Sumaguing Cave: Spelunking Adventure in the Heart of Sagada

Introduction: Unearthing Sagada’s Underground Gem

Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Sagada in the Cordillera Mountains of Northern Luzon, Sumaguing Cave stands as a testament to nature’s artistry. Often referred to as the “Big Cave”, Sumaguing offers an enthralling spelunking experience that unveils a world of stalactites, stalagmites, and underground pools.

Nature’s Canvas: Marvelous Rock Formations

Descending into Sumaguing Cave, one is greeted by a symphony of rock formations, each telling a story of millennia gone by.

• Stalactites & Stalagmites: Dripping from the cave ceiling or rising from the floor, these formations come in various shapes and sizes. Over time, some even merge to form pillars.
• King’s Curtain: One of the cave’s iconic features, this rock formation resembles a majestic curtain, with its intricate patterns captivating visitors.
• The Rice Terraces: A formation that uncannily mirrors the famed Banaue Rice Terraces, showcasing nature’s uncanny artistry.

A Wet and Wild Adventure: Navigating Sumaguing’s Depths

A journey through Sumaguing is not for the faint-hearted. While some parts involve navigating through narrow passageways, others require wading or even swimming through chilly waters.

Description of what a tour through these natural wonders is like

There are over 60 caves discovered underneath the town of Sagada. Of all of these underworlds, Sumaguing Cave has the biggest chamber, earning its nickname “The Big Cave.” Inside are countless rock formations slowly shaped by nature over thousands of years. These rock formations mimicking familiar shapes are the highlight of this spelunking adventure. – excerpt from the poor traveler

A Spelunking Adventure in Sumaguing Cave: Journey to the Depths of Sagada’s “Big Cave”

Tucked amidst the picturesque mountain town of Sagada in the Philippine Cordilleras lies Sumaguing Cave, locally known as the “Big Cave.” Its allure draws not just to its grandeur but to the thrilling spelunking experience it promises.

Entrance to the Abyss: The descent begins with a steep, slippery pathway, lined with huge boulders and steady droplets of water from above. The only light comes from the gas lamps of guides, casting an eerie glow that enhances the cave’s mystical ambiance. The temperature gradually drops, a welcome relief after the initial strenuous descent.

Rock Formations and Natural Wonders: Inside, Sumaguing unveils a vast network of chambers adorned with striking stalactites and stalagmites. Over millennia, dripping water has sculpted these formations, creating evocative shapes that have earned playful names such as the “King’s Curtain,” “Rice Terraces,” and “Cauliflower.”

The Wet and Wild Experience: Prepare to get wet! Traversing the cave requires wading through icy-cold natural pools. At some points, the water can reach up to chest height. This, combined with the slippery rocks and low-lit environment, makes the experience both challenging and exhilarating.

Encounters with Bats and Other Creatures: The echoing sounds of dripping water are often accompanied by the distant chirps and flutters of bats. These winged residents, along with blind cave crickets and swiftlets, have perfectly adapted to the cave’s dark and humid environment.

Challenging Terrains: Spelunking in Sumaguing is not for the faint-hearted. The adventure involves not just walking but also climbing, rappelling, and even squeezing through tight spaces. The “Rope Section,” where adventurers use ropes to descend further into the cave’s depths, is particularly memorable.

Preserving Nature’s Marvel: While Sumaguing Cave is a popular tourist attraction, it’s crucial to remember that it’s a delicate ecosystem. Refrain from touching the rock formations, as human contact can affect their growth. Moreover, always follow the “Leave No Trace” principle to ensure the cave remains pristine for future generations.

Guided Tours: Exploring Safely with Local Expertise

Given the cave’s complexity and potential hazards, guided tours led by local experts are highly recommended. These guides not only ensure the safety of visitors but also share fascinating insights and legends associated with the cave.

Getting there: Reaching the Cave’s Entrance

Located a short distance from Sagada’s town center (link left explains how to get there), the entrance to Sumaguing Cave is accessible via a downhill trek, surrounded by lush vegetation and the occasional glimpse of the Cordillera landscape.

Conclusion: Sumaguing Cave, Sagada’s Subterranean Wonderland

While Sagada is famed for its hanging coffins and misty peaks, Sumaguing Cave offers a different kind of thrill. It’s a journey into Earth’s belly, a dance with nature’s shadows, and a testament to the wonders that lie beneath our feet. For spelunkers and casual adventurers alike, Sumaguing promises a dive into the mysterious and the sublime.

Speaking of sublime, the remote area between the popular tourist destinations of El Nido and Coron are adorned with 82 beautiful, white sand beach islands off the beaten path, where we organize private and group multiday boat tour expeditions. Let the adventure continue!

Experience the thrill of island hopping in the Philippines

FAQs

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  What is the Sumaguing Cave known for?

  Dubbed the “Cave of Wonders”, Sumaguing Cave is Sagada’s subterranean marvel! Known for its jaw-dropping stalactite and stalagmite formations, it’s a maze where nature’s artistry comes alive in every nook and cranny.
  

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  How deep is the Sumaguing Cave?

  Prepare for a descent into the abyss! While the exact depth varies across areas, explorers often navigate its depths for hours, wading through waters and scaling rock formations. It’s an underworld adventure like no other!
  

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  Why is Sumaguing Cave worth visiting?

  Beyond just a cave, Sumaguing offers a thrilling spelunking experience! With its otherworldly rock formations, natural pools, and an atmosphere shrouded in ancient mystique, it’s a journey that promises both adventure and awe.
  

SEO Keywords: Sumaguing Cave, spelunking, Sagada, Cordillera Mountains, stalactites, stalagmites, King’s Curtain, guided tours, underground adventure, Northern Luzon, cave preservation, local guides, rock formations.

Island Hopping in the Philippines

5.0

Based on 22 reviews

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C R

05:51 03 Apr 24

I give 5 stars because they actually helped me to arrange the tour to Balabac in last minute. However, because the money wired through the local bank in my country took time to be processed, so i missed the boat due to peak season as many people paid before my money was received by the tour guide.As most of people usually feel, once your money has been transferred out to someone you do not know, you probably frustrated that your money would not be able to be refunded.But not in my experience. I dont need to be worry, the owner refunded me the money he has received (minus the bank fees). He promised to refund me and he did it. It was around 18.700 Pesos.So, eventhough i didn't manage to go with the tour, but i am really satisfied with their legitimate and great business practice. Hopefully, people will try their services and not worry about their legit business!Thanks a lot!

Chloe Blanchard

13:38 27 Mar 24

The most wonderful experience from booking to beach! Karel and Mel were so fast and responsive to my very last minute trip over the holidays. We booked a private boat for two and could not have been happier with our four day trip! We didn’t think about anything other than snorkeling the entire time. Linda, our captain, cooked wonderful meals and took us to totally empty beautiful beaches. We loved staying the night in Pical especially! Wonderful to experience the Philippines this way! Will come back again and would recommend to anyone!

hotel luci del faro

08:13 31 Jan 24

We booked the 3 day 2 night expedition, from Coron to Sibaltan.First of all the booking part was really simple. I organized this trip to the Philippines last minute for my family (my parents and my uncles) but Karel answered all my questions very quickly and really made everything easier for me. It was an incredible experience. Albert, our tour leader, is a wonderful guy, always smiling and ready to help us. They assisted us in everything and really took care of making everything go smoothly. The accommodation on the islands is as spartan as you expect but the location of each hut alone is worth the trip. The wonder of nature was then added to the goodness of cuisine. It's really difficult to argue how you can cook all that goodness on a boat.If you are looking for an authentic experience, in contact with nature, off the beaten track, this company's private expedition is certainly for you.

Kate Brown

00:22 27 Oct 23

What an unforgettable experience! We did a two night (3 day) island hopping tour from Sibaltan to Coron. Everything was so well organized and the boat crew were amazing and really made sure we had a great time. The accommodation was rustic, but added to the authentic experience of the Philippines. Karel always responded to any queries we had promptly. Our boatman, Albert, was the most amazing chef and we enjoyed every meal. The crew taught the kids how to fish with a line which was their highlight of the trip. They took us to the most unbelievable snorkelling spots along the way. Would highly recommend this trip.

Ian Pascual

02:43 10 Aug 23

One of the most amazing, unforgettable things you can do in your life

Lou Pratali

11:04 25 Jul 23

This is a must to do!!Super ultimate tour is the best with Kayangan and barracuda lake, twin lagoons (my favorite), coral garden (blue fabulous coral) were the best. It’s really worth it to pay for private tour (3500 to 4000 PHP). You will also have to pay for entrance fees (150 to 200PHP by location) and eventually shopping at the market - must do (count 300 for 2 for fish, pork, fruits and vegetables, water).

Gérard BENOIT

16:11 07 Feb 23

I was looking for a personalized excursion to the stunning Bacuit Gulf.Based on the comments, I contacted Mel.Very responsive, very efficient and perfect organization.The on-board staff were very friendly and very helpful.And I'm not even talking about the meal on board...a marvel.In all fairness, this excursion will remain an excellent memory and I cannot recommend Mel and his team highly enough.A big thank-you.

Alyse Tarbotton

23:48 30 Aug 22

This tour went well above all our expectations! I couldn't recommend this enough! The boat crew, captain and tour guide were nothing but amazing, everyone was so kind, helpful and friendly. The crew knew the best spots to visit that weren't overcrowded with tourists, 3 times we were lucky enough to have whole islands to ourselves! It was my partner's birthday while away and everything went above and beyond, bonfire, cake, birthday card, singing and celebrating with us.If you love camping this is definitely a tout you should do, it has been the highlight of our trip!!

Danish Kayani

10:24 31 Oct 19

Coron is the best place i have ever seen.. picturesque. Beautiful. Peaceful

Espinosa Kosmans

We are a family operation managing private custom boat tours in the beautiful Palawan area, and are happy to help travelers with their plans through the country, having traveled a lot of it ourselves and planning to visit it all.