Buko-Buko Peak is one of the most accessible hiking destinations in General Santos City, offering visitors panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes without requiring advanced trekking experience.
Located in the upland barangays, the peak has become a favored spot for day hikers, fitness enthusiasts, and travelers seeking outdoor activities beyond the city’s urban attractions.
Known for its scenic summit that overlooks General Santos, Sarangani Bay, and neighboring mountain ranges, Buko-Buko Peak provides a rewarding yet manageable climb.
Its combination of natural beauty, relative ease of access, and suitability for both beginners and seasoned hikers has made it a popular choice for locals and visitors alike.
Quick Overview
- Location: Barangay Olympog, General Santos City
- Hiking Difficulty: Beginner to moderate
- Hiking Duration: 1.5–2 hours (ascent)
- Best Time to Visit: Dry season (December–May), early morning for sunrise
- Summit View: General Santos City, Sarangani Bay, surrounding mountains
- Trail Features: Grassy slopes, ridgeline formations, partly exposed paths
- Ideal For: Day hikes, beginner trekkers, sunrise/sunset viewing
- Nearby Attractions: Sanchez Peak, Balakayo Mountain Resort, hilltop cafés
Location and Background
Buko-Buko Peak is situated in Barangay Olympog, one of the upland areas of General Santos City. The barangay is known for its rolling hills, agricultural lands, and cooler climate compared to the lowlands, making it a natural setting for outdoor recreation.
The peak’s name, “Buko-Buko,” is derived from the local term that refers to “joints” or “knuckles,” a description inspired by the ridge-like formations visible along the trail and summit.
This distinct landscape gives the peak its unique profile and makes it recognizable among the hiking spots in the city.
Surrounded by grasslands and secondary forest, it offers a landscape that changes with the season: green and vibrant during the rainy months, and golden with tall grasses in the dry season.
Its location makes it a convenient escape for those in General Santos, as the jump-off point is only a short drive from the city center.
Hiking Experience
Buko-Buko Peak is considered a beginner-friendly to moderate hike, making it suitable for first-time trekkers as well as regular hikers looking for a quick outdoor escape.
The trail is well-trodden by locals and visitors, but conditions can vary depending on the weather.
- Trailhead and Route: The usual jump-off point is in Barangay Olympog, accessible by motorcycle (habal-habal) or private vehicle. From there, hikers follow a marked path that winds through grassy slopes and small farming areas before ascending to the ridgeline.
- Hiking Duration: The ascent generally takes 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on pace and trail conditions, while the descent is faster. Some experienced hikers can reach the summit in less than an hour.
- Trail Conditions: Expect a mix of dirt paths, grassy slopes, and rocky sections. During the rainy season, parts of the trail can be muddy and slippery, requiring extra care and proper footwear.
- Difficulty Level: The hike is manageable for beginners, but the final ascent can be steep in some areas. Breaks are recommended, especially under the midday sun, as much of the trail is exposed.
- Unique Features: Along the way, hikers can enjoy views of the surrounding hills and open landscapes. The ridge-like “knuckle” formations near the top add character to the climb and provide interesting photo opportunities.
Overall, the hike to Buko-Buko Peak offers a balance of moderate physical challenge and rewarding views, making it one of the more popular outdoor activities within reach of General Santos City.
The Summit Experience
Reaching the summit of Buko-Buko Peak rewards hikers with sweeping, unobstructed views of General Santos City, Sarangani Bay, and the surrounding mountain ranges.
On clear days, the horizon stretches far enough to reveal neighboring provinces, while the city below appears as a compact cluster bordered by sea and plains.
The peak’s elevation is modest compared to other mountains in Mindanao, but its strategic location offers a vantage point that feels expansive.
The summit area is relatively open, with grassy ridges that provide ample space for resting, taking photographs, and enjoying the scenery.
- Sunrise and Sunset Views: Many hikers time their climb to catch the sunrise, when the city lights gradually fade under the first glow of daylight. Sunsets are equally stunning, with the bay reflecting hues of orange and gold.
- Photography Opportunities: The ridge formations and wide-open summit make excellent backdrops for photos. The contrasting colors of green hills, blue waters, and urban landscape create striking compositions.
- Atmosphere: Despite being a popular hiking spot, the summit often retains a peaceful atmosphere, especially on weekdays. The cool breeze and open space make it an ideal setting for relaxation after the climb.
For many, the highlight of visiting Buko-Buko Peak is not just the view but the sense of accomplishment and connection with nature, accessible within a few hours from the city.
Travel Tips for Hikers
A hike to Buko-Buko Peak is relatively straightforward, but being prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable experience. Here are some essential tips:
What to Bring
- Lightweight backpack with water (at least 1–2 liters) and light snacks.
- Proper hiking footwear with good grip, especially if hiking in the rainy season.
- Sun protection such as a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses, as the trail is mostly exposed.
- A light jacket or windbreaker for early morning or late afternoon climbs.
Safety Reminders
- Start your hike early to avoid the heat and ensure enough time for the descent.
- Be cautious on steep or slippery sections, particularly after rain.
- If hiking in groups, stick together and pace yourselves according to the slowest hiker.
- Consider hiring or joining a local guide if you are unfamiliar with the trail.
Responsible Tourism
- Follow the Leave No Trace principle; take your trash with you and avoid damaging plants or disturbing wildlife.
- Respect local communities and farmers whose lands you may pass through.
- Keep noise levels down to preserve the natural atmosphere of the trail.
Physical Preparation
While beginner-friendly, the trail requires moderate stamina. Regular walking or light exercise before the hike can make the climb easier.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can fully appreciate Buko-Buko Peak as a rewarding outdoor adventure while minimizing risks and preserving the site for others.
Nearby Attractions and Side Trips
A trip to Buko-Buko Peak can easily be combined with other attractions in General Santos and its surrounding areas, making it a flexible option for half-day or full-day itineraries.
- Balakayo Mountain Resort (Olympog): Located in the same barangay, this mountain resort offers pools, cottages, and picnic areas. It’s a great place to relax after the hike and enjoy cooler upland weather.
- Sanchez Peak: Another popular hiking destination in General Santos, Sanchez Peak is only a short distance away and offers a slightly different vantage point of the city and Sarangani Bay.
- Hilltop Cafés and View Decks: Several small cafés and viewing spots have sprung up in the upland barangays near Buko-Buko Peak, where visitors can unwind with refreshments while taking in scenic views.
For those returning to Gensan, there are wide range of dining options, including fresh seafood and local specialties.
Best Time to Visit
The experience at Buko-Buko Peak is highly influenced by the season and time of day. Planning your hike with these factors in mind can make the climb more enjoyable and safe.
Season
The dry season (December to May) is the best time for hiking. Trails are easier to navigate, and the summit views are typically clearer.
During the rainy season (June to November), the trail can become muddy and slippery, with reduced visibility at the peak. Hikes are still possible, but extra caution and proper gear are needed.
Time of Day
Early morning hikes are recommended, both to catch the sunrise and to avoid the midday heat, as much of the trail is exposed.
Late afternoon climbs can also be rewarding, especially for those aiming to watch the sunset. However, hikers should plan their descent carefully to avoid walking in the dark.
Weather Conditions
Clear days after light rain often offer the best scenery, with greener landscapes and fresher air.
Always check the local forecast before heading out, as sudden weather changes can affect trail safety.
TIP: In short, the ideal time to visit Buko-Buko Peak is during the dry months, at sunrise or early in the morning, when the conditions are most favorable and the views are at their best.
Conclusion
Buko-Buko Peak is one of the most rewarding outdoor destinations in General Santos, offering a balance of accessibility, scenic views, and manageable hiking conditions.
Its open summit provides sweeping panoramas of the city and Sarangani Bay, making it a popular choice for sunrise and sunset treks.
The trail is approachable for beginners yet enjoyable for experienced hikers, and its location in Barangay Olympog places it within easy reach of the city.
For travelers looking to add a dose of adventure to their itinerary, Buko-Buko Peak stands out as a must-visit destination.
