Bukilat Cave
The largest cave in the Camotes Islands, with a tide-fed swimming pool lit by natural skylights in Barangay MacArthur, Tudela.
The overview
About Bukilat Cave
Bukilat Cave is the largest cave in the Camotes Islands, tucked into the coastline of Barangay MacArthur on the eastern side of Tudela. It takes its name from a local chieftain, Bukilat, who is said to have taken refuge here with his people; centuries later, during World War II, residents of Tudela used the same chamber to hide from Japanese forces patrolling the Camotes and Leyte seas. Inside, the cave opens into a wide, cathedral-like chamber lit naturally through several openings in the ceiling known as karstfensters, so sunlight filters down onto a tidal pool that covers most of the floor. The pool is connected underground to the Camotes Sea, so its depth changes with the tide — ankle-deep at low tide, knee- to waist-deep at high tide — and the mineral-rich limestone water is a popular spot for a cool dip. In the 1970s and 80s a Dutch missionary priest developed the cave into a recreational site and held Mass inside to help preserve it, and it has functioned as a community swimming spot ever since, with a parking area near the entrance. Guin-awitan Falls sits about 200 meters away via a short foot trail, making it an easy add-on to the visit.
What makes it worth it
Highlights
- Largest cave in the Camotes Islands
- Naturally skylit, cathedral-like chamber
- Tide-fed swimming pool inside the cave
- WWII-era hideout for Tudela residents
- Named after the chieftain Bukilat
- Guin-awitan Falls a short walk away
- 1 Bring a flashlight or headlamp since parts of the cave stay dim even with the skylights, and wear footwear with grip for the wet, uneven stone steps. Visit near high tide for a deeper swim or low tide if you'd rather wade. Local guides are usually near the entrance for a small tip.
Wayfinder route
How to get there
From Cebu City, take a bus or van to Danao City (1-1.5 hours), then a ferry from Danao Port to Poro Port (1.5-3 hours depending on the vessel). From Poro Port, take a habal-habal or multicab to Tudela town (20-30 minutes), then continue about 6 kilometers along the coastal road to Barangay MacArthur.
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Entrance Fee
PHP 20-50 entrance fee, plus PHP 5-10 parking
Opening Hours
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM daily
Duration
1-2 hours
Difficulty
Moderate
Best Time to Visit
High tide for a deeper swim; dry season (December-May) for easier island travel
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