Breathtaking natural wonders often arise from unexpected origins. From the picturesque view of Taal Volcano to the undeniable charm of Lake Holon, these places serve as testament to nature’s ability to create paradisiacal landscapes.
Another such wonder lies in a heavily mined province in the southern Philippines, making it a seemingly improbable travel destination. Nestled between the mining town of Maco and the agricultural municipality of Mabini, Mt. Leonard Kniazeff is home to a 200-hectare caldera lake, enveloped by lush greenery in every direction.
Introducing Lake Leonard
While not as renowned as Mayon Volcano, Mt. Leonard holds its own significance, situated in the Pacific Ring of Fire and recognized by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) as one of the 22 active volcanoes in the Philippines. It proudly towers at 1,190 meters or 3,904 feet above sea level.
Located in New Leyte, Maco, Davao de Oro, Lake Leonard has a vibrant history that predates its current name. According to local lore, the Mansaka natives referred to this splendid caldera lake as Crocodile Lake since ancient times.
In the oral traditions of the Mansaka, the presence of these formidable reptiles instilled fear among the tribal communities in Maco. They also celebrated the bravery of a renowned crocodile hunter named Habana, whose exploits confirmed the existence of crocodiles along the banks of Lake Leonard’s pristine waters.
After generations of Maco’s original settlers, Leonard Kniazeff, a mining prospector of Samico who later became the first general superintendent of the company, stumbled upon the tranquil and crystal-clear waters of the caldera lake. As a result, the lake was eventually named after him in recognition of his economic contributions to the Municipality of Maco.
It is believed that the mining activities in the area led to the eradication of all crocodiles in the lake. Today, Mt. Leonard’s 200-hectare caldera lake thrives as a prime tilapia fishing ground.
Lake Leonard Eco-Tourism Park
Lake Leonard is indeed a must-visit destination in Davao de Oro, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling city life. To manage and oversee the influx of tourists, the local government unit of Maco established the Lake Leonard Eco-Tourism Park.
Apart from reveling in the lake’s serenity, visitors can engage in a variety of activities here. Here’s what you can expect at Lake Leonard:
Camping
Spending a night or two at Lake Leonard is a must for those looking to fully immerse themselves in nature. You can pitch your tent along the lake banks or suspend your hammock from tree trunks or branches. This camping experience allows you to make the most of your trip, as Lake Leonard offers a completely different atmosphere and scenery at dawn.
As the sun begins to rise, the lake is often enveloped in fog, creating a mystical ambiance. The sounds of nature echo through the surroundings, adding to the enchanting experience. Camping at Lake Leonard offers a unique opportunity to witness the beauty of nature in its purest form, making it a camping trip of a lifetime.
Bamboo Rafting
Explore Lake Leonard aboard a bamboo raft that you paddle yourself. Immerse yourself in the scenic and picturesque views that surround you. The lake is adorned with lush greenery, and its crystal-clear waters add to its majestic beauty.
Kayaking
Aside from bamboo rafting, you can also enjoy kayaking on Lake Leonard’s clean and serene waters. Paddle around the lake to appreciate the rich biodiversity of the area and experience the calmness of the lake that soothes tired souls.
Picnic
Over the years, Lake Leonard has become a frequently visited tourist destination for locals. It has become a famous picnic spot where families from diverse backgrounds and cultures spend quality time together. Picnicking is still allowed, but with the COVID-19 pandemic, social distancing is strictly maintained.
How to get to Lake Leonard
Lake Leonard is a 2-hour drive away from Davao City. To get there, you can either take public transportation or rent a car from us.
If you opt to take public transportation, head first to Davao City Overland Transport Terminal (DCOTT). Once you’re there, go to the ticketing booth and ask for a bus bound for Maco.
Keep in mind that even though we are under the COVID-19 pandemic, you are going to have close contact with strangers during the whole duration of your travel. The bus conductor collecting bus tickets, vendors, and co-passengers are a few of these.
Make sure to wear your face mask at all times, sanitize your hands using alcohol, and maintain social distancing to prevent getting the virus. Although troublesome, you are obliged to wear a face shield inside the bus as mandated by the local government units in Davao Region. If you really want to experience the thrill of public transportation, get vaccinated to protect yourself against the deadly COVID-19 virus.
The bus will take you to Maco. Upon arrival, look for a habal-habal or a tricycle. Make sure to negotiate or haggle with the driver for the fare price first to avoid extra charges.
Once you are at Lake Leonard, the lush valley surrounding Mt. Leonard Kniazeff, the breeze of fresh air, and the sounds of nature will welcome you.
The most convenient way to get to Lake Leonard
Make your trip worry-free by renting a car from us. By doing this, you can avoid all the hassles and health risks caused by public transportation.
Have peace of mind and confidence with our excellent car rental service. On top of that, renting a vehicle ensures yourself and your family’s safety, which we all want.
What’s more, save a significant amount of money because our rental rates are budget-friendly, perfect for budget-conscious travelers or tourists.
Car Rental Davao provides high-quality and affordable rental cars for solo or group travelers. From Sedans to vans, we have all the rental units you are looking for in a car rental agency.
For tourists outside Mindanao, we also offer airport car rental pickup. Plus, we have great and special deals for long-term car rentals and 24/7 roadside assistance.
Book now through our Booking Page or call/email us at 0939-972-9846 or sales@carrentaldavao.com. You can also contact us through any of our social media channels. What’s great is our line is open 24/7.