Twin Lakes Balinsasayao and Danao
Two quiet lakes in deep forest, high in the hills behind Dumaguete.
Quick answer
- Where: the highlands of Sibulan, San Jose and Valencia, about 14 kilometres west of Dumaguete.
- The lakes: Balinsasayao and Danao, set at around 800 metres among forest.
- Protected: a natural park since 2000, covering about 8,000 hectares.
- Wildlife: more than 100 bird species, including the endangered Negros bleeding-heart.
- Do: boat or kayak on Lake Balinsasayao, walk the trails and viewpoints.
Why it is a wonder
In the mountains behind Dumaguete, at around 800 metres, two lakes lie side by side in deep green forest: Balinsasayao and its twin, Danao. The air is cooler, the water still, and the only sounds are birds and the splash of paddles.
The area has been a natural park since 2000, protecting a watershed that supplies southern Negros Oriental. The forest shelters more than 100 bird species, including the critically endangered Negros bleeding-heart dove, and rare trees such as almaciga. On Lake Balinsasayao, visitors can rent a boat or kayak, while trails lead to viewpoints over both lakes.
Beat the crowds
- Visit on a weekday morning, when the lake is calm and birds are active.
- Avoid holiday weekends.
Getting there
From Dumaguete, hire a habal-habal or vehicle to the park entrance in Sibulan, about an hour up a winding road. See our Dumaguete guide.
A perfect day
- Arrive early and paddle Lake Balinsasayao.
- Walk to the viewpoint over both lakes.
- Lunch at the lakeside.
- Head down via Casaroro Falls in Valencia.
Through the seasons
- January to May: usually drier, with clearer trails.
- Rainy months: mist and rain add atmosphere but make trails slippery.
Respect the place
This is a protected area. Stay on trails, don’t feed wildlife, and take all rubbish down with you.
Frequently asked questions
Can I swim in the lakes?
Swimming, boating and kayaking are allowed at Lake Balinsasayao, but there is no lifeguard; wear a life jacket.
How do I get there?
Take a habal-habal or hired vehicle from Dumaguete or Sibulan, about an hour up the mountain road.
Is there an entrance fee?
Yes, a small fee, plus optional boat or kayak rental.
What else is nearby?
Casaroro and Pulangbato Falls in Valencia, and the city of Dumaguete.
Marinduque
A quiet, heart-shaped island that comes alive with masked Roman soldiers every Holy Week.
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.
