Jump to: About the Lotus Farm | How to Get There | What to Expect | Suggested Itinerary | Visitor Budget | Where to Stay | Travel Tips
About the Lotus Farm
The **Lotus Farm** (aka Lotus Garden) in **Lake Sebu** is a breathtaking spot where thousands of pink lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) bloom on the lake’s calm waters at dawn. Paddling a traditional T’boli **owong** canoe while wearing authentic T’boli attire connects you to both nature and Indigenous culture.
How to Get There
- ✈️ **Via GenSan:** Fly to General Santos, take a van to Koronadal, then another to Lake Sebu (3–4 hours)
- 🚗 **From Davao/Cotabato:** Bus or van via Surallah/Koronadal—all routes arrive before 6 PM
- 🛶 At Lake Sebu terminal, hire habal or tricycle to the boat launch area
What to Expect
- 🌸 **Best blooms at sunrise**—lotuses open from ~5:30–9 AM, petals close by 11 AM
- 🏞️ Ride in an **owong** (dugout canoe) made of lawaan wood
- 👘 Optional **T’boli costume** rental (~₱200) adds cultural depth
- 📸 Ideal for peaceful early‑morning photos, Instagram, and quiet reflection
Suggested Morning Itinerary
- 4:30 AM – Depart your resort
- 5:00 AM – Arrive at launch, don T’boli attire
- 5:30 AM – Paddle through the lotus garden at sunrise
- 7:00 AM – Return to resort for breakfast
- 8:00 AM – Continue to T’boli Museum or Seven Falls zipline
Visitor Budget
- Boat (solo): ₱300; ₱200 if shared
- T’boli costume rental: ₱200
- Habal-habal (round-trip): ₱150–₱200
- Total: ₱650–₱700 per person
Where to Stay
- 🏡 **SLT Homestay** – authentic, ₱350 bed with breakfast
- 🏨 Punta Isla Lake Resort – lakeside with breakfast
🏨 View Lake Sebu hotels via Agoda
Travel Tips
- ⏰ Start early—flowers bloom fully until 9 AM
- 📷 Bring dry bags and water-resistant gear
- 👘 Rent costume the night before to save time
- 💵 No ATMs near lake—bring enough cash or GCash
- 🤫 Respect local customs—ask before photographing
Final Thoughts
The **Lotus Farm in Lake Sebu** offers a rare blend of serene natural beauty and living cultural heritage. Almost mystical at dawn, it’s a must‑experience for photographers, nature lovers, and cultural travelers. As someone who has visited all 82 provinces in the Philippines, I’ve created a complete guide to help you explore each one. Check out my Philippines 82 Provinces Travel Guide here.
