Nestled within the scenic landscapes of Banaybanay in Davao Oriental, Sandunganan Peak has quickly emerged as a premier destination for first-time hikers seeking both adventure and cultural immersion. Since opening around June 2025, this stunning location has already welcomed approximately one thousand visitors, drawn by its manageable trails and rich Kagan heritage.
A Journey Through Culture and Nature
True to its name, which means "view deck" in the Kagan language, Sandunganan Peak once served as a strategic lookout for indigenous communities. Jiar Pandacupan, a local Kagan tour guide, explains that ancestors used this vantage point to protect their territories from intruders.
The hike features several distinctive landmarks, including a remarkable gorilla-shaped rock formation that gives the peak its alternative name, 'Gorilla Peak.' This natural sculpture appears to stand guard over the surrounding landscape, adding to the location's mystical atmosphere.
What to Expect on the Trail
The adventure begins with a crossing at Mapagba River, whose Kagan name references the scorching stones that resemble burning embers on sunny days. Hikers navigate three river crossings in total, all featuring sturdy stone steps that keep feet dry despite the water.
The trail progresses through three distinct sections, each offering unique challenges and rewards:
- Initial Section: Features muddy trails stabilized with local materials
- Middle Section: Passes through fern fields and dense forest with cooler temperatures
- Final Ascent: Opens to spectacular views of Banaybanay's rolling hills
Three major stops mark the journey upward: the Table Stone offering panoramic rest stops, the stump of a century-old tree perfect for photography, and the iconic Gorilla Stone formation.
Real Experiences from First-Time Hikers
Rose Lamaran, a Banaybanay local government employee who has lived in the area for over ten years, recently conquered the peak despite managing diabetes. "By the time I reached Station 2, I was already trembling," she shared. "It was tiring, but the feeling at the top was incredible."
For Jason, a trail runner from Davao City, Sandunganan provided the perfect balance. "It wasn't too difficult for us, but still tiring since it's quite far. Yet it was really fun and enjoyable," he noted.
Planning Your Sandunganan Adventure
Sandunganan Peak operates on weekends and holidays with three hiking batches. The earliest group departs between 3:30 and 4:00 AM for sunrise views, while the final batch leaves at 7:30 AM to avoid midday heat.
According to Pandacupan, the round trip typically takes four hours, though beginners should allow additional time. He recommends building endurance beforehand, bringing sufficient water, and wearing appropriate outdoor clothing.
The peak's growing recognition includes its inclusion in the second season of the Davao Adventure Challenge, a Department of Tourism XI initiative. Completing the Sandunganan hike earns participants 40 points toward this tourism program.
For those planning their first visit, coordinating with local tour operators ensures proper guidance and enhances the overall experience of this remarkable destination that combines natural beauty with deep cultural significance.
