Bucari, Leon - Enjoy a Cool Summer Getaway

Brgy. Bucari, located in the mountains of Leon, is known as Iloilo’s little Baguio because of the cool climate and highland attractions that most people tag with places found in the northern part of the country such as Baguio and even Benguet. But unlike what is currently happening to those places, Bucari is still much endowed with verdant landscapes, tall pine trees, pristine springs, and even bountiful harvests from its rice terraces.


Sitio Camandag surrounded by rice terraces at the foot of Mr. Agua Colognia

The river sandwiched by brightly colored rice terraces

Bucari is an excellent destination during the dry season since it offers an escape from the summer heat with temperatures reported to drop to as low as 15 degrees Celsius. If that’s not enough, one can visit Sitio Camandag for a dip in its natural cold springs and a view of waterfalls.

Imoy Falls and the natural cold spring in Sitio Camandag

Pictureque view of waterfalls

Because of Bucari’s mountainous terrain, farmers grow their crops at the sides of hills and mountains in rice terraces their ancestors have cultivated centuries since. The climate in Bucari is suitable for growing rice and high-value crops such as fruits and vegatables. Better not forget to taste the towns most prized crop, its mangoes, which holds the reputation of being the sweetest in the the province and a staunch rival of Guimaras‘ mangoes.

Vegetables grown in rice terraces

Thriving cabbage patches in Bucari

Another culinary attraction in Leon is their delicacy called “Linagpang.” Linagpang is basically grilled native chicken, which is then sautéed in garlic, onions, and mashed tomatoes. Once cooked, a special soup, eggs, and other ingredients are added to complete the delicious treat.

Grilled Native Chicken

The delicious Linagpang of Leon

GMA TV Show, “Jessica Soho Report” once feauted Brgy. Bucari Leon in one of their episodes. Click the play button below to watch the Bucari episode of Jessica Soho Report.

The campsite in Bucari is located in Sitio Tabionan, where a picturesque view of tall pine trees and wild flowers could be found. At night, the temperature in Tabionan further drops and an exciting scene of fireflies can been seen as they dance and give light to the darkness. There are no hotels or resorts in Bucari, one can opt to bring a tent and cook their own food or arrange for accommodations through the municipal tourism officers in charge.

Tall Pine Trees at Sitio Tabionan

Leisurely lying on the Picnic Tables in Tabionan Campsite

To get to Bucari, ride a “San Miguel” jeepney in the Jaro Big Market and tell the driver to drop you off at the terminal where the Leon jeepneys are parked (15 to 20 minutes). Once there ride a “Leon” jeepney, which will drop you off in the Leon public plaza (15 to 20 minutes). Ask around to find out where the jeepneys bound for Bucari are stationed and tell the driver to drop you off in Brgy. Bucari (45 minutes to 1 hour).

Rough road going to Bucari

A challenging trek from Sitio Camandag to Sitio Tabionan, one can opt to ride the jeepney if available

There is usually one jeepney leaving for Bucari every hour from 7am to 3pm. The last trip to Leon town proper leaves Bucari at around 2pm to 3pm. If you do not wish to spend the night in Bucari, I highly suggest to reach Leon Town Proper as early as 7am so that you can catch the last trip at 2pm and reach the city at around 4 to 5pm. Be sure to inform the tourism office in Leon before embarking on your trip to Bucari so that they can help you plan your trip well.

Leon Tourism Office Contact Details:
Contact Person: Ma. Annaliza Camago, Municipal Tourism Officer
Landline No.: (+63)(033)3310036.

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