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).
Nearby on the chart
Where to stay & eat nearby
CNT Lechon
₱₱Carcar City
Famous traditional lechon restaurant in the Lechon Capital of Cebu.
View & BookJoyful Lechon
₱₱Carcar City
Popular lechon restaurant with traditional Carcar roasting style.
View & BookCarcar Lechon Row
₱Carcar City
Row of lechon vendors along the highway, each with unique recipes.
View & BookCarcar Rotunda & Heritage Marker
₱Carcar City
Iconic plaza with lechon statue and heritage marker in city center.
View & BookKeep exploring
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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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