Badian Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and local culture and customs of Badian, Cebu.


Introduction to Badian

Badian is a third-income class municipality located in the southwestern part of Cebu province, Philippines. It is known for its stunning natural attractions, outdoor adventures, and picturesque scenery, making it a popular destination among travelers seeking a unique and authentic experience.

Badian is a small town, but it has a lot to offer to visitors. Its rich culture and history, breathtaking waterfalls and beaches, and hospitable locals make it one of Cebu’s must-visit destinations. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable trip to Badian.

List of Places to Visit in Badian

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Badian Museum - This museum showcases the town’s rich history and culture, housing various artifacts, old photographs, and artworks.
  • Badian Parish Church - Also known as the Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Church, it features a Baroque-style architecture and beautiful interior.
  • Kawasan Falls Hydroelectric Power Plant - Built in the 1920s, this power plant still serves Badian and its neighboring municipalities and is a display of the town’s ingenuity.

Natural Attractions of Badian: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kawasan Falls - This three-tiered waterfall system is the top attraction in Badian and one of the most beautiful in the country. Visitors can swim, go bamboo rafting, and enjoy the turquoise waters surrounded by lush greenery.
  • Osmeña Peak - This highest peak in Cebu offers a stunning panoramic view of the town, the sea, and other islands surrounding it.
  • Lambug Beach - This long stretch of white sandy beach features crystal clear waters perfect for swimming and lounging.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Badian

  • Osmeña Peak Traverse to Kawasan Falls - This 9-km trail hike is a popular activity for visitors. It takes about five hours to complete, and hikers can enjoy the scenic view of Badian’s highlands and lowlands.
  • Mantalongon to Barili - This biking route takes you through scenic towns and villages in Badian and offers natural views of the mountains and beaches.

Best Things to Do in Badian: Activities and Tours

  • Kawasan Canyoneering - This popular activity involves trekking, jumping off cliffs, and sliding down natural rock formations. It is an adventure that should not be missed.
  • Whale Sharks Watching in Oslob - Located a few hours away from Badian, Oslob offers a unique experience of swimming with these gentle giants.
  • Sardine Run in Moalboal - Located about an hour’s drive from Badian, Moalboal has a marine sanctuary where thousands of sardines gather, creating a breathtaking view.

Week-Long Itinerary for Badian

Day Activities
1 Arrive in Cebu
2 Travel to Badian, relax at the hotel or beach
3 Kawasan Falls and Canyoneering tour
4 Osmeña Peak hike
5 Moalboal Sardine Run and Pescador Island tour
6 Whale Sharks watching in Oslob
7 Depart for home

Food and Drink Scene of Badian

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lechon or roasted pig - Badian locals cook their lechon in a traditional way, using bamboo sticks and charcoal.
  • Fresh Tuna Kilawin - This is a spicy mix of fresh Tuna, vinegar, onions, and spices, a popular dish in the region.

Local Beverages

  • Tuba - Coconut wine is a traditional alcoholic beverage made from the sap of coconut trees, and it is a must-try for any adventure-seeker out there.
  • Fresh Buko Juice - Served in its shell is a refreshing drink made from young coconut, full of nutrients, and a perfect way to beat the heat in Badian.

Where to Stay in Badian: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Matutinao Beach Resort - A budget-friendly beachfront resort, located near Kawasan Falls.
  • Kawasan Canyoneering Bed and Breakfast - A charming bed and breakfast that offers comfortable rooms and a relaxing atmosphere.
  • Badian Island Wellness Resort - A luxury resort situated on a secluded island that offers spa treatments, yoga sessions, and various water activities.

What to Buy in Badian: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handicrafts and accessories made from seashells, coconut shells, and other natural materials.
  • Tableya - A local chocolate product made from roasted cocoa beans, perfect for hot chocolate drinks.
  • T-shirts and souvenir items with Badian’s tourist attractions as designs.

Local Culture and Customs of Badian

  • Badian locals are predominantly Catholic, and visitors must be respectful when visiting churches and other religious establishments.
  • They speak Cebuano, the local dialect, but most speak basic English.
  • Visitors are expected to be modest in their clothing and behavior as a sign of respect to the local culture.

Best Time to Visit Badian

The best time to visit Badian is between November and May, as it is the dry season, and the weather is perfect for outdoor activities. June to October is also a good time to visit as it is the off-peak season, and visitors can take advantage of lower hotel rates.

Do’s and Don’ts of Badian

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and traditions.
  • Bring eco-friendly products and clean up after yourself when doing outdoor activities.
  • Treat locals with kindness and respect.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing when visiting religious establishments and other public areas.
  • Disrespect nature and its surroundings.
  • Ignore safety precautions when doing adventure activities and outdoor excursions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Badian

Badian is generally safe. Visitors are advised to take necessary precautions when doing outdoor activities, and to avoid walking alone at night. When going on adventure activities, they should follow the instructions given by tour guides and wear proper equipment.

Health in Badian

Visitors are advised to bring insect repellent as mosquito-borne diseases can be common in the area. Travelers should also stay hydrated when doing outdoor activities to avoid dehydration.

Getting to Badian: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Badian

The nearest international airport in Cebu is the Mactan-Cebu International Airport. From the airport, visitors can take a taxi to Cebu South Bus Terminal, where they can take a bus to Badian.

Bus Stations Near Badian

Badian is accessible by bus from Cebu City. Visitors can take a Ceres Bus or a Yellow Bus Line from the Cebu South Bus Terminal that goes directly to Badian.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or hire a private van to take them directly to Badian from Cebu City.

How to Get Around in Badian

Transportation options in Badian include tricycles, motorcycle rentals, and habal-habal, a local term for motorcycle taxis. Visitors can also explore the town on foot, especially when going to nearby attractions.

Where to Go Next from Badian: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Moalboal - Known for its diving sites and the famous sardine run.
  • Oslob - Famous for its whale shark watching activity.
  • Sumilon Island - An island paradise with a natural lagoon and white sandy beaches.

Conclusion

Badian is a beautiful town with plenty to offer to visitors. With its stunning natural attractions, rich culture and history, and hospitable locals, a trip to Badian is sure to be an unforgettable experience. Plan accordingly by considering this comprehensive guide that covers everything you need to know to make the most out of your trip.

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