Things To Do
in Los Baños
Los Baños is a university town in Laguna known for its lush campuses, thermal springs, and gateway to Mount Makiling. Home to the University of the Philippines Los Baños, it blends academic energy with nature, gardens, and a laid-back town pace. The surrounding forest reserves, parks, and springs invite day trips, hikes, and family outings.
Its proximity to Manila makes it a popular weekend escape for nature lovers and students alike.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a rejuvenating soak at the famous Pansol Hot Springs, where you can choose from a variety of private and public pools. Enjoy a light breakfast at a nearby café, sampling local delicacies such as puto and kutsinta. The morning sun glistens on the water, creating a serene atmosphere perfect for relaxation.
After lunch at a local eatery, head over to the nearby Taal Lake for some sightseeing. Take a scenic boat ride to explore the picturesque surroundings, where you can catch glimpses of the majestic volcano. As the sun begins to set, the view over the lake becomes even more breathtaking.
Return to Los Baños and indulge in a sumptuous dinner at a local restaurant known for its savory Filipino dishes. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the streets, immersing yourself in the local culture and perhaps picking up some souvenirs. End your day with a visit to a night market, where you can sample street food and interact with friendly locals.
Begin your adventure with a hike up Mount Makiling, a dormant volcano known for its lush forests and diverse wildlife. Start early to enjoy the cooler morning temperatures and to catch a glimpse of the stunning views from the summit. Along the way, listen to the sounds of nature and watch for unique flora and fauna native to the area.
After descending, enjoy a picnic lunch at the foot of the mountain, surrounded by the lush greenery. Spend some time exploring the nearby Makiling Botanical Garden, where you can learn about various plant species and their medicinal properties. The afternoon light creates a magical ambiance for photography and relaxation.
As the sun sets, head back to town and treat yourself to a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant. Savor the flavors of traditional Filipino cuisine while sharing stories of your day's adventures. If you're up for it, enjoy some local live music or dance performances at a nearby bar.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🥪Lunch in a mid-range cafe | $8-15 |
| 🏨Budget hotel or guesthouse (per night) | $25-50 |
| 🚌Local transportation (per ride) | $1-3 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Access to Mount Makiling and natural reserves
- Relaxed, student-friendly town with affordable living
- Limited nightlife compared to big cities
- Travel times to some attractions can require private transport
- "Salamat po" - Thank you (polite)
- "Magkano po?" - How much is this?
- "Saan ang banyo?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Kumusta po kayo?" - How are you (formal)?
- "Opo" - Yes (polite)
- "Hindi ako naiintindihan" - I don’t understand
Places to Visit in Los Baños
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic landscaped space on the University of the Philippines Los Baños campus, ideal for sunrise and golden-hour photography amid manicured lawns and ancient trees.
Lush rainforest trails with canopy views and misty clearings; best captured with a local guide for safety and route tips.
Pools and steam with reflections during twilight; great for moody, atmospheric shots and night photography.
Quiet lakeside scenes at dawn or sunset, offering expansive water vistas and silhouettes of local activity.
Food in Los Baños
Los Baños Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Laguna’s iconic rice flour and grated coconut dessert; crisp, lightly sweet, and best found in Los Baños bakeries.
Must-Try!
Creamy custard pie made with young coconuts; a Laguna specialty widely available in town bakeries.
Classic Filipino breakfast sets with garlic rice and options like sinangag with eggs, tapa, or longganisa; commonly found in local eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A hub for fresh produce, snacks, and local street foods such as banana cue, turon, and grilled items.
Stalls around the Pansol hot springs offering quick bites, skewers, and local snacks after a dip.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use po and opo when speaking to older people; greet with a polite nod or handshake.
Many households expect shoes to be removed before entering; follow hosts’ lead.
Be courteous, avoid loud behavior in public spaces, and ask permission before taking photos of people.
Safety
Tipping in Los Baños
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In casual eateries, 5–10% is common; in nicer places, 10–15% is standard if service is good.
Cash is widely accepted; many places also accept debit/credit cards. Small vendors may only take cash, so keep small bills handy.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mar–May brings hot, humid days with lots of sunshine. Start outdoor activities early, stay hydrated, and seek shade during peak heat.
Jun–Oct brings frequent rain and occasional storms. Pack a light rain jacket and plan flexible outdoor plans for mornings or clear spells.
Nov–Feb cools down with comfortable mornings and evenings. Great for walks, campus photography, and longer hikes.
Los Baños at Night
Hiking in Los Baños
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A collection of forest trails offering varying lengths and elevations; best explored with a guide for safety and ecological learning.
Scenic overlooks from the foothills provide sweeping views of the surrounding valleys and Laguna de Bay.
Airports
How to reach Los Baños by plane.
Main international and domestic gateway to Manila; around 1–2 hours by road depending on traffic, with bus, taxi, or rideshare options to Los Baños.
Alternative gateway in Pampanga; generally a bit farther than MNL but often with fewer flight delays; accessible by highway and private transfer to Los Baños.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large presence due to the UP Los Baños campus, with a diverse mix of local and international students.
Academics and staff associated with UP Los Baños and related institutes.
Families and long-time residents of Los Baños and nearby towns, including retirees and daily commuters.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in schools, recreation centers, and street courts; community leagues and campus intramurals are common.
Popular in gyms and clubs around campus; casual social play is common among students and residents.
Played by youth and adults in parks and school fields; local pickup games happen on weekends.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Los Baños.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer vegetable-based dishes; ask for no fish sauce or meat stock and request tofu, mushrooms, or bagoong-free options where possible.