iCONoclast: Day Trip: 7 Lakes of San Pablo City

by Randy R.I. Espinoza

I have long been raring to see these lakes, prompted by a declaration of them as "the most threatened in the world" years ago by a foreign organization. After having had the time to finally explore San Pablo’s natural bounty last summer, what’s my verdict? Was the declaration warranted or a little exaggerated?

Muhikap Lake

More than an hour away from the metropolis, tucked away from the highway, San Pablo City appears nondescript and uninviting. Once you reach the city proper, the city then starts to redeem itself. It may be one of those regular busy Laguna cities/towns, but way past the cathedral, the Sampaloc Lake and the establishments and activities along its fringes make this city special. Beyond the city center, some six more lakes set this place apart from the rest.

Sampaloc Lake

There are very few cities and towns that are situated beside a lake. And San Pablo is not just beside a lake. It actually has 7 lakes within its boundaries. And that’s what distinguishes it from all other municipalities in the country. These are small lakes, most of which have their own character and inherent appeal. Sampaloc Lake, of course, is the most accessible since it’s near the poblacion. It's also the biggest. Bunot Lake is next in terms of accessibility but doesn't offer anything special. Pandin (15-30-minute hike from the main road), the most popular and touristy, is beautiful and can be serene when there are few visitors. A balsa, or bamboo raft, can be rented to traverse the lake's expanse and reach its farthest fringe, where visitors can do some swimming. Yambu Lake can be seen from Pandin but is only accessible from a neighboring town. The others are a little far away but could offer something different to the curious and discerning traveler. Muhikap Lake is my favorite, quiet and charming, with emerald water. Palakpakin Lake is full of water lilies and fish pens. Calibato Lake is the farthest and requires a minor but a little risky hike, with steep descent/ascent.

Pandin Lake

I fell in love with San Pablo, chiefly because of its awe-inspiring lakes. It’s interesting how a city could have such abundance of bodies of water, sporadically located on its undulating terrain. I just hope that the people and local government would realize how blessed they are and cherish and value these natural resources. They can start by encouraging local tourism (most city denizens haven't visited many of the lakes) and placing conspicuous signs along the roads leading to the lakes.

The lakes can be explored within 5 hours. A tricycle trip from any point in the city should cost PHP 500 (depends on your haggling skills) and is good for 2-3 persons. Make sure the driver knows how to get to the lakes, especially the less-visited ones.

(READ: A Colonial-Themed Hotel & Restaurant and Bato Springs Resort: San Pablo City’s Pride)

Pandin Lake

The most popular and touristy. Beautiful still. Can be serene when there are few visitors. Crowded during weekends and holidays, according to the guides. 15-30-minute hike from the main road. A balsa, or bamboo raft, can be rented to traverse the lake's expanse and reach its farthest fringe, where visitors can do some swimming.