Exploring Cavinti Cave (aka Cavinti Underground River and Caves Complex) in Laguna
Cavinti Cave (or Cavinti Underground River and Caves Complex) is a beginner-friendly cave with pristine stalactites and stalagmites, exciting routes, and even a small waterfall inside. It’s one of the ecotourism spots in Cavinti, Laguna, ideal for those who love nature, adventure, and simply exploring the natural attractions in this province.
I visited here as part of #CavintiTour2023, along with other bloggers and influencers. This was one of the items in our itinerary I’d been looking forward to because I’d wanted to visit the cave for years. Our visit was well timed too, because at that time the cave routes are filled with water and the weather was fantastic for caving.
Here’s our experience + travel guide to Cavinti Cave!
Contents
Our tour inside Cavinti Cave
Our group registered first at Pueblo El Salvador Nature Park for the basic cave tour before we drove to the jump-off point to Cavinti Cave. In previous years, visitors needed to rent a 4×4 vehicle to get here, but recently the roads have been developed so it is now accessible even to regular vehicles.
We got off our vehicles and then walked on the bank of Lalangawan River, where we admired the gorgeous, deep-green water. Since we are a large group, we were divided into groups of 4 people. We were each fitted with a helmet, and each group was given a flashlight.
Here the guided tour starts. We crossed the river via a narrow bamboo bridge and then again on the other side using a rope for guidance. Then we trekked for about 5 minutes before reaching the mouth of the cave.
As I said, at this time parts of the cave are filled with water. At the entrance, we walked across another bamboo bridge to get past the deep pool inside.
We passed by giant bell-like stalactites, which is said to be reminiscent of those in Sagada. We also stopped by a stalactite formation with water dripping down, which the locals call the Fountain of Youth. The water here is alkaline so it’s safe to drink. Of course I had to try it!
From there, we walked back and then headed to another route. There we discovered dry routes with sand and smooth boulders, routes filled with shallow to waist-high water, and a hole where we had to crawl into.
One of the challenging routes was a chamber filled with deep water (up to the chest level). Some of my companions left their items on a dry spot, while I opted to bring my drybag since I’ve already had it tested in water a couple of times.
Then we stepped into the water, which gradually deepened. I semi-panicked when the water reached up to the middle of my neck (I’m a small person), and my companion saved me by letting me grab onto him as we cross the chamber. (Thank you, Aaron. Haha.)
I’d been to a few caves in the past. Diamond Cave and Capisaan Cave also have subterranean streams, but this is the first time that I had to cross a route filled with chest- to neck-high water. I can’t say that I regret it – it was actually fun and one of the most memorable parts of Cavinti Cave.
At the end of the route is an open chamber called the Skylight. You can climb up to the top of the formation to get awesome photos with the sunlight falling over you.
Our final stop is the secret waterfall inside the cave. Unlike other parts of the cave, the waterfall doesn’t dry out. It’s small but wonderful. We had fun getting wet and enjoying a water massage under it.
Our 2-hour tour inside Cavinti Cave was really fun. In the past, it was challenging (and expensive) to get here since the roads were unpaved, but with the recent road developments in Cavinti, it’s now easier to visit. I’m already planning a second tour with my boyfriend and friends!
About Cavinti Cave
Cavinti Cave is one of the emerging ecotourism sites in Cavinti, Laguna. It is a class 2 cave system, which means it is open for guided educational tours and experienced cavers.
Cavinti Cave is ideal for beginners. There are 2 routes you can take:
- Basic route: takes about 2 hours
- Advanced route: takes about 5 hours.
How to get to Cavinti Cave
Cavinti Cave (or Cavinti Underground River and Caves Complex) is located in Cavinti, Laguna. It’s about 3 hours from Manila.
Here are the commute directions:
- From Manila, ride a bus bound for Sta. Cruz.
- Then, ride a jeep to Cavinti (or a jeep bound for Lumban and then get off at Cavinti). Charter a tricycle that will take you to Pueblo El Salvador Nature Park for registration and then to the jump-off point to Cavinti Cave.
Due to limited transport, it’s best to bring your own vehicle when exploring Cavinti. It’s also ideal if you have a high-powered vehicle that can easily navigate steep roads.
From the jump-off point, it will take 10-15 minutes of trekking (including river crossing) to reach the cave entrance.
Cavinti Cave Rates
Here are the current rates for Cavinti Cave (Updated as of 2023):
| Entrance fee | P650 per person (including rental for helmet) |
| Tour guide fee | P1000 good up to 6-8 people |
Reminders and Tips
- What to wear: Drifit shirt and shorts/yoga pants.
- What to bring: A drybag to keep your essentials safe or a waterproof pouch for your phone. A small bottle of water will do. Each group will be provided a flashlight, but it’s still best if you bring your own personal flashlight.
- When to visit: The best time to visit Cavinti Cave is from January to mid-February. (We visited in the month of February). The summer months are also good, with the water level reaching up to ankle deep. You can also schedule your trip on July to mid-August to experience high water inside cave.
Other things to note:
- Check the weather forecast before your visit and follow up with the tourism office for updates. The cave is closed to visitors during heavy rains and inclement weather due to rising water levels.
- Be respectful. Do not touch the stalactites and stalagmites. Do not vandalize. Smoking is also prohibited inside.
- Planning to visit Cavinti Cave on a day trip? You can also add side trips in your itinerary, such as Cansuso Falls. Most accommodations in Cavinti can also help you arrange a tour.
Contact
For inquiries about Cavinti, you can contact CTSOA via Facebook.
Cavinti Cave is one of the top attractions in Cavinti, Laguna. Have you been to Cavinti Underground River and Caves Complex? If you have questions or comments, let us know in the comment section below!
What to read next:
Heading to Cavinti, Laguna? Check out these related posts!
- Cavinti Tourist Spots and Things to Do
- Cavinti Falls (aka Pagsanjan Falls)
- Shooting the Rapids to Pagsanjan Falls
- Balon-Balon Falls: Tri-Falls of Barangay Tibatib
- Cavinti Cave
Where to stay:
- Caliraya Lake Front Resort
- Sofia’s Lake Resort
- Julian’s Island Lodge
- The Cliff at Naculo Falls
- Mountain Lake Resort
- Best Cavinti Resorts, Glamping Sites, and Camp Sites
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Katherine Cortes is a long-time backpacker and a freelance writer/editor. She likes beaches, snorkeling trips, and relaxing staycations (preferably with bath tubs!).
