Lake Danao Park
The largest natural lake in Central Visayas, developed with cottages, kayaks, and boat tours in the uplands of Pacijan Island.
The overview
About Lake Danao Park
Lake Danao is a natural freshwater lake covering roughly 650 hectares in the uplands of Pacijan Island, making it the largest lake in Central Visayas and one of the largest in the whole Visayas region. Shaped somewhat like a figure-eight, it is fed by underground springs and drains through the Camotes Sea via a subterranean channel, touching several surrounding barangays including Montealegre, Consuelo, and Union. The lake grounds have been developed into a park with nipa-style cottages for rent, floating dining platforms, a small store, and rental kayaks and pedal boats. Boat tours cross to a small central islet locally called Canlingiw, and some operators run a zipline over the water. A modest mini-zoo near the entrance houses a handful of monkeys and other animals. Because the lake sits inland and upland from the coast, the air is noticeably cooler than at the beaches, and the still, green water makes it a relaxed counterpoint to Camotes' better-known white-sand shoreline.
What makes it worth it
Highlights
- Largest natural lake in Central Visayas
- Kayak and pedal boat rentals
- Boat tour to Canlingiw islet
- Floating dining cottages
- Cooler upland microclimate
- Near Timubo Cave and Arqui's Viewing Deck
- 1 Bring cash for boat and kayak rentals, since card payment is unreliable this far from town. Mornings and weekdays are quieter than weekends. Combine the visit with nearby Timubo Cave or Arqui's Viewing Deck since they're a short ride away. Location approximate — confirm on arrival.
Wayfinder route
How to get there
From Cebu City, take a van or bus to Danao City (about 1-1.5 hours), then a ferry to Consuelo Port, San Francisco, Camotes (about 2 hours). From the port, hire a habal-habal or tricycle for the inland ride to Lake Danao (roughly 20-30 minutes).
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Entrance Fee
PHP 10-20 entrance fee, plus separate charges for kayaks, boats, and cottages
Opening Hours
7:00 AM - 6:00 PM daily
Duration
2-3 hours
Difficulty
Easy
Best Time to Visit
Dry season (December-May); early morning for calmer water and cooler air
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