If you’re looking to escape into the mountains of Siquijor, exploring Mount Bandilaan National Park is a great way to spend a morning. You can hike through the rainforest, watch out for snakes, climb to the top of the view tower for panoramic views and relax in one of the many recreational areas in the National Park.
On top of this there are lots of attractions for you to discover on your journey up Mt Bandilaan such a Cantabon Cave, which was one of our favourite caves in the Philippines!
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Where Is Mount Bandilaan National Park?
Mount Bandilaan and the National Park is found in the very centre of Siquijor. The mountain is the highest part of the island and therefore will give you the best panoramic views on a clear day, it’s worth the short hike up the steps.
How To Get To Mount Bandilaan National Park?
To explore at your own pace, we’d recommend hiring a scooter. You can hire a scooter for ₽300 a day and this means you have the freedom to drive up to the viewpoints.
From the main hub of San Juan you need to head inland, try to use the main roads as these are the ones that will be tarmacked. It is worth noting some of the roads are steep, you’re literally climbing up a mountain, so go slow and remember to always wear your helmet.
If you don’t have a scooter we probably wouldn’t recommend heading up to the National Park, it’s a little way out and a trike or private van would cost a lot.
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Mount Bandilaan National Park
Located in the midst of Siquijor Island, Mt Bandilaan is a stunning 212 hectares of Forest Reserve. It rises 557 meters above sea level and is the highest peak in the province. On its apex stands a 15 meter tall viewing tower where nature lovers can enjoy a 360 panoramic view of the entire island while enjoying the breeze.
There is no entrance fee to the park or to climb the tower making this a budget friendly activity!
Explore The Rainforest Fauna and Flora
While walking the 30 minute trail through the rainforest keep your eyes peeled for butterflies, snakes, birds and all the other wonderful wildlife which you will hear but perhaps not see. The Park is also home to some endangered species of plants and majestic trees hundreds of years old.
Further along the road there is also a Healing Park with a short path to wander around, home to various medicinal trees and plants used by the traditional folk healers. What’s also great, is it’s a little cooler up the mountain meaning hiking isn’t off the cards.
For the ultimate Siquijor adventure plan, don’t miss our full guide.
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Viewing Tower
At the very top of the mountain is a 15 meter viewing tower. Climb the steps and you will be welcomed with a fantastic view of Siquijor. On a clear day you may even catch a glimpse of Bohol.
Learn About The History
Siquijor is the island of black magic and Mt. Bandilaan is home to many of the plants used in traditional and ancient healing rituals. The mountain is also the venue for the Siquijor healing festival which happens each year during Holy Week.
Cantabon Cave
Cantabon Cave is a must if you’re visiting the Philippine island of Siquijor, perhaps off the beaten track, Cantabon Cave is one of the best cave tours we did in the Philippines. Walk under stalagmites and observe stalactites, learn about columns and marvel at the glittering walls. On top of this you can bathe in healing water, spot bats and see the protected bird nests!
Read More About Cantabon Cave
Butterfly Sanctuary
The butterfly sanctuary has somehow made its way on to the list of top things to do in Siquijor with raving reviews. Personally, we don’t recommend this place, the owner of the sanctuary raises 12 different butterfly species which he regularly releases back into the wild. As well as the variety of butterflies, there are also fish and plants for you to observe while you walk around the small, enclosed area.
If thats your thing and you would still like to go and see the butterfly sanctuary then we have got you covered!
Read More About Siquijor’s Butterfly Sanctuary
Where To Stay In Siquijor?
Siquijor has lots of accommodation whether you’re looking for a dive school, a luxury resort or a budget hostel you’ll be able to find somewhere. We recommend staying in the main hub of San Juan as this is where most of the restaurants are located as well as easy access to most of Siquijor’s best things to do.
Best Places To Stay In Siquijor
$ Budget
Lazy Lizard Hostel
Lazy Lizard is a great budget option for your stay in San Juan. Up from the main road it is quiet, in the jungle and offers scooter hire. There’s options for private rooms or shared dorms.
$$ Mid-Range
Apo Diver’s Resort
Perhaps you want something more luxury or your here for the diving! Apo Diver’s Resort offers sea views on the beach front with a beautiful pool and chill out spot.
$$$ High-End
Coco Grove Beach Resort
Backing onto Tubod Marine Reserve this is a great luxury choice if you love snorkelling. The resort also boasts a large seafront swimming pool, free coffee and breakfast as well as an on-site restaurant.
Spacing
Siquijor Best Things To Do
We stayed 5 nights on Siquijor and think this is the perfect amount of time to see everything the island has to offer. Here’s our highlights.
Top Pick: Cambugahay Falls
Visit early or don’t bother going, this is our top pick as it was so tranquil at 8am plus we saw an iguana! Cambugahay Falls
Best Beach: Salagdoong Beach
An adventure beach with cliff jumps, snorkelling and crystal waters. Although a little drive away, we think it’s worth it.
Off The Beaten Track: Cantabon Cave
The best cave tour on Siquijor and still a hidden gem on the island.
Other Blogs On Siquijor
Best Siquijor Tours
Top Tips For Travelling To Siquijor Island
If you’re visiting Siquijor here are our top travel tips:
- Plan your transport – getting to Siquijor can seem confusing so make sure to plan your route and leave early on your travel day.
- Arrive early to Cambugahay Falls to miss the crowds and experience the natural beauty of the area, we arrived at 8am.
- Eat Local, we had some of our favourite food in the Philippines here, mainly from Roadside Diner!
- Rent a scooter to explore the natural attractions. The island is small so it’s the perfect place to learn to ride a scooter, just make sure you wear a helmet.
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Final Thoughts on Mount Bandilaan National Park Siquijor
Mount Bandilaan is a great morning trip, especially if you have longer on the island of Siquijor. In our opinion you need your own scooter and Cantabon Cave is not to be missed! It is a nice change of scenery from the crowds at Cambugahay Falls.
Read More About The Best Beaches Siquijor
