Laguna is one of the historical places in the Philippines known for its legend as the home of the National Hero, Jose P. Rizal. But more than that, Laguna is an idyllic place gifted with enchanting scenery and crystal clear waterfalls. When looking for nature therapy and one of a kind adventure, Laguna doesn’t disappoint.

At A Glance

A few hours away from Metro Manila, Laguna is well-known for hot springs, the mythical Mt. Makiling, the picturesque waterfalls and family-friendly recreational places. Any kind of traveller--whether looking for some cultural gem or a heavy nature tripper—would definitely find their space in the province.

How to Go

By land transportation

Laguna is reachable by bus or private vehicles and is located southeast of Metro Manila. There are several terminal in Taft Buendia, Cubao and Kamias in Quezon City going to Quezon and Bicol. Most buses pass through Alaminos, Calamba and San Pablo daily. There are also trips going to Sta. Rosa where Enchanted Kingdom is.

Getting Around

The most common way of getting around Laguna is through jeepneys and tricycle. You can opt for jeepneys if your goal is town-hopping and hire a tricycle when going around the city proper.

Tourist Attractions

Laguna has a roster of attractions which makes it impossible the whole province in just one day. Nature adventuristas can hike up Mt. Makiling in Los Banos, an enchanted mountain which is said to be the home of the mythical character, Mariang Makiling. Explore the unspoiled Underground River and caves the most promoted tourist destination in Cavinti, Laguna. Another majestic falls is in Majayjay where Taytay Falls which, according to locals, is best to visit during summer season.

You can also go cultural or time travel by visiting baroque churches in the province. Nagcarlan is famous for its Underground Cemetery, the oldest underground crypt in the country. It served as an exclusive burial place for the elite families of Nagcarlan wayback in the 1800’s.

Get to know the national hero in his home at Calamba. Dr. Jose Rizal spent his younger days in Calamba with his mother as his first teacher. Paete is remarkable for its woodcarvings culture. In fact, it was declared as the Carving Capital of the Philippines in 2005.

Top Things to Do

If leisure is what you’re searching, Nuvali is the spot for you. Various activities like wakeboarding and mountain biking can be great for your travelogue! Or why not shoot a short film using your action cameras while doing extreme rides at Enchanted Kingdom?

Detach from the chaotic world of the internet and have a picnic with family or friends at UP Freedom Park in UPLB. The lush fields of UPLB are ideal for outdoor activities such as kite flying, soccer and volleyball.

For the nature lovers, there are lots of falls and caves in different towns of Laguna. Make sure to have waterproof cameras so your trip would 101% worthwhile. The splendid Pagsanjan Falls, which always exists in our history and social studies textbooks, should never be skipped, too! It is worldly-known as the Tourist Capital of Laguna.

While private resorts are rampant in Pansol, we recommend you to opt for local springs—those that have water coming from Mt. Makiling--because springs in Laguna have minerals that can cure diseases such as skin ailments and open wounds. Moreover, the warm water can also relax our tired mind and bodies in a natural way.

Where to Eat

Visit Arabela after shopping several pairs of footwear in Liliw. It is an Italian restaurant which serves pasta, pizza, pastries and coffee, located at 503 Rizal Street, Liliw, Laguna.

Have a chill after lunch dessert at Aling Taleng’s Halo-halo dubbed as Pagsanjan’s Pride. They serve halo-halo with Aling Taleng’s six secret ingredients, far from the traditional style. They have free Wi-Fi, too, so customers can post their #foodie #halohalo on Instagram!

Nightlife

Nightlife in the province may not be as active as those in the city but there are still resto and disco bars frequented by both locals and tourists to spend the night out. Go to Leslie's Terrace and Garden in Calamba to celebrate drinking sesh with friends and travel buddies. If you are in the mood to dance the night away, visit the Silk at Binan Lagoon resort where the latest urban entertainment is at.

Where to Stay

Most tourists choose to stay in private resorts in Pansol with pool and videoke packages in their rates. Men with sign boards are plenty in streets near Pansol even at night so searching for one is not a problem. High-end hotels are also available such as Seda Nuvali, Microtel by Wyndham South Forbes and Auravel Grande Hotel and Resort.

Travel Tips

Laguna is pretty big so make sure to prepare your itinerary before going on Laguna escapade.
Choose the kind of adventure you want. You may pick falls hopping and spelunking for now and reserve visiting cultural heritage sites on your next visit.
When lost, ask the locals. They are very friendly willing to help as long as they can.
Bring extra money in case you unexpectedly discover a place for side trip
Take home pasalubong from Laguna. There are plenty of things you can give to friends from the province such as locally made foot wears, woodcarvings from Paete, buko pie from Colletes, and Carabao milk, among others