Osmeña Peak Cebu
Cebu is most famously known for its turquoise waterfalls, stunning beaches and incredible marine life. However, this enchanting island is also home to some incredible hikes!
Perched high above the stunning landscapes of Cebu, Osmeña Peak beckons adventurers with its jagged silhouette and breathtaking views over a landscape that resembles the chocolate hills of Bohol, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.
If you are looking for the best things to do in Cebu, then Osmeña Peak needs to be on your list!
In this travel guide, we will tell you everything you need to know before you go, from how to get there to the best times to visit, the safest route on a scooter, and the best tour options. Let’s Dive In!
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Where Is Osmeña Peak Located
Osmeña Peak is located in the municipality of Dalaguete, Cebu, Philippines, within the picturesque Mantalongon mountain range. This stunning peak stands at approximately 1,013 meters above sea level, making it one of the highest points in Cebu.
Located about 87 kilometres from Cebu City, Osmeña Peak is easily accessible for day trips or weekend adventures. Osmena Peak is also only an hour or two away from the popular travel hub of Moalboal, making it a great addition to your Moalboal itinerary.
We have highlighted Osmena Peak’s location on Google Maps for reference:
How Do You Get To Osmeña Peak?
By Scooter (The option we did): Driving to Osmeña Peak via scooter is an exhilarating way to experience the scenic beauty of Cebu. The best place to start your journey is Moalboal. From here, it takes about an hour and a half to two hours.
As you navigate the route, you’ll be treated to stunning views of lush landscapes, rolling hills, and vibrant local scenery. However, the roads can be bumpy and very steep in places, so it’s essential to drive cautiously and be sure you are confident on a scooter. Below, we discuss the safest route to take on a scooter, which is really essential!
Once you reach the base of Osmeña Peak, parking is available, allowing you to securely leave your scooter before embarking on the hike to the summit.
Our favorite scooter shop in Moalboal is: Majona’s Scooter Rental. This one is slightly more expensive but offers larger bikes with a higher cc and, most importantly, very good breaks!
By Bus: We understand there is the option of taking a public bus to Mantalongon, a small market town in Dalaguete, located approximately 4 kilometers from the trailhead of Osmeña Peak. During our journey by scooter, we passed through this charming town, which offers a glimpse into authentic Filipino market life, largely untouched by tourism. For those arriving in Mantalongon, the final stretch to Osmeña Peak’s starting point can be covered by hiring a local trike or motorcycle taxi.
By Private Taxi: You can also opt to hire a private taxi to take you from Moalboal to the starting point of Osmeña Peak. Once in Moalboal, obtaining a quote for this service is quite simple: inquire with your accommodation or any local tourist information stall. While this option may be more expensive than renting a scooter and travelling alone, it is certainly a safer choice for those who may not feel comfortable riding a scooter.
By Tour: Another potentially cheaper option for those who don’t feel confident on a scooter is to join a group tour and head up to Osmena Peak stress-free. There are a number of tour options, including both group and private tours. We have highlighted our favorites below.
The Best Osmeña Peak Tours
Is It Safe To Take A Scooter To Osmeña Peak
Yes, we would say the route up to Osmena Peak is safe, providing you have a good level of confidence on a scooter and, most importantly, MAKE SURE YOU PICK THE CORRECT ROUTE ON GOOGLE MAPS!!
There have been many stories of tourists getting stuck on the way to or from Osmena Peak on a scooter, and nearly always, it is because they have picked a very steep route on Google Maps.
Google Maps has a nasty little habit of sending unknowing tourists up very treacherous and steep routes in the name of it being the most direct.
When planning to ride a scooter to a higher-altitude destination, it’s important to remember that a shorter route isn’t necessarily better. In fact, shorter routes often lead to steeper inclines, which can strain the scooter’s engine during the ascent and, more critically, cause the brakes to overheat on the descent.
Unfortunately, Google Maps does not factor this in when showing you the best routes to take!
When you enter Osmeña Peak into Google Maps, you’ll see two suggested routes, both of which are pretty steep! We strongly advise against taking these paths. The best route from Moalboal is through Alegria. To ensure Google Maps directs you along this route, add a stop at Cancalanog Falls during your journey. Below, we’ve provided screenshots of the optimal route as well as the ones to avoid on Google Maps. We hope this helps clarify the best way to make the trip!
If you’re uncertain about your confidence level on a scooter for this trip, you can watch our complete experience on YouTube, where we provide a firsthand look at the roads and what to expect.
Additionally, it’s worth noting that Cancalanog Falls are absolutely breathtaking and make for an ideal stop on your journey to or from Osmena Peak! We strongly encourage you to visit! For more information about Cancalanog Falls and other epic things to do in the area, check out our ultimate Moalboal Travel Guide.
Moalboal Cebu – 12 Best Things To Do | Ultimate Travel Guide.
Should you hike Osmeña peak before dawn?
Sunrise at Osmena Peak can be absolutely stunning and certainly has a draw! However, we urge you to be cautious if you are making the journey by scooter, as this will mean you will have to make a very long journey in the dark. The path is somewhat challenging in the daylight, so it’s one to consider when planning the best time to go.
Moreover, the early morning hours can often be shrouded in clouds, potentially affecting your sunrise experience. Therefore, checking the weather forecast when planning your trip is highly recommended.
If you want to go for sunrise, we recommend hiring a driver or booking a tour to avoid driving in the dark, it will make for a much more relaxing journey!
Are You Keeping Up With Our Philippines Series?
If you are planning your trip to The Philippines you can check out our ultimate travel guide for The Philippines here:
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You can also check out our complete Philippines packing list here:
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Do You Need To Book In Advance To Visit Osmeña Peak
If you are looking to book a tour, you may wish to pre-book, especially in high season. You can see our top recommendations earlier in this guide.
However, if you are planning to visit Osmena Peak by scooter, there is no need to pre-book. Just hire a scooter and pay on arrival!
Although, we strongly advise planning your route before you go! Ensure you choose the best Google Maps route and know what to expect. We also suggest choosing a stop along the way to make the journey more enjoyable, as two hours straight can lead to a numb bum! Two excellent options are Cancalanog Falls and Cambais Falls. You can find out more information about these fantastic locations in our comprehensive Moalboal travel guide:
Moalboal Cebu – 12 Best Things To Do | Ultimate Travel Guide
You Can Also Check Out The Best Of Moalboal In Our YouTube Video:
Entrance Fee For Osmeña Peak
The entrance fee to Osmena Peak is 50 PHP (~£0.68), and you must take a mandatory guide, which is 100 PHP (~£1:30) per group. You can pay this and the guide fee on arrival. Note that these prices could change over time.
At the entrance, there is a small shop where you can buy coffee, water, and snacks, all of which are very welcome before or after the hike!
How Difficult Is Osmeña Peak
It is a short hike to Osmena Peak, roughly 20-30 minutes, depending on how speedy you are feeling. It is steep in parts but not too difficult overall. You also have a guide with you the whole way who can help you pick the best path.
If you are worried about the difficulty of Osmena Peak, check out our YouTube video, where we share our firsthand experience and show you what to expect.
Is Osmeña Peak Dangerous
The hike to Osmeña Peak is generally considered safe for most visitors, but like any outdoor activity, it comes with certain risks that hikers should be aware of. The trail is relatively easy and short, making it accessible for beginners and families. However, the path can become slippery, especially after rain, so wearing appropriate footwear with good traction is a good idea. Additionally, the summit lacks guardrails, so caution is advised near the edges to prevent falls. It’s always a good idea to check the weather conditions before heading out and to carry essentials like water and snacks.
Osmeña Peak Vs Casino Peak
If you weren’t aware, there is another absolutely fantastic hike close to Osmeña Peak called Casino Peak! This hike is arguably slightly steeper and more challenging, but we think it offers even more stunning views than Osmeña Peak.
If you would like to read more about Casino Peak, you can check out our complete travel guide here: Casino Peak Cebu | Why Don’t More People Come Here?!
Top Tips For Osmeña Peak
Here are the top tips for visiting Osmeña Peak:
- Pick the correct route on Google Maps: The route via Alegria is the best, it takes a bit longer but is far safer on a scooter as it is not as steep.
- Stop Off On The Way: Break up the journey by stopping off at Cancalanog Falls or Cambais Falls. Both are stunning and sit directly on the route to Osmena Peak.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated throughout the hike, especially in warmer weather.
- Pack Light Snacks: Honestly, snacks are always a good idea!
- Check the Weather: Before heading out, check the weather forecast to avoid hiking in unfavorable conditions, such as fog, rain or strong winds.
- Plan Your Return: Make sure to plan your descent before dark, as the trail can be challenging to navigate without daylight.
- Wear Appropriate Footwear: Osmena Peak is steep in places. Trainers or hiking shoes are more ideal than flipflops!
Where To Stay In Moalboal
Looking for where to stay Moalboal? Here are our top recommendations depending on your budget and the vibe you are going for!
Hostels:
Hotels:
Looking for a more relaxing experience away from the hustle and bustle of hostels? Here are our top hotel recommendations in Moalboal from Agoda:
When To Visit Osmeña Peak
The ideal time to visit Osmeña Peak is during the dry season, as it offers less rainfall and more reliable weather conditions. However, the shoulder seasons can also be a good option for your visit. Below, we have outlined the best months to consider.
Dry Season: Typically extending from November to April, this period brings clearer skies, calmer waters, and minimal rainfall, creating ideal conditions for outdoor exploration. However, bear in mind that this period also sees a surge in tourist activity, resulting in larger crowds and increased accommodation prices.
Shoulder Seasons: If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of May or October when the weather is still pleasant and the crowds are fewer. Avoid planning your trip during the rainy season, from June to September, as heavy downpours and choppy waters can hinder your plans.
Below we have included a table of average monthly rainfall in the Philippines to help you plan the perfect time to visit. Hover over the bars to also see average monthly temperature.
Average Monthly Rainfall In The Philippines
Conclusion
Osmeña Peak is a breathtaking destination that offers an unforgettable hiking experience in Cebu. With its stunning views, unique rock formations, and accessible trails, it attracts many adventurers. Whether you’re seeking a challenging hike or simply want to enjoy the panoramic views, Osmeña Peak caters to all levels of hikers. As you plan your visit, remember to prepare adequately and consider a stop off at some of the beautiful places on the way! Embrace the adventure and make Osmeña Peak a highlight of your Cebu journey.
Don’t hesitate to let us know any questions you might have in the comments below!
Big Love As Always
Beth and Denz