Mabinay Travel Guide

Plan your next adventure to Mabinay, Negros Oriental with our comprehensive guide. Discover the natural wonders, cultural attractions, food and drinks, accommodations, and travel tips in Mabinay.


Introduction to Mabinay

Mabinay is a small town located in the province of Negros Oriental, Philippines. It is situated in the southeastern part of the province and is bordered by the towns of Bais and Bindoy to the north, Ayungon and Tayasan to the west, and the town of Kabankalan in Negros Occidental to the south. Despite its size, Mabinay is known for its natural attractions that offer outdoor adventures, scenic views, and cultural experiences. It is also home to a vibrant local community that takes pride in preserving their unique heritage and traditions.

List of Places to Visit in Mabinay

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Mabinay Museum - This small museum showcases the history and culture of Mabinay including the town’s traditional crafts, costumes, and musical instruments. Visitors can also learn about the town’s role in the Philippine Revolution against Spain.

  • Mabinay Church - Also known as San Isidro Labrador Parish Church, this beautiful colonial-era church was built in the 1800s and features a unique bell tower built separately from the main structure. It is a must-visit for anyone interested in religious and architectural history.

Natural Attractions of Mabinay: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Odloman Cave - This is one of the most popular attractions in Mabinay. Odloman Cave is a large limestone cave system with underground rivers, magnificent rock formations, and crystal clear pools of water. Visitors can explore the cave by foot or by boat and may even encounter some interesting wildlife.

  • Twin Falls - Located in Barangay Bala-as, Twin Falls is a refreshing spot to cool off after a long hike. The falls are named after the two cascading streams that converge to create a crystal clear pool of water. Visitors can hike down to the falls to swim or simply enjoy the scenic views.

  • Mabinay Spring - This local spring is a refreshing place to take a dip in the cool, clear water. It is surrounded by lush vegetation and is a popular spot for picnics and family gatherings.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mabinay

  • Odloman Trail - This hiking trail takes visitors through some of the most beautiful areas of Mabinay. It starts at the Odloman Cave and passes through scenic vistas, waterfalls, and small villages.

  • Mounts Ormoc, Haguilanan, and Catbalaugan Trail - This is an exhilarating hike for the adventurous traveler. Mount Ormoc is the highest peak in Mabinay and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Best Things to Do in Mabinay: Activities and Tours

  • Spelunking in Odloman Cave - This adventure tour takes visitors deep into the underground caverns of Odloman Cave. It is a physically demanding activity and requires a good amount of climbing, crawling, and swimming.

  • Waterfall trekking to Twin Falls - This guided trek takes visitors through the scenic trail that leads to Twin Falls. It is a relatively easy hike and is suitable for all ages.

  • River tubing in Marawisan River - This exciting activity involves floating down the river on an inflatable tube. It is a great way to cool off and enjoy the scenery.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mabinay

Day Activity
1 Visit Mabinay Museum, Mabinay Church
2 Explore Odloman Cave
3 Trek to Twin Falls
4 Hike Mount Ormoc and other trails
5 Visit Mabinay Spring, take a dip in the cool water
6 River tubing in Marawisan River
7 Shop for souvenirs, unwind, and prepare for departure

Food and Drink Scene of Mabinay

Must-Try Dishes

  • Binakol na Manok - This is a local dish made with native chicken, lemongrass, and coconut water. The chicken is cooked in its own juice with the added flavor of lemongrass and coconut water.

  • Suman - This is a traditional Filipino snack made with sticky rice, wrapped in banana leaves, and steamed until cooked. It is typically eaten with fresh mangoes, chocolate, or coconut jam.

Local Beverages

  • Buko juice - This refreshing drink is made from young coconut water and is a perfect thirst-quencher after a day of hiking or trekking.

  • Tuba - This is a locally-made alcoholic drink made from the sap of coconut trees. It is a popular drink among locals and is best enjoyed when freshly harvested.

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

  • Mabinay Spring Resort - This resort features well-appointed guest rooms, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant that serves local and international cuisine.

  • Mabinay Pensionne House - This is a budget-friendly guesthouse that offers clean and comfortable rooms with basic amenities.

  • Mountain View Guest House - This cozy guesthouse offers panoramic views of the mountains and valleys. Guests can enjoy a quiet retreat and take in the natural beauty of Mabinay.

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

  • Woodcrafts - Mabinay is known for its traditional wood carvings and handicrafts made from locally sourced materials.

  • Buko pie - This delicious pastry is made with young coconut meat and a flaky crust. It is a perfect snack to bring home to share with family and friends.

Local Culture and Customs of Mabinay

Mabinay has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in the town’s festivals and celebrations. The most popular festival in Mabinay is the Tinabu-ay Festival, which is celebrated annually in honor of the town’s patron saint, San Isidro Labrador. The festival is a celebration of local dance, music, and food, and is a must-see for visitors interested in experiencing the local culture.

Best Time to Visit Mabinay

The best time to visit Mabinay is from December to May when the weather is dry and ideal for outdoor activities. The months of June to November are the rainy season in Mabinay, and may not be the best time for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mabinay

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.

  • Bring comfortable and appropriate clothing and footwear for outdoor activities.

  • Carry a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated.

Don’t:

  • Litter in natural areas or leave trash on hiking trails.

  • Disturb the local wildlife or damage natural habitats.

  • Disrespect religious and cultural sites.

Safety and Health

Safety in Mabinay

Mabinay is generally a safe place for visitors, but it is still advisable to take precautions to ensure your safety. Avoid walking alone at night and keep your valuables secure.

Health in Mabinay

Mabinay has basic healthcare facilities, but it is best to come prepared with any necessary medications or medical supplies. It is also advisable to bring insect repellent to prevent mosquito bites that may carry diseases.

Getting to Mabinay: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Mabinay

The nearest airport to Mabinay is Dumaguete Airport, which is about 70 kilometers or 1.5 hours away. From the airport, visitors can take a bus or hire a private car to reach Mabinay.

Bus Stations Near Mabinay

Buses to Mabinay are available from Ceres Bus Terminal in Dumaguete City. The trip takes about 2 hours and costs approximately PHP 100.

Other Options

Private car rentals and transfers are available from Dumaguete City. This may be a more convenient option for travelers who prefer a more personalized experience.

How to Get Around in Mabinay

The best way to get around Mabinay is by tricycle, which is a small motorized taxi that can take you around town and to nearby attractions. Motorbikes and bicycles are also available for rent, which can be a fun and inexpensive way to explore the area.

Where to Go Next from Mabinay: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Siquijor Island - This beautiful island paradise is just a short ferry ride away from Dumaguete City. It is known for its pristine beaches, coral reefs, and mystical charm.

  • Apo Island - This tiny island paradise is a marine sanctuary and is a popular destination for divers and snorkelers. It is also home to a small community of locals who offer homestays and tours.

Conclusion

Mabinay is a hidden gem in Negros Oriental that offers a unique and authentic travel experience. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast, a culture lover, or simply looking to unwind and relax, Mabinay has something for you. With this comprehensive guide, you can plan your next adventure to Mabinay with ease and confidence.

Swiftlet nests ready for steaming (the lower nest shows a view as it might be attached to the wall of the cave, while the upper shows the interior). Swiftlet nests ready for steaming (the lower nest shows a view as it might be attached to the wall of the cave, while the upper shows the interior).