DOT Region 2 Eyes Kayapa Quad Peaks for Mountain Tourism Development
The Department of Tourism (DOT) Region 2, in coordination with the Provincial Culture and Tourism Office of Nueva Vizcaya and the Municipal Tourism Office of Kayapa, conducted a site validation of the Kayapa Quad Peaks as part of the preparations for the King of the Mountain Trails program and its development as a mountain day hike destination.
The initiative forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen mountain tourism in the region by developing accessible and organized hiking destinations that can attract visitors while supporting local communities.
The Kayapa Quad Peaks located in Kayapa, Nueva Vizcaya offers a 13 kilometers hiking experience with an estimated duration of seven to eight hours, depending on pacing. The trail includes established routes such as the Spanish Trail and the Padilla Trail, leading to four summits: Mt. Tugew, Cabo Peak, Kabuan Peak, and Sadjatan Peak.
Each peak has distinct features and viewpoints. Signages are installed along the trail to guide visitors and identify designated areas for stops and photo opportunities.
The site validation was facilitated by a local community guide who assisted the tourism officials during the activity, highlighting the role of local stakeholders in ensuring a safe and organized visitor experience. During the validation, the team also identified ways forward to further support the community in managing and handling tourism activities in the area.
The team also noted the presence of five existing homestays in the area. These accommodations present an opportunity for further development through training and accreditation to ensure compliance with tourism standards and to provide safe lodging for visitors.
The site validation underscores the potential of the Kayapa Quad Peaks as an offering under the King of the Mountain Trails program, supporting mountain tourism development and promoting community participation in Nueva Vizcaya.#