Photo Credit: Booking.com
I’ll never forget the moment I first laid eyes on Mt. Hamiguitan Escape Resort. Tucked away in the lush mountains of San Isidro, Davao Oriental, this hidden gem immediately captured my heart with its stunning forest garden setting and serene mountain atmosphere. If you’re searching for an authentic escape from the chaos of city life, you’ve just stumbled upon something truly special. This isn’t your typical cookie-cutter resort; it’s a mountainside sanctuary where nature takes center stage and relaxation becomes second nature.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about planning your visit to Mt. Hamiguitan Escape Resort. From getting there to what you’ll experience, I’ve got you covered with insider tips, practical advice, and honest insights that’ll help you make the most of your mountain getaway.
What is Mt. Hamiguitan Escape Resort?
Mt. Hamiguitan Escape Resort is a small forest garden resort in La Union, San Isidro, Davao Oriental. It’s close to the Mt. Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, giving guests easy access to one of the region’s most unique natural attractions. The setting is quiet, surrounded by greenery, and far enough from the city to feel like a real break.
The resort is designed to blend with the mountain environment. You’ll find a pool, garden areas, and open spaces that highlight the surrounding landscape rather than compete with it. Guests often describe the place as clean, peaceful, and relaxing—ideal for anyone who wants a simple, nature-focused stay without the usual commercial resort feel.
Why You Need to Visit Mt. Hamiguitan Escape Resort
Mt. Hamiguitan Escape Resort is a quiet place to disconnect from daily noise. Instead of crowds and city hotels, you get fresh mountain air, open spaces, and a calm setting that works for families, couples, and solo travelers. It’s the kind of environment where you can slow down, relax, and enjoy moments without distractions.
The resort is also close to Mt. Hamiguitan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rare wildlife and unique pygmy forest. Guests can easily explore the area through nearby trails or simple nature walks. The pools and open spaces suit kids, couples enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, and solo travelers find plenty of room to unwind. It’s a flexible and refreshing escape for any type of traveler.
Getting to Mt. Hamiguitan Escape Resort: Your Transportation Guide
Alright, let’s talk logistics. Getting to Mt. Hamiguitan Escape Resort requires some planning, but it’s absolutely manageable, and honestly, the journey through Davao Oriental is part of the experience.
By Air
The closest airport is Francisco Bangoy International Airport in Davao City, with daily flights from Manila, Cebu, and other major cities. Several airlines fly this route, giving you options for schedule and price.
The airport is about 91 miles (147 km) from the resort, which means a 3-4 hour drive depending on traffic and road conditions. While it’s a bit of a trip, the scenic coastal and mountain views along the way make the journey enjoyable.
By Land
From Davao City, you can drive or rent a car and follow coastal roads to Mati City, then head inland to San Isidro. The route offers great ocean views, but some areas may have spotty phone signal.
If you prefer public transport, buses and vans run regularly from Davao City to Mati. From Mati, you’ll need to take a tricycle or local ride to reach the resort in San Isidro. This option takes longer but is cheaper than private vehicles.
Some resorts, including Mt. Hamiguitan Escape Resort, may offer shuttle services—check ahead to see if you can arrange a pick-up and avoid travel hassles.
Best Time to Travel
Davao Oriental has two main seasons: dry (November to May) and wet (June to October). The dry season, especially December to April, offers the best weather for hiking and a more comfortable stay at the resort. This is also peak season, so booking early is recommended.
The wet season can still work since rain usually comes as afternoon showers. You’ll find fewer crowds and lower prices, plus the forests are lush and vibrant. Just bring rain gear and be ready to adjust plans if needed.
Accommodation Options at Mt. Hamiguitan Escape Resort
Let me be straight with you: Mt. Hamiguitan Escape Resort doesn’t offer the luxury of five-star hotels in Manila or Boracay. And honestly? That’s not the point. What you get instead is comfortable, clean accommodation that keeps the focus where it belongs, on the incredible natural surroundings.
Photo Credit: Booking.com
Room Types and Amenities
The resort offers family rooms focused on comfort and practicality, with garden views that bring the mountain and forest right to your window. Most rooms are on the ground floor, making them easy to access for kids and older guests.
Rooms come with basic essentials like comfortable beds, shared bathrooms, and outdoor seating to enjoy the peaceful surroundings. There are no luxury extras like TVs or room service—this place is about simplicity, cleanliness, and being close to nature. Guests often praise how well-kept and thoughtfully arranged the rooms are.
What’s Included in Your Stay
When you stay at Mt. Hamiguitan Escape Resort, you get access to the pool, gardens, terraces, and other shared spaces. Most guests also enjoy breakfast included in their booking, served at the resort’s restaurant.
The resort offers a comfortable, convenient base for exploring Mt. Hamiguitan while giving you a relaxing place to unwind after a day of adventure. It’s all about location, nature, and simple comfort.
Pricing and Value for Money
Rates at the resort generally range from approximately ₱2,000 to ₱3,000 per night for family rooms (roughly $40-$60 USD), though prices fluctuate based on season, room type, and booking platform. These rates position the resort in the mid-range category not budget backpacker level, but certainly not luxury pricing either.
For what you’re getting mountain location, proximity to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, swimming facilities, and peaceful surroundings—the value is solid. You’re not paying for marble lobbies or concierge services. You’re investing in access to one of the Philippines’ most remarkable natural areas with comfortable accommodations to support your adventure.
Booking Tips: Reserve directly with the resort when possible to potentially negotiate better rates. Check multiple booking platforms (Booking.com, Agoda, TripAdvisor) to compare prices. Consider visiting during shoulder seasons (late May or early November) for lower rates with still-decent weather.
Top Activities and Experiences at the Resort
Now we’re getting to the good stuff. What actually do you do at Mt. Hamiguitan Escape Resort? Let me break down both the on-site experiences and the incredible adventures waiting just beyond the resort gates.
On-Site Activities
Photo Credit: Booking.com
The resort’s outdoor pool is the main hangout spot for guests. After hiking or during warm afternoons, it’s perfect for cooling off while enjoying peaceful forest views. Families especially appreciate the pool area, where kids can play and parents can relax nearby.
The gardens and terraces feel natural and inviting, with native plants and plenty of quiet spots to unwind. Photography lovers will enjoy capturing the changing light, mountain mist, and vibrant greenery. The resort’s restaurant serves simple, hearty Asian and barbecue dishes made with local ingredients—comfort food that fuels your adventures and encourages friendly conversations.
Dining at Mt. Hamiguitan Escape Resort
Food at Mt. Hamiguitan Escape Resort takes a refreshingly straightforward approach. This isn’t fine dining with tasting menus and wine pairings. It’s honest, satisfying food that fuels your adventures and brings people together.
Restaurant Options
The resort’s main restaurant is both a dining spot and a place to meet fellow travelers. The menu features Filipino comfort food and Asian barbecue, with dishes like adobo, sinigang, grilled fish, and rice meals—classic flavors locals love.
Portions are generous, with bold flavors made from mostly local ingredients sourced from nearby communities. The open-air setting lets you enjoy your meal with fresh mountain air and the sounds of the forest around you.
Meal Plans and Packages
Many guests choose packages that include breakfast, which usually features Filipino staples like garlic rice, eggs, local sausage or dried fish, fresh fruit, coffee, and juice. For lunch and dinner, you can opt for meal packages or order à la carte—packages offer better value if you plan to eat all your meals at the resort, while à la carte suits those spending full days exploring.
The resort can handle basic dietary needs if informed ahead of time, but options are simpler than in city restaurants. For hiking days, it’s a good idea to arrange packed lunches with the resort—having sandwiches and snacks ready makes your trek easier than cooking at campsites.
Booking Your Stay at Mt. Hamiguitan Escape Resort
Let’s talk about actually securing your reservation. The booking process is straightforward, but knowing the details helps avoid surprises.
How to Make Reservations
Mt. Hamiguitan Escape Resort appears on major booking platforms, including:
- Booking.com
- Agoda
- TripAdvisor
- Direct resort contact (often via Facebook or phone)
Each booking option has its perks. Third-party sites like Booking.com and Agoda offer user reviews, flexible cancellations, and easy price comparisons. But contacting the resort directly—especially for groups or longer stays—can sometimes get you better rates or special packages not found on those sites.
The resort’s Facebook page (Mt. Hamiguitan Escape) is active and responsive. Many smaller Philippine resorts use Facebook Messenger for bookings, so don’t be surprised if that becomes your main way to communicate with them.
When booking, you’ll typically need:
- Guest names and contact information
- Check-in and check-out dates
- Number of rooms and guests
- Special requests (dietary requirements, accessibility needs, etc.)
- Payment information (deposit or full payment, depending on policy)
Cancellation Policies
Cancellation policies depend on where and how you book. Some sites like Booking.com offer free cancellation up to 24-48 hours before arrival, usually at a slightly higher price. Non-refundable rates are cheaper but don’t allow changes or refunds.
Always check the cancellation terms before booking and save a copy of the policy. Plans can change, so knowing your options helps avoid surprises later.
Special Packages and Promotions
Keep an eye out for:
- Group discounts: Travelling with family or friends? Ask about group rates for multiple rooms.
- Long-stay packages: Extended bookings (5+ nights) sometimes qualify for discounted nightly rates.
- Off-season promotions: The wet season (June-October) often features lower prices to attract visitors despite weather unpredictability.
- Package deals: Some offers bundle accommodation with meals, Mt. Hamiguitan trek coordination, or other activities.
Pro tip: Book directly for the best chance at negotiating packages, especially for special occasions or group trips. Automated booking platforms don’t haggle; human resort managers sometimes can.
Nearby Attractions Beyond the Resort
While Mt. Hamiguitan Escape Resort and the sanctuary could easily occupy your entire visit, the surrounding region offers additional worthwhile experiences.
Mt. Hamiguitan Area Highlights
The Mt. Hamiguitan Natural Science Museum at the World Heritage Park provides interactive exhibits about the sanctuary’s ecology, species, and conservation efforts. It’s educational and beautifully done—perfect for understanding what you’re about to hike through or reflecting on what you’ve just experienced.
The park facilities include a bird-watching deck, hanging bridge, and nature trails for those wanting Mt. Hamiguitan experiences without committing to the full summit trek. The tree-top obstacle course and flying lemur gliding ride add adventure elements for families and thrill-seekers.
Day Trip Possibilities
Pujada Bay, located about 30-40 minutes from the resort area, ranks as one of Davao Oriental’s crown jewels. This stunning bay features white sand beaches, calm turquoise waters, and impressive coral reefs. It’s currently under consideration as an extension to the Mt. Hamiguitan World Heritage Site, which tells you something about its ecological significance.
The bay offers excellent snorkeling and diving, with at least 25 genera of hard and soft corals supporting diverse marine life. After days in the mountains, a beach day at Pujada Bay provides perfect balance—and the contrast between mountain and ocean ecosystems highlights the region’s remarkable biodiversity.
Mati City, the provincial capital, sits within a reasonable distance and offers more urban amenities: proper restaurants, shopping, and the Mati Public Market, where you can experience local life and find fresh produce and seafood. It’s worth a visit if you need to resupply or want a brief return to civilization.
Local Communities Worth Visiting
The municipalities around Mt. Hamiguitan, San Isidro, Governor Generoso, and surrounding barangays host warm, welcoming communities. Consider visiting local markets, talking with residents, and learning about life in this part of Mindanao. These interactions often provide the most authentic travel memories.
Indigenous communities, including the Mandaya people, maintain traditional connections to the land and sea. Respectful cultural tourism that supports these communities adds a meaningful dimension to your visit. Ask resort staff about appropriate ways to engage with local culture.
Combining Your Resort Stay with Regional Exploration
A smart itinerary might look like: Days 1-3 at Mt. Hamiguitan Escape Resort with sanctuary trekking, Day 4 at Pujada Bay for beach relaxation, Day 5 exploring Mati City and local communities before returning to Davao City. This approach gives you mountains, ocean, and cultural experiences—the full Davao Oriental package.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mt. Hamiguitan Escape Resort family-friendly?
Absolutely. The resort features family rooms, kid-friendly pools, and safe outdoor spaces where children can explore. The natural setting provides educational opportunities kids can learn about biodiversity, conservation, and wildlife in engaging, hands-on ways. Just supervise young children near pool areas and during any hiking activities.
Do I need to be physically fit to enjoy the area?
It depends. The resort itself requires no particular fitness level; you can swim, relax, and enjoy the gardens without breaking a sweat. However, if you’re planning to summit Mt. Hamiguitan, you need good fitness. The trek is challenging, involves steep terrain, and requires endurance. You’ll need a medical certificate confirming fitness for extreme activities. Casual nature walks in lower sanctuary areas fall somewhere in between—manageable for most people with basic mobility.
Is WiFi available at the resort?
WiFi exists, but don’t expect blazing speeds or constant connectivity. This is a remote mountain location, so internet access is limited and sometimes unreliable. Mobile signal similarly comes and goes. Treat this as an opportunity to disconnect rather than a problem to solve. Download any necessary materials before arrival, and embrace the digital detox.
Can I visit the Mt. Hamiguitan UNESCO site from the resort?
Yes! That’s one of the resort’s biggest advantages. The Mt. Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary sits just 3.9 miles (about 6.3 kilometers) away, making day trips extremely feasible. The resort can help coordinate guides, transportation, and necessary permits. For summit treks, you’ll work with the Protected Area Management Office (PAMO), booking at least 10 days in advance.
What’s the cancellation policy?
It varies by booking platform and rate type. Many reservations offer free cancellation up to 24-48 hours before arrival. Non-refundable rates cost less but commit you fully. Always read the specific policy for your booking before confirming. If booking directly with the resort, ask about their cancellation terms explicitly.
Are there ATMs or banks nearby?
Not immediately adjacent to the resort. The nearest banking services are in larger towns like Mati City or San Isidro proper. Bring sufficient cash for your entire stay, including tips, small purchases, and emergency funds. Credit cards may not be widely accepted in this rural area.
Is the resort open year-round?
Yes, Mt. Hamiguitan Escape Resort operates throughout the year. However, weather conditions significantly impact the experience. The dry season (November-May) offers the most reliable weather, while the wet season (June-October) brings afternoon rains and potentially challenging hiking conditions. The resort remains open, but you’ll want to adjust expectations and activities based on current weather.
Final Thoughts: Is Mt. Hamiguitan Escape Resort Worth It?
Let me be completely honest with you. If you’re chasing Instagram-worthy infinity pools, Michelin-star dining, or nightlife that lasts until dawn, Mt. Hamiguitan Escape Resort isn’t your destination. Look elsewhere for those experiences; they exist, just not here.
But if you’re yearning for authentic connection with nature, if you want to wake up to mountain mist and fall asleep to forest sounds, if you believe that true luxury is space to breathe and time to simply exist without agenda—then yes, this place is absolutely worth it.
The resort’s greatest strength is its unpretentious authenticity. It doesn’t try to be a luxury mountain resort.
