[2025 Los Banos ] Travel Guide for Mount Makiling (Updated May)

Laguna: A Sunny Coastal Escape in the Philippines Laguna is a charming tourist destination in the Philippines that offers a wide range of experiences for visitors. 1. Transportation You can first arrive at Manila International Airport, then take a bus or rent a car to Laguna. The journey takes about 2–3 hours, and you can enjoy the rural scenery of the Philippines along the way. 2. Attractions 1. Laguna Lake: The largest lake in the Philippines, with tranquil waters and many water activities such as kayaking and windsurfing. You can also take a boat tour of the islands in the lake and observe the unique birds and aquatic plants. 2. Mount Makiling: A great spot for hiking enthusiasts, with dense forests, spectacular waterfalls, and abundant wildlife. Breathe in the fresh air and feel the tranquility and power of nature as you climb. 3. Cuisine 1. Sinigang na Isda: A traditional Filipino dish made with fresh fish and sour vegetables, with a rich, tangy, and spicy flavor. 2. Turon: A delicious dessert made by wrapping bananas in spring roll wrappers and frying them until golden brown, with a sweet and crispy taste. 4. Accommodation We recommend staying in a lakeside villa or resort, such as the "Laguna Lake View Resort," which offers fully equipped rooms with private balconies overlooking the lake. The resort also provides various water sports equipment rental services for guests to enjoy the lake. When visiting Laguna, remember to take sun protection measures and respect local customs. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Laguna can meet your needs and provide you with an unforgettable travel experience.

Laguna: A tropical paradise in the Philippines Laguna is a popular tourist destination in the Philippines, known for its stunning natural scenery, rich culture, and diverse entertainment options. Here is a travel guide to help you explore Laguna. 1. Transportation After arriving in Manila, you can take a bus to Laguna, which takes about 2–3 hours. You can enjoy the rural scenery of the Philippines along the way. You can also rent a car, which is convenient and flexible, and stop at any place of interest. 2. Attractions 1. Laguna Lake: The largest lake in the Philippines, surrounded by beautiful scenery. You can rent a boat to explore the islands in the lake, which are home to unique flora and fauna. In the early morning, the lake is shrouded in mist, creating a fairyland-like atmosphere. 2. Mount Makiling: A great place for hiking, with dense forests, spectacular waterfalls, and clear streams. Along the way, you can see various rare birds and wildlife, making it a great place to get close to nature. 3. Food 1. Lechon: A traditional Filipino dish, with crispy golden skin and tender, juicy meat inside, served with a special sauce for a delicious taste. 2. Mango products: The Philippines is rich in mangoes, and mango juice, dried mangoes, and mango ice cream are all must-try delicacies. Fresh mango juice is rich in flavor and sweet. 4. Accommodation It is recommended to stay in a lakeside resort or hotel, such as the "Laguna Lake Resort." The environment is beautiful, and the facilities are complete, with swimming pools, gyms, restaurants, etc. Some rooms even offer direct views of the lake, allowing you to enjoy the tranquility and beauty of nature from the comfort of your room. 5. Activities 1. Water sports: You can enjoy various water sports on Laguna Lake, such as kayaking, sailing, and water skiing. Experience the thrill of speeding across the water and enjoy the cool lake water. 2. Hot spring bath: There are many hot springs in the Laguna area, where you can soak in the warm spring water to relax and relieve fatigue. 6. Shopping You can buy local handicrafts, such as wood carvings, bamboo weaving, textiles, etc. These handicrafts are exquisite and unique, making great souvenirs. When traveling in Laguna, be sure to respect local customs and protect the environment. We hope this guide helps you have a pleasant and unforgettable trip to Laguna.

Mt. Makiling (Maquiling) is a dormant volcano in the provinces of Laguna and Batangas in the Philippines. Before becoming a state-owned forest reserve, this was the country's first national park. For forestry education, it is under the University of the Philippines - Los Banos. According to legend, the forest is protected and guarded by a spirit known as "Maria Makiling." If you look closely at the mountain, you'll notice a woman resting, specifically Maria Makiling. In the Philippines, stories about her helping others or being saddened are common. The climb to the summit will take about 4–5 hours; however, you should not be concerned because there are rest spots along the way. Camping is permitted so make sure to bring your camping stuffs. #scenicspotphotoguide#summervacationtravel#tripinspired#summervacation#hikingtrails#urbanexplorer