Laguna is a beautiful province in the Philippines with many natural attractions perfect for a road trip. Some popular destinations for a nature road trip in Laguna include Mount Makiling, Lake Pandin, and Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery.
Other destinations worth checking out include Rizal Shrine, Caliraya Lake, and the Botanical Gardens at the University of the Philippines Los Baños. Make sure to bring comfortable walking shoes, plenty of water, and a camera to capture all the beautiful sights along the way.
Nonetheless, trying something new for your next nature road trip in Laguna is highly recommended. Include these places.
Must-include places for your road trip in Laguna
1) Laguna Loop
The Laguna Loop is a scenic road trip that takes you on a 220-kilometer loop around the province of Laguna. The loop passes through several beautiful towns and natural attractions, including:
- San Pablo City – known for its seven crater lakes
- Liliw – a town famous for its footwear industry and charming Spanish colonial houses
- Nagcarlan – home to a beautiful underground cemetery and a historic church
- Pagsanjan – known for its picturesque Pagsanjan Falls and riverboat rides
- Caliraya Lake – a scenic lake that is popular for water sports and outdoor activities
- Los Baños – home to the University of the Philippines Los Baños and several natural hot springs
The Laguna Loop offers stunning views of mountains, lakes, and rice fields, making it a popular destination for road trippers and motorcycle riders. Plan for a full day or two to complete the loop, depending on how much time you want to spend at each destination.
2) Caliraya Lake
Caliraya Lake is a man-made lake located in Laguna, Philippines. It was created in 1939 by constructing the Caliraya Dam, which was built to provide hydroelectric power to the region. The lake is a popular destination for water sports and outdoor activities, such as:
- Windsurfing and kitesurfing – the lake’s consistent wind conditions make it an ideal spot for these activities
- Wakeboarding – Caliraya Lake is home to a wakeboarding park with ramps, rails, and other obstacles
- Fishing – the lake is stocked with a variety of fish, including tilapia, catfish, and carp
- Kayaking and paddleboarding – the calm waters of the lake are perfect for exploring on a kayak or paddleboard
- Camping and picnicking – several resorts and campsites are located along the shore of the lake, offering facilities for overnight camping and picnics
In addition to these activities, visitors can enjoy the lake’s scenic views and the surrounding mountains. The area around Caliraya Lake is also home to several hiking trails and natural attractions, such as the Cavinti Underground River and Cave Complex.
3) Bumbungan River Eco-Park
The Bumbungan River Eco-Park is a natural attraction located in Nagcarlan, Laguna. It is a protected area known for its pristine river and lush forest. The eco-park is named after the Bumbungan River, which flows through the park and provides a natural habitat for various fish and other aquatic creatures.
Visitors to the Bumbungan River Eco-Park can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, such as:
- River trekking: a guided tour of the river that includes jumping from cliffs and swimming in natural pools
- Bamboo rafting: a relaxing time on the river on a traditional bamboo raft
- Zipline: a thrilling ride that takes you over the river and through the trees
- Camping: the eco-park offers campsites that are surrounded by nature and equipped with basic facilities
The Bumbungan River Eco-Park is also home to several species of birds and other wildlife, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and birdwatchers. In addition, the park’s serene and peaceful environment is perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse themselves in nature.
4) Japanese Garden
The Japanese Garden is a popular attraction located in Caliraya, Laguna. It is a beautifully landscaped garden with traditional Japanese design elements and architecture, such as a koi pond, Zen garden, torii gate, and a pagoda.
The Japanese Garden provides a peaceful and serene environment for visitors, making it a perfect place for relaxation, meditation, and reflection. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the garden’s winding paths and admire the beauty of the flowers, trees, and other natural elements. The koi pond is also a favorite spot for visitors, as it is home to various colorful fish that can be fed with food sold on-site.
In addition to its scenic beauty, the Japanese Garden is a cultural and educational destination. The garden often hosts cultural events, such as Japanese tea ceremonies and Ikebana (flower arranging) workshops, allowing visitors to learn more about Japanese culture and tradition.
The Japanese Garden is a must-visit attraction for those who love gardens, nature, and Japanese culture. It is open to the public daily, and entrance fees are typically affordable.
5) Pagsanjan Calle Arco
The Pagsanjan Calle Arco is a historic arch located in Pagsanjan, Laguna. It is a well-known landmark that dates back to the Spanish colonial period and is considered one of the oldest arches in the Philippines.
The Pagsanjan Calle Arco was built in the 1870s as an entrance to the town’s main street, or calle, during the Spanish era. The arch has a Baroque style and features intricate carvings and sculptures that depict religious and historical figures. The arch was declared a National Cultural Treasure by the National Museum of the Philippines in 2017, recognizing its historical and cultural significance.
The Pagsanjan Calle Arco still represents the town’s rich history and is a popular visitor attraction. The arch is located at the town’s central plaza. It is often decorated with colorful lights and streamers during festivals and other special occasions. Visitors can take photos with the arch as a backdrop and enjoy the charming atmosphere of the town’s historic center.
6) Pagsanjan Falls
Pagsanjan Falls is a popular natural attraction located in Pagsanjan, Laguna. The falls are a series of three waterfalls fed by the Balanac River, which flows through a lush tropical gorge.
Visitors take a scenic boat ride upstream on the river to reach the falls, passing through narrow canyons and rapids. The boat ride is operated by skilled boatmen who expertly maneuver the boat to avoid rocks and rapids. The ride is an exciting adventure that offers a glimpse of the area’s natural beauty.
Once you reach the falls, visitors can swim in the cool waters of the natural pool, take photos of the stunning scenery, and explore the surrounding area. Bamboo rafts are also available for rent that can take visitors behind the falls for a unique and thrilling perspective.
Pagsanjan Falls is one of the most popular natural attractions in the Philippines and is visited by thousands of tourists yearly. It is a must-visit destination for those who enjoy outdoor adventures, stunning scenery, and water activities.
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