When the Cebuano word buntod (mountain) is in a town’s name, you know the climate and terrain are going to be top-tier. Nabunturan, the capital of Davao de Oro, is the home of the Mainit Hot Springs Protected...
Blog Post
Dexter PrieteViper Peak: The Weekend Warrior’s Haven in Toril, Davao City
If you live in Davao City and need a quick mountain fix without driving hours to the province, Viper Peak is your best bet. Located in the highlands of Toril, specifically in Brgy. Bato, this peak has become a favorite...
Midori Ice Cold Resort: The Ultimate “Icy” Escape in Inawayan, Sta. Cruz
In the sweltering heat of the lowlands, every “Manakaay” knows that the best remedy isn’t air conditioning—it’s mountain spring water. If you are looking for a place to literally “shake”...
Mt. Loay: The “Celebrity” Peak of Sta. Cruz | 2026 Trail Intel & Traverse Guide
In the Davao hiking scene, there’s a common saying: “Dili ka climber kung wala pa ka kasulay sa Loay” (You aren’t a climber if you haven’t tried Loay). Standing at approximately 1,030+ MASL in Sta. Cruz...
Tiki Tagu: Your Guide to the Quietest Escape in Tagurano, Toril
For the Davao “Manakaay,” the name Tagurano often brings back memories of the famous Battlefield Trail. While the trail itself is currently closed, the spirit of the mountain lives on at Tiki Tagu. Located...
Mt. Loay vs. Mt. Dinor: Which Sta. Cruz Peak is Right for You?
Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur, has solidified its reputation as a premier mountaineering corridor in Mindanao. While Mt. Apo remains the ultimate goal, two mid-range peaks have emerged as the town’s most debated...
Franco Elys: The Ultimate “Bukid Life” Camping Escape in Toril, Davao City
If you are looking to escape the “concrete world” and trade the city noise for the rustle of trees and a cold mountain breeze, Franco Elys in Toril is calling. Located along the scenic Bayabas-Eden Road...
Mt. Apo Guide 2026: Scaling the Grandfather of Philippine Mountains
Standing at 2,956 meters (9,692 ft) above sea level, Mt. Apo is the highest point in the Philippines and the ultimate rite of passage for mountaineers. In 2026, climbing Mt. Apo is a highly regulated experience focused...
Panas Falls Guide: Davao del Norte’s Multi-Tiered Water Paradise
If you are looking for a place to wash off the mountain dust and escape the tropical heat, Panas Falls in New Corella is the ultimate “cool down” destination. Known as the “Water Basin of Davao del...
Waig Falls: Discovering the Turquoise Heart of New Corella
If Panas Falls is the “Water Basin” where the crowds gather, Waig Falls is the secret sanctuary for those who prefer the sound of rustling leaves over the hum of a large crowd. Tucked away in Brgy. Sueno...
Franklin’s in Buda: A Private Car Camping Sanctuary for the Brave
If you are looking for a “bukid” escape that offers total privacy, a touch of adrenaline, and ice-cold spring water, Franklin’s in Brgy. Sumalili, Buda, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Located...
The Manakaay Spirit: Meet Our Founder
Behind every trail story, every technical itinerary, and every hidden waterfall featured on Manakaay ug Bukid is a passion rooted in the earth. Today, we’re introducing the person behind the lens: Dexter Priete. More...