Experience New Zealand at This Picturesque Campsite in Zambales

Want to beat the summer heat? It’s time to discover the joys of car camping! While heading to the beach is the natural go-to option this season, journeying out of the metro for hours and booking a hotel or an airbnb can also cost a lot of money. 

Alternatively, camping with friends or family can save you a lot with just packed food and a vehicle for a long drive. Most of all, the picturesque view of nature along with deep conversations allow one to truly disconnect from the digital world. Sounds good? If you’re looking for a place to set up camp, why not start with Lake Mapanuepe, a.k.a. “The New Zealand of Zambales.” 

LOOK: What You Need to Know About Lake Mapanuepe in Zambales

Located at the foot of Mount Pinatubo, Lake Mapanuepe is rich in history. The freshwater by the site was formed after the volcano’s eruption in 1991. It produced lahars that blocked the Maranella River and Mapanuepe River, the two major rivers of Mapanuepe Valley. As a result, two barangays (Aglao and Buhawen) were submerged in rising water with only the steeple of the Santa Barbara Chapel left visible. 

At present, the lake is one of the rising attractions in Zambales. Bikers and motorcycle riders go here to enjoy the adventure trail and pass through the ‘tulay na bakal.’ For most, the serene lake view, pine trees, and mountain landscape that resembles New Zealand are great for a slow weekend. The cool weather and wide spaces also allow people to set up camp, a bonfire, and sit on folding chairs.

How to get to Lake Mapanuepe? 

Since there will be lahar trails and river crossing, it's best to travel here by a 4x4 vehicle, a motorcycle, or by bike.  

Tourists can also go by boat. First, they need to register their name at the checkpoint beside Barangay Aglao covered court before proceeding to Lake Mapanuepe View Deck. You can park your car where the boats are stationed. Pay P30 for the entrance fee, P25 for the life jacket, and P300 for the boat ride back-and-forth to whichever part of the lake you want to go. Each boat can carry four to five people.  

How much will camping here cost?

Upon arrival, you can spend a day surrounded by nature for only P20, and overnight for P50. There’s also a P50 environmental fee. Tent pitching and hammock set-up is free, but travelers can also rent from the Buhawen Barangay Hall.

What activities can you do?

Aside from camping to enjoy the fresh air with the view of the lake, there's also boat riding! You can circle around the lake and see the Sunken Church for P300 an hour. People are free to climb the peak of the church’s cross and take pictures. Paddle boating is also available in other parts of the place. For sightseeing, visitors can visit the Mapanuepe Lake View Deck in the Barangay Aglao part of the lake. 

Editor's note: Rates are subject to change without prior notice.

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