Pandin Lake Adventure | San Pablo, Laguna

Want to have a quick escape from the city? Tired of the traffic and pollution? Need to breathe a fresh air? A visit to Pandin lake is the best destination for you.

Just 3 hours away from Manila, located in the City of San Pablo in the province of Laguna, Pandin lake is one of the Seven Lakes, San Pablo City is known for. The lake is separated from the nearby Yambo lake by just a narrow strip of Land and collectively known as the twin crater lakes. Compared to the size of Yambo lake, Pandin lake is considered as being smaller but said to be the "most pristine" among the seven lakes.

We arrived at exactly 1 o'clock pm and it was a beautiful Thursday afternoon. Before we reach the lake, we need to trek first for about 10-15 minutes. From the starting point of trek, we are welcomed by these tall coconut trees swinging in the windy day. There's no need for a guide and don't worry to get lost because the way is clearly marked, but if you want to give baon this little boy, let him join you on the trek.

Pandin lake is indeed a hidden gem. it's like a piece of El Nido, Palawan right? Feels like we're in a paradise! As we reached the lake, our bamboo raft with food were already there waiting for us and it is manned by two locals there.

We avail the bamboo raft with food package, later on I will discuss the other packages and their price. Our food includes grilled tilapia, ensaladang paco, dulong, rice, banana and mineral water. While we're on board, bamboo raft was rowed and pulled (there was a rope attached from one end of the lake to the other) towards the center of the lake.

Suited up and ready to dig in with my travel buddy @oohitsrian

Seeking shade from the heat of the mid-day sun

Afternoon dip! Life vests are required for swimming in the lake.

Before I call it a day, it suddenly rained when were about to leave the lake and for me, it was a pure luck. We just enjoyed the rain and feel the moment.

Happy travels!

xo, esca ♡

PANDIN LAKE FEES AND PACKAGES

- No entance fee

- Bamboo Raft (big) w/out Food: Php 500.00 for 2 persons, P600.00 for 3 persons, Php 180.00 /pax min of 4

-Bamboo Raft (big) with Food: Php 1,000.00 for 2 persons, Php 1,200 for 3 persons, Php 360.00 /person min of 4

-Bamboo Raft (small): Php 180.00/raft

-Food alone consist of: Ensaladang Pako, Grilled Tilapia, Dulong, Rice, Banana and Mineral Water Php. 180.00/person

- Toilet: Php 5.00/person (no piped running water though so don't expect to find a shower area)

-Overnight Camping: yes, it is allowed but rates vary

HOW TO GO THERE?

- Ride a bus bound to Lucena (Jam Liner)

- Tell the conductor to drop you off at SM San Pablo

- From SM San Pablo, ride a jeepney to San Pablo Bayan

- Once arrived in Bayan, walk from the final stop 7/11 located near the church

- Ride a jeepney going to "Ilog" or much better ride a tricycle going to Brgy. Sto. Anghel (Purok 4)

- Just in front of the entrance you would easily notice a tarpaulin written in bold and huge letters "PANDIN LAKE" and the Mayor's face sitting next to it.

-From the drop off point, start trekking

BUDGETED EXPENSES

Php 135.00/person - Roundtrip Bus fare from Cubao Jam Liner to SM San Pablo (Php 108.00 student rate)

Php 7.00/person - Roundtrip Jeep fare to San Pablo Bayan

Php 25.00/person - Tricycle to Brgy. Sto Anghel

Php 50.00/group of 3 - Trek guide to Pandin Lake

Php 400.00/person - Bamboo raft package with food included

Php 5.00/person - Toilet