Kimarayag would make for a good hiking destination if not for the concrete road that made accessing it easier and more convenient. Still, going here is pretty much a challenge with its steep roads snaking up the highlands. The scenery it offers is simply stunning, one that would pass for a perfect road trip. If you’re up for a more challenging feat, you can pedal your way here to check out some gorgeous spots. Don’t expect the usual biker’s stop though. Mountain parks and resorts in Kimarayag have made the more ideal alternative to campsites. In this blog, we’re listing some of these resorts for all of you to check out.
1. Lily’s View Cafe
Lily’s View Cafe is the least developed on this list but it definitely won’t settle for second best. What I love about this spot is its simplicity. Its viewing areas are made of bamboo and other native materials. It’s also surrounded by many plants and absolutely pristine that during our visit, we even stumbled on a small snake (non-venomous) as it was resting in a gumamela plant.
Entrance Fee: P20/head
Opening Hours: As early as 5AM
Contact: Facebook
2. ExeFredo MarQuita Happy Valley
ExeFredo Marquita Happy Valley is the latest park to emerge on this list. It opened to the public just recently and much to its name, this place offers gorgeous views that will definitely make you happy. At the time of writing, they only accommodate day tours but they might offer overnight stays soon. Other than the views, you’ll love their coffee and pizza.
Entrance Fee: P30/head
Opening Hours: 5 AM – 5 PM
Contact: Facebook
3. Evergreen Heights Mountain Park
Evergreen Heights Mountain Park is the most well-known on this list. It established its reputation a couple of years back. From having simple areas where its visitors can bask at the views, now it has developed them to make every snap Instagram-worthy. They also have overnight accommodations for those that love to spend the night and witness the impeccable beauty of nature during the morning.
Entrance Fee: P50/head
Opening Hours: 5 AM
Contact: Facebook
4. Janelle Rock Haven Resort
Among the resorts on this list, Janelle’s Rock Haven is my favorite and the one which I found to have the most potential. What made it unique is that this resort was built to showcase and highlight the beautiful rock formations within it. It has several areas that are gorgeous on their own and becomes a tad more stunning when seen against the charming view of the surrounding mountains.
Entrance Fee: P50/head
Opening Hours: 5 AM
Contact: Facebook
5. DZ Creekside Resort
True to its name, DZ Creekside Resort is situated just beside a creek where refreshing spring water flows endlessly. This resort boasts pools filled with water from the mountains so expect it to be naturally cold and devoid of chemicals. Its vicinity was also landscaped beautifully. To make sure guests are comfortable, the resort has a main hall complete with tables and chairs and open cottages. DZ Creekside Resort is still pretty new so improvements to its amenities are currently in the works.
Entrance Fee: P30/head
Opening Hours: 7 AM
Contact: Facebook
HOW TO GO TO KIMARAYAG
From Manila – Fly to Cotabato. Once there, ride the bus going to Davao and alight at the junction going to Kimarayag in Brgy. Baguer (1 Hr | P80/head/way). It should be on your left and is easy to notice. Ride a motorcycle to one of these resorts (15 Mins | P50/head/way).
From Davao – Ride a bus to Cotabato in Ecoland Terminal and alight at the junction going to Kimarayag in Brgy. Baguer (5 Hrs | P450/head/way). It should be on your right, just a few minutes away from Iglesia Ni Kristo Baguer. Ride a motorcycle to one of these resorts (15 Mins | P50/head/way).
USEFUL TIPS TO KNOW ABOUT THESE RESORTS IN KIMARAYAG
- The best time to visit these resorts is during the early hours of the morning 5 AM – 6 AM. Not only because of the occasional sea of clouds to be witnessed here but also of the less chance to stumble upon a crowd just in case you’re someone who hates sharing the views. The odd hours (3 PM – 5 PM) of the afternoon are also an ideal alternative for people who hates waking up too early. The weekdays are better alternatives, too.
- Food in these resorts is a bit pricey and some may not be worth the penny. I suggest you go for coffee and some snacks but go downtown to Pigcawayan or Midsayap to hunt for a good restaurant.
- Once you’re done exploring and having fun in Kimarayag, you can go to Alamada to check out some of its tourist spots.
- No reservations are required to visit these resorts but there may be times that they’re closed for particular hours/days for exclusive use, photoshoots, etc.
There you go, lovelies. I hope you enjoyed this list. I will continue to update it and add in some of the new ones I might discover moving forward. Don’t forget to share this post to your friends. Until next time. Ciao!
