I’ve been to Siquijor Island many times, and every time I came back to the Island, I accompanied different people, different circle and visit famous spots and most visited spots. But what I love visiting it again, is I always discover new destinations and gain new experiences.
What I am talking about is Sambulawan Underground River. A new and amazing experience that I discover after visiting the Island for more than 5 times.
The river is located at Tagmanocan, Lazi. It offers you a place to chill, enjoy and heal. Arriving at the ticket booth or receiving area made us so excited already seeing the gears displayed on the side. Flashlights and life vest make our hearts and eyes invested on the adventure already.
The journey started with a short orientation and a 10-minute walk to the cave. The trail is quite steep and rocky but the tour guides were so friendly and experience in handling everything and securing our safety. Together with my family and 2 senior Citizen parents, the path is manageable.
Entering the cave feels eerie at first, for it it is quite dark and you can hear the splashing sound of water underneath the cave.
But as everyone turns on each of our flashlight it becomes surreal, the place becomes ethereal and Majestic. The atmosphere is cold and the water splashing from the river gives me excitement and thrill - Ready to dip and swim.
We made a line and swim forward as we float on the water with rock formations to see above and crystal clear water beneath us. The water is adequately cold, cold but manageable and enjoyable and as our lights pierce through the water it is so serene and sparkling. as our guide shares that the water can also heal many illness and is potable, that even there’s typhoon or flood outside or in the province the water in the area still clear.
Together with my family, floating together, swimming through the water and sometimes avoiding the rock formations and sometimes there’s narrow path but it’s kind of exciting and enjoying as my family were the only visitors at that time. As the others move forward and the others were left behind taking videos and pictures every corner and side, voices echoes all around us, laughter and fun is truly present for everyone. It is one of the most memorable and adventurous experience that we had so far.
As we reach the end, rock formations were so nice as it forms many things, it looks like an underground palace of a cave kingdom. Each of us made a solo picture as if we were seating on the throne. A representation that we conquered the adventure. And what’s the good part? To return means going the underground river once more. So the fun continues as we dip into the water to enjoy for more.
It was indeed a river of healing, from the laughter and enjoyment that we had, to the fleeting moment and relaxing moment as we float, everything is breathtaking and magnificent. Especially if with your family or loved ones.
