BALUMBONAN CAVE & SUBMERGED RIVER

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

Another hit tourist destination in the Municipality of Bayog is the Balumbonan Cave and Submerged River. Traversing beneath a mountain range, this stunner will captivate anyone who visits.

Prepare to take a dip in its chest-deep submerged river because there’s just no other way for you to get inside the cave but through its blue-green, clear and icy cold water right at the entrance of the cave.

What’s inside? We thought you might ask. Stalactites in different shapes, forms and sizes adorn the ceilings of the cave. Stalagmites rise from the floors and rock formations of different colors, sizes and textures are very existent like trees to a forest. Another must-see is one portion of the cave where numerous bats dwell, an area that could be preserved as bat sanctuary. There are also smaller versions of waterfalls cascading among the cave walls, extensive and towering chambers like that of a cathedral, narrow passageways with water up to waist-deep, and scattered pools that are up to 6 feet deep.

Upon exiting the cave, you have to climb your way up where you will be welcomed by a lighter sky, lush green surrounding, and huge mossy rocks. From there, you have to hike down a mountain slope back to where your spelunking journey started.

HOW TO GET THERE?

From Pagadian City, ride a van from Pagadian IBT to Bayog. Fare is P120.00. From Zamboanga City, you can get to Bayog through Buug, Diplahan, or Imelda. From there, ride a Habal-Habal to Bayog.

Upon reaching Bayog IBT, ride a Habal-Habal and tell the driver to take you to Barangay Balumbonan. Coordinate with the barangay and ask for a tour guide. Tour guide rates range from a minimum of P300.00 and a maximum of P500.00.