Bucari: Exploring Leon's Scenic Landscape

Bucari is unique in many ways. Tucked away in the lush mountains of Leon, Iloilo, It offers a refreshing escape from the heat of the city and its surrounding towns.

Bucari, Leon, Iloilo. Copyright: aesta1

Perched at over 1200 meters above sea level, Bucari has a temperature that often drops to 15 degrees centigrade, a rarity in a tropical country. 

Approaching Bucari, you can feel the coolness in the air. Its rolling hills and verdant pine forests embrace you. Then, its terraced vegetable gardens greet you with strawberries, cabbages, carrots, lettuce, and celery. Often covered with misty clouds, this panorama is a feast for weary eyes.

Bucari's Pine Forest. Copyright: aesta1

Hidden within the forest are some of Bucari's most picturesque waterfalls, such as Imoy Falls and Camandag Falls. These cascades, with their crystal-clear waters flowing from the highlands, are perfect spots for relaxation and a refreshing dip. The falls are easily accessible through short hikes, offering a rewarding experience for those who love outdoor adventures.

For hikers, campers, and bikers, Bucari is a paradise. The area is home to various trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging treks that reward you with incredible vistas and close encounters with nature. Camping in Bucari also a popular camping destination. With designated campsites nestled amidst the pines, it offers an unparalleled stargazing experience in the cool mountain air.

The Mansiga Steps in Bucari. Copyright: aesta1

For the more adventurous, you can climb the peaks of Mansiga and Tabionan to witness spectacular sunrises or sunsets that stretch over the vast, undulating landscapes.

The locals have embraced ecotourism, and many campsites and homestays offer simple but comfortable accommodations. For a more adventurous experience, you can set up a tent and sleep under the stars, with the forest lulling you to sleep.

Bucari's winding, uphill roads also present a challenging but scenic route for cyclists. Mountain biking has become a favourite activity for many tourists, especially those looking for a thrilling yet peaceful ride through nature.

Bucari's winding roads. Copyright: aesta1

While Bucari's natural beauty draws people in, its local community gives the place its heart. The people of Bucari, mainly farmers and artisans, are known for their warmth and hospitality. Many visitors have shared stories of being welcomed into homes, offered fresh produce, and guided through the hidden corners of Bucari by locals passionate about sharing their hometown's beauty. I had my own experience of this. 

When we were going to the strawberry farm, a farmer met us on the way. He was tending to his celery and chayote seedlings, piqued my interest. I wanted to buy some of these seedlings while my companions went straight for the strawberries. 

He readily shared his knowledge with me on how to take care of these plants and added free seedlings to what I bought, choosing the best of what he had. At that moment, I knew I would go back just to talk to this avid and experienced gardener. 

Of course, we purchased strawberries and cold-climate vegetables from the stalls in the center. 

We found a very nice restaurant by the roadside with a spectacular view, so we seated ourselves at the table but were told the cook had not yet arrived. We waited for a while, but hunger made us decide to keep going. We found another one frequented by regular travellers, and food was readily available. The food was tasty in its simplicity and very cheap. 

Terraced Hills of Bucari. Copyright: aesta1

Having satisfied our hunger, we visited the town market of Leon. Farmers delivered huge baskets of vegetables there, and middlemen from the city purchased those produce in bulk and brought them to sell to the city merchants. We purchased some as well. 

Having visited Bucari,  I now understand why people from the city purchased properties there. It's a tranquil place to be refreshing both body and spirit. ​

Strawberry Farm in Bucari. Copyright: aesta1

Toril Farm in Bucari. Copyright: aesta1

Leon Market, Iloilo. Copyright: aesta1