Mount Lantawan
A steep, little-visited 560-meter peak near Danao City known for its dragon-shaped ridge and highland views.
The overview
About Mount Lantawan
Mount Lantawan is a 560-meter peak in the uplands of Barangay Cahumayan, Danao City, best known locally for its jagged, dragon-like ridgeline, which is especially visible when viewed from nearby Mount Manghilao. It sits farther inland than its better-known neighbor and sees far fewer visitors, making it more of a hidden-gem hike for those who have already done the more popular pilgrimage climb. The trail starts near a chapel in Cahumayan, reached by a concrete road that branches off from the route toward Manghilao's base. From there the path turns steep and bushy, with sharp inclines, loose rock, and thick, prickly vegetation that has scratched up more than one hiker's arms and legs. The climb to the summit takes roughly an hour and is rated a moderate-to-challenging scramble rather than a casual walk; a local guide is worth arranging since the trail is not signposted. The payoff is a narrow ridge with sweeping views over Danao's highlands toward the Camotes Sea, quieter and less developed than Manghilao's cross-marked summit, with no facilities or crowds. Many hikers combine the two peaks into a single long day trip out of Danao.
What makes it worth it
Highlights
- Distinctive dragon-shaped ridgeline
- 560-meter summit in Barangay Cahumayan
- Quiet, less-visited alternative to Mount Manghilao
- Steep, bushy trail for a proper scramble
- Views over Danao's uplands toward the Camotes Sea
- Often paired with Manghilao in a single day trip
- 1 Arrange a local guide in Cahumayan since the trail is unmarked and easy to lose. Wear long sleeves and pants for thick, prickly brush, plus shoes with good grip for loose rock on the steep sections. Start early to leave enough daylight for the descent, especially if pairing the climb with Mount Manghilao. Location approximate — confirm on arrival.
Wayfinder route
How to get there
From Cebu City, take a bus or jeepney to Danao City (about 1-1.5 hours, PHP 35-40). From Danao's town proper, take a habal-habal to Barangay Cahumayan (about 30-40 minutes, PHP 50-60), where the trail starts near the barangay chapel.
Nearby on the chart
Where to stay & eat nearby
Danasan Eco Adventure Park
₱₱Danao City
Premier adventure park with zipline, skybike, rappelling, and more.
View & BookDanasan Eco Park Resort
₱Danao City
Adventure park accommodations with dormitories and private cottages.
View & BookSantos Sto. Tomas de Villanueva Church
₱Danao City
Historic coral stone church from the Spanish colonial period.
View & BookDanao City Port
₱Danao City
Gateway port to Camotes Islands with regular ferry services.
View & BookKeep exploring
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Entrance Fee
Free; optional local guide fee (negotiate on site, roughly PHP 200-300)
Opening Hours
Daylight hours; best started in the early morning
Duration
2-4 hours
Difficulty
Moderate
Best Time to Visit
Dry season (November-May), early morning start recommended
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