Experiencing Kampo Juan in Bukidnon
“Masayang-masaya! It’s really more fun in the Philippines!” exclaimed Gary Feliciano, who at 60 still tried riding the Anicycle—an aerial bike placed at 90-meter high above the ground with a distance span of 200 meters.
The Anicycle, the only one of its kind in the country, is noted as one of the breathtaking adventure trips in Kampo Juan at Barangay Dicklum, Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon aside from the two zip-lines that travels at a combined distance of 840 meters with a height of 100 meters.
Rousing adrenaline to its hype
Riding on the Anicycle seems scary as the way it looks but as you get your feet on the pedal and take control of the ride, you’ll get the cool feeling of being on top of a remarkable lush of Bukidnon. Unlike the zip line, the Anicycle enables you to view the wonders of Bukidnon for as long as you want since you have the control to pause in the middle of the ride through holding the brakes of the bike. You can also speed up if you feel like you want to reach the other end fast by simply moving the bike’s pedal.
Prior to riding the Anicycle, professional guides will give instructions on how you’ll keep safe all the time and enjoy the ride. If you want to bring along your camera to document your whole Anicycle experience, it’s absolutely possible. You may also experience the ride with your son or daughter since there is a harness intended for children.
The Anicycle at Kampo Juan in Bukidnon via www.zowanderer.com
As of September 2013, the Anicycle along with the two zip lines and a hanging bridge adventure only costs P600 and if you want to experience the thrill of going down from the mountains, you can try the Kampo Juan rappelling adventure. This and the three other adventure trips only costs P1,000.
Origin and features of the Camp
Kampo Juan, according to Camp Manager Noriel Agulay, was named after Dr. Juan C. Acosta—an agriculturist-farmer and scientist who has contributed immensely to Philippine agriculture, plant breeding and genetics, economic development and food security especially in the rural sector. It was established in April 15, 2011 providing a good venue for an immersion with nature as a way to relieve stress.
Prior to reaching the entrance of the adventure park, one could see the historical Gen. Douglas McArthur landmark of the World War II Airfields of the United States Air Force. It is the very spot where the famous general uttered the words “I shall return” before his departure to Australia on March 1942.
Kampo Juan also serves as the home of the major varieties propagated by Dr. Acosta. Some of these varieties include the Ulam Pineapple, Cherry Tomato, Rambutan and other horticulture plantation.
If you are looking for a quiet yet beautiful place for relaxation, the camp features cool tree house and green cottages where you can sit back and enjoy as well as witness stunning sunsets.
The Guided Trailing Tour is also one of the best offerings of Kampo Juan especially to those who love to get acquainted with exotic flora and fauna species. It is an hour walk along Kampo Juan’s walking trail facilitated by their experienced Mountain Guides.
The adventure starts with a farm tour, crossing on the hanging bridge, climbing down the cliff of Kampo Juan ravine, crossing the Yellow River and ends with climbing the 30-feet Juan’s Beanstalk. Inclusive of welcome drinks, snacks, service vehicle (from Cagayan de Oro City only), Juan’s Beanstalk and one-way Anicycle ride, the Guided Trailing Tour costs P600.
If you are planning to stay for a night or two in Kampo Juan, you can try their Klima-Kubo cottage camping and bamboo cottages which cost around P1,000 good for two persons and P2,500 good for seven people.
Whether you are in for an adventure or simply to relax, Kampo Juan can surely give in to your desires. With all its amenities, fun-filled activities and great display of nature’s bounty, Kampo Juan can surely make you say, “It’s more fun in the Philippines!” ( Recthie T. Paculba/PIA10)
