About Lake Apo
Lake Apo is a natural crater lake located in Barangay Guinoyoran, Valencia City, Bukidnon, Philippines. Situated about 11 kilometers from the city proper, it covers approximately 24 hectares with clear green waters surrounded by hills. Formed in a volcanic crater, it is considered the cleanest inland body of water in Northern Mindanao and a major eco-tourism attraction of Valencia and Bukidnon.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a calm, circular crater lake with greenish clear water surrounded by rolling hills and vegetation. The site has a viewing deck overlooking the lake, lakeside cottages and picnic areas, and bamboo rafts and small boats for paddling on the water. The surroundings are quiet and rural, with opportunities for photography, lakeside relaxation, and views of the forested crater rim.
Key highlights
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Natural volcanic crater lake with clear green water
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Considered the cleanest inland water body in Northern Mindanao
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Bamboo raft and boat rides on the lake
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Scenic viewing deck overlooking the crater
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Lakeside cottages and picnic areas surrounded by hills
History of Lake Apo
Lake Apo is a volcanic crater lake formed within an extinct cinder cone in the highlands of Bukidnon. It has long been a natural landmark in the Valencia area and was later developed as an eco-tourism site by the local government of Valencia City for conservation and sustainable tourism.
Culture & Context
The lake is valued by local communities in Valencia and Bukidnon as a natural heritage site and recreational area. It serves as a community gathering place for picnics and local tourism and is promoted as a symbol of Valencia City's natural attractions.
Route
| By air | Nearest major airport is Laguindingan Airport serving Cagayan de Oro and Iligan, then overland travel by bus or van to Valencia City (about 2.5-3 hours). |
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