Wake before dawn for a sunrise hike on Bohol’s Binabaje Hills with a local guide, then wander through Cadapdapan Rice Terraces and cool off at Can-umantad Falls. End your day on Anda Beach’s white sand—moments you’ll remember every time you see green hills or hear rushing water.
“You sure you want to start at 3:30am?” our driver grinned, headlights flickering against the dark road out of Tagbilaran. Honestly, I wasn’t sure — but by the time we reached Alicia Panoramic Park, the sky was just starting to blush pink behind the hills. Our guide, Ate Liza, handed me a cup of instant coffee that tasted mostly like adventure and a little like burnt sugar. The air smelled sharp with grass and earth, and my shoes were instantly soaked from dew as we started up Binabaje Hills. I kept stopping to catch my breath (and maybe just stare — those rolling green slopes are something else), while Liza pointed out wildflowers I’d never seen before.
The hike wasn’t easy — it’s steep in places, and the grass is taller than you’d think — but reaching the top felt kind of unreal. There was this silence except for wind and someone’s distant laughter from another group. You could see all the way across Bohol; I tried to take a photo but it didn’t really capture how wide it felt up there. On the way down, my legs were jelly but Liza told us stories about growing up nearby, how her uncle used to herd goats along these same trails. It made me wish I could stay longer.
Afterwards we drove out to Cadapdapan Rice Terraces — green steps cut into the hillside, glittering with water from the river that feeds Can-umantad Falls just below. The falls themselves are loud and cold; I dipped my feet in for maybe five seconds before giving up (braver people actually swim). Lunch was simple — grilled fish, rice, some kind of sour soup — eaten with our hands under a bamboo hut while kids played nearby. We ended at Anda Beach where the sand squeaked underfoot and old men played cards in the shade by the church. I still think about that view back toward the mountains as we left; it felt both far away and close at once.
The hike is moderately challenging with steep sections and tall grass; travelers should have good physical fitness.
The tour starts early at 3:30am to reach Binabaje Hills for sunrise after about two hours’ drive from Tagbilaran.
Lunch is not specifically mentioned as included; food may be available for purchase locally during stops.
Infants must sit on an adult’s lap; however, due to physical demands, it may not be suitable for young children or infants.
This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular issues due to its strenuous nature.
The main highlights are hiking Binabaje Hills in Alicia Panoramic Park, visiting Can-umantad Falls, exploring Cadapdapan Rice Terraces, and relaxing at Anda Beach.
Your day covers all entrance fees and taxes throughout Alicia Panoramic Park, Cadapdapan Rice Terraces, Can-umantad Falls, and Anda Beach—with guidance from a local expert who knows every shortcut on those hills (and probably everyone you’ll meet along the way).
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