Lake Sebu, Philippines

Why You'll Love Lake Sebu

Lake Sebu is a serene and peaceful destination located in the province of South Cotabato, Philippines. This destination is mostly known for its captivating natural sceneries such as its pristine lake, waterfalls, and lush green forests. Visitors can enjoy leisurely cruises on the lake or take a dip in its refreshing waters. Apart from its stunning natural beauty, Lake Sebu is also famous for its rich and vibrant indigenous culture. Local inhabitants are known for their native weaving, music, and dance which can all be experienced first-hand by visitors.

Getting to Lake Sebu

Lake Sebu can be reached by taking a flight to General Santos International Airport and then taking a private vehicle or public transportation to the destination. Another option is to travel by bus from Koronadal City to the Poblacion of Lake Sebu.

The closest city to Lake Sebu is Koronadal, in South Cotabato.

Travelling from General Santos International Airport to Lake Sebu

When to Visit

The best time to visit Lake Sebu is during the dry season which starts in March and lasts until May. This is when the weather is dry and temperatures are warm, providing the perfect conditions for outdoor activities.

Weather and Climate

Lake Sebu has a tropical climate with temperatures ranging from 24 to 34 degrees Celsius throughout the year. The rainy season starts in June and lasts until November, with typhoons occasionally occurring during this time. The dry season, from December to May, is generally cooler and less humid but can still be hot especially in the middle of the day.

Costs When Visiting

In Philippines, the currency is the Philippine Peso.
Some sample costs when travelling around Lake Sebu are:

Sample Accommodation Costs

Different types of accommodation are available in Lake Sebu, ranging from budget to luxury resorts. The average prices for a budget guesthouse start at around PHP 600 per night, while a mid-range hotel will cost around PHP 2,000 to PHP 3,000 per night. A luxury resort can cost upwards of PHP 5,000 per night.

Sample Food Costs

Food in Lake Sebu is generally affordable with local restaurants serving up dishes for as little as PHP 120 per meal. Street vendors also offer cheap and delicious food options, such as grilled fish and other seafood dishes. However, prices may vary depending on the type of cuisine and restaurant.

Safety Rating

Lake Sebu is generally considered a safe destination for tourists, with low crime rates and friendly locals. However, visitors should still exercise normal precautions, especially when travelling at night or in remote areas. Women should also take extra precautions when travelling alone and be aware of their surroundings. The destination is generally tolerant towards different races, genders and sexual orientations.

Local Population

Lake Sebu is home to several ethnic groups such as the T'boli, Ubo, and Manobo tribes. The majority of the population is Roman Catholic, with some practicing traditional indigenous beliefs. The official language is Filipino, but English is also widely spoken.

Things to Do

Lake Sebu offers visitors a wide range of activities such as boat rides and kayaking on the lake, trekking to nearby waterfalls and hiking through the lush green forests. Visitors can also take part in traditional cultural activities such as weaving, music, and dance, and learn more about the indigenous culture of the region.