Things to do in Don Salvador Benedicto

More about Don Salvador Benedicto

Some days, you might miss seeing some scenic landscapes, lush greenery, and even a cool mountain climate that feels so refreshing on your skin. If you’re in the Philippines and yearn for that kind of place, you should head to Don Salvador Benedicto. Many things to do in Don Salvador Benedicto that offer you the close encounter with nature.

Don Salvador Benedicto is indeed famous for all that. It is called “Little Baguio” of Negros Occidental. Aside from being the favourite place for nature lovers, DSB is also heaven for nature photographers.

You can enjoy serenity combined with breathtaking views by engaging in plenty of things to do in Don Salvador Benedicto. So, why wait up? Let’s plan your itinerary and experience the peaceful charm of this highland town!

Top Things to Do in Don Salvador Benedicto

Check out these 15 top things to do in Don Salvador Benedicto:

1. Hike to Malatan-og Falls

The most mandatory thing to do in Don Salvador Benedicto is visiting Malatan-og Falls. To get there, you must take a short hike to reach the falls, offering panoramic views along the way. The surrounding jungle adds to the natural beauty and makes it a perfect spot for a refreshing dip.

2. Watch The Waterfall from Malatan-og Viewing Deck

If you don’t want to hike to the famous Malatan-og Falls, you can just stay at the viewing deck. Let all the stunning views get in your sights. This spot is popular for photographers and nature lovers, as the vantage point offers an unobstructed view to the falls. Not to mention that you can also enjoy the lush greenery and refreshing weather around you.

3. Hike Mayana Peak

For adventurous hikers like you, Mayana Peak offers a relatively easy trek with rewarding views of the surrounding mountain ranges and rolling hills. The peak is popular for sunrise hikes, where you can watch the fog lift as the day begins. It will be beyond beautiful.

4. Explore Pinewood Forest

The Pinewood Forest is a scenic road lined with pine trees. Surely, it offers a cool, scenic route through town, making for a beautiful drive on a motorbike or a leisurely walk. You can stop for a while to take some Instagrammable photos. So, maybe pay a visit here with your spouse and update some romantic poses?

5. Visit Bandolon Frost Town

Bandolon Frost Town is an Instagrammable place, where you and your family or friends can take a picture in various themes: Viking, Rapunzel, and more. There are also some activities offered, like ATV ride, camping, or maybe you’ll be interested in staying overnight.

6. Pray in Padre Pio’s Garden

Padre Pio’s Garden is a religious place, often visited by people for praying and meditating. The atmosphere is indeed peaceful, very suitable for a retreat. The surroundings are very refreshing. You can find several statues, which make the place more solemn.

7. Lion’s Park Viewing Deck

Located along the main road of Don Salvador Benedicto, this viewing deck is marked by the iconic twin lion statues. From here, you can see the surrounding mountains, valleys, and pine trees. No wonder that it is a popular stop for travellers looking to take photos and soak in the breathtaking highland scenery.

8. Wander in Jomax Peak

Visiting Jomax Peak is indeed one of many popular things to do in Don Salvador Benedicto. It is famous as the spot to see the sunrise or sunset, surrounded by the mountains and misty landscapes. Enjoy the unlimited brewed coffee as you wander around, enjoying the view. Jomax Peak is also an accommodation, but you can still pay a visit even though you’re not staying. Don’t forget to take a lot of photos too!

9. Enjoy Rapha Valley

Enjoying Rapha Valley is another fun thing to do in Don Salvador Benedicto. The place is a blend of farmland and the natural beauty that surrounds it. It has a garden, perfect for picnics or peaceful walk, and it also has a restaurant that serves organic food, motivating the healthy lifestyle.

You can join the Don Salvador Benedicto 1-Day Tour, which already includes all the things to do in Don Salvador Benedicto, including Rapha Valley.

10. Explore Bacolod City

Around an hour away from Don Salvador Benedicto is Bacolod City, the capital of Negros Occidental. While Don Salvador Benedicto itself is not that big, it is still surrounded by so many interesting areas to explore.

The remarkable places to visit here are The Ruins and San Sebastian Cathedral. To make your exploration easier, you can join the Bacolod City Half-Day Tour, which already covered all notables places aside from the previous two, like Negro’s Forest Park too.

11. Enjoy The Bacolod Contemporary Art Tour

Bacolod City is also a place for art. By joining The Bacolod Contemporary Art Half-Day Tour, you can enjoy local films by young negrense at Safe House Theater, explore the gallery and museum in Balay ni Tana Dicang, and relax while sipping for a cup of coffee in Onsé Coffee + Art.

12. Explore Silay City

Silay City is another gem of Negros Occidental, located only an hour from Don Salvador Benedicto. It is famous for its ancestral houses, including the Balay Negrense Museum. If you’re into colonial history or architecture lovers, you should definitely go here and join the Silay Heritage 1-Day Tour.

13. Explore Murcia

Murcia is home to natural hot springs and mountain resorts, like Mambukal Resort, which features hot springs, waterfalls, and forest trails. This town is a popular destination for eco-tourism and nature adventures.

14. Visit Lakawon Island in Cadiz City

Lakawon Island is a beautiful tropical paradise known for its white sand beach and crystal-clear waters. You can enjoy water activities, sunbathing, and the famous Tawhai Floating Bar—the largest floating bar in Asia.

It is located around 2 hours away from Don Salvador Benedicto, but it will be worth it. You can join Lakawon Island 1-Day Tour to get everything prepared.

15. Hop to One Restaurant to Another

Don Salvador Benedicto offers the stunning view you need to refresh your mind. With numerous restaurants, hopping to one another and enjoying different views in each place is one of the things to do in Don Salvador Benedicto. Relax, we already have the list made for you below!

Best Restaurants in Don Salvador Benedicto

Let’s stop for a while, take a rest, and have a nice meal in one of these best restaurants in Don Salvador Benedicto:

1. Cafe La Guada

Location: Sitio Tuburan, Barangay, Don Salvador Benedicto, Negros Occidental, Philippines

Opening Hours: 7 AM - 7 PM

Need an escape with a delicious menu on hand and stunning views for your eyes? Cafe La Guada is your option. Offering the best view of the lush greenery, you can absorb the view while enjoying your Local Hamburger, Nachos and Fries, or simply just a cup of Batangas coffee.

2. Kusinata

Location: Don Salvador Benedicto, Negros Occidental, Philippines

Opening Hours: 8 AM - 5 PM (Closed every Monday)

Kusinata is another restaurant around Don Salvador Benedicto that provides the best view of the Malatan-og falls and the mountains. Several of the best dishes here are Crispy Kare-Kare, KBL, Omelette Fried Rice Bacon and Cheese, and Lato Salad. With the best view and tasty food available, your visit here would be remarkable.

3. Highway 16 Cafe

Location: Spur 16 Brgy, Don Salvador Benedicto, 6117 Negros Occidental, Philippines

Opening Hours: 8 AM - 6 PM (6 AM - 6 PM on Saturday and 7 AM - 6 PM on Sunday)

Everything here will make you feel in love with this place. The nature view, the tasty food and beverages, and a swimming pool will make your visit here so refreshing. Aside from being a suitable place for families, this restaurant is also very pet-friendly!

4. Kurvada Cafe

Location: Don Salvador Benedicto, Negros Occidental, Philippines

Opening Hours: 7 AM - 6 PM (6 AM - 7 PM on Saturday and Sunday)

Well, it’s time to sip a cup of coffee and munch for some snacks while enjoying the ambience of the mountains. From Kurvada Coffee, you can relax while enjoying the view from the amazing Malatan-og waterfall from afar. Ambience is nice too, especially for the young.

5. Terraza Cafe

Location: Unnamed Road, Don Salvador Benedicto, Negros Occidental, Philippines

Opening Hours: 8 AM - 6 PM (Closed at 7 PM every Saturday and Sunday)

Terraza Cafe is one of the well known cafes in Don Salvador Benedicto. It’s nice to spend the morning here while ordering a cup of coffee. If you’re into collecting Instagrammable photos, you can enter the photoshoot area and pay for around PHP 50 per person.

Best Hotels Recommendations in Don Salvador Benedicto

While there are several accommodations in Don Salvador Benedicto, mostly for glamping or camping type, you can go to the nearest area to find hotels. The closest area from Don Salvador Benedicto is Bacolod City, separated by around 2 hours max.

Here’s some best hotels recommendations if you want to be near with Don Salvador Benedicto:

1. Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod

After your exploration in Don Salvador Benedicto, you can drive for a while and stop at Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod. It’s a super nice hotel with great service and accommodation. A swimming pool is ready to make your stay more refreshing. Accommodation types are varied, from Superior Room to Junior Suite.

2. Go Hotels Bacolod

If you prefer a hotel with a value of money, you should pick Go Hotels Bacolod. It’s perfect for budget conscious travellers, especially after you spent some money on your Don Salvador Benedicto trip. Rooms are comfortable, clean, and breakfast is included.

3. Acacia Hotel Bacolod

Acacia Hotel Bacolod is an impressive hotel to stay in and have a good rest. The rooms are spacious, comfortable, and the cleanliness is well-maintained. You can enjoy the weather while dipping in the swimming pool, maybe in the morning or afternoon.

4. Sugarland Hotel

Sugarland Hotel has a peaceful ambience, with the range of rate that is not too pricey. Rooms are modern-designed, cosy, and full of amenities. The accommodations are ranging from Standard, Deluxe, Superior, and Executive 1 King Bed. It’s a nice hotel to stay in with your little family.

5. Avenue Suites

Avenue Suites is another best hotel to pick, with the great strategic location that will get you anywhere easy and fast. It has an outdoor swimming pool, a nice restaurant, and of course, plenty of room types that are accommodating everyone. There’s even an option for Economy Room, if you’re a budget-traveller.

Travel Tips to Don Salvador Benedicto

Follow these tips while visiting Don Salvador Benedicto:

1. Prepare for the Cool Climate

Don Salvador Benedicto has a cooler temperature than lowland areas, so bring a light jacket or sweater, especially if you plan to stay overnight or start your day early.

2. Bring Cash

ATMs are limited in Don Salvador Benedicto, so it’s wise to bring enough cash. Most local businesses, such as eateries and small stores, may not accept credit or debit cards.

3. Rent a Vehicle or Hire a Local Guide

Public transportation can be sparse in the area. Renting a vehicle or hiring a local guide can make your trip more convenient and allow you to explore at your own pace.

4. Plan for Limited Internet and Mobile Signal

The mountainous terrain can make mobile signals spotty, especially in remote areas. Download maps, and if you need offline entertainment, download it in advance.

5. Respect Local Culture and Customs

Don Salvador Benedicto is home to locals who value their peaceful environment. Dress modestly and be mindful of the natural spaces, avoiding litter and respecting quiet areas.

6. Check Weather Conditions Before Your Trip

Since it’s in a mountainous region, Don Salvador Benedicto is prone to fog, rain, and sudden weather changes. Checking the forecast helps you plan your activities and bring any necessary rain gear.

7. Carry Reusable Water Bottles and Snacks

Bring your own refillable water bottle and snacks, especially if you plan to explore the outdoors. Food options are available but may be limited, especially in more secluded spots.

8. Be Prepared for Hiking

Many of Don Salvador Benedicto’s scenic spots require light to moderate hiking. Bring comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and insect repellent to stay comfortable while exploring.

9. Start Your Day Early

Morning views are especially beautiful with mist often lingering in the mountains, and starting early also gives you the best light for photography and fewer crowds in popular areas.

10. Leave No Trace

Don Salvador Benedicto is known for its clean and green environment. Always dispose of your trash responsibly, and avoid taking anything from the natural environment to preserve its beauty for others.

Best time to visit Don Salvador Benedicto

The best time to visit Don Salvador Benedicto is from November to February, during the cooler months. The weather is milder and less humid, making it comfortable for hiking and outdoor activities.

During these months, the air is clearer, and you’re less likely to experience rain, giving you better visibility and more opportunities to enjoy the scenic landscapes.

So, that’s everything you need to know about Don Salvador Benedicto. Make an itinerary from all the things to do in Don Salvador Benedicto and don’t forget to choose the best hotel so your stay will be more enjoyable. Find the best deals for flights and attraction tickets in Don Salvador Benedicto through Traveloka, your best travel companion!