COMMUNAL RANCH BUKIDNON: Best Things To Do and How To Get There
Stepping into the Communal Ranch in Impasug-ong, Bukidnon, felt like walking straight into a nature’s masterpiece. Imagine standing in the middle of a vast ranch wonderland, surrounded by the stunning panorama of mountain ridges like Paminahawa, Kapayawan, and Kaanibungan. Known as the “Home of the Country’s Finest Cowboys,” this is actually the only Local Government-run ranch in the Philippines!
Whether you’re looking for a quiet escape or a cinematic backdrop for your next reel, this place has a rawness that is hard to find elsewhere. Here is everything you need to know to plan your visit to this “Little New Zealand” of the South.
BEST THINGS TO DO IN COMMUNAL RANCH BUKIDNON
Once you arrive, the views are truly endless. It’s a photo paradise where every corner looks like a postcard, from the rolling meadows to the grazing farm animals.
While many compare it to New Zealand, my experience felt more like the hills of Batanes—rugged, windy, and breathtakingly beautiful.
Here are a few things that you can do to maximize your visit in the Communal Ranch Bukidnon.
1. Horseback Riding
For just ₱250.00, you get a whole hour of riding like a ranch pro. Yee-haw! It’s a must-try activity, trotting through the ranch and wind in your hair. It’s the ultimate cowgirl/boy moment. The vibe is lakas maka haciendera.
Personally, I didn’t try it during my visit because I just wasn’t in the mood at the time. But looking back at my photos now, I totally regret it! Don’t be like me—give it a go, even if it’s just for the “gram” and the memories.
2. Sightseeing at the Pond
There isn’t a long list of “activities” to do at the pond, but that’s the beauty of it. It’s a spot meant for taking a leisurely stroll, breathing in the crisp mountain air, and letting the quiet sink in.
For me, the pond is the perfect place to just be in the moment. There is something so cinematic about the water reflecting the mountain ridges in the background. I absolutely loved the rawness of the scenery here.
HOW TO GET TO COMMUNAL RANCH BUKIDNON
The ranch is located in Impasug-ong, Bukidnon. The journey itself is a treat—the roads offer cinematic, movie-like views all the way to the entrance.
From Dahilayan
Getting to Communal Ranch Bukindon if you are coming from the adventure hubs of Dahilayan (like Dahilayan Adventure Park or Forest Park), it’s a relatively straightforward drive that takes about 1.5 hours.
From Valencia City
- Public Transport: From Valencia City, hop on a bus (Pasaherong Bolante or any bus heading north toward Cagayan de Oro) and ask the conductor to drop you off at the Impasug-ong Tourism Center.
- Registration: You must stop at the Tourism Office first to register and pay the necessary municipal fees.
- Habal-Habal Ride: From the town proper, you can hire a motorcycle (habal-habal) to take you up to the ranch. The road can be a bit bumpy, but the scenery makes up for it!
For Private Cars
If you’re bringing your own vehicle, simply pin “Communal Ranch Impasug-ong” on Google Maps.
We arrived around 12 noon after a trip from Dahilayan. It was a bit cloudy, which was a blessing because we didn’t have to deal with the intense midday heat!
Fees and Amenities
Wonder how much it costs to visit the Communal Ranch in Impasug-ong, Bukidnon? Visiting the ranch is quite affordable. It’s a great side trip that won’t break the bank.
- Entrance Fee: ₱70 per person
- Parking Fee (Car): ₱200
- Parking Fee (Motorcycle): ₱100
- Horseback Riding: ₱250 per hour
Amenities: There is a small snack canteen for refreshments and a basic comfort room available for visitors.
TRAVEL TIPS WHEN VISITING COMMUNAL RANCH BUKIDNON
- Check the Weather: Bukidnon can be unpredictable. If it rains, the road to the ranch can get very muddy and slippery, making it harder for small cars to pass.
- Bring Cash: There are no ATMs at the ranch or in the immediate vicinity. Make sure to have enough for your entrance, parking, and that “haciendera” horseback riding experience.
- Pack a Jacket: Even at noon, the wind at the ranch can be quite chilly because of the elevation. A light windbreaker is your best friend here.
- No Overnight Stays: There are no accommodations here, and camping is currently not allowed. Plan this as a day trip only.
- Connectivity: Signal can be spotty. As a digital nomad, I usually check my connection beforehand, but this is one of those places where it’s better to just disconnect and enjoy the view.
- Best Time to Visit: Aim for the early morning or late afternoon (4 PM – 6 PM) to catch the golden hour and avoid the midday sun.
- Wear Sunblock: Even if it feels cool and windy, the sun can be quite strong in the open highlands.
- Respect the Animals: You’ll see cows and horses roaming around; remember that you are in their home, so keep a respectful distance.
- Support Local: If the snack canteen is open, grab a coffee or a quick bite. It’s a nice way to support the local community that manages the ranch.
Is the Communal Ranch worth visiting?
Honestly, if you are driving all the way to Bukidnon only for this ranch, it might feel a bit short—unless you’re someone like me who finds true peace in just staring at a beautiful view for hours.
The ranch is easily one of the most beautiful landscapes I’ve seen in the Philippines. It’s pure nature therapy. However, for an adventure-seeker, it’s mostly a “one-time” destination because there aren’t many high-energy activities once you’ve finished your photoshoot.
If you want to make the most of your Bukidnon province trip, pair the ranch with other nearby spots! I suggest checking out Dahilayan Forest Park for thrills, the Abbey of Transfiguration for some quiet reflection, or Pine Ridge for more of those cozy mountain vibes.
