Relax in Laguna Tourist Spot, one of the closest holiday destinations to Metro Manila other than Tarlac!
Without a doubt, the pandemic dealt the Philippine tourism industry severe blows. Around 88% of the nation’s tourist-oriented firms reportedly stated that they anticipated at least a 50% reduction in revenue as a result of the restrictions and closures.
However, because of initiatives taken by regional and federal governments in 2021, tourism hotspots across the nation are already preparing to draw more tourists once their “new normal” norms are in place.
Among the places that have reopened to tourists is this? Laguna! In order to help Manilenos who want to relax and get away from the metro’s bustle, we’ve compiled a list of 14 Laguna Tourist Spot.
1. Hulugan Falls
The first place of Laguna Tourist Spot is one of the more well-known cascades in Baranggay Salvador, Luisiana, Laguna, is this lovely waterfall. It has attracted a lot of visitors, making it one of the Philippines’ must-see waterfalls.
The roads leading to the falls are not particularly accessible because they are tucked away in a remote area.
You have to travel a one-way trail to get there. Before arriving at the Hulugan Falls, you will pass by two waterfalls. You will first take a hike to Talay Falls from the river.
To get to the Hidden Falls, you must scramble via a more difficult and steep path. Before reaching your target, the Hulugan Falls, you will then descend down a muddy trail.
You can cool off in the natural pool that is located beneath the column. Keep in mind that some of the rocks must not be scaled if you wish to get closer to the pouring waterfalls.
Since the weather is perfect for a long hike, December to February are the best months to visit the falls. During the summer, a lot of tourists visit the falls.
Hulugan Falls is typically visited by tourists on day trips, however, camping overnight is an option as well. You must, however, provide your own tent.
In addition, there is a per-person camping cost. Your tour guide for the waterfalls will take care of you and watch out for you.
Facilities:
- Restroom
Address: 6F6H+9WQ, Luisiana, Laguna.
Contact: 0921 386 5215.
Price: Start from ₱20.
2. Japanese Garden
One of Laguna Tourist Spot’s many historical landmarks is the Japanese Garden. It’s located in Cavinti near the well-known Lake Caliraya. In the 1970s, a lovely garden was built to remember the Japanese occupation of the Philippines during World War II.
The grounds will welcome you with a huge torii, or traditional Japanese gate. To alert visitors that they are about to enter a hallowed environment, these gates are frequently erected in shrines or other places with a religious importance. Beyond the fence, there are wide-open patches of grass and enormous trees that provide shade for people planning a picnic.
In the distance, there is a calm, artificial lagoon that adds to the garden’s overall sense of peace.
You come to a steep flight of stairs after crossing a cement bridge over a lagoon. You will reach another roomy portion of the garden at the top of these stairs, where a solemn altar is located.
The shrine was constructed by the Philippines-Japan Friendship Society in memory of Japanese servicemen who died fighting in World War II. Also claimed to be buried on the grounds of the garden is the Yamashita Treasure, a purportedly war plunder taken by Japanese forces during the conflict.
Along with the garden’s zen-like beauty, guests can also ascend some stairs to the summit of a hill. A panoramic view of Laguna’s Caliraya Lake is also accessible from this location.
Address: Inside Luneta Park.
Contact: –
Price: Start from ₱10.
3. Enchanted Kingdom
Visit the Enchanted Kingdom in Barangay Balibago, Santa Rosa City, Laguna if you’re looking for thrilling activities close to the metro. It is regarded as the Philippines’ first and only theme park of the highest caliber.
Inside this 25-hectare park, which has eight themed zones with more than 20 attractions, you can ride for free without limits. Extreme to interactive motion theaters are included in this list of attractions.
The experience, their newest attraction, features about 20 magnificent locations in the Philippines, from Batanes to Cagayan de Oro. AGILA The world’s first and biggest flying theater, it.
AGILA takes you on an interactive flight simulation while highlighting the beauty of the Philippine Archipelago so that you can appreciate and comprehend the need of protecting the ecosystem for our critically endangered wildlife like the Agila.
With your friends and family, Enchanted Kingdom delivers an extraordinarily magical experience. A free pass for all rides and a 10% discount off ordinary day tickets are available to those who want to spend their birthday at the theme park.
There is a local shop (souvenirs or unique EK items by Edgar’s Specialty Shop for character shirts, pillows, or hand-sewn key chains. And Harry Houdini’s Magic Shop and Princess Victoria’s Dream Shop for adorable tutus and gowns.
Facilities:
- Space Shuttle
- Anchor’s Away
- Rio Grande Rapids
- EKstreme Tower
- Roller Skater
- Fun Kart
- Disk-O-Magic
- Jungle Log Jam
- Air Race.
Address: IRSBS Boulevard, San Lorenzo Rd, South, Santa Rosa, 4026 Laguna.
Contact: (02) 8584 3535.
Price:
- Express one-day pass: ₱1,800
- Regular day pass: ₱999
- Junior day pas: ₱688
- Senior citizen | PWD: ₱688
- Junior | PWD: ₱488
4. Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery
The Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery, which is housed inside a chapel, is another must-see sight in Laguna Tourist Spot. It is located in Barangay Bambang’s relaxed town of Nagcarlan in a hilly environment.
The friars and wealthy people were buried in the catacombs, which are located on the chapel’s lower ground floor.
It functioned as a hiding location for guerrillas who battled the Japanese occupation during World War II throughout the revolution. Under the direction of Franciscan Fr. Vicente Velloc, it was constructed in 1845.
Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery received the designation of National Historical Landmark in 1981. The National Historical Commission of the Philippines is currently in charge of its landmark building.
From ornamental iron grills to brick walls, this historical and religious structure showcases beautifully preserved architecture, dating back to the 18th century before the Philippine revolution.
Upon entering the chapel, a curator will provide a historical background of the underground cemetery. The grand arched gate and walkway will lead you to the chapel. You will see the entrance of the cemetery on the right side of the chapel’s main door.
You will go downstairs to the dungeons of the underground crypt, where you will witness apartment-like compartments on the walls. The chapel’s upper ground provides a bit of light to the cemetery’s dark interior.
Note: You are not permitted to use your camera’s flash while shooting images inside the cemetery.
Facilities:
- On the left side of the chapel’s entry, close to the wooden door, there is a tiny booth with postcards, religious items, and regional goodies if you want to buy mementos.
Address: 4CJ8+F25, Nagcarlan, Laguna.
Contact: 0905 248 4147.
Price: Start from ₱ –
5. St. John the Baptist Church
The St. John the Baptist Church, commonly referred to as the Liliw or Lilio Church, is one of Laguna Tourist Spot’s must-see historical monuments. It is a 400-year-old Laguna church that stands majestously in Liliw town, the Philippines’ Tsinelas capital.
Without stopping by the sandal and shoe stores along the highway on the route to Liliw, your trip won’t be complete. In addition to its footwear and handicrafts, Liliw is renowned for its sweet treats like espasol (toated rice cake) and uraro (arrowroot cookies).
Early in the 16th century, the church’s first wooden construction was built. The structures, meanwhile, are made of rocks and red bricks. It suffered some damage from a significant earthquake that struck Luzon in 1880. Then, in 1885, it underwent rebuilding. On April 6, 1898, it was partially torched once more.
Juan de Plasencia and Diego Oropesa, two Franciscan priests, founded Liliw as a result of Reducción, a Spanish program that consolidates minor communities into a single town. Prior to receiving their own church, the villagers used to travel to Nagcarlan to attend mass.
Father Miguel de San Lucas served as the first parish pastor when it became a separate parish in 1605. Every August 29, people around the world observe its feast day, also known as the Martyrdom of St. John the Baptist.
The façade of the chapel is lined with enormous white statues. Additionally, gazebos can be seen on either side of the promenade. The church’s bell tower was built during the Spanish era and is influenced by Baroque design. You will see a massive altar, stunning ceiling paintings, and glass murals as soon as you enter the church.
Address: H4CJ+9WH, J. Sumulong, Taytay, 1920 Rizal.
Contact: (02) 8658 6489.
Price: Start from ₱ –
6. Hidden Valley Springs
In Calauan, Laguna, Hidden Valley Springs is a 3-star private resort with verdant grounds and lovely gardens that is tucked between the well-known mountains of Banahaw and Makiling which have been one of the most popular Laguna Tourist spots. One of the busiest hot spring resorts in Laguna is Hidden Valley Springs, which is within two hours drive (less than 80KM) from Manila.
This idyllic resort is tucked away in a protected jungle with over 150 different plant types. There is a huge variety of wild orchids, enormous ferns, and century-old trees. The Amlang Tree, which is more than 300 years old, is one of these 100-year-old trees.
Your tour of the Hidden Valley Springs Resort will take you through its lush greenery and natural beauties, which will wow you with their profusion of flora and fauna. You’ll take a little tour of the beautiful rainforest to get there. To get to the forest and the nearby waterfall, you must trek.
Facilities:
- A tropical rainforest resort
- Thermal pools and lagoons
- 6 natural spring pools
- 2 kiddie pools
- 3 natural Jacuzzis filled with clean and volcanic mineral waters
- The Soda Pool and bask in a water massage
- A sumptuous buffet and a hearty Filipino lunch
- Spa
- Mini cabins where you can stay overnight.
Address: 37X5+26Q, Calauan, Laguna.
Contact: (02) 8840 4112.
Price: Start from ₱2,225
7. Mount Makiling
Mt. Makiling is a dormant volcano located between the provinces of Laguna and Batangas and reaches more than 1,090 m (3,580 ft) above mean sea level. It is located 61 kilometers from Metro Manila, to the south of Laguna de Bay. It is one among the most popular places to hike in the Philippines.
A 4,244-hectare ASEAN Heritage Park in Laguna, the Mount Makiling Forest Reserve (MMFR) straddles sections of Los Baos, Bay, and Calamba City.
The University of the Philippines Los Baos and the Makiling Center for Mountain Ecosystems are responsible for its terrestrial ecology.
The diversity of plants and animals on Mount Makiling is thriving. It is home to 7,000 types of invertebrates, 181 bird species, 65 reptile species, 45 mammal species, and 22 amphibian species.
Numerous endemic species, such as the Philippine Deer, Philippine Warty Pig, Philippine Calotes, and the frog Philautus Sardus, are also found in the reserve.
You can stop by some of Mt. Makiling’s must-see sights when going on hiking trips there. The Makiling Botanic Gardens, a 300-hectare institution for plant conservation, is one of them. You can also visit Mudsprings, a volcanic region with a sulfurous rotten egg odor.
The Flatrock, a clump of weathered stones in a natural rock formation, is another amazing sight. There is a designated campsite at Makiling Rainforest Park for people who wish to spend the night.
A moderate difficulty rating of 5/9 applies to Mt. Makiling. It is classified as a major hike, and the trail takes 5 to 9 hours to complete. To explore this alluring Laguna mountain, you can sign up for a Makiling Traverse or MakTrav hiking tour.
Address: Located in the provinces of Laguna and Batangas on the island of Luzon, Philippines.
Contact: –
Price: Start from ₱20
8. Seven Lakes of San Pablo
The renowned Seven Lakes of San Pablo, or Sampaloc, Bunot, Calibato, Pandin, Yambo, Palakpakin, and Mohicap, are located in Laguna in addition to historical attractions and resorts.
These undiscovered treasures are tucked between Mount Cristobal, Tayak Hill, Mount Kalisungan, and Mount Mabilog.
The seven lakes were first mentioned in legends. One of them discusses how Sampaloc Lake came to be. In accordance with well-known folklore, a couple formerly had a tree growing the sweet and sour Sampaloc or tamarind fruit.
They declined to give a fairy posing as a beggar some fruit. The people now refer to this body of water as Sampaloc Lake as the punishment the fairy meted out to them.
According to geologists, the Mt. Makiling, Mt. Kalisungan, Mt. Atimla, Imoc Hill, and Mt. Mabilog volcanoes are all part of the San Pablo Volcanic Field. Previously, the seven lakes were the craters of extinct volcanoes.
One day of driving and some light hiking will get you to all seven lakes. Like with this Mt. Mabilog and Pandin Lake tour, you can also choose to only visit a portion.
The first lake you see when touring all the lakes is Bunot Lake, where fingerling Tilapia Nilotica is raised. Calibato Lake, the deepest lake with an average depth of 156 meters, is the next on the list. A nearby waterfall is also visible.
Visiting the Pandin and Yambo twin lakes is among the highlights of your tour. The lakes are interconnected, and their waters are both crystal clear. Swimmers can also use bamboo rafts to travel the lakes.
Lake Palakpakin, the second-largest lake after Sampaloc, is where you’ll stop next. A beautiful site to witness is Lake Mohicap, which looks out over the Calauan mountain ranges. The largest of all the crater lakes and your final stop is Sampaloc Lake.
Address: Province of Laguna, Philippines.
Contact: –
Price: Start from ₱50
9. Caliraya Lake
Caliraya Lake, a constructed lake in Lumban, Laguna, is another picturesque site in Laguna Tourist Spot.
In the 1930s, a US Army engineer built the lake by dumping water into the Sierra Madre’s Cavinti valley. At first, it was built to produce hydroelectric power for Manila, the nearby metropolis.
Caliraya developed a reputation as a top bass fishing location in the Philippines over time. Some visitors from Manila marketed and developed the lake as a recreational resort for the city’s affluent residents in the early 1970s.
Since then, numerous concrete and structural upgrades to the lake have been made, including the building of a hydroelectric plant.
Later, Caliraya became a rich neighborhood resembling those in developed nations. In the 1980s, nevertheless, it was used as a hideout and a base of operations by the New People’s Army.
The local administration started looking for ways to revive Caliraya’s thriving tourism industry in the middle of the 1980s. Currently, the area around Caliraya Lake is home to a number of top-notch resorts, golf courses, and country clubs.
You must reserve a stay at one of the resorts or guesthouses in the Laguna area close to the lake if you want to experience Caliraya’s serene landscape. There are several places to stay in Caliraya, from lakeside villas to farm cabins.
Aquascape The stylish, wooden homes in Caliraya are renowned for having powered motors that let you cruise along the lake. Caliraya Ecoville Recreation Farm & Resort, meanwhile, has comfortable cabin-style rooms with a lake view.
Facilities:
- Golf
- Jet skiing
- Windsurfing
- Fishing for largemouth bass
- Water skiing
- Boating
- Campsites for hikers.
Address: Situated in the municipalities of Lumban, Cavinti, and Kalayaan in Laguna province, Philippines.
Contact: –
Price: Start from ₱80
10. Bahay ni Rizal
The Museo ni Jose Rizal, popularly called the Rizal Shrine in Calamba, is within a hundred meters of the town square. The replica of Jose Rizal’s birthplace, a two-story stone building, is located here.
Wood, bricks, and sliding windows with capiz shells make up its structure. It is one of the Philippines’ top historical Laguna Tourist Spot.
The principal roots of Rizal’s family, a class of Filipinos awarded with a gobernadorcillo or cabeza de baranggay title, are the source of the family’s fortune.
His paternal and maternal grandparents both came from prosperous families. The Rizal family, one of the illustrious families in Laguna, inherited their affluent lineage.
Rizal’s lavish home and fine furnishings are a reflection of his family’s affluent way of life. The animals and produce were even maintained in the basement. The stone home of the Rizals in Calamba is typical of a wealthy Filipino residence during the Spanish era.
Six exhibits at the Rizal Museum detail his early education and his illustrious European trips. His family and early years are depicted in The Kaliwanagan. Next, the farming settlement of Calamba is portrayed in the Kapaligiran.
To find out more about his schooling at the Universidad de Santo Tomas and Ateneo Municipal de Manila, see the Karunungan gallery. His family’s heirlooms can be found in the Bahay-na-Bato gallery.
His first journey to Europe and the creation of his novel Noli Me Tángere are both on display at the Unang Paglalakbay sa Europa gallery.
In addition, Pangalawang Paglalakbay sa Europa exhibit discusses his other political publications, such as El Filibusterismo, and his second trip to Europe.
In addition to displaying Rizal’s belongings, the museum has interactive kiosks that showcase his achievements to the country.
It depicts a hologram of Rizal listening to a letter addressed to his friend Dr. Ferdinand Blumentritt, an Austrian. Additionally, students can stop by the e-learning space to take part in online history classes.
Address: 6578+CPW, F. Mercado St, Calamba, 4027 Laguna.
Contact: (049) 834 1599.
Price: Start from ₱ –
11. Hot Springs in Laguna
For those seeking tranquility close to Manila, the province of Laguna is regarded as a peaceful retreat. The hot springs tucked in Mt. Makiling’s foothills are among the must-see sights in this area. In Los Baos, notably in the Pansol region, the majority of Laguna Tourist Spot’s hot spring resorts are located.
There aren’t thermal pools at every resort, but the majority include natural pools with mineral-rich water and geothermal heat from Laguna Tourist Spot of Mt. Makiling’s hot rocks.
Hot springs are said to be able to cure or treat certain illnesses by certain people. In actuality, the high sulfur content of hot springs aids in lowering tension and enhancing blood circulation.
One of the biggest and most popular Laguna hot spring resorts is 88 Hotspring Resort, which is not far from Manila. There are 11 outdoor swimming pools and 8 dipping pools with varied heat levels where visitors can dip for a maximum of 10 minutes. You can try their Swedish and Shiatsu massage to get the most out of your restorative experience.
One of the hot springs resorts with the best views of Mt. Makiling and Laguna de Bay is Sol Y Viento Mountain Spring Resort.
It is situated at Pansol, Calamba, along Km 55, Makiling Heights. The hotel’s jacuzzis and naturally heated swimming pools are open to guests.
For those seeking calm and peace of mind, hot spring massages are ideal, especially during the Philippines’ rainy season. Numerous health advantages of the mineral-rich waters include improved sleep quality and a reduction in stress.
Address: Laguna Philippines.
Contact: –
Price: Start from ₱ –
12. Pagsanjan Falls
Pagsanjan Falls, located close to Manila, is one of the most well-known waterfalls in Laguna Tourist Spot, Philippines.
This place and the gorges nearby were designated as a national park in 1939. The waterfall is governed by Cavinti, while the picturesque river that leads to the falls is a part of Pagsanjan town.
Magdapio Falls, also known as Pagsanjan Falls or Cavinti Falls in Laguna Tourist Spot, was first named. This three-drop waterfall was found in 1902 by an American missionary, making it one of the first tourist destinations. He gave it the name Pagsanjan Falls, which is a translation of the Filipino phrase Pinagsangahan, which means “where it branches.”
From the Bumbungan and Balanac rivers, the cascades break off. In the meanwhile, a legend describes how the falls came to be. The story says that Magapio lost his brother Balubad during a long-ago drought. A waterfall appeared out of the river’s gorges as a result of his prayer to the gods.
You can “shoot the rapids” in a boat during your spot tour by fast descending the river. First, you will embark on a brief hike from Cavinti town. You will next board a river canoe and travel 17 kilometers through a rugged stream.
Around 20 little falls that cascade from the mountains will be visible as you kayak across stunning rock formations.
Prepare to enter canyons that are over 100 feet high as your skilled boatmen navigate the vessel over choppy seas. You will walk into Devil’s Cave and underneath the waterfalls. Leaning forward will give your back a soothing waterfall massage.
If you don’t want to take a rapids tour, you can hike to Pagsanjan Falls from Cavinti’s Pueblo El Salvador Eco-Park and Picnic Grove instead. Expect to descend a steep steel ladder that leads directly to the gorge by rappelling and hiking.
Address: The Province of Laguna.
Contact: –
Price: Start from ₱270.00 per person, which includes a tour guide to the waterfalls, a bamboo raft ride, life vests, a safety harness, and the use of washrooms.
13. Mt Makiling Botanical Garden
After reaching the peak of Mt. Makiling, you can hike back to the lower station and tour the botanical garden there.
Numerous unusual species of plants and animals can be found here, including wildflowers and orchids that are in bloom.
You might believe that because the trees are so tall, spirits are residing there. It’s the ideal getaway, especially for those who want to take in the best of nature.
If you want to reach the top of Makiling Botanical Garden, Laguna Tourist Spot, you have to take track about 1-hour travel.
Address: College of Forestry, University of the Philippines, Los Banos, Laguna.
Contact: (049) 536 2637.
Price: Start from ₱10 per person.
14. Republ1c Wakepark
Last but not least Laguna Tourist Spot is Republ1c Wakepark in Ayala Land’s Nuvali is now open from Thursdays through Sundays via bookings and reservations, much to the joy of wakeboarding lovers in Laguna Tourist Spot!
This wakeboarding water park, which is only 52 kilometers from the metro, welcomes both novices and experts, and there are guides on hand to help you master their world-class obstacle ramps.
Wakeboarders are pulled by cables rather than boats for safer yet thrilling rides because of an abundance of caution.
Address: Republ1c Wakepark, West Diversity Boulevard, Nuvali 4027 Santa Rosa, Philippines.
Contact: (049) 559 4834.
Price: Start from ₱250
