Lake Holon
A clear blue crater lake high on a sacred mountain, reached on foot through T'boli country.
Quick answer
- Where: the crater of Mount Melibengoy, also called Mount Parker, in T'boli, South Cotabato.
- Height: about 1,341 metres above sea level.
- The lake: a clear crater lake formed after an eruption in 1641.
- The trek: about three to four hours from the jump-off at Salacafe or the Kule trail.
- Rules: visits are regulated; arrange through the T'boli tourism office.
Why it is a wonder
High in the mountains of T’boli, South Cotabato, a volcano called Mount Melibengoy, or Mount Parker, holds a lake in its crater. Lake Holon formed after an eruption in 1641. Today it lies calm and clear at about 1,341 metres, ringed by forested ridges that local legend calls the lake’s guardians.
Holon means “deep water” in the T’boli language, and the lake is sacred to the T’boli people, whose ancestral lands surround it. Reaching it takes a trek of three to four hours through forest and upland villages. At the end, there is time to camp, paddle and watch the mist lift off the water at dawn.
Beat the crowds
Visitor numbers are limited, so book ahead. Weekdays are quieter.
Getting there
Fly to General Santos, then travel by road to T’boli, about an hour and a half. Register at the tourism office, then ride a habal-habal to the jump-off at Salacafe or the Kule trail. Pair it with Lake Sebu, nearby.
A perfect day
- Start the trek early from the jump-off.
- Pass through T’boli villages on the way up.
- Reach the crater rim and look down on the lake.
- Camp by the shore and wake for sunrise.
Through the seasons
- About February to May: generally drier for trekking.
- Rainy months: trails get muddy and the lake may close.
Respect the place
Follow the rules of the T’boli community, stay with your guide, pack out every bit of rubbish, and never light fires outside designated areas.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a guide?
Yes. Treks are arranged through the T'boli tourism office with registered local guides.
Can I swim in Lake Holon?
Swimming and kayaking are allowed in designated areas, following the guides' rules.
Is the lake ever closed?
Yes. It closes periodically for rehabilitation and after events such as forest fires. Check before you go.
Why is it sacred?
The mountain and lake lie in the ancestral domain of the T'boli people, who protect the forest and hold the lake sacred.
Twin Lakes Balinsasayao and Danao
Two quiet lakes in deep forest, high in the hills behind Dumaguete.
We checked this guide against the 3 sources listed below. Last updated 14 November 2026. Basis: researched from official sources. Written and edited by Delfin, with AI-assisted research (how we work). Prices, hours and rules change, so confirm before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.
