Dahilayan Hotels

Named after Bukidnon’s pioneering governor, Manolo Fortich is just an hour away from the bustling Cagayan de Oro City.

Many people might consider Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon as just a side trip from CDO, but it deserves a visit on its own. With its fresh air, scenic views, and a wide range of outdoor recreational entertainment, it’s not surprising that Manolo Fortich is a favorite weekend getaway in Mindanao. Activities and amenities have been planned with families – and adrenaline junkies – in mind.

How to Go

By plane

Local airlines including Air Asia and Philippine Airlines have regular flights to Laguindingan Airport in Cagayan de Oro. From there, take a van going to Agora Market Terminal, where there are buses and vans that can take you to Manolo Fortich.

Getting Around

You can rent a van from Cagayan de Oro or a habal-habal (motorcycle) from Camp Phillips – this is where the Del Monte pineapple plantation is – to get around Manolo Fortich.

Tourist Attractions

Manolo Fortich is making a name for itself as an exciting eco-adventure hub. Dahilayan Forest Park and Dahilayan Adventure Park are its main draws. Located at the foot of Mt. Kitanglad, Dahilayan Forest Park is a distinct outdoor tourist destination in Bukidnon. It features exciting rides and activities that travelers will enjoy.

Meanwhile, Mangima Canyon is viewable from the Sayre Highway and offers stunning views of the area. It is dubbed as the Kennon Road of the South.

Another Manolo Fortich highlight is Del Monte’s vast pineapple plantation, which dates back to the 1930s.

Top Things to Do

Make sure to plan a trip to Dahilayan Forest Park. One of the best tourist destinations in the area. Enjoy family-friendly activities such as the Forest Luge, ATV and Buggy Trail Adventure, Forest Putt Mini Golf, Treetop Adventure, Zorb, Barrel Train, Bumper Boat, Hanging Bridge, Monkey Tree Challenge, and Bungee Bounce and Net Trampoline. Park entrance fee is P100 and P50 (for children 10 years old and below). Activities are paid for separately.

For avid thrill seekers, Dahilayan Adventure Park has Asia’s longest dual zip line. There’s also the Skytower Base Jump, Dropzone Freefall Ride, Flying Lizard Canopy Glider, Python Roller Zipride, and a challenging Tower of Power Ropes Course. Group packages starting from P1,200 per head are available.

If you want a more laid-back activity, do a farm tour. All farms specialize in ornamental plants. RPA Ventures has lovely cut flowers, while Magic Farms and Acosta Farms grow fruits like durian, marang, and rambutan.

Learn more about local agriculture at Kampo Juan, named after its owner, famed agriculturist Dr. Juan Acosta. Their beautiful heritage house is worth the trip.

Include a visit to the Del Monte plantation for a game of golf and a taste of their sweet pineapples.

Where to Eat

The Club House at the Del Monte Golf Course and Country Club is renowned for their highlander steak and satisfying comfort food options. Forest Park Café at Dahilayan Forest Park has freshly baked cinnamon rolls and ensaymada, best paired with a cup of their signature hot chocolate.

Nightlife

Make your way back to Cagayan de Oro if you’re looking for nightlife possibilities usually found in cosmopolitan cities. Manolo Fortich is for those who want a breath of fresh air amidst lush, green surroundings.

Where to Stay

Feel like you’re staying in a good friend’s posh rest house at Bukidnon Country Lodge. The two-storey lodge has 4 beautifully decorated rooms, a swimming pool, and a relaxing garden. It’s also 3 kilometers away from a golf course.

Dahilayan Forest Park Resort sits at the foot of Mt. Kitanglad so guests are in for scenic views and cool, crisp weather. Plus, guests enjoy discounted rates on Dahilayan Forest Park attractions. The rate for a Standard Room starts from P2,640 per night. There are also Family Rooms, Big Family Rooms, and Barkada Rooms – dorm type rooms with bunk beds and can accommodate up to 24 guests.

Escape and spend a long weekend at Dahilayan Pine Grove Mountain Lodge. You can book a Standard Room, which starts at P2,800 per night. Deluxe Rooms, Suite Rooms, Family Rooms, Family Loft-type Rooms, or Dormitory Rooms are also available. From here you can enjoy the thrilling attractions at Dahilayan Adventure Park.

Travel Tips

• Bring your sense of adventure. Manolo Fortich offers a lot of thrills so make the most out of your stay and do something you’ve never done before. Having said that, though, make sure you’re cleared of any health issues prior to your trip.
• Pack lightweight outdoor clothes and comfortable footwear.
• Bring the entire family or barkada with you to get the best rates. As they say, the more the merrier.