We arrived at Puning Hot Spring hidden in one corner of Mount Pinatubo’s lahar covered foothills. The complex structures blended effortlessly with the surroundings, as if it was etched from mountain face. The scenery reminded me of ruined cities in South America or of the Tibetan Shangri-la.

Our journey to this place involved an awesome 4×4 off road jeep ride through beautiful lahar landscapes and narrow river gorges that took us by surprise.

Puning Hot Spring

Before bathing in the therapeutic natural thermal baths, I wandered around maze-like trails.

View of Puning Hot Spring from the parking area

First time to see a hot spring waterfall. It was so inviting that I thought of bathing underneath.

Fortunately, I tested the temperature of the free flowing stream first with my foot. It was piping hot! Too hot for bathing, haha.

Ascending up the steps

The man-made structures at Puning Hot Spring was built around a natural waterfall

Landscaped terraces

View of the shady huts

Stairs leading to the top

Awesome view from the top

One of the hot spring pools at Puning Hot Springs

I spotted at least five of these small pools scattered around the property. Few other people were there during our visit to Puning Hot Spring, so we got these pools all to ourselves.

The water temperature was perfect!

Healing waters flowing through Puning Hot Spring came from groundwater geothermally heated by Pinatubo Volcano. High content of dissolved minerals in the hot spring provide therapeutic benefits for the body.

After a week of physically active travel during our Lakbay Norte road tour, we really appreciated the boost.

4×4 off road jeep ride to Puning Hot Springs

Navigating through a narrow river gorge

I posted my off road experience and more photos here.

Sand Spa and Mudpack

Next we tried the unique sand spa treatment of Puning.

The thick layer of fine volcanic ash sand was heated by a bed of charcoal embers. We laid still for 15 minutes while our bodies were totally covered in sand. The treatment is supposed to improve blood circulation.

SoloFlightEd, burying one of our travel mates. All the staff at the sand spa are native aetas, indigenous people living in the area.

Me getting ready for my vampiric slumber

Our spa treatment was finished off my a soothing mudpack. Excellent way to  tighten pores and cool down the body.

Open air banquet halls. 

The packaged tour at Puning costs P3,000 per person (minimum of two people) inclusive of local guide, 4×4 Rental, Puning Hot Spring Entrance, Sand Spa, Mudpack, Buffet Lunch & foot massage.

Puning Hot Spring Contact

• Landline: (+63 045) 499 0629
• Mobile: (+63)920 866 4246 & (+63)919 339 2795