Lake Holon
T’boli, South Cotabato
About
Hiking in Lake Holon is ideal for beginners who have just started on their hiking journey. With the right gear and expectations, this adventure can serve as a perfect introduction to the joys and challenges of hiking.
Lake Holon is a popular hiking destination in Mindanao. During our last visit, it attracted around 300 hikers on a single weekend. With its breathtaking view of the crater lake at Mt. Parker from its two beautiful view decks, it’s one of my top recommendations if you’re searching where to hike in Mindanao.
The Trail
There are two trails to reach the Lake Holon campsite: the Salacafe Trail and the Kule Trail. Hikers should register and begin at the receiving area in Brgy. Salacafe. This is also the jump-off point where you can arrange for porters to carry your gear.
The campsite is conveniently located next to the magnificent lake. Depending on your schedule, you can start on one trail and finish on the other the next day. For this guide, we’ll begin on the Salacafe Trail.
Features
DIFFICULTY LEVEL – 4/9
ELEVATION – 1823 MASL
DURATION – 3-4HRS – SALACAFE TRAIL
DURATION – 3-4HRS – KULE TRAIL
TRAIL TYPE – CIRCUIT/BACK TRAIL
Preparation
To have a great hiking experience, it is important to have all the gear you need. I’ve prepared a list of essential items that are needed to camp and hike at Lake Holon, taking the possible weather into consideration. Make sure to double-check yours.
Gear Checklist
- Tent
- Head Lamp
- Sleeping bag
- Water bottle
- Jacket
- Extra Clothes (for 2 days & 1 night)
- Sleeping pad
- Sleeping bag
- Towel
- Trail food
- Stainless mug (for coffee)
- Powerbank and charging cable
- Umbrella
- Waterproof bag (optional)
- Camping chair and table (optional)
- Trekking poles (optional)
This gear checklist is available to download with the Apple Reminders list:
Disclaimer: please do not rely solely on this list. Consider your preferences and add any necessary gears that might contribute to a safer and enjoyable experience. If you have suggestions, kindly send me a message through my socials.
Safety
Trail
The Salacafe trail is beginner-friendly, and even offers a back trail. Conversely, the Kule trail has steep inclines that some may find challenging. For your comfort, be sure to wear hiking shoes.
Weather Considerations
The campsite at Lake Holon is not known for having very cold temperatures, so there is no need to bring down or puffer jackets. However, it is advisable to bring a jacket that can keep you warm during the night.
Navigation
There are no markers from the trail of Lake Holon but it is required to have a guide along with you. These guides are well-informed about hiker safety and will assist you throughout your journey and might share local knowledge and stories that you might enjoy along the trail.
Highlights
View decks
Both Salacafe and Kule Trail have a viewing deck. However, in Kule Trail, the lake is more centrally located and features a large stone that you can step on which makes it more popular on social media.
Personally, the Salacafe trail’s view deck is also a delight. This view deck is often overlooked since you have to take a little detour to get there but you’ll be treated to an alternative view of the lake.
Canoeing at the lake
There are several canoes available for rent at the lake. This experience includes a paddler who will take you around the lake, allowing you to appreciate the calmness of the water.
Lake swimming and diving
As of the latest update, there is currently only one jumping deck available at the campsite and you can’t miss it, visitors more than welcome to indulge in swimming and diving activities. But bear in mind that the depth of the Lake Holon is still unknown so ensure to always be cautious and swim at your own risk. For safety, life vests are available for rent.
Stores on the trail
As you traverse either trail, you’ll have the convenience of stores available. I marked this as one of the highlights since not all hiking trails offer this. Bear in mind that the availability of the stores may vary on the day of your hike.
Lake Holon native coffee
Waking up early in the morning from a sound sleep in your tent, with a scenic lake view in front of you and a cup of native coffee warming your hands, will be an unforgettable experience you’ll have at Lake Holon.
In the Philippines, aside from Mt. Apo, the most delicious coffee beans I’ve tasted so far are sourced from here. Although I’m not exactly sure where the coffee beans from Lake Holon are harvested, both varieties offer a smooth aroma and a rich chocolatey flavor. Moreover, freshly brewed coffee from these beans is also available on the trail!
Lake Holon Outlet
This is a small opening where the water from the crater lake flows out and forms a small river. To reach this spot, you need to ride a canoe with a group from the campsite. Personally, this is one of my favorite activities. Simply entering and exiting the outlet while on the canoe is a surreal experience.
Frequent Asked Questions
Is there a comfort room available?
Yes, pay per use comfort rooms are available.
Are there available gears for rent?
Yes, please coordinate with the locals at the receiving area for reservations of tents.
Is there a potable water source nearby?
It is not confirmed, but bottled water is available for purchase at the stores along the trail and at the campsite.
Is food available in the campsite?
Yes, but only instant goods are available.
Do we have to bring our own food when camping/hiking?
You should bring your own food when you’re not affiliated with an organizer. The available goods from stores may not be enough for your needs.
Is electricity available at the campsite?
No, it is necessary to bring power banks and chargers when planning to hike and camp at Lake Holon.
Personal Thoughts
Lake Holon remains in my personal favorites list and is a must for both residents and visitors of Mindanao. It has the perfect trails for a hiking adventure and a rewarding view of a majestic crater lake.
I cannot forget the first time I saw it from the Salacafe view deck, the pictures that I saw from instagram is so far from a personal experience. It is one of those rare moments when you find a connection to a place that’s so grand – just unexplainable.
Now, I finally understood why some people return to this place more than once. And honestly, I do find myself hiking here every once in a while.