Ground Zero to Glamp: A Full-Day Adventure at Evo Nature Camp, Cebu
A family-friendly full-day escape on Cebu’s Transcentral Highway—trek to Ground Zero, ride horses, cool off at a waterfall and glamp under the hills.
By the time the jeepney peels away back down toward the city, the air on the Transcentral Highway tastes like green things — cut grass, wet earth, a faint tang of wood smoke. You step out of the car at Evo Nature Camp with a skyline of palms and pylons behind you and a different kind of horizon ahead: ridgelines folding into the island’s interior, a patchwork of farms and mossy forest, and the promise of long hours spent moving through them. This is not a manicured resort morning; it’s a family-sized playground that asks you to be both curious and practical. There’s a peak called Ground Zero that rewards a steady climb with panoramic views, a creek that dares you to cross on a hot noon, a waterfall that cools tired shoulders, and a glamping setup where kids can flit between an obstacle-course playground and a campfire.
Trail Wisdom
Start Early
Begin the trek in the morning to avoid heat and get clearer summit views; aim to start within two hours of sunrise.
Bring Refillable Water
Carry at least 1–2 liters per person and a reusable bottle—refill options are limited on the trails.
Sturdy Footwear
Wear light hiking boots or trail shoes—the path can be rooty and slippery after rain.
Local Currency & Tips
Bring small bills for snacks, guides, and horse handlers—card machines aren’t guaranteed.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •A small lookout above Ground Zero that offers sunset views over Cebu City
- •A shallow, quiet ford downstream of the main waterfall where families picnic
Wildlife
Philippine Bulbul (songbird), Long-tailed macaque sightings in patchy forest areas
Conservation Note
Local guides and camp operators work with mountain barangays to maintain trails and minimize erosion; visitors are asked to pack out trash and avoid disturbing streamside vegetation.
Cebu was the site of Ferdinand Magellan’s 1521 landing—the island has served as a maritime and cultural crossroads for centuries, and the highlands historically supported agricultural communities connected to the city below.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Cooler treks, Wildflowers on trails
Challenges: Intermittent rain showers, Muddy sections
Spring (March–May) is generally dry and ideal for hiking; expect greener valleys and manageable trail conditions.
summer
Best for: Long daylight hours, Water play at creeks
Challenges: Heat and higher humidity, Afternoon thunderstorms
Summer brings hot afternoons—plan early starts and seek shade in midday; creeks are pleasant for cooling off.
fall
Best for: Clearer skies, Crisp morning views
Challenges: Occasional rains depending on the monsoon, Cooler nights
Fall tends toward clearer weather and crisp mornings; evenings can feel cool at elevation, perfect for glamping.
winter
Best for: Dry-weather treks, Sunset ridge light
Challenges: Cool mornings, Mist and low cloud on peaks
Philippine ‘winter’ (Nov–Feb) overlaps with the dry season—great trail conditions but expect foggy mornings on higher ridges.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Trail Shoes or Light Hiking BootsEssential
Provides traction on rooty, sometimes muddy trails and protects ankles on uneven ground.
Refillable Water Bottle (1–2 L)Essential
Hydration is vital during long hikes; carrying a refillable bottle reduces plastic waste.
Light Rain ShellEssential
Quick showers are common—pack a breathable shell to stay dry without overheating.
Headlamp or Compact Flashlight
Useful if your group schedules activities into the evening or for glamping lantern needs.
Common Questions
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes—Evo runs family-friendly programs with shorter route options, playgrounds and supervised horseback rides, but parents should gauge kids’ stamina for 6–10 km of activity.
Do I need to bring food?
Most bookings include a simple lunch or snacks, but bring extra snacks and cash for local vendors or additional meals.
Is there cell service at Evo Nature Camp?
Cell service is intermittent; expect reception closer to the road and limited connectivity on ridge trails.
Are permits required to hike here?
No formal permits are typically required for day visits, but the site operates on private-tour bookings—reserve in advance.
Can I ride a horse if I have no experience?
Yes—handlers offer short, supervised rides on gentle trails suitable for beginners; disclose weight limits and health concerns.
What should I do in case of sudden rain?
Turn back to lower elevation if trails get slick and seek shelter at the camp’s covered areas; guides monitor weather and will advise the safest course.
What to Pack
Trail shoes for traction, 1–2 L refillable water bottle to stay hydrated, light rain shell for sudden showers, cash for local vendors and tips
Did You Know
Ferdinand Magellan made landfall on Cebu in 1521, marking the start of Spanish influence in the Philippines—a pivotal moment in the island’s recorded history.
Quick Travel Tips
Fly into Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB); book transfers ahead of time; start the hike early to beat heat and crowds; bring small bills for local purchases
Local Flavor
After a day on the ridges, head back toward Cebu City for a plate of local lechon (try Zubuchon) or a relaxed sunset at Tops Lookout; mountain-side cafes near Busay serve strong local coffee and grilled snacks to round out the day.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Mactan–Cebu International (CEB); Typical drive from Cebu City: 30–60 minutes depending on traffic; Cell service: intermittent on trails; Permits/Passes: none formal, private tour booking required
Sustainability Note
Support local guides and refuse single-use plastics—carry a refillable bottle, pack out what you bring in, and stick to established trails to prevent erosion.