A Guide to Exploring Lake Duminagat: What to See and Do

Lake Duminagat, located in Misamis Occidental, Philippines, is a hidden gem for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Surrounded by lush greenery and offering a tranquil atmosphere, the lake provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Here is a guide to help you make the most of your exploration of Lake Duminagat:

• Appreciate the Scenic Beauty: Take in the breathtaking views of Lake Duminagat. The calm waters reflecting the surrounding mountains create a picturesque landscape. Capture stunning photographs or simply sit back and enjoy the tranquility.

• Boating and Kayaking: Rent a boat or kayak to explore the lake's pristine waters. Paddle along the calm surface, immerse yourself in nature, and enjoy the serenity of the surroundings. It's a great way to appreciate the beauty of the lake up close.

• Birdwatching: Lake Duminagat is home to various bird species, making it a haven for birdwatching enthusiasts. Bring your binoculars and observe the diverse birdlife in their natural habitat. Look out for colorful kingfishers, herons, and other migratory birds that visit the area.

• Fishing: Fishing enthusiasts can try their hand at angling in Lake Duminagat. The lake is abundant in freshwater fish, providing an opportunity to catch tilapia, catfish, and carp. Local guides can assist in arranging fishing trips and providing the necessary equipment.

• Picnicking and Camping: Find a scenic spot along the lake's shore and enjoy a relaxing picnic amidst nature. Pack a delicious lunch, spread out a mat, and savor the serene ambiance. For those seeking an immersive experience, camping by the lake is also an option. Set up your tent and spend the night under the stars, listening to the sounds of nature.

• Hiking and Nature Walks: Explore the surrounding area by embarking on a hike or nature walk. There are trails that lead to viewpoints overlooking the lake, allowing you to appreciate the beauty from different perspectives. The lush vegetation and fresh air make it a refreshing experience.

• Guided Ecotours: To gain a deeper understanding of Lake Duminagat's ecology and cultural significance, consider joining a guided eco-tour. Local guides can provide insights into the history, flora, and fauna of the area, enhancing your overall experience.

• Environmental Conservation: As you enjoy the beauty of Lake Duminagat, be mindful of preserving its natural environment. Respect the surroundings, dispose of waste properly, and follow any regulations or guidelines set by local authorities to ensure the lake remains pristine for future generations.

To get to Lake Duminagat, you can arrange transportation from nearby towns or cities in Misamis Occidental. It's recommended to hire a local guide or consult with tourism offices for the most accurate directions and information.

Exploring Lake Duminagat offers a chance to reconnect with nature and experience the tranquility of a pristine lake setting. With its scenic beauty and outdoor activities, Lake Duminagat promises a memorable adventure for those seeking a peaceful getaway in Misamis Occidental.

The Libuao Lake - Occidental Mindoro

 Libao Lake is located inside the 24 hectares of Siburan forest parks and the Sablayan Prison Farm in Sablayan, Occidental Mindoro. The Libao is derived from the local tribe word of Mangyan “Libwa”, or the white lotus, that is typically grown in the lake waters. 

Lake helps to produce local (fish) harvests and another source of livelihood to the prison community. Fish fences are restricted in order to retain the natural beauty, in fact, this lake is considered the cleanest inland body of lake water in the country. 

The Panikian Lake - Occidental Mindoro

 The 3rd class municipality of Sablayan in Occidental Mindoro is currently regaining its popularity in terms of world-class Tourism destinations. In recent years, the World Longest Island to Island Zipline open its door and became popular over time. Sablayan is also the home of the second (2nd) largest contagious coral reef in the world, the Apo Reef. Love beaches? Try to visit the Pandan Island Grande and you will surprise by its white sand coastline and crystal clear water.

Indonesia | The famous Kawah Putih of Ciwidey, Bandung

Ciwidey is located 50 kilometers from the south of Bandung metropolis, home of the notorious sulfur lake in West Java in Indonesia – the Kawah Putih (the white crater). Positioned in the timberland right on an andesitic stratovolcano-Mount Patuha which erupted in the 12th century creating 2 craters, one is dry and on came the lake, the Kawah Putih. There has been no recorded eruption of Mount Patuha since 1600 so this area can be considered stable.

During the Dutch rule, this place was formerly a sulfur mining point but now in cease. The Indonesian forestry department took over the area in the 1900s to develop as a tourist point.

Indonesia | The most visited places in Ciwidey, Bandung

This passage broke in Tangerang, aboard a private car, we headed to the small city of Ciwidey in Bandung to visit the noted sites in the area. It has a distance of about 210 kilometers and we traveled for over 3 hours via Jl. Tol Jakarta-Cikampek and Jl. Cipularang Toll Road from the starting point. It's farther compared to 140 kilometers from the southern part of metropolitan Jakarta.

Indonesia| Sarangan Lake and the monkeys of Magetan

Sarangan Lake is situated at the southern slope of Mount Lawu, an inactive stratovolcano in the hilly district of Plaosan, Magetan Regency in Indonesia. From downtown Magetan, you will travel 16 kilometers west passing halfway between Maduin and Solo route.  Sarangan Lakes is sitting 1,287 meters elevation, so pack your thick clothes because you would be experienced chilly weather here especially in the morning and afternoon. No wonder why Sarangan Lake is one of the most visit tourist attractions in the regency and listed as a favorite spot by the Dutch people during colonial days.

Sarangan Lake or known by locals as Telaga Serangan or Pasir Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in Java Island by Wonderful Indonesia Tourism.  This lake covering 30 hectares with 28 meters deep while the climate drops between 18 - 25 Celsius. At night, Sarangan will be covered by fogs most time which is quite challenging for those who love traveling after dark.

If you wish to stay and experience its unique scenery, several selections of hotel resorts in the Area offering affordable room rates from 150,000 rupiahs (US$11) up to 700,000 rupiahs ((US$50). Sarangan is very accessible for both public and private vehicles but expects the hilly ride in winding up and down the scene with a smooth and pave road condition. Traveling at night would be quite dark with little foggy and freezing climate would be experienced.

The Entrance fee is 19,000 (US$1.40) rupiah for Adults while 14,000 (US$1) for children including the Jasa Raharja insurance will be payable at the entrance booth. The parking fee for the scooter is 2,000 rupiah while 5,000 rupiahs will be charged for 4 wheel vehicles. 

One of the highlights that can be enjoyed inside Sarangan is by riding the speed boat.  Strolling around the lake waters will cost 50,000 rupiahs (less than US$4) for one or a make 150,000 (US$11) package deal good for 3-4 people. This ride might not be relaxing but an overwhelming adrenaline rush experience since the full speed and several tricks will be made by the boat captain.

If you’re afraid of water, other ways of strolling around the lake are by horseback riding which costs you 50,000 rupiahs (US$11). Although you may not enjoy the lake waters, the scenery of the surroundings will take you from another level of your vacation experience in this place plus numerous good spots can be explored around the area. 

Watch out for the friendly monkeys which are normally found on the Lakes side and hanging on the trees. Monkeys are very friendly and seem like they enjoying the lakes while engaging with tourists becoming their normal life.  There are more than 50 monkeys around the area according to the guide; they regularly came down to the lake area in search of food. Bringing one of their favorites would be good for them. Monkeys are tame, take a selfie with them if you have a chance.

Food is relatively cheap in Sarangan Lakes Area. Most of the small stalls served local and traditional dishes. Try some of the special Sate Klenci (meat from the rabbit), sate Kambing (goat’s meat satay), and Sate Ayam (chicken satay) and partnered with grilled corn or traditional rice called Lontong.   Numerous small food entrepreneurs roving around the lakes offer ready-to-eat like Nasi Pecel (a mix of vegetables with white rice and peanut sauce).   

To end the trip to Sarangan, there are souvenir shops the can buy " Oleh Oleh" like locally produced products.  Explore the traditional market, some stalls selling clothes, fresh fruits, batik (traditional clothes), and handmade leather products like shoes, sandals, jackets, and bags at cheaper prices.  If you wish to look for more leather products, then, head on to Jalan Sawo Magetan.

HOW TO GET THERE

The closest airport going to Magetan is in Yogyakarta (Adisucipto International Airport), Solo in Central Java (Adisumarmo International Airport), and Surabaya in East Java (Juanda International Airport). 

If you’re from Surabaya, you can reach Magetan by Train (Turangga) from Gubeng Station going to Maduin. The train ticket is 140,000 rupiahs ($10) for an economy seats up to 270,000 ($20) for an executive class with an estimated journey of 3.5 hours to Maduin station. Book here

And if you’re from Yogyakarta, catch up on a train schedule at Yogyakarta Station going to Madiun Station. Travel time is estimated at 3 hours with a ticket price ranging from 140,000  rupiahs ($10) up to 375,000 rupiahs ($27) going to Madiun Station. Book here

At Madiun Station

The fastest way to reach Sarangan Lake is to rent a car and driver or download/use the Grab App if you have it. Magetan is about 35 minutes ride from Maduin, then another 15-25 minutes extra ride from downtown Magetan to Sarangan Lake.

Backpacking Guide

For Backpackers and for those who loved traveling using the local transportation system,  Buses bound for Magetan have a limited schedule daily. At first, take a ride going to Maduin Bus Terminal and catch up on a Bus going to Magetan, then, get off to Magetan Bus Terminal. Bus fare cost 75,000 ($5) to 90,000 rupiahs ($7) with more or less 3 hours journey.

At the Magetan Bus terminal, look for a lane bound for Sarangan Lake or hire a scooter to reach Sarangan Lake. You can also use the Grab App in Magetan City for both Cars and scooters.

If you’re from Solo/ Surakarta,  you can book an arranged tour online at Melampa Tour

ENJOY YOUR STAY

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