Mindanao holds secrets that only those with enough courage and a sturdy set of tires will ever truly uncover.
What is the Man of Rocks in Kitaotao and Kulaman?
The journey into the heart of the southern highlands often starts with the smell of wet earth and the sight of mountains that seem to touch the clouds. You leave the paved comfort of the city behind and enter the rugged terrain of Kitaotao where the roads are still a work in progress.
It is a place of raw beauty where the landscape shifts from lush greenery to towering walls of limestone that locals call the Man of Rocks. These twin white walls stand like silent sentinels guarding a path that was carved directly through the side of a massive mountain range.
The road here is a punishing mixture of loose gravel and deep sand that tests the balance of even the most experienced riders.
You have to maintain a steady throttle because the moment you slow down is the moment the heavy stones begin to pull your front wheel in directions you did not intend to go. The sheer scale of the limestone cliffs makes you feel like a tiny speck in a world of giants as you navigate the narrow passage.
Is the Buda Highway Zigzag road dangerous for travelers?
Once you survive the off-road trials of Kulaman you finally hit the smooth black ribbon of the Bukidnon to Davao Highway.
This is the legendary Buda Highway which serves as the main artery connecting the high mountains to the coastal plains.
The most famous section is the winding zigzag road that locals often compare to the bitukang manok or chicken intestines of Luzon. It is a series of sharp hairpins and steep descents that require a deep trust in your brakes and your ability to lean into the curves.
Heavy trucks often struggle here and the sight of a fallen vehicle on the side of the cliff is a sobering reminder to keep your speed in check.
The air at the top is noticeably thinner and cooler than the humid valleys you just left behind.
Where is the Philippine Eagle Monument located on the highway?
As you continue south the temperature drops further and the scenery changes into a dense forest of towering pine trees.
You will know you have reached the boundary of Bukidnon and Davao City when the giant silhouette of the Philippine Eagle Monument appears on the horizon. This massive structure stands as a proud symbol of the region’s biodiversity and the majesty of the king of the Philippine skies.
Travelers usually pull over here to stretch their legs and buy colorful handmade souvenirs from the members of the Matigsalog tribe who live nearby. You can find intricate beadwork and woven bracelets that carry the stories of the indigenous people who have called these mountains home for generations.
The wind here carries a sharp chill that makes a hot cup of native coffee or a bowl of puto sikwate feel like a luxury.
What should you expect when entering Davao City from the highlands?
The weather in the mountains is notoriously unpredictable and can shift from bright sunshine to a heavy downpour within a few kilometers.
Entering Davao City usually means descending from the foggy heights into the organized bustle of the largest city in the southern Philippines. You will notice that the local traffic rules are strictly enforced and the sudden change in pace requires a shift from adventure riding to urban commuting.
Finding a place to rest is easy with several hotels like the Q8 Hotel offering secure parking and comfortable beds for weary travelers.
Maintaining your motorcycle is vital after a long trip so a quick stop at a service center like the Royal Enfield casa is a smart move.
This ensures that your machine is ready for the next leg of the journey before you hit the final highlight of the trip.
How do you get to the Davao City Coastal Road?
The Davao City Coastal Road is a modern marvel of engineering that stretches along the shoreline and offers a refreshing break from the city traffic.
It is a long and wide expanse of pavement where the speed limit is strictly monitored to ensure everyone enjoys the view safely.
The ocean breeze from the Gulf of Davao hits your face as you glide along the perfectly paved coastal road. To your left is the vast blue sea while to your right the city skyline begins to emerge. It is the kind of smooth finish every traveler hopes for after hours of battling mud and loose gravel.
Riding through Mindanao teaches you that the destination is only a small part of the story.
The real magic happens in the struggle between the rocks and the reward of the open road. Every mountain crossed and every river passed is a reminder that the path to paradise is rarely a straight line.
Practical Travel Tips for DIY Travelers
- Check Your Brakes: The Buda Zigzag is incredibly steep so ensure your brake pads are in top condition before starting the descent.
- Fuel Up in Quezon: There are long stretches of mountain road without gas stations so fill your tank in the town of Quezon or Kitaotao.
- Bring Rain Gear: The weather at the Philippine Eagle Monument is often rainy even if the rest of the province is sunny.
- Respect the Speed Limit: Davao City is famous for its 30 to 60 kph speed limits which are strictly enforced by cameras and traffic enforcers.
- Support the Tribes: Buy souvenirs at the Baganihan boundary to help the Matigsalog community maintain their traditional crafts.
- Off-Road Tires are Better: If you plan to visit the Twin Walls of Kulaman use dual-sport tires as the gravel is very loose and deep.
- Stop for Coffee: There are several overlooking cafes at the top of the zigzag road that serve excellent native chocolate and coffee.
- Service Your Bike: There is a Royal Enfield and Yamaha service center near the MacArthur highway for quick repairs.
- Watch for Trucks: Large cargo trucks use the Buda Highway frequently so always give them enough space on the sharp curves.
- Use Offline Maps: Signal can be very spotty in the remote parts of Kitaotao so download your maps beforehand.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does it take to drive from Bukidnon to Davao via Buda?
It usually takes about 3 to 4 hours depending on the weather and how many stops you make. - Is the road to the Man of Rocks paved?
Much of it is still under construction with many sections consisting of loose gravel and stones. - What is the best time of day to pass the Buda Highway?
Early morning is best to avoid the heavy fog and the afternoon rains. - Is there an entrance fee for the Philippine Eagle Monument?
There is no fee to take pictures with the monument but it is polite to buy from the local vendors. - Are there places to eat along the highway?
Yes, there are many “carinderias” and cafes specializing in wild boar (baboy damo) and native snacks. - Is it safe to ride a motorcycle on the Buda Highway?
It is safe but requires high focus because of the sharp curves and unpredictable weather. - What is the temperature like in the highlands?
It can drop to 18 degrees Celsius especially during the rainy season or at night. - Can any type of car pass through the Kitaotao off-road?
High-clearance vehicles are recommended although brave local drivers use smaller cars with caution. - Where is the Bitukang Manok of Mindanao?
It refers to the zigzag section of the Buda Highway in Palacpacan, Quezon. - Is there a Royal Enfield shop in Davao?
Yes, there is a showroom and service center located near the Revzone Yamaha in the city.
