The Seven Lakes of San Pablo: A Complete Guide
The seven lakes are maars — craters formed by ancient volcanic steam explosions in the San Pablo Volcanic Field, the gently rolling country between Mt. Makiling and Mt. Banahaw. Each crater later filled with rainwater and springs, leaving a ring of deep, almost perfectly round lakes scattered across the city's barangays. No other Philippine city has anything quite like it.
The seven lakes at a glance
| Lake | Best for | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sampaloc | Walks, jogging, street food | Largest of the seven; ringed by an esplanade right beside the city plaza |
| Pandin | Bamboo-raft lunch, swimming | The classic day-trip experience, run by a local women's cooperative |
| Yambo | Quiet scenery, camping | Pandin's "twin" — the two lakes sit side by side, separated by a narrow ridge |
| Bunot | Local fishing culture | Known for tilapia fish pens; in Brgy. Concepcion |
| Calibato | Rugged views, hiking access | The most remote-feeling of the seven |
| Palakpakin | Countryside atmosphere | Shallow, life revolves around fishing communities |
| Mohicap | Off-the-path exploring | The smallest and least visited |
Which lake should you visit first?
If you have only a few hours, walk the Sampaloc Lake esplanade — it's a five-minute stroll from the Cathedral and City Plaza and needs no planning at all. If you have a full day, book a bamboo raft on Pandin Lake: two unhurried hours on the water with grilled tilapia and pako salad served on the raft is the single most loved thing to do in San Pablo. Ambitious visitors combine Pandin with a short ridge trek to Yambo next door.
Can you visit all seven in one day?
Yes, by tricycle or private car — locals call it the "seven lakes challenge" — but it makes for a rushed day, since the four smaller lakes are spread across different barangays with rough access roads. A more enjoyable plan is Sampaloc plus Pandin/Yambo in one trip, then the four quieter lakes on a second visit.
Getting there and around
San Pablo is 2–3 hours south of Manila by bus (see the full transport guide). In the city, tricycles are the way to reach any lake; agree on the fare before boarding, and for the outer lakes ask the driver to wait or arrange a pickup time, as passing rides are scarce.
Conservation note
These are living lakes: fish pens feed local families, and several lakes have suffered from overgrown pens and water-quality problems over the decades. Visit lightly — bring your trash back out, skip single-use plastics, and support the community cooperatives (like the women rowing Pandin's rafts) whose income depends on keeping the water clean.
Frequently asked questions
What are the names of the Seven Lakes of San Pablo?
Sampaloc, Pandin, Yambo, Bunot, Calibato, Palakpakin, and Mohicap — all volcanic crater lakes located within San Pablo City, Laguna.
How were the Seven Lakes formed?
They are maars: craters blasted open by volcanic steam explosions between Mt. Makiling and Mt. Banahaw, which later filled with spring water and rain.
Which of the Seven Lakes is the best to visit?
Sampaloc Lake is the easiest (it borders downtown San Pablo), while Pandin Lake offers the best experience — a bamboo-raft ride with a freshly cooked Filipino lunch served on board.
Is there an entrance fee for the Seven Lakes?
Sampaloc Lake's public esplanade is free. Pandin charges a small entrance fee plus raft rates (roughly ₱400–550 per person with lunch). The smaller lakes generally have no formal fees, though parking or guide tips may apply.
Last reviewed: July 2026. Spot an outdated detail? Email support@sanpablolaguna.com.
