The Ultimate DIY Guide to Mount Kulago: A Chill Adventure to Hummingbird Mountain

“Happy is the man, I thought, who, before dying, has the good fortune to sail the Aegean Sea.”

NIKOS KAZANTZAKIS, ZORBA THE GREEK

Are you the type who thrives on spontaneous adventures? If so, you’re in for a treat! My original plan for February was to conquer KD2LM, a dream hike that had been sitting on my 2024 bucket list for ages. After an intense four-day, three-night trek through the Kitanglad Mountain Range, I knew I couldn’t leave Bukidnon without a recovery hike—so I set my sights on Mount Kulago!

Named after the Higaonon word for “hummingbird,” this hidden gem stands at 913 meters (2,995 feet) above sea level. Don’t let its modest height fool you—Mount Kulago offers jaw-dropping views of rolling hills, rugged peaks, and lush plateaus that will leave you in awe.

And here’s the best part: I had the entire mountain to myself! No crowds, no distractions—just me and the stunning landscapes. It was the ultimate #ChillAdventure.

If you’re a fan of solo hikes, off-the-beaten-path destinations, and breathtaking nature views, this guide is for you! Keep reading to discover everything you need to know for an epic DIY day hike to Mount Kulago.

How to Get to Mount Kulago: A Step-by-Step Guide

I did this hike as a recovery trek—literally the day after completing my KD2M expedition. Since Malaybalay City is the most accessible hub after KD2M, I decided to stay there for the night. The city offers plenty of budget-friendly accommodations, including short-stay hotels and Airbnbs, making it a convenient stop before heading to Mount Kulago.

Step 1: Travel from Malaybalay to Impasug-ong

I started my journey at 2 AM, catching a bus bound for Cagayan de Oro (CDO) from the Malaybalay City Bus Terminal. If you’re taking this route, ask the driver to drop you off at Impalutao Integrated School, which is right along the highway.

Step 2: Hire a Habal-Habal to the Tourism Office

Once you arrive, you’ll find habal-habal (motorcycle taxis) in the area. These can take you to the Impasug-ong Tourism Office and then to the Mount Kulago jump-off point. Be mindful of pricing—some drivers charge up to ₱1,500 for a round trip. If you want to avoid overpaying, feel free to message me—I can connect you with local guides who offer fair rates.

Step 3: Scenic Ride Through Communal Ranch

The ride to Mount Kulago is bumpy but scenic, passing through the stunning Communal Ranch, where you’ll need to pay a ₱70 entrance fee. This area is known for its vast grasslands, rolling hills, and picturesque landscapes, so have your camera ready!

Step 4: The Final Stretch – Short Hike & River Crossing

After passing Communal Ranch, your guide will park the motorcycle along the dirt road, and from there, it’s a 30-minute hike (depending on your pace) to the river.

You’ll then take a quick bangka (small boat) ride across the river, followed by a 15-minute trek to the jump-off site, where you’ll find a small local community that also serves as the campsite.

Once you arrive, you’re all set for an unforgettable Mount Kulago adventure!

Depending on your pacing and physique, reaching Mount Kulago’s summit would only take for about two to three hours for an average hiker. Click the link to view the 4K video drone shot of Mount Kulago.

Just make sure you start hiking before breaking dawn to witness the beautiful silhouette at the summit.

It’s best to start your hike early, as the entire trail is exposed with little to no shade. Mount Kulago’s trail is a shorter hike but as hot as the Cawag Hexa circuit, making it a more manageable yet rewarding adventure. To stay comfortable, bring an umbrella, wear a hat, and apply sunscreen to protect yourself from the intense heat. The sun can be unforgiving, so proper sun protection is a must for an enjoyable trek!

Here’s the fees I paid for a solo dayhike and the fare I paid for the commute:

• 45php bus to Impalutao Integrated School, Impasug-ong from Malaybalay City
• 70php entrance fee in Communal Ranch
• 400php entrance fee in Mount Kulago jump off
• 20php for the balsa fee round trip
• 1000php guide fee
• 300php roundtrip motorcycle

I only spent around 2000 pesos with side trips in Communal Ranch and Cedar Falls on that day.

Kudos to my personal guide Yanrey Estrada with his friend Fernan. It was supposedly kuya Renante Estrada but he was busy on that day. If you want to hike solo, you can message them in their accounts and just click their names to message them privately.

The best recovery hike ever!

Mount Kulago Updates: What Changed After a Year?

A year after my unforgettable adventure, I returned to Mount Kulago—and I was met with some big changes.

New Trail, Different Experience

The original route, which featured a scenic ridge with breathtaking 360-degree views of Impasug-ong, Bukidnon, is no longer in use. Instead, a new trail has been opened along the side of the mountain. While this change was a bit disappointing—since the original trail offered some of the most stunning panoramic views—the hike to the summit remains a rewarding experience.

A Faster and More Accessible Hike

The upside? The new trail is shorter, making the ascent much quicker. If you’re an experienced hiker, you can even reach the summit before noon—even with a 5 AM start. This makes Mount Kulago an ideal day hike for those looking for a quick but fulfilling adventure.

Despite the changes, this mountain still holds a special place in my heart. It’s one of those hikes that truly belongs in the books, and I know I’ll be back again!

THINGS TO BRING- DAYHIKE

• Water (there is a watersource in the campsite, so you can bring your tumbler)
• Trailfood
• UV Protection Jacket
• Umbrella

And that’s your chill adventure guide to Mount Kulago!

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See you on my next blogs for more #ChillAdventures!