal
Sardine Run Moalboal
Turtle Bay Moalboal
Montpellier Falls Alegria
Cancalanog Falls Alegria
Binalayan Falls Samboan
Balaygsawa Falls Samboan
Sumilon Island
Oslob Whale Shark Experience
