What to do while in SanLo (San Lorenzo Ruiz, Camarines Norte)

Nestled in the heart of Camarines Norte, San Lorenzo Ruiz is an emerging eco-adventure destination that offers a blend of natural beauty and thrilling activities. This municipality, formerly known as Imelda, is transforming into a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Nature Trails and Waterfalls

San Lorenzo Ruiz is home to several captivating waterfalls. Nacali Falls, located in Barangay Maisog, stands approximately 60 feet high and is accessible via a 5–7 km hike through the Matacong Hanging Bridge. The journey offers scenic views of pineapple plantations and lush forests, culminating in a refreshing dip in the falls’ cold waters. 

In Barangay San Isidro, adventurers can explore Angelina Falls, Nabangko Falls, and Ibatan Falls. These natural wonders are ideal for trekking, camping, and swimming, providing a serene escape into nature.

Adventure Activities

For thrill-seekers, the Matacong Zipline offers an exhilarating ride across a 750-meter line, making it the longest zipline in the Bicol region. Riders are treated to panoramic views of coconut trees, mountains, and rivers below.

The Mampurog River presents opportunities for canyoning and river trekking. Its deep canyons and clear waters are perfect for rappelling and exploring the rugged terrain.

Eco-Resorts and Relaxation

Club Noah Eco-Resort in Barangay Mampurog offers a tranquil setting with open cabanas overlooking the Mampurog River. Visitors can enjoy swimming, picnicking, and camping in this eco-friendly environment.

Athena’s Nature Park and Resort in Dagotdotan provides cottages ranging from ₱500 to ₱600, allowing guests to relax amidst nature’s beauty.

Adelaida Farm and Mountain Resort in Matacong also has fan and air-conditioned cottages with prices between ₱1,000 to ₱2,500 and an entrance fee of ₱50/pax for daytime pass and ₱100 for nighttime pass.

Unique Natural Attractions

Botany enthusiasts can visit Mount Guinatungan during June and July to witness the blooming of the Rafflesia, the world’s largest flower. This rare sight offers a unique trekking experience for those interested in tropical flora.

Additionally, San Lorenzo Ruiz is renowned for its Queen Formosa pineapples. Visitors can explore pineapple plantations and even partake in pineapple picking, providing a sweet and memorable experience.

For a late afternoon relaxation, head up to the Resettlement Area in Matacong to get a breathtaking, 370-meter above sea-level view of the horizon where you get to see the patches of homes and commercial areas in Daet, extending to Talisay and the nearby islands such as Quinamanucan island (in Talisay) and Canimog island (in Mercedes).

Getting There

San Lorenzo Ruiz is approximately a 30-minute jeepney ride from Daet Central Terminal, Camambugan. Jeepney fare is ₱25/person one way and travelers can alight at Barangay Matacong, where many of the town’s attractions are accessible. 

With its combination of natural wonders and adventure activities, San Lorenzo Ruiz is a must-visit destination for those looking to explore the less-traveled paths of the Philippines.

For those who would rather drive, you could get find the barangay hall of Matacong, San Lorenzo Ruiz by clicking the listed coordinates below.

14°02’06″N 122°51’48″E (Click to open Google Maps)

Quick Reference

Below a simplified outline of activities you can do while in San Lorenzo Ruiz.

🏞️ Nature-Based Activities

1. Waterfall trekking – Nacali, Angelina, Nabangko, Ibatan Falls
2. Swimming in natural pools – at the base of waterfalls
3. Forest hiking – trails leading to waterfalls and viewpoints
4. Botanical exploration – Rafflesia flower viewing (Mt. Guinatungan)
5. Bird watching and wildlife spotting – in forested areas
6. Camping – designated sites near rivers and falls
7. Picnicking – Club Noah, riverside spots
8. Photography – landscape, wildlife, flora
9. Cave exploration – potential in mountainous zones (TBD with local guides)

⚡ Adventure Activities

10. Ziplining – Matacong Zipline (750m, longest in Bicol)
11. Canyoning / river trekking – Mampurog River
12. Rappelling – cliffs near riverbanks (guided)
13. Hanging bridge crossing – Matacong Hanging Bridge
14. Bamboo rafting or tubing – small-scale river fun (seasonal)

🏡 Eco- and Agro-Tourism Activities

15. Farm visits – Queen Formosa pineapple plantations
16. Fruit picking – pineapple, coconut (with permission)
17. Eco-lodging experience – Club Noah, Athena’s Nature Park
18. Local food tasting – community-hosted meals, pineapple products
19. Cultural immersion – interacting with barangay communities

🛶 Relaxation and Leisure

20. Riverside lounging – cottages at eco-parks
21. Nature meditation or yoga – quiet zones in forest parks
22. Nature sketching or journaling – artist-friendly environment
23. View of Pacific Ocean, Daet, Talisay and Mercedes from Resettlement area

✅ Estimated Total: 20–25 distinct activities

This estimate can expand depending on the season, local initiatives, and tourism development.

Sources and Citations

1. Nacali Falls
   https://cometocamnorteblog.wordpress.com/2016/09/15/nacali-falls/
2. Angelina Falls, Nabangko Falls, Ibatan Falls, Mount Guinatungan, Athena’s Nature Park
   https://www.scribd.com/document/546808583/San-Lorenzo-Ruiz-CLUP-VolONE
3. Matacong Zipline
   https://outoftownblog.com/emerging-off-the-beaten-paths-of-camarines-norte/
4. Mampurog River, General adventure tourism
   https://old.camsnorte.com/index.php/municipalities-menu/72-san-lorenzo-ruiz
5. Club Noah Eco-Resort and Travel Directions
   https://www.nagacitydeck.com/2018/10/ncdtravels-4-things-to-do-in-san.html
6. Queen Formosa Pineapple Farms, Athena’s Nature Park Pricing
   https://www.scribd.com/document/546808660/Final-Flup