Guadalupe Mabugnao Mainit Hot Spring National Park
A protected geothermal hot spring and cave-studded forest reserve in Barangay Guadalupe, Carcar City.
The overview
About Guadalupe Mabugnao Mainit Hot Spring National Park
Guadalupe Mabugnao Mainit Hot Spring National Park is a 57.5-hectare protected watershed reserve in Barangay Guadalupe, Carcar City, declared a national park in 1972 under Republic Act No. 6429. Tucked into the forested foothills of the central Mantalongon mountain range, the park centers on geothermal springs that emerge from underground fissures, feeding developed pools and cottages where visitors soak and swim. Beyond the hot spring itself, a hillside trail leads to at least three caves, the most visited being Cave Lorett and Cave Moymoy, roughly a 40-45 minute hike from the main pool area. Life-size statues of saints and a Santo Niño de Cebu image have been placed along parts of the grounds, adding a devotional touch alongside the natural scenery. A dam within the reserve also supplies part of Carcar's municipal water system. The park functions as both a recreational destination and an active watershed, so visitors are asked to keep the grounds clean. It is a popular midday or afternoon swim spot for locals as well as a modest hiking destination for those continuing on to the caves.
What makes it worth it
Highlights
- Natural geothermal hot spring pools
- Cave Lorett and Cave Moymoy on the hillside trail
- 57.5-hectare protected watershed forest
- Religious statuary including a Santo Niño de Cebu image
- Dam supplying part of Carcar's water system
- Declared a national park since 1972
- 1 Bring a towel, change of clothes, and water shoes for the pools. If continuing to the caves, wear proper footwear and expect a 40-45 minute uphill hike each way; a local guide is advisable for the cave trail. Confirm cave access and any guide fee locally, as this can change.
Wayfinder route
How to get there
From Cebu City South Bus Terminal, take a bus toward Carcar (about 1.5-2 hours) or drive via the Cebu South Road. From Carcar town proper, take a habal-habal to Barangay Guadalupe and the park entrance (about 20-30 minutes).
Before you go
Frequently asked
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Nearby on the chart
Where to stay & eat nearby
Paraiso de Lourdes Mountain Resort
Carcar City
A 19-room mountain resort in Guadalupe, Carcar City, a heritage town in southern Cebu.
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WJV INN Carcar
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Nightly apartment rental in Carcar City with free parking and 24-hour room service.
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Pirate Galeon Resort
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A single-room, four-star boutique stay in Perelos, Carcar City, near Cebu's heritage south coast.
View & BookCarcar Eco Farm Resorts
Carcar City
Eco-friendly farm resort in Liburon with garden grounds, a pool, terrace, and on-site restaurant.
View & BookWhere to stay near Carcar City
Search live rates for hotels and rentals near Guadalupe Mabugnao Mainit Hot Spring National Park on Agoda — filter by your dates, price, and guest score.
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Entrance Fee
PHP 10-30 entrance fee (confirm locally; cave guide fee separate)
Opening Hours
Daylight hours, daily
Duration
Half day (longer if visiting the caves)
Difficulty
Moderate
Best Time to Visit
Dry season (December-May); afternoons are popular with local swimmers.
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