Balinsasayao Twin Lakes

Volcanic crater lakes in a protected forest 20 km from Dumaguete

Two linked crater lakes set in protected rainforest about 22 km inland from Dumaguete, accessible by a combination of habal-habal (motorcycle taxi) and a short hike. The lakes are rimmed by tall forest, and the path between them passes through dense vegetation with good birdwatching opportunities. Kayaks and bancas (outrigger canoes) can be hired on the water.

A community-based ecotourism programme manages the site and charges a modest entrance fee. Basic food and drinks are available. The combination of the cool mountain air, the forested slopes, and the still blue water makes this one of the most rewarding day trips from Dumaguete. Go on a weekday to avoid weekend crowds from the city.

things to do nature
A story
The twin lakes — Balinsasayao and Danao — occupy twin volcanic calderas in the mountains above Negros Oriental. The forest surrounding them is part of the Twin Lakes Natural Park, one of the last large remnants of old-growth forest on Negros, an island that has lost more than 90 percent of its forest cover to agriculture since the 19th century. The lakes and their forest are now a critical refuge for birds found nowhere else in the world, including the Negros Bleeding-heart Pigeon.