Lugsangan Casino Peak

Lugsangan Peak rises out of south Cebu’s interior in a cluster of grass-covered knolls that hikers compare to Bohol’s Chocolate Hills — a comparison used loosely, since the geology is different, but the rounded silhouettes are close enough to explain the nickname. The climb gains most of its elevation on exposed ridgeline, so the payoff is a wide view across the interior ridges down to the coastline, rather than forest canopy. Guiding is organized through the barangay tourism council at the jump-off, which is also how the corn- and cassava-farming communities here pick up income outside the harvest season.

• Expect a moderate, mostly exposed climb; the sunrise views over the interior ridges are the main draw.
• Bring more water than you think you need — there is little shade and the trail runs hot past mid-morning.
• Hire a guide at the jump-off; the fee goes directly to the barangay that maintains the trail.

Explore More in South Cebu East Coast

• Carcar Rotunda
• Sumilon Lighthouse
• Pasil Beach Santander