Pandin and Yambo are two of the famous seven lakes which can be found in San Pablo City, Laguna. They are also known as the twin lakes because they are separated by a narrow strip of land.
Going there via private car, you can take SLEX and exit at Sto. Tomas. Follow the road going to San Pablo City and to Brgy. San Lorenzo. Travel time is between 2-3 hours depending on the traffic. There are markers on the road leading to Lake Pandin and a parking space is available for a small fee of Php50. From the parking, one has to walk a rough trail for about 15 minutes before reaching the lake. Along the trail are coconut trees, banana trees, bushes and horse's dung. It is better to bring an umbrella, wear sunblock, wear comfy shoes and light clothing and water.
There's an uphill portion which will make your heart beat a little faster but at the end of it is the refreshing sight of the Lake Pandin.
Currently, there are 12 bamboo rafts docked at the waiting area and the caretaker/resident will lead you to your raft. During summer season, green algae abound making the lake's water not clear. Though they will disappear before the onset of the rainy season.
A male and female paddlers cum guide will take you to the far end of the lake where Lake Yambo can be seen. There is a rope tied from the dock up to the strip of land separating Lake Pandin from Lake Yambo. The rope serves as a guide to the paddlers especially when the wind is strong.
Lake Pandin's depth is about 180 feet and guests are advised to wear life vests when going near the edge of the raft or when swimming for safety.
The guides are friendly, courteous and jolly.
They will tell you the legend of Pandin & Yambo, their advocacy to maintain the cleanliness of Lake Pandin and other stories. They are also committed in keeping the place clean and natural as this helps boost ecotourism and livelihood in the area.
Upon reaching the other end of the lake, one will trek a narrow strip of land to get a glimpse of Lake Yambo. There are bamboo railings but be careful as one may slip because of the steep slope.
It's like climbing a mountain. Lake Yambo is about 29 hectares and is suitable for swimming. However, there is no easy way going down to Lake Yambo from Lake Pandin.
Lake Yambo is serene and there are some fish cages. The landscape is beautiful.
The food which comes with the tour is served on the raft and one can decide when they can have their meal. It consists of rice, tiny shrimp, grilled tilapia, fern salad with salted egg, banana and bottled water. The ingredients of these dishes are fresh and the salad is prepared only when the guests arrived.
This tour package includes the bamboo raft ride for two hours and lunch. The cost is dependent on the number of guests. Php500 each if two persons, Php400 per head if three and Php360 each if 4 persons and above. You need to have a reservation to ensure that you have a raft when you arrive. The contact person is Ate Tina at +63929-978-9565.
The two hour raft ride is enough for you to enjoy the place. You can go swimming or just relax, enjoy the view, the cool breeze, enjoy the simple yet sumptuous food and commune with nature.
