Have you ever heard of Lake Agco Kidapawan? It’s a hidden mountain lake sitting quietly at the foot of Mount Apo in Cotabato. Locals say it’s nature’s spa with its steaming hot springs, cool forests, and a peaceful escape all in one. My hosts Rams and Veron brought me here during my visit in Kidapawan, the provincial capital.
What makes Lake Agco Kidapawan special?
The moment you arrive at Lake Agco Kidapawan, the air feels different. It’s crisp and cool. It smells of earth and sulfur. Steam rises from the lake like it’s breathing. You hear birds and insects chirping and buzzing. You feel calm as you walk the cemented steps lined with tall ferns and huge trees.
You walk down a trail and see locals dipping their feet in the hot spring pools. Some are smearing their faces with thick gray mud. This mud facial is said to be good for your skin due to the minerals present. You try it. The mud is warm. Smooth. When you rinse it off in a nearby pool, your face feels softer.
What can I do at Lake Agco?
You can do a lot, or just breathe and relax. Here’s what visitors love:
- Soak in the hot springs. The water comes straight from Mount Apo’s belly. It’s a different feeling to swim in a hot spring, therapeutic. There’s also a steam bath where you can have a sauna.
- Put healing mud on your face. It’s a tradition here. Locals swear by it. It’s not only great for your skin but a fun activity as well.
- Visit the lake’s geothermal spots. You’ll see boiling puddles and bubbling ground. This perhaps is the main draw of Lake Agco. You can actually see the lake surface boiling as steam rises.
- Take a short trek into the forest. The trails are easy and full of green. It’s a great place to commune with nature and to recharge your body.
- Buy snacks from small stalls. Expect local treats and hot coffee.
If you love quiet mornings and the sound of rustling leaves, you’ll love it here.
How do I get to Lake Agco?
From Kidapawan City, ride a habal-habal or motorcycle taxi. The ride takes around 45 minutes. You’ll pass through small villages and winding roads. The final stretch climbs uphill into cool mountain air. If you have a vehicle, much better and the road going up is well paved. Be ready to see forest and mountain views, birds in flight and have that clean, cool air!
You’ll arrive at the simple entrance of Lake Agco Mountain Resort. There’s a small fee and from there, its a short walk that takes you to the lake and springs.
How to get to Kidapawan City
From Davao City, it’s around 100KM distance and takes 2 hours plus to reach Kidapawan City.
From Gensan, it’s around 140KM and takes almost 3 hours to reach Kidapawan City.
Q&A: Lake Agco Kidapawan Hot Springs and Nature Escape
Q: Where is Lake Agco located?
A: Lake Agco is in Ilomavis, a barangay in Kidapawan City, North Cotabato, at the foot of Mt. Apo.
Q: What makes Lake Agco special?
A: It’s a volcanic crater lake surrounded by geothermal features like hot springs, steam vents, and boiling mud, making it a natural spa in the mountains.
Q: Is Lake Agco suitable for swimming?
A: Yes, but only in designated areas like hot spring pools. The lake itself is not ideal for swimming due to its geothermal activity and mud bottom.
Q: What can you do at Lake Agco?
A: You can soak in hot springs, enjoy nature views, interact with the Manobo locals, hike nearby trails, and even apply volcanic mud on your face, it’s believed to be good for the skin and can be washed off in a nearby pool.
Q: How do you get to Lake Agco from Kidapawan?
A: From Kidapawan proper, take a habal-habal (motorbike taxi) to Ilomavis. Travel time is about 30–45 minutes depending on road condition.
Q: Are there places to stay near Lake Agco?
A: Yes. There are basic lodging options like Agco Mahomanoy Mountain Resort and nearby cottages for overnight stays.
Q: Is Lake Agco safe for tourists?
A: Yes, but always stay in marked paths and pools. Some areas are geothermally active, so avoid walking close to steam vents or soft ground.
Q: When is the best time to visit Lake Agco?
A: The dry season from November to April is best. It gets chilly in the mornings, so bring warm clothing.
Is it safe?
Yes. Just wear sturdy shoes. The trails can be slippery after rain. The locals are friendly and helpful. It’s also best to visit during the dry season for clearer views and safer roads.
Lake Agco Kidapawan may not be that famous, but it feels like a secret you’re lucky to know. Once you’ve soaked in its warmth and walked its forest paths, you’ll want to return.
My great thanx to husband and wife Rams and Veron for making this happen. I first met Ms Veron when I visited Museyo Kutawato a few years ago. Also check the Kidapawan City Tourism Office for more information.
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