Have you ever wanted to experience a day in the desert? 

The desert is a curious natural wonder. It’s arid and rain is so, so rare. As a result of these conditions, not many animals and plants thrive in it. Still, there is no denying that the sand dunes and the rippling soft sand can be mesmerizingly beautiful.

Since the Philippines is a lush tropical country, some of us might not ever see the vastly different desert biome; except when you visit the Mini-desert of Bukidnon.

Come and see what it’s like to set foot in sparse, sandy lands at Lake Simsiman of Bukidnon!

Photo from TravelLar Facebook page
Photo from Xander Destreza III Facebook Post
Photo from Xander Destreza III Facebook Post
Photo from Xander Destreza III Facebook Post
Photo from Xander Destreza III Facebook Post
Photo from TravelLar Facebook page
Photo from Xander Destreza III Facebook Post
Photo from TravelLar Facebook page
Photo from TravelLar Facebook page
Photo from TravelLar Facebook page
Photo from TravelLar Facebook page
Photo from TravelLar Facebook page

On the southern banks of Lake Simsiman is a mini desert consisting of golden-brown ridges and cream-colored contours. The terrain is made of zigzagging slopes that resemble the dunes in the deserts of Libya and Morocco, or even Sahara.

The colors, shapes of the slopes, and the contrast of the surroundings come together to create a wonderful scene, perfect for photo backdrops or even wallpapers. If you don’t believe it, see for yourself!

Lake Simsiman’s desert is a tiny patch of barren land encroaching the lake. Strictly speaking, the landform is not in an arid region that would make it a true desert. Instead, the soil here has been eroded, removing the vegetation on the topmost layer. It may be beautiful, but it is also a reminder of our responsibility towards Mother Earth. 

To preserve this sight and its rich colors, make sure to avoid littering and clean as you go.

Other Information

  • Caution is advised when traversing the terrain, and it is recommendable to wear hiking footwear or rubber shoes at the least. 
  • Bringing lots of water is a definite must. 
  • People sensitive to heat or intense sun are advised to avoid the attraction.

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact location: Barangay Cabadiangan, Municipality of Kadingilan, Bukidnon – 3 hours from Malaybalay City

BY COMMUTE: Take a 2.5-to-3-hour bus or van trip to Kadingilan terminal. From here, you can hire a habal-habal to take you to Barangay Cabadiangan which will take 30 to 40 minutes. In Cabadiangan, you can then ask for directions from the locals, just ask them how to get to “Lake Simsiman”, “NIA”, or the irrigation water supply.

BY CAR: Navigate with Waze of Google Maps and set your destination to “Lake Simsiman” in Kadingilan, Bukidnon.


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