I often hear some of my friends and family says "Before you explore other places, you should first discover the beauty of your own place"- and i think this is true. So today, I want to share with you our very own tourist attraction here in our place. While the area is popularly known as the "Four Lakes," let me take you first to the most well-known and easily accessible one: Tabayo Lake.
This lakes are located here in Kabayan, Benguet. It is the same municipality where Mt. Pulag is located but different barangay. MT. PULAG in BABALAK, KABAYAN while FOUR LAKES particularly Tabayo lake is in BALLAY, KABAYAN. This is really a blessing on the municipality for having this natural wonders or attractions, that's why they called it MYSTICAL KABAYAN.
My first visit here is when i was single, that was last 2018. And the reason why i visited this amazing place is because of LOVE. Yes, because this is where my husband born and raised, he invited me here and visited their hidden treasure. Since i am into adventure, I was truly amazed seeing lakes at the top of the mountains, it was like a Giant Mirror because you can see the reflection of the mountain around the lake. It made me ask, "Why are these lakes located at the top of a mountain?" After all, what i know is, lakes are typically found in low-lying areas. This makes my Faith more that God is truly amazing.
Before reaching Tabayo Lake, you’ll need to ascend through the mountains. While the area is accessible by most land vehicles, make sure your car is in good condition because the road is a continuous uphill drive all the way to the lake, probably will take 15-20mins drive. As soon as you arrive, the cool breeze is the first thing to greet and welcome you, so it's best to wear warm or winter clothing, especially if you're not used to cold weather.
Tabayo Lake is also known as a popular campsite, where many visitors pitch their tents and rest before heading out to explore the other nearby lakes.
Once you arrive, you can choose to stay in either a tent or a homestay. Despite the area being a bit congested, there's already an internet connection available, so you can share real-time photos on your social media account.
Tabayo Lake is also surrounded by a few homes and vegetable gardens, adding a touch of local life and scenic view to the area. It’s located near a trail that connects to neighboring barangays, making it easily accessible not only to locals but also to travelers from nearby provinces. This makes the lake a natural stopover for both residents and visitors. The community here belongs to the indigenous Kalanguya people. Farming is our primary livelihood, and the vegetable gardens existed long before the lake was designated as a natural park.
This amazing view is a perfect setting for relaxation and peaceful escape, an ideal place to breathe, unwind and recharge after a long exhausting and stressfull work week. The scenery is absolutely breathaking, especially with the towering mountains reflected on the still water, making it look like a giant natural mirror. It’s no surprise that tourists often visit, especially on weekends, and it’s become a favorite for photo shoots for wedding and travel content. It is also perfect for wedding venue, camping and other outdoor activities.
There is also a ranger station near the lake where the staff conducts an orientation and briefing on the do's and don'ts while enjoying the lake's natural beauty. If you're up for a light trek, you can also explore nearby lakes. The trail is relatively easy since it doesn't involve steep climbs, but some sections can be slippery. It's still recommended to wear rubber or trekking shoes. This trek is ideal for those who enjoy minor climbs and less challenging trails.
We always come here together with my kids specially summer. So IF YOUR PURPOSE IS JUST TO RELAX, RECHARGE AND REFLECT, this is the best place, who knows you can take home some fresh vegetables coming from the garden nearby. hehe
**note: photos are mine and edited in canva