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Exploring DSB (Don Salvador Benedicto) in Bacolod: A Practical Guide
If you’re visiting Bacolod and craving a break from the city’s hustle, a day trip to Don Salvador Benedicto (DSB) offers a promising escape. This tour, offered by CTPH TOUR, promises a scenic journey through lush mountains, waterfalls, and local spots, all within an 8 to 10-hour window. While it’s not the most luxurious or personalized experience out there, it delivers decent value for those looking to enjoy Negros Occidental’s highland charm without fuss.
What we appreciate about this tour is its carefully curated stops—from panoramic viewpoints to waterfalls—which make for memorable photo ops and peaceful moments. The inclusion of local guides and entrance fees simplifies logistics, making it a straightforward half-day adventure.
However, potential travelers should note that the tour’s price point ($115 per person) might seem high relative to what’s included, especially since meals are not provided. The experience’s overall charm hinges on your interest in mountains, nature, and local scenery. If that sounds like your vibe, this tour could be a good fit—just be ready for a somewhat structured, group-based activity that sticks to a set itinerary.
Key Points
- Beautiful mountain vistas and cool weather make DSB a refreshing escape from Bacolod’s heat.
- Stops at Jomax Peak and Malatan-og Falls promise stunning views and photo opportunities.
- Guided experience with a local driver guide and all entrance fees included simplifies planning.
- No meals included, so plan to bring snacks or eat beforehand.
- Private tour means your group avoids crowds and gets a tailored experience.
- Approximate duration of 8 to 10 hours makes it a full but manageable day trip.
Looking for more options in Bacolod? Here are some other experiences worth considering.
A Closer Look at the DSB Tour Experience
Booking and Logistics
For $115 per person, this tour offers good convenience. It includes transportation within Bacolod, pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation, a local driver guide, entrance fees, and bottled water—a package designed to take the hassle out of exploring independently. The tour is private, meaning your group gets exclusive use of the vehicle and guide, which enhances comfort and flexibility.
Starting at 9:00 am, it’s a full-day commitment but not overly long, making it suitable for most travelers. The tour’s cancellation policy is strict—non-refundable unless canceled due to weather or minimum participant issues—so be sure about the weather forecast and group size when booking.
The Itinerary Breakdown
Jomax Peak is the first stop, taking around an hour. Here, you’ll get your first taste of the area’s breathtaking vistas, with views over mountain ranges that are often praised as “great” in reviews. The elevated position, roughly 2,500 feet above sea level, offers cooler temperatures and excellent photo opportunities. Reviewers have highlighted how the vistas alone make the trip worthwhile.
Next, the tour visits the Malatan-og Falls Viewing Deck for another hour. From the deck, you’ll enjoy a view of the falls—though not the falls themselves up close, the view is scenic and peaceful. Reviewers note the deck as a “great place to relax and take photos”, emphasizing its tranquility.
Finally, the group explores Don Salvador Benedicto town, often called “Little Baguio” or the “Lions Deck,” for about three hours. Here, you can walk around, enjoy local food stalls, or just soak in the mountain town atmosphere. The reviews mention “great food” and “friendly locals”—adding value to the visit. The tour emphasizes a “zigzag road” on the way up, which travelers say adds to the adventure and scenic drive.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out
Our favorite aspect is the combination of scenic viewpoints and natural beauty, particularly the panoramic views from Jomax Peak. The tour’s guides are described as “knowledgeable”, adding context and local insight, which elevates the experience beyond just sightseeing.
The inclusion of bottled water and entrance fees is convenient, and the private format ensures you won’t be stuck in a large bus with strangers. If you love mountain scenery and quiet escapes, this trip hits the mark.
Potential Drawbacks
While the experience is generally positive, some might find the price a bit steep for what is essentially a guided drive and a few scenic stops. The absence of meals means you’ll need to bring your own snacks or eat beforehand, which could be inconvenient after a morning start.
Also, the tour’s success heavily depends on weather conditions—poor weather may lead to cancellations or less impressive views, though the provider does offer rebooking or refunds in such cases.
Authentic Experiences from Reviewers
One reviewer, ANGELITO_C, enthusiastically describes how great the weather, food, and people are in DSB, emphasizing its appeal as a “great place” to relax and enjoy nature. This highlights how genuine the experience can be when the weather cooperates and when you’re receptive to the local atmosphere.
Who Should Take This Tour?
This trip suits nature lovers and scenic view enthusiasts who want a straightforward, guided escape from Bacolod. It’s a good choice for those seeking a relaxing day with photo opportunities at mountain vistas and waterfalls. Travelers wanting a luxurious or highly personalized experience might find it lacking, but for a relaxed, organized day out, it offers decent value.
Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?
If your idea of travel includes mountain vistas, waterfalls, and charming hill towns, this trip is worth considering. The tour’s main draws—Jomax Peak and Malatan-og Falls—offer memorable views and a break from city life. The local guide adds insight, making the experience more meaningful.
However, keep in mind the cost relative to what’s included. No meals, and a reliance on good weather, mean this tour is best for those flexible and comfortable with simple arrangements. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see the highlights of DSB without the headache of planning individual transportation or entrance fees.
In the end, this tour provides a well-organized, scenic, and culturally enriching day trip—perfect for those looking to discover a lesser-known side of Negros Occidental.
FAQ
Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes transportation during the trip, with pick-up and drop-off within Bacolod City.
What’s the start time?
The tour begins at 9:00 am, making it suitable for a full day’s adventure.
Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. We suggest bringing snacks or planning to eat in the town afterward.
How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 8 to 10 hours, depending on traffic and stops.
Is it a group or private tour?
This is a private experience, so only your group will participate.
Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for stops like Jomax Peak and Malatan-og Falls are covered in the price.
What should I wear or bring?
Bring comfortable clothing suitable for mountain weather, camera gear, and some snacks. Light hiking shoes might be helpful for uneven paths.
In essence, this DSB tour is a straightforward, scenic escape perfect for those eager to see Negros Occidental’s highlands without fuss. It offers good value for a convenient, guided day out with wonderful views and local insights.
