Getting high at Communal Ranch

EVER dreamed of being a cowboy for a day, watching the sunrise over a valley surrounded by breathtaking mountain peaks, deep canyons, and gorges? Head straight to Impasugong, which has been declared the tribal capital of Bukidnon and the mountain tourism capital of the province.

Impasugong, one of Bukidnon's oldest towns, derives its name from the Higaonon term meaning «make the current come upstream.» It is predominantly inhabited by the Higaonons, accounting for 65 percent, while the rest are of mixed tribes.

Having been part of the district of Misamis during the Spanish colonial period, Impasugong became a separate municipality in 1920 under the newly created province of Bukidnon. An agricultural town, it thrives on crops such as rice, corn, and sugarcane, with livestock production contributing significantly to the local economy. The local government has allocated a 642-hectare land area as a communal ranch where local cowboys breed cattle, horses, and other livestock.

Lake at the Communal Ranch. Horseback riding at Communal Ranch The Communal Ranch Impasugong Tourism Office Mountain view at Communal Ranch. Mountain view at Communal Ranch Motorela going to Communal Ra

How to get there

Impasugong is situated 75 kilometers south of Cagayan de Oro, an easy one and a half-hour drive via Cagayan de Oro-Bukidnon Highway and the mountain roads of Sayre Highway, passing through the municipalities of Manolo Fortich and Sumilao. From Davao, it's about 260 kilometers or a 5- to 6-hour drive via BuDa and Sayre Highway, offering a welcome break on the long journey from Davao to Cagayan de Oro.

All visitors heading to Communal Ranch and other attractions must register at the Tourism Office. The entrance fee is P50 plus an environmental fee of P20. After registration, it's a 30-minute (13-kilometer) drive via Sayre Highway and old Sayre before entering the dirt road leading to Communal Ranch. The parking fee is P200 pesos for four-wheeled vehicles and P50 for two-wheeled vehicles.

From Manila, take a one-hour and 30-minute flight to Laguindingan airport. From there, take the Magnum van shuttle (1 hour, P200) to Limketkai in Cagayan de Oro, then a taxi to Agora Bus Terminal.