Manacota Cave & Underground River

Manacota Cave & Underground River is a natural attraction in Luna, Apayao, a province in the Cordillera region of the Philippines. It is a cluster of jagged limestone boulders that form a cave with an underground river flowing through it.

Manacota Cave & Underground River is one of the jewels of Apayao, as it boasts a scenic path to the entrance, crystal clear water, and a beautiful cave. A 20-minute hike upstream and you’ll reach this place of wonder. This cave hides numerous chambers of crystalline and untouched stalactites and stalagmites.

Manacota Cave & Underground River is classified as a Class II cave by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), which means that it has hazardous conditions and sensitive values or high quality ecosystem. It is open to experienced cavers or guided educational tours/visits.

Manacota Cave & Underground River has a 12-meter deep pool of pure, refreshing, cool water perfect for swimming and diving. Stalactites and stalagmites are also abundant inside the cave. Rock formations of different forms will usually be highlighted by your guide.

Manacota Cave & Underground River is part of the Phil-LiDAR 1 project, which aims to produce high-resolution flood hazard maps using light detection and ranging (LiDAR) technology. The project conducted LiDAR surveys and flood mapping of the river in 2018 to assess its vulnerability to flooding and provide information for disaster risk reduction and management.