This “squash” is one of the attractions that can be found in the caveLaguna is so blessed with loads of places with diverse cultures as well as great tourist spots. Popular towns such as Calamba, San Pablo and Los Baños have been magnetizing a lot of tourists for several years.

We visited a less well-known town called Cavinti to explore one of its hidden tourist gems, the Cavinti Underground River and Caves Complex or CURCC.

Arriving at Bumbungan Eco- Park in Brgy. Tibatib, we signed the registration book and accomplished an entry permit/waiver form at the Cavinti Tourism Office inside the park. Yes, before you proceed to the Cavinti river and caves, you have to accomplish these steps first.

The target destination is actually around two hours away from this establishment. If you did not bring an off-road vehicle, renting a 4x4 is a must due to the rough roads.

We were welcomed to our destination by the sound of rushing water.

Before the trek proper, we attended a short safety briefing in a large hut regarding the rules and guidelines in effect around the area.

After that, our guide distributed helmets and head lamps (rental only) before we rode the balsa (raft) to the cave.

We got off the balsa after a few minutes and trudged along a trail towards the mouth of the cave.

Aside from stalactites, stalagmites, bats, slippery rocks and rock formations along the way, a unique feature of this cave is the mini waterfall in one of its sections.

Exiting the cave, we treated our tired bodies to a refreshing dip in the cool waters of the river.

Back at the Bumbungan Eco- Park via the 4x4 vehicle we rented, we fixed ourselves up, took some farewell shots and departed for Metro Manila.

This Cavinti experience is really for cave enthusiasts. Never bring someone along who is not into this kind of activity. (Excerpted from http://larga-bista.blogspot.com)

Time for a dip!