Where is Lake Danum? This beautiful lake is located along the western part of Sagada and is near the town of Besao. The lake is also the jump off point for the long trek to the summit of Mt. Ampacao.
If you're the type who likes to hike, do long walks or maybe run, then some 4 kilometers away from the town of Sagada you'll find the lake sitting on a valley surrounded by tall pine trees. The air is fresh unlike that of the city's and you can smell the scent of the pine trees everywhere. The scenery is one that is relaxing, perfect for camping or maybe a picnic with friends, loved ones or family.
If you're wondering what Danum means - 'danum' is a Kankana-ey (a local dialect in Sagada) for water. Danum is also an Ilocano word for water.
When you visit Lake Danum, it is highly recommended to go there in the afternoon, and if you have the patience, then you can also wait for the sun to set on the lake's horizon. You can ask for your local guide to bring you to a small hill a few meters away from the lake so you can watch the sunset.
Unfortunately, my group went there in the morning, and since we are following a strict itinerary, instead of hiking to the lake, we took the van instead.
It is interesting to note that Lake Danum is 1700 meters above sea level, and if you walk a few hundreds meter more, about 200, and you will reach a much smaller lake called Lake Banao which is also a jump off point for hikers who plan to trek the Langsayan - Mt. Ampacao traverse trail.
