Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park
Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park
Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park
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- Christina Arabe... RSilang, Philippines11 contributionsHidden gem at Dumaguete City!Beautiful lakes plus there is a hidden waterfalls worth going to! Make sure to go to the water falls! So near the city and accessible. However the road going there is like going up the mountain - steep but the road is passable and ok!Visited March 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten March 17, 2024
- Ernst Beeler50 contributionsSilent natureReview Twin Lakes, Negros We drove from our resort about 1.5 hours to the lakes, in the hilly high forest of Negros. The day before it rained in torrents. First a steep descent path from the parking lot to the lakes about 250 meters. It was so smooth because in this rainforest all the stones were covered with algae, every step a potential danger to fall. Once at the lake, we were driven across the lake in a Philippine paddle boat by our guide and an old man. Improbable silence has returned, no motorboats or changing sounds than a chirping bird from time to time. Bike for about 20 minutes and we got to the other bank, through a pretty steep climb which was just as dangerous and smooth as the whole climb was wet. After about 250 meters, you can climb onto a primitive railing on a small platform, from where you could see the 2 lake, which lies in the other valley about 200 meters below the platform. Well, obviously you can't visit this lake, for whatever reason. All the way back was just as difficult to go as described. A small excursion with in the parking lot small very modest (restaurant, wooden cabin) where you can have a drink and there is a so-called toilet. Do not be frightened, because the flushing does not work, the cistern is defective, so you have to flush away their emergency liquid with a water throat. The whole thing took about 5 hours.Visited January 2025Traveled as a coupleWritten January 8, 2025
- Adam G1 contributionRoys ToursVisited Twin Lakes with our local tour guide Roy! He picked us up from our hostel and drove us to the lakes! It's a cheap entrance with a walk around the lakes, a boat ride and a cafe with lovely view over the lakes. Worth a visit! Contact Roy for tours here: +63 997 915 1874Visited January 2025Traveled soloWritten January 30, 2025
- Timothy P3 contributionsOne great park which was part of a brilliant tour from a local guideMy friend and I wanted to visit Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park and we were lucky enough to find a local tour guide called Roy who also took us to other sights like Pulangbato Falls and Red Rock Hot Springs. We had a really fun time at Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park where you can get a boat across one lake to a viewpoint that provides stunning views across both lakes. There’s also a short but enjoyable hike. Roy was a brilliant tour guide and you can contact him on +63 997 915 1874Visited February 2025Traveled with friendsWritten February 8, 2025
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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4.0
297 reviews
Excellent
138
Very good
108
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33
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8
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10
Roy Deserdo
Dumaguete City, Philippines11 contributions
Nov 2022 • Solo
The lakes are set on top of a mountain around 45 minutes from Dumaguete, entrance is 100 peso per person which allows to enter the premises and stand on the edge of the lake. From here you can see a peaceful natural lake and listen to the numerous bird sounds within the surrounding forests. Alternatively you can pay 250 peso per boat and be paddled from the first lake to the second and from there you can get a view of the twin lakes together.
We got there using a local driver we met called Roy who gave us a cheap tour of the lakes and local waterfalls for a good price (09979151874).
We got there using a local driver we met called Roy who gave us a cheap tour of the lakes and local waterfalls for a good price (09979151874).
Written November 24, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mario E
32 contributions
Jul 2022
To see more of the local area, we made a trip to these lakes. The last 13km are nicely uphill. On arrival a small visitor center where you pay entrance and then a little further on a small "restaurant". Are two options. You walk next to the coast to the lookout tower between the two lakes (30 minutes one way) or you rent a boat with rower for 250 per hour. It will take you to the same watchtower and possibly to a small waterfall.
Beautiful surroundings, but you expect many more trails to hike. Boat trip is fun and relaxed. Waterfall means nothing. Trip to lookout tower and then to waterfall took less than two hours. We were asked to pay for 3 hours.
Don't wear slippers, wear shoes. Rain gear if needed. The paths are often slippery and uneven. We were lucky to be the only one on the lake.
Beautiful surroundings, but you expect many more trails to hike. Boat trip is fun and relaxed. Waterfall means nothing. Trip to lookout tower and then to waterfall took less than two hours. We were asked to pay for 3 hours.
Don't wear slippers, wear shoes. Rain gear if needed. The paths are often slippery and uneven. We were lucky to be the only one on the lake.
Written August 16, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ThatBaldDoc
Quezon City, Philippines142 contributions
Jun 2022 • Friends
Majestic palm fronds, twirling ferns, and heart-shaped taro leaves dot the shoreline of the lakes, casting an emerald hue on the pristine waters that lapped at their roots.
Shrieking bird calls, and gentle paddling were all the sounds we hear while afloat a pale blue boat. You wouldn't want to make a noise, lest you'll disturb such splendor.
And although our presence seems to be imposing, and out-of-place, there is no other way to experience this, but up close.
Shrieking bird calls, and gentle paddling were all the sounds we hear while afloat a pale blue boat. You wouldn't want to make a noise, lest you'll disturb such splendor.
And although our presence seems to be imposing, and out-of-place, there is no other way to experience this, but up close.
Written June 23, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dian Fatima Ariosa
Mactan Island, Philippines7 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
I really looked forward in visiting the twin lakes as it made me curious of the phenomena behind. It began with a ride to Sibulan and stopping to the corner with a signage to Balinsasayao Twin Lake. From the corner to the Lake was a butt-hurting 45mins motorcycle ride but also a scenic one as it passes along various mountains. We stopped in their tourism center and logged on their visitor book. To reach the jump off point to the twin lake, we have to have another 5minute ride from the tourism center.
The long ride made us hungry, but there's nothing to worry as the place had a canteen that offers native food. You should try their 'tinolang' native chicken or even their 'adobong' native chicken, and the local brewede coffee! It was perfect but very affordable. The first lake that you will see is Balinsasayao lake, to get to the second lake- Lake Danao, there are three options. First, is to ride on a manned boat, 2nd, by kayaking, or third, to hike on the scenic trail for about 30mins to the next lake.
One can really immerse with nature as you can experience the flora and fauna surrounding the lake. Indeed, it was a great experince topping it with a great companion.
The long ride made us hungry, but there's nothing to worry as the place had a canteen that offers native food. You should try their 'tinolang' native chicken or even their 'adobong' native chicken, and the local brewede coffee! It was perfect but very affordable. The first lake that you will see is Balinsasayao lake, to get to the second lake- Lake Danao, there are three options. First, is to ride on a manned boat, 2nd, by kayaking, or third, to hike on the scenic trail for about 30mins to the next lake.
One can really immerse with nature as you can experience the flora and fauna surrounding the lake. Indeed, it was a great experince topping it with a great companion.
Written January 17, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
anna
4 contributions
Oct 2019
The road towards the lake is paved. The lake is majestic. A very peaceful escape from a buzzing city atmosphere. The little falls were a delight. The staff were all friendly and polite. The whole experience was amazing and also cheap!
Written March 4, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ervin B
Cebu City, Cebu City, Philippines1 contribution
Sep 2013 • Family
A gun similar to baby armalite has been pointed to us(my cousins and i) when we have our trip last September 7, 2013. Our mobile phones, watches, and wallets has been robbed to us inside the Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park. Thank God we’re safe because the robber attempted to fire a shot while we’re lying down and hands on our head.
We went there to enjoy the place and to be relaxed but it turned out to beg for our lives. This place IS NOT SAFE to anyone who will take trips on this nature park and will never be, unless the Authorities of Sibulan, Negros Oriental will take actions on this incident. So please, share this info to anyone who has plan to visit this place.
We went there to enjoy the place and to be relaxed but it turned out to beg for our lives. This place IS NOT SAFE to anyone who will take trips on this nature park and will never be, unless the Authorities of Sibulan, Negros Oriental will take actions on this incident. So please, share this info to anyone who has plan to visit this place.
Written September 9, 2013
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
samissy89
12 contributions
Jun 2014 • Couples
My boyfriend and I enjoyed our tour and was not disappointed of how it looks like, the pictures on what you see on some websites do not justify of how it really looks like in person. Upon cruisin the first lake, lake Balinsasayao, the view and greeneries can be mistaken for Palawan's. We reached there by taking a travel package from Harold's Mansion. The tour package itinerary includes going to Twin lakes, Casaroro falls and Redrock hotspring for 800php/pax maximum of 4pax (snacks and transportation included) But upon entering the lakes, an entrance fee of 10php for locals and 100php for foreigners should be paid and they will give you a national receipt, so tax is being deducted from this entrance fee.
There is a restaurant located near the entrance where you can take your lunch and buy snacks from it too. You can park your vehicles near the restaurant too. From there you will have to take a 10mins walk/trek going to the first lake,and the road is made of steps going up and down so if you are someone who has a weak heart, think twice, because a harder trail than this awaits you.
Upon the entrance of the first lake, Lake Balinsasayao, there will be caretakers who will offer you a kayak boat for rent, for a kayak which is good for 2 without a boatman, it will cost you 100php. For a kayak boat that can hold 4-5pax with a boatman who will take you to the 2nd lake, it will cost you 250php. I recommend to take this option because not only this will save you a lot of energy and stamina, you will enjoy the 15mins boat ride going to the 2nd lake. If you opt not to ride the boat, you can also trek your way to the second lake and it might take you 30-45mins depending how fast you walk or how long your stamina can support you.
Lake Balinsasayao, according to the boatman, got its name, because on its early days, long ago, Balinsasayao birds inhibit the place and upon cruisin the lake, you will see a tall mountain, where the birds live before, thus it got its name.
The boatman will wait for you upon reaching the end of lake balinsasayao, as you trek up again going to the 2nd lake, Lake Danao, the way up there is steep but man made stairs made of rock and soil with hand rails are made for the convenience of tourists, you can take a dip or swim around on lake Danao, but be careful because there are mosquitoes and other insects who swims on the lake with fishes and different colored dragon flies and butterflies, no one is around except you and your company, so in case someone drowns, no one will rescue you but yourselves.
Again, according to the boatman, Lake Danao was called as such, because the early settlers who had inhabited the place and their early ancestors were called Danao, thus it got its name.
In general, I would recommend for tourists to come visit here, since the place is already developed, meaning its way is already made convenient for tourist yet, it is not that congested with too many tourists unlike other places or spots in the Philippines, so if you are someone who is looking for a place less traveled this can be the spot fir you. it is a serene place to escape the busy city life and a suitable place to relax and just enjoy nature at its best.
There is a restaurant located near the entrance where you can take your lunch and buy snacks from it too. You can park your vehicles near the restaurant too. From there you will have to take a 10mins walk/trek going to the first lake,and the road is made of steps going up and down so if you are someone who has a weak heart, think twice, because a harder trail than this awaits you.
Upon the entrance of the first lake, Lake Balinsasayao, there will be caretakers who will offer you a kayak boat for rent, for a kayak which is good for 2 without a boatman, it will cost you 100php. For a kayak boat that can hold 4-5pax with a boatman who will take you to the 2nd lake, it will cost you 250php. I recommend to take this option because not only this will save you a lot of energy and stamina, you will enjoy the 15mins boat ride going to the 2nd lake. If you opt not to ride the boat, you can also trek your way to the second lake and it might take you 30-45mins depending how fast you walk or how long your stamina can support you.
Lake Balinsasayao, according to the boatman, got its name, because on its early days, long ago, Balinsasayao birds inhibit the place and upon cruisin the lake, you will see a tall mountain, where the birds live before, thus it got its name.
The boatman will wait for you upon reaching the end of lake balinsasayao, as you trek up again going to the 2nd lake, Lake Danao, the way up there is steep but man made stairs made of rock and soil with hand rails are made for the convenience of tourists, you can take a dip or swim around on lake Danao, but be careful because there are mosquitoes and other insects who swims on the lake with fishes and different colored dragon flies and butterflies, no one is around except you and your company, so in case someone drowns, no one will rescue you but yourselves.
Again, according to the boatman, Lake Danao was called as such, because the early settlers who had inhabited the place and their early ancestors were called Danao, thus it got its name.
In general, I would recommend for tourists to come visit here, since the place is already developed, meaning its way is already made convenient for tourist yet, it is not that congested with too many tourists unlike other places or spots in the Philippines, so if you are someone who is looking for a place less traveled this can be the spot fir you. it is a serene place to escape the busy city life and a suitable place to relax and just enjoy nature at its best.
Written June 28, 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dennis S
Metro Manila, Philippines304 contributions
Jun 2017 • Couples
This work of nature is a must visit for every one, nature lover or plain citizen Juan. Cool breeze, virgin forest envelope the surrounding mountains, Mt Guintabon, Guinsasayao and Guinsayawan, green thick foliage all around and cool waters. At the entrance, you will be welcomed by a native bamboo structure housing a restaurant and Viewing Deck where you have full view of one of the two Lakes. On the way down to the Mini Wharf, you will pass by a paved road which is almost 45 degree slope. You rent a boat at the Mini Wharf for Php250 and paddle to the other smaller Balinsasayao Lake. You will climb several steps under forest cover to the Viewing Deck. The views are serene and majestic. While enjoying the scenery and taking pictures, you will be refreshed with the cool breeze coming from the two lakes. On the way back to the Mini Wharf, you can request the boatman to paddle you around the bigger lake. Please make sure that you rent a well conditioned vehicle to withstand the climb up to the Twin Lakes. It is about 1.5 hours from Dumaguete City. Must see.
Registration - Php30.00
Cottage - Php200.00
Boat - Php250.00
Registration - Php30.00
Cottage - Php200.00
Boat - Php250.00
Written July 11, 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ann C
50 contributions
Jan 2015 • Couples
From downtown Dumaguete, we rode a jeep going to San Jose, which drops you off the startQing point of the ascend to Lake Balinsasayaw, where a terminal of motorcycles await for passengers.
The standard rate to go to the lake is P400 per person, back and forth, with one motorcycle being able to carry a maximum of two people. Travel time is 40 mins to reach the destination (distance is 13.75 km). The ride going there in itself is an adventure, with the road full of twists and turns, and steep ascends. Most of the road has been paved, and only a portion is rough road, with ongoing construction to have it paved. The view though is breathtaking – overlooking the island’s coastline, and the lush forest and mountains of the area.
We got there and had an amazing view of the lake, forests and clouds enveloping the mountains. We were the only one there so it was very tranquil, with the only sounds you hear being that of the different species of birds, insects and fauna. There is a trail leading to an overlooking view of the two lakes, but the trail was steep, the rocks you had to step on was full of moss which makes it slippery, and was also full of fallen leaves and branches. I felt unsafe especially because I was wearing flip flops, so we did not go there.
The beauty of this place is undeniable. Do I consider it a must see in Dumaguete? No, not until the local government further develops this place to be more tourist-friendly. Fares should be lowered and regulated, motorcycle drivers should be mandated to provide helmets to their passenger, or alternative means such as tricycle should be made available. Boat rentals and activities there also are priced outrageously in my opinion. The trails should be cleaned and made safer until then, I won't be coming back
The standard rate to go to the lake is P400 per person, back and forth, with one motorcycle being able to carry a maximum of two people. Travel time is 40 mins to reach the destination (distance is 13.75 km). The ride going there in itself is an adventure, with the road full of twists and turns, and steep ascends. Most of the road has been paved, and only a portion is rough road, with ongoing construction to have it paved. The view though is breathtaking – overlooking the island’s coastline, and the lush forest and mountains of the area.
We got there and had an amazing view of the lake, forests and clouds enveloping the mountains. We were the only one there so it was very tranquil, with the only sounds you hear being that of the different species of birds, insects and fauna. There is a trail leading to an overlooking view of the two lakes, but the trail was steep, the rocks you had to step on was full of moss which makes it slippery, and was also full of fallen leaves and branches. I felt unsafe especially because I was wearing flip flops, so we did not go there.
The beauty of this place is undeniable. Do I consider it a must see in Dumaguete? No, not until the local government further develops this place to be more tourist-friendly. Fares should be lowered and regulated, motorcycle drivers should be mandated to provide helmets to their passenger, or alternative means such as tricycle should be made available. Boat rentals and activities there also are priced outrageously in my opinion. The trails should be cleaned and made safer until then, I won't be coming back
Written January 19, 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Alex P
Norfolk, CT112 contributions
Oct 2015 • Friends
We took a multicab (fare: 15 pesos) at Dumaguete that was bound for San Jose (and not Sibulan) to get to the "Crossing." At the Crossing, we hired one of the habal-habals (motorcycle drivers) to take us to Twin Lakes. His fee: 400 pesos per person roundtrip, and that included his time waiting for us. Three lakes are actually in the area -- the first one (Lake Kabalin-an) is small and lies beside the Visitor's Center. The other two (Lakes Balinsasayao and Danao) are several hundred meters higher up the mountain. The lakes are craters of a dormant volcano that have been filled in by eons of rainfall (See Wikipedia's entry for Mount Talinis for more info, if you're curious). The habitat up there (several hundred meters above sea level) was invigorating -- it was cool, the wind was brisk, and the air was incredibly purifying. (It would be a treat to do yoga there!) Because it was a rainy day, we had to be extra careful since everything -- the stone steps, the path, the boat -- was slippery. Both lakes are deep. According to one of the boat women, a team of Filipino scuba divers attempted to explore the depths. Using a rope in Lake Balinsasayao, they found a maximum depth of 172 meters but suspected there were deeper points elsewhere. Carp and tilapia were introduced decades ago and, today, these are the two dominant fishes. (This was an ecological mistake as these invasive species wiped out whatever species originally inhabited these waters). Visit the "Fernery" located beside the restaurant. Try the "Pako" salad (40 pesos only) but tell the cook to go easy on the vinegar and sugar and instead to add more Pako to the salad. We took a Ceres bus back to Dumaguete (fare: 20 pesos) -- this was a better proposition than the multicab since the ride was more comfortable and the trip was shorter. Rain notwithstanding, it was an excellent visit and is highly recommended!
Written October 20, 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
it is accessible by both car and motor. the road is cemented all the way through, however may be slick during rain showers and has tight curvy turns.
Would not recommended using a sedan going up there.
Written November 28, 2018
Diosdado A
Las Pinas, Philippines
May I know how to commute using public transportation. I will be coming from Dumaguete town proper(Golden Gate Suites). Thanks.
Written February 26, 2017
Take a motorcycle. Better make reservations a day ahead.
Written May 4, 2017
nilim101123
Guihulngan City, Philippines
How Much is the entrance fee to the lake if you'll just visit thew placec, how much is the room for 2 and what other expenses that must be paid?
Written June 7, 2016
Hi it was Php 50/head entrance, Php10 vehicle parking
Written June 9, 2016
Есть ли семейные номера(2 взрослых и 2 детей)
Written August 16, 2015
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