Lake Leonard was called “Crocodile Lake” by the Mansaka natives in the area. According to Mansaka folklore, there were scary crocodiles on its shores that frightened the tribal communities. The legend also tells the story of a Mansaka crocodile hunter named Habana, whose adventures in the 1960s confirmed the presence of crocodiles in the calm lake waters. Although today, there are no more sightings of the reptiles.
Lake Leonard is situated in the highland village of New Leyte in the municipality of Maco. The lake is a 200-hectare caldera of Mt. Leonard Kniazeff, one of the country’s 22 active volcanoes. This beautiful lake, filled with water lilies and lotus, is a popular spot for locals to unwind and relax.
Private
1-2 Days
Upon Booking
Fit to Climb
Beginners
Highlights
- Camp beside the serene waters of Lake Leonard.
- Experience quiet and stillness of the cold and pristine environment.
- Nurture yourself with the beautiful, picturesque, and serene lake.
Description
The elevation of the caldera of Lake Leonard is best viewed from Lake Tambo and Cafe.
There are also side trips that you can include. An option is to explore a trail leading to Apo Amacan Crater, an active volcano, and to include visits to Arabaton and Tayaon Falls and Mainit hot springs.
Price includes
- Guiding fee
- Tribal and Environmental Fees
- Meals for
- Day 1 Dinner
- Day 2 Breakast
- Day 2 Lunch
- Transportation
Price details
Price Does Not Include:
Day 1 Lunch
- Porter
- Other amenities (boating, kayaking, etc.)
- Side trips
Additional preferences
We can discuss on the following add-ons if you want them:
- Side trips to the Apo Amacan Crater, Arabaton and Tayaon Falls, Mainit hot spring
- Transportation – Davao to New Leyte roundtrip
- Porter to carry your hiking bag
Itinerary
Day 1
6:00 am – Assembly
10:00 am – Registration, Orientation
12:00 nn – Lunch at Lake Leonard
1:00 pm – Boating, Kayaking
4:00 pm – Setting camps
6:00 pm – Dinner
7:00 pm – Socials
Day 2
5:00 – Breakfast
6:00 – Go to viewdeck
9:00 – Personal time
12:00 – Lunch
2:00 – Return home
Additional details
For those with vehicles, you can park them at Lake Leonard parking area.
For no vehicles, transportation to the start of the trip can be arranged.
Things you will need to bring:
Water bottle
Rain jacket in case of change of weather
Bring extra money
Conservation Rules
- Leave No Trace (LNT). Bring your own trash bag and take it home with you.
- Respect other guests by avoiding loud music, especially during sleeping hours.
- Do not pick plants or flowers.
FAQs
This is a relatively beginner’s trail where new hikers can start practicing their footwork and endurance in the trail. Though it is still advisable to have a good amount of exercise prior to the climb.
