DiscoverLibona
Discover the natural beauty, culture and heritage of Libona.
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Top 10 Reasons to Visit Libona
Reason 01
A Sneak Peak into Libona
- When you are planning holidays to Libona, Bukidnon, you will soon realize that the rolling hills and the cool climate of the place make it an innate playground to the traveler who needs to have a breath of fresh air and a landscaped view, and that it is just close enough to Cagayan de Oro to provide a hassle-free escape to the urban life.
- It is known that the town has fertile farmlands where the farmers plant corn, vegetables and livestock which form the local markets and these farmlands are spread over rolling hills that appear to depict a living picture.
- Eco-tourism in this case remains nascent; hiking tracks cut across pine-filled hillsides, waters cut peaceful ravines, and some of the more adventurous tourists have already started seeking the concealed waterfalls that pepper the landscape.
- The town is a colorful mosaic of Higaonon native and Visayan immigrants whose cultures have merged to create a unique cultural taste that is palpable throughout the town in the festivals, music, and daily interactions.
- Those who wish to visit it can do so via a short drive away of the major hubs, and therefore, Libona makes the perfect mid week vacation that is not only relaxing but also gives a somewhat adventurous touch without the hassles of the long distance traveling of other destinations.
- You want to discover a new scenery, enjoy farm-to-table meals, or just relax on a foggy hilltop, Libona will be a place to remember with an intimate and spacious experience.
- Capital (of the province): Malaybalay City
- International airport: No international airport in Libona itself.
- Nearest commonly used: Laguindingan Airport (serving Cagayan de Oro and Northern Mindanao)
- Currency: Philippine Peso (PHP)
- Time zone: UTC+8 (Philippine Standard Time)
- Driving side: Right-hand side
- Main electricity: 220 volts, 60 Hz
- Official / local languages: Cebuano, Binukid, Higaonon, Filipino, English
- Major religion: Predominantly Roman Catholic
Reason 02
Highlights
- A wide river valley and terraced hills dominate the scenery of the town and provide a beautiful scenery to both photography and amateurs.
- The heart of the village is agriculture, which makes the agricultural lands with large areas of corn, vegetable gardens, and animal stables demonstrate the productivity of the area and the beauty of rural scenery.
- Some of the adventure activities offered include hiking, river trekking and farm tours, which enable the visitor to get a first hand experience of the natural and agricultural setting.
- There is also an added richness of the local experience with the multicultural influence of the Higaonon and Visayan, which provides an insight into the various folk traditions and food pleasures.
- Holidays to Libona is also well accessible to travelers of Cagayan de Oro and other metropolis whose transportation can be achieved in just a two-hour trip, thereby making it an ideal destination when going on short-term vacations.
- It has enough open spaces in the town; a picturesque paddy field, a flowing stream, and so forth offers good space to meditate or enjoy active pastime against a peaceful backdrop.
Reason 03
Seasons to Travel
- The dry season, which falls between December and May, is the most favorable to sightseeing, trekking, and farm visits, as there is no rainfall and the weather is sunny.
- In the cool seasons of December to February, the foggy mornings and the cold air make the hills to be even more mystical making hikes in the mornings to be very rewarding.
- The rainy season between June and October makes the landscape greener and more interesting, but it can sometimes get muddy so the visitor had better prepare beforehand.
- Waterfalls are glowing under the rain even during the wettest months and the rivers are overflowing, which is a provider of another form of adventure to those who prefer misty views.
- January and March, April and November are the transition months, where the weather is moderate, and the number of tourists is low, which means that the pace is slow, and the natural beauty can be enjoyed.
- The climate in holidays to Libona is very conducive except during the hot seasons in coastal regions, which makes most travelers stay at the place comfortably.
Reason 04
Worth A Visit
Kirahon Solar Farm
- Modern practices of sustainability energy like Kirahon Solar Farm in the pastoral environment can demonstrate an impressive contrast of technology and nature.
- The sheer size of the solar panels located on the hills allows the panorama photography especially during the sunrise or sunset as the light casts a golden hue on the rows.
- The farm is given guided tours involving information on how it uses all the available sunlight of Bukidnon to develop renewable energy that helps the people of Bukidnon grow.
- There are also walking paths that the visitors can take and also go through the panels and closely observe the farmland and machinery.
- The open atmosphere of the farm makes people appreciate the environment because the visitors observe the harmonious coexistence of the agricultural, and solar landscapes.
- Due to the availability of the site and its perfect condition, it can be recommended to families, school organizations, or individual travelers who value the combination of information acquisition and aesthetic pleasure.
Puntian Mountain Views
- The peak of the Puntian Mountain is good to provide extensive panoramic views of the topography of holidays to Libona including rolling hills, towns far away, and river valleys.
- The viewpoint is accessible to the hikers through a medium trail that passes through pine trees to make the climb rewarding and challenging simultaneously.
- Early in the morning the fog disappears, and the scenes are interspersed with green, which makes sunrise photography or peaceful meditation very good.
- Late afternoons have a warm glow that fills the hills in the warm light making a beautiful setting of family shots or contemplation.
- There is a small resting place at the top to have some rest and enjoy the view without hurrying giving visitors a chance to enjoy the scenery.
- The perspective is free all year round, hence an assured destination of tourists at any time of the year.
Libona Communal Ranch / Farm Areas
- The large community ranch is used as an educational farm to learn farming techniques, as tourists can see growing crops and livestock raising at close.
- Rural tours can be guided farm tours where tourists can get to work on the farm and have a direct experience of farm life.
- The picnic, family, or informal sporting activities in the backdrop of green pastures are available in the open fields of the ranch.
- There are local farmers, who always tell the stories concerning the traditional methods and the difficulties of contemporary agriculture, which adds value to the knowledge of the visitor.
- The ranch is designed with walking paths which wander in rows of corn and vegetable gardens where one can give himself a scenic walk.
- Due to the presence of visitors in the ranch, the ranch acts as a community gathering place where the tourists can socialize with locals which promotes a cultural exchange.
Mandango Peak
- Mandango Peak is an example of a good hiking site that has distinct rock formations that give it scenic geological features that can be photographed.
- The route leading to the summit is a slow climb that can be approached by both experienced hikers and those who are not so experienced but would be stimulating.
- The panoramic view at the top is extended to include the farmlands of the town and the hills at a distance giving a view of geographic expansiveness of the region.
- The cooler climate and windy breeze on top of the peak provide a soothing break to the hikers who have hiked long distances.
- There is often a cultural layer of legends and folklore around Mandango Peak by the local guides.
- The beginning of the trail is indicated by a small signpost explaining the route, thus making the travelers safe to explore the place either alone or with a group of people.
Reason 05
Discover More
Sampiruhan River
- The Sampiruhan River presents a peaceful environment where people can swim, have picnics with their families and enjoy taking walks near its riverbanks hence a popular destination among the locals and tourists.
- Water levels do vary with the seasons with spring introducing a smooth flow that is good to go swimming in, and the summer months may fill the river making it seem more adventurous.
- The natural landscape provided by the river such as the tall trees and the green vegetation produces a shaded atmosphere that is ideal during a midday break against the sun.
- Furnished with plain wooden benches, the riverbank also entertains visitors to come and sit and read books, or just watch the smooth waves of the water.
- Local farmers sometimes establish stalls along the river selling fresh fruit and grilled snacks and handmade crafts, to provide a flavor of the local culture.
- The location of the Sampiruhan River makes it an easy way to have a spontaneous afternoon trip out since the river is not far away (only a few minutes) and located at the outskirts of the town.
ATV and Adventure Trails
- A number of barangays have off-road tracks which one may ride on with an ATV, giving the person an adrenaline rush in venturing into the hills and forest cover of Libona.
- The courses include easy trails that can be used by novices, and rougher trails that would challenge the skilled riders.
- Riders will also have the excitement of riding through the natural formations besides enjoying the picturesque landscape of ridges and mini waterfalls.
- The rental services and safety instructions are provided by the local operators, so that the experience of even the first time riders will be safe and enjoy.
- The paths are also kept clear in order to conserve the flora around the area giving the riders a chance to enjoy the natural beauty without destroying nature.
- Following such an adventurous experience, the riders will enjoy a relaxing time at the picnic areas in the vicinity, where they will be served with drinks and get an opportunity to exchange narrations with other adventure seekers.
Farm-to-Table Experiences
- Activities that may be done by the visitors include picking ripe corn, harvesting fresh vegetables and understanding the methods of sustainable farming directly by the farmers.
- These practical lessons offer understanding of the farming activities that support the society and supply food to the immediate market.
- Once the harvest is harvested, visitors are invited to share a meal with the products that are harvested that specific day, and this makes the meal special to be emphasized as how fresh the products are.
- The experience focuses on how the land and the table are so close to each other and makes one appreciate the effort invested in every meal.
- Owners of the farms will often tell about the history of their family farms, which provides cultural background that enhances the eating experience.
- The show is equally accessible to all ages, as the show is a learning experience to children and a soothing tutorial to adults.
View Decks & Ridge Stops
- The unofficial scenic sites in the upland barangays are the ideal places to take photos where one gets to have a panoramic view of the valleys in the bottom.
- Every ridge stop has some simple seats and in some cases a small wooden bench that makes the view more stable over a longer period of time.
- Tourists will be able to carry a picnic and capitalize on the peaceful environment to relax as they appreciate the natural environment.
- The signage may be in the form of simple signage making the stops very easy to locate by visitors without having to have a map that is detailed.
- The sparse structure of the decks merges with the nature and the natural rustic beauty of the hills is maintained.
- These are the places where a number of hikers stop to have a break, hear the wind and enjoy the calm that will be forever experienced by an elevated view.
Reason 06
Culture Traditions
- The local culture is an intertwining of Higaonon nativity and Visayan traditions that make a peculiar mosaic of the culture that is honored during festivals in the community.
- The Tagsa fiesta of Libona town, which is celebrated every year, reflects the traditional dances, music and floats in the parade and brings tourist to the center of the local celebrations.
- Rituals such as pag-ampo are held during harvest times, where the participants are invited to observe spiritual activities, which show respect to ancestors and land.
- Members of the community focus on hospitality, and they tend to encourage tourists to have meals in their homes where fresh farm produce and local dishes are on the menu.
- Craftsmanship is maintained by the local workshops, particularly in weaving and woodcarving, where the local artisans teach their methods to interested visitors.
- This stewardship approach to ancestral lands can be seen when the community considers its sources as it develops them in balance to treat nature well.
Reason 07
Food Fun Fashion
Food
- Daily meals are made of corn like binaki and boiled corn are made using corn as a base ingredient; the food is hearty and comforting and they represent the agricultural abundance of the area.
- Salads, stir-fries, as well as stews are made with fresh vegetables that directly come out of the adjacent farms; this way, it makes the meals not only healthy but also delicious.
- The specialties of the place are chicken and native pork, which is usually cooked in native spices and on open fires, giving them a smoky flavor.
- Sweet desserts like biko and cassava desserts give the opportunity to explore the diversity of local ingredients and ginamos contributes a savory, fermented twist to food.
- Cagayan de Oro influence is also noticeable in such dishes as grilled meats or sinuglaw which is a combination of coastal ingredients with inland ones.
- The authentic culinary experience provided by the farmers in the town center will allow the visitors to taste freshly made food and buy local products.
Fun
- Swimming in Sampiruhan River is a relaxing experience in the hot afternoons, and the crystal water offered is a safe place to the family.
- There are hiking paths and trails that cut across pine forests and open ridges where a brave traveler can challenge his stamina, and can also enjoy the breathtaking scenes.
- Biking through the countryside through the smooth hills, provides another means to see the countryside at a slow speed.
- The nature of ATV adventure in rocky trails gives an adrenaline rush, and when riding around the hills through the twists and turns, individuals experience the thrill.
- Events such as local festivals entail parades, dances of the tribes, and feasts where the visitors get a chance to be immersed in rich cultural showcases.
- Morning mists or morning shots taken up on the hillsides or sunrise watching in the ridges make the tour unforgettable as they show the beauty of nature in the area.
Fashion
- Fashionable outdoor apparel such as hats, hiking footwear, wind-breakers, etc., helps the traveling person to remain comfortable as he walks around the irregular landscape.
- Farm tours are a good occasion to wear denim jeans, heavy boots and long-sleeve shirts as they protect against the sun and insects.
- The Higaonon traditional clothing, which is very bright in color, has beadwork and weaving, is presented during cultural performances and community events.
- Everyday clothes (easy shirts, casual jeans, and sandals), are of the casual provincial style that is easy to wear and befits the relaxed lifestyle in the countryside of Libona.
- When taking photographs at very high heights, the light jackets and breathable garments are lightweight and comfortable, and they keep one warm.
- Seasonal clothes (layers in cool mornings and breathable fabrics in humid afternoons, etc.) allow travelers to adjust to the microclimate of Libona.
Reason 08
Nature Safari
- The terrain is made up of rolling hills and fertile river valleys that provide great viewing opportunities of birds and several of them are endemic to the Bukidnon region.
- The numerous waterfalls which cut through the landscape are beautiful places to recline and reflect particularly when the season is wet and the water is flowing in large amounts.
- Forested places near farmlands are also used as hiking trails which combine rural and urban farms with the wilderness, attracting eco-tourists.
- The farms and ranches that make up the region are also home to guided eco-safari tours, where tourists can look at livestock and see how sustainable farming can be practiced.
- The natural environment is home to diverse wildlife and as such, wildlife viewing is one of the potential side activities the visitor can engage in provided he or she loves adventure.
- Most of the tours incorporate environmental education and the traveler can learn more on the ecological importance of the surrounding area.
Reason 09
Events Fiestas
- Another festival that highlights colorful local specialty is the Libona Town Fiesta held every year that includes colorful parades, spirited dance performances, and a colorful food fair features local specialty.
- Agricultural festivals are used to celebrate the harvesting of corn, livestock and other farm produce where the farmers are given a chance to showcase their farming produce.
- Higaonon is a tribal ceremony such as pag-ampo which gathers both the members of the community and visitors to practice and embrace spiritual rituals.
- Sports contests, like a basketball match or tug-of-war, are commonly held by the local community, which helps them to get along better and engage in friendly rivalry.
- The calendar is also marked with religious celebrations including Mass and processions as the inhabitants have strong faith.
- The harvests or festivals and other natural phenomena that attract tourists who seek an original culture makes Libona a destination that is attractive to tourists all year round.
- To support your trip, you can make your trip through booking with World Pinoy Flights to make it easily and safely fly in to the city of Cagayan de Oro and then undertake a short drive to the core of the town in holidays to Libona Bukidnon.