Lake Danao Travel Guide

Lake Danao

Lake Danao Natural Park is Ormoc City’s number one tourist destination. It’s a guitar shaped lake situated around 700 meters above sea level.

The lake’s origin is said to be volcanic and caused by a depression in the Leyte Central Fault. Nevertheless, the lake is harmless and offers calm waters and very cool temperatures even during the summer. It’s a perfect get away from the harsh heat in the city!

My friend's reaction in Lake Danao!

Families and groups of friends often come here to celebrate, meditate or have a reflection. The relaxing calm waters of Lake Danao will make you forget all your worries and remove your stress.

What to do in Lake Danao

1. Stay in a Floating Cottage

Lake Danao is more fun in a floating cottage!

Your lake Danao experience won’t be complete without staying in one of the floating cottages. The cottage will be pulled using ropes towards the center of the lake where you’ll eat and then take a swim.

A boat will be assigned to your floating cottage in case someone is late or if you need something else.

2. Explore the Lake in a Boat

Relax while riding on a boat or empress your friends by paddling.

Whether you are alone to meditate or together with some friends, boating in Lake Danao is one of the coolest experiences you can have. Paddle it by yourself for additional fun! Someone will be assigned to paddle if you’re not into it though. It’s usually a kid!

3. Watch the Lake Danao Sunset in the View Deck

The sunset at Lake Danao isn't as red as that in the city. This means there are less pollutants in its immediate atmosphere! Let's keep it that way.

If you want to have an almost bird’s eye view of Lake Danao, your best bet is to follow the road around and stay at the view deck. You can also ride in a boat towards the other side of the lake and climb up the stairs towards the view deck there.

4. Eat Local Products

Lastly, the friendly people of Lake Danao sell camote, tomatoes, shells and other local produce to tourists at farm prices. They can cook it for you and have it delivered to your floating cottage.

How to get to Lake Danao National Park

Lake Danao is a 30-minute ride from Ormoc City proper via the Palo-Carigara-Ormoc City road and then turning right to the Luna-Dolores-Milagro road. If you’re taking public transportation, it will take almost an hour to get there.

You can ride a multi-cab which will bring you right in the Lake Danao Natural Park entrance. You can take another multi-cab going back to the city. However, you might end up hiring a motorcycle if it’s passed 5:00 PM.

Ormoc City’s local government also offers a Lake Danao tour package.

Boating with the entire family in Lake Danao.

Tips:

• Come to the lake early for a better experience.
• Protect your important things such as cellphones. If it falls in the lake, you’ll never get it back!
• The people in Lake Danao are very friendly and you can always ask them for directions or any help.

Expenses

Multicab Fare: ₱40
Entrance Fee: ₱10
Floating Cottage Rental: ₱250
Boat Rental: ₱150-200 (depends on size and capacity)