Destinations » Walking Trails

The Radar Tukon Trail is recom­mended for those in pretty good shape. It starts at Basco, and heads up into the highlands to Radar Tukon. From there, the route wanders southward along century-old cattle tracks and gullies to Mahatao. The total distance is about seven kilome­tres, over paved roads, dirt roads, cattle trails, gullies and cobblestones. The walk should only take about three hours. Even so, it’s a long and occasionally difficult route, but it is interspersed with some of the most exhilarating views on the island.

Another trail, starting from Basco Plaza, takes you through the Naidi Hills and on to Chadipidan at Songsong Bay. The walk is just over six kilometres, but the varying terrain — grass, dirt road, gravel, mud and a steep cemented sec­tion makes it more of a challenge than you’d expect.

An interesting experience is provided by the Dipnaysujuan Tunnels. Start from Basco and head up to Vajangshin. This is a relatively short, easy hike through picturesque countryside, and offers many good photo opportunities. The highlight of the journey is exploring the dark, bat filled tunnels. Although the bats will fly around when they’re disturbed, don’t worry —they won’t hit you. It’s essential that you take a torch or kerosene lamp.

The network of tunnels were built b the Japanese during World War 11, and have five openings. The three which open at a higher level were used as observa­tion points. The two remaining entrances open at a lower level, and possibly served as escape routes. Inside the tunnel, steps have been carved into the rock leading down to the lower exits. Try descending the stairs, but take care as they are quite steep. When you’ve had your fill exploring the tunnels, head back down the Vajangshin road to Basco.

Although Batan is a delight for walk­ers, reminders of nature’s fury are never far away. The barrio of Songsong was destroyed by a massive tidal wave in the 1950s and now its derelict houses lie shadow, without roofs or inhabitants. The survivors gave up the struggle and moved to more hospitable climes elsewhere in the Philippines. In Basco Harbour, a roll-on, roll-off container ship lies smashed on the shore, a gaping hole ripped in its steel hull. It was unloading on a calm day when, com­pletely without warning, colossal waves surged up from the ocean depths and tossed it around like a child’s toy.