[2025 Daraga Attraction] Travel Guide for Sumlang Lake (Updated Aug)

Hey everyone, this is our fourth time setting foot on the magical land of the Philippines! We've experienced the stunning mountains and seas of Palawan, immersed ourselves in the wonders of Cebu's underwater world, witnessed the most beautiful sunset over Manila Bay, and counted shooting stars all night on a secluded island resort. But this time, we dedicated our most unforgettable trip to Mount Mayon! Mount Mayon, a true masterpiece of nature, boasts the world's most perfect cone-shaped silhouette. Standing at its foot, you'll be filled with awe and admiration for the Creator. 1. Transportation Guide We took a connecting flight from Manila to Legazpi Airport. On the plane, you can get a sneak peek of Mount Mayon from the clouds, even seeing the crater clearly. As soon as you get off the plane, the volcano is right in front of you, a spectacular sight. Here's a super useful tip: When flying from Manila to Legazpi Airport, be sure to choose a window seat on the right side; for the return trip, from Legazpi to Manila, choose a window seat on the left side for the best view of Mount Mayon. 2. Things to Do 1. Scenic viewpoints everywhere: Mount Mayon towers into the sky, and it's easy to find great viewing spots at nearby homestays, hotels, or restaurants. Whether it's sunrise or sunset, admiring the volcano bathed in the most beautiful light, or feeling its mysterious charm under the starry night sky, you'll be captivated. 2. Challenge yourself with a climb: For adventurous souls, climbing Mount Mayon is an unforgettable experience. Although we didn't try it this time due to time constraints, the thought of challenging ourselves while enjoying unique scenery is thrilling! 3. Horseback riding: Riding a horse at the foot of the mountain is not only fun but also makes for beautiful and stylish photos. 4. ATV adventure: Mount Mayon offers many ATV experiences. We joined Your Brother Mayon Volcano ATV Experience with the resort. Driving an ATV through rainforests, plains, and streams, finally reaching the volcanic rocks, was a unique and fun experience, which I'll detail later. 5. The magical combination of lake and volcano: Sumlang Lake, like a sapphire at the foot of the volcano, is a semi-natural lake that perfectly reflects Mount Mayon. You can dine by the lake or take a boat ride, capturing the beauty of the volcano from different angles. 6. Cagsawa Ruins: At the Cagsawa Ruins, the remnants of a centuries-old church stand against the backdrop of the volcano. Wearing a long dress and taking photos here creates a sense of destiny. Every moment at Mount Mayon is enchanting, and every scene is worth cherishing. Add Mount Mayon to your travel list and embark on an unforgettable volcanic journey!

have you ever tried chili ice cream? Bicol is best know for chili! so Bicolanos makes good cold and bit spicy ice cream! worth the try plus check out the view! best time to go Sumlang Lake is around 6AM or 5PM to have a perfect reflection of the volcano! #urbanexplorer #bicol #albay #daraga #china #explorewithtony #naturelover #adventure #life #philippines #photographersdayoff #leaveyourmark

A pleasant nature park with many types of flora and some historical craft exhibits. Family bonding is great to spend here.

Indeed a Relaxing place 🥹😊😚 #Sumlanglake #Daragaalbay

Day 1: Arrival and Island Hopping Morning • Arrive in Matnog • From Legazpi City, take a 3-hour car ride to Matnog. • Upon arrival, register at the Matnog Tourism Office and pay the necessary fees: • Registration and Environmental Fee: ₱150 per person • Arrange for an island-hopping boat tour: • Overnight rate: ₱3,500 (good for up to 10 persons) Afternoon • Visit Subic Beach – Famous for its pink sand and clear waters; ideal for swimming and relaxation. • Check in at Kuya Boy Resort around 2:00 PM. ⸻ Day 2: Island Hopping and Check-out Morning to Early Afternoon Continue island hopping and explore the following destinations: 1. Juag Lagoon Fish Sanctuary – Experience feeding various fish species (Entrance Fee: ₱200 per person). 2. Calintaan Cave – Discover stunning rock formations; swimming is required to enter the cave. 3. Tikling Island – Known for its pinkish-white sand and peaceful surroundings. Late Afternoon • Return to Matnog Port • Prepare for departure or travel to our next destination

Albay, Philippines, has many attractions worth visiting. Here's a travel guide: Mayon Volcano - Feature: Located in the southeastern part of Luzon Island, Philippines, it is a world-famous active volcano with a perfect conical shape, attracting many volcano enthusiasts and photographers. - Recommended activities: You can view Mayon Volcano from a distance near the church in Legazpi, where there are also cafes. You can also choose to take a plane and enjoy the spectacular view of Mayon Volcano from the sky. Camarines Sur Hoyop-Hoyopan Cave - Feature: Mainly composed of natural limestone, the cave has many stalagmites and is a good place for tourists who like to explore caves and natural wonders. - Recommended activities: Wear comfortable sneakers for walking in the cave. Bring a flashlight to better observe the landscape inside the cave. Lake Sumlang - Feature: The park style is similar to the Xishuangbanna rainforest. You can boat on the lake with your loved one, admire the volcano opposite, and it is an excellent location for photographing the volcano. - Recommended activities: Visit in the afternoon or evening when the light is soft, suitable for taking pictures, and you can also enjoy the beautiful sunset. Rizal Park - Feature: The park has green spaces, gardens, monuments, etc. It is a place for local residents to relax and stroll, and it is also a good place to learn about Philippine history and culture. - Recommended activities: Rest on the benches in the park, admire the surrounding natural scenery and cultural landscape, and experience the local atmosphere. Peñafrancia Shrine - Feature: With a unique architectural style, the church has a magnificent exterior and exquisite interior decoration, showcasing the religious culture and artistic characteristics of the Philippines. - Recommended activities: Keep quiet when visiting the church and respect local religious beliefs and customs.

🌅Mount Mayon: The Majestic Wonder of a Perfect Volcanic Cone Mount Mayon is an iconic landmark of Albay and one of the world's most perfectly formed volcanic cones. It is known as the "most beautiful active volcano in the world." You can choose to hike up the mountain or view it from a distance at the nearby Daraga Church, admiring its magnificent scenery. • Hiking the volcano requires applying for a permit in advance. It is recommended to contact the local tourism bureau ahead of time. • Daraga Church is one of the best spots to view the volcano, and the church itself is also a historical site. 🌊Lake Sumlang: Tranquil Moments Reflected in the Volcano Lake Sumlang is a hidden gem of Albay, with crystal-clear waters reflecting the perfect image of Mount Mayon. Here, you can enjoy a peaceful bamboo raft ride and take in the serene natural scenery. • Take a bamboo raft ride and experience the life of local fishermen. • Have a picnic by the lake and enjoy a leisurely afternoon. 🏜️White Beach: A Paradise for Water Activities Albay's White Beach is an ideal destination for water sports enthusiasts. It boasts miles of white sandy beaches and clear waters. You can try kayaking, surfing, diving, and other water activities. 🕍Daraga Church: A Perfect Blend of History and Nature This ancient church, built from volcanic rock, sits on a hilltop offering panoramic views, making it one of the best spots to admire Mount Mayon. The church and the volcano complement each other, showcasing the perfect combination of nature and human ingenuity. 🚴ATV Volcano Off-Road Adventure: A Thrilling Journey of Speed and Passion Experience an ATV adventure at the foot of Mount Mayon, and feel the perfect blend of speed and passion. Along the way, you can admire the volcanic landscape, tropical rainforest, and the magnificent view of the crater. • ATV activities are suitable for all ages, and even beginners can easily get started under the guidance of professional instructors. • It is recommended to wear comfortable sportswear and athletic shoes. 🌿Nature and Cultural Experiences • Malasag Eco-Tourism Village: This village showcases traditional Filipino architectural styles and handicrafts. You can also enjoy cultural performances. • Lake Tao: Located in the center of a volcanic crater, the lake's surface is as smooth as a mirror, surrounded by volcanic landscapes. It's a great place for hiking and photography. • Lignon Hill Nature Park: This park offers a rich natural landscape and hiking trails, overlooking the entire city of Legazpi. 🍔Food Recommendations Albay's cuisine mainly features seafood and local specialties. Must-try dishes include: • Bicol Express: A spicy coconut milk stew with pork, a local classic. • Grilled fish and seafood: Savor fresh grilled fish and seafood at seaside restaurants, enjoying the dual experience of delicious food and ocean views. 📝Itinerary Suggestions • Day 1: Arrive in Legazpi, check in to a hotel near Daraga Church, and enjoy the sunset over the volcano. • Day 2: Go bamboo rafting on Lake Sumlang in the morning and experience an ATV volcano adventure in the afternoon. • Day 3: Hike and explore Lake Tao or Malasag Eco-Tourism Village, and experience the local culture. • Day 4: Enjoy water activities at White Beach and have a seafood feast at a seaside restaurant in the evening.