For those who loves thrilling and relaxing mountain adventures, the Province of Maguindanao has a perfect place for you - Mt. Minandar!
Located in Brgy. Cusiong in the Municipality of Datu Odin Sinsuat, Mt. Minandar (1464 feet above sea level) is gaining popularity among outdoor enthusiasts from Cotabato City and neighboring places because of its proximity and the amazing views from the peak. From Cotabato City, Brgy. Cusiong, DOS is less than 30 minutes away via paved roads.
Did a solo climb to Mt. Minandar last week and the whole experience was amazing. At the peak I was rewarded with remarkable views of Illana Bay, Cusiong Beach, Timako Hills and Bongo Island. The famous Grand Mosque in Cotabato City can also be seen in Mt. Minandar. Check out the following photos.
From General Santos City, I took the 1st trip of Husky Bus bound to Cotabato City. The bus left Gensan past 4 AM, made several stops in Koronadal City, Tacurong and Isulan and by 7:30 AM I was already in Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao. I asked the bus driver to drop me off in Crossing SPDA.
I then looked for a tricycle or payong-payong and instructed the driver to bring me to the house of Kagawad Adal in Brgy. Cusiong near Kusiong Elementary School. The tricycle ride lasted for more or less 10 minutes from the highway. I enjoyed riding the payong-payong. Fare was P150.00.
At the house of Kagawad Adal, a kid guided me to Mt. Minandar registration booth where I signed my name in the log book, paid the P25.00 environmental fee and P150.00 for the tour guide fee. My guide, Bryan, then lead me to Mt. Minandar.
We left the registration area at around 8:30 AM and by 10 AM I was already at the base camp. Took rest for few minutes at the kubo and by 11 AM I reached the peak of Mt. Minandar.
The trail was easy for the first hour and there are makeshift stores for refreshments and rest stops along the trail.
