Casili Spring: Enchanting Blue Lagoon in Balamban
The first time I ever laid my eyes on Hinatuan’s Enchanted River, I got awestruck by its crystal-clear turquoise water. It used to be one of the hidden treasures of Surigao in Mindanao but it has now become one of the most touristy attractions I’ve ever been to. Nevertheless, river’s unusual colors and unexplored depths has remained mysterious throughout the century. Well, you don’t have to travel far to experience the enchanting beauty of Hinatuan Enchanted River because Cebu has one.
If you don’t mind traveling a bit outside the city, Balamban’s charming highland is an adventure-seeker’s dream. Just an hour drive from Metro Cebu, you’ll find a range of instagrammable summits, floral attractions, heritage sites and thrilling activities. But hidden in the jungle of Balamban is a natural pool that seems to pop up out from the ground just to show-off its gorgeously clear, blue water out to the surface. It’s called CASILI SPRING!
Casili Spring is a deep spring river that boasts a sapphire-hue freshwater like a mini blue lagoon surrounded by sprawling lush vegetation. It is named after a large freshwater eel, locally known as “Kasili” that thrives in rivers and springs.
Braved only by those who want real adventure, the enchanted Casili Spring is a majestic sight to behold. Even by just staring at it, you will still be caught under a magic spell that entices you take a dip or dive in its deep blueish water.
Residents and visitors from neighboring towns mostly flock to Casili Spring during weekends where families and friends go for a swim and have a good time. Kids love to dive in the area where the water’s shade ranges from aquamarine to turquoise to dark blue (its depth determined by tints of blue). No wonder Casili Spring is also described by the locals as “a blue lagoon with unfathomable depth”.
There is no entrance fee as of writing but there are little developments in the area including stalls, picnic tables and chairs. The stalls here offer a wide array of drinks, chips and delicious food like pork and chicken bbq, tempura and caramelized banana on sticks. You can bring your own food and have a picnic by the spring but make sure you clean as you go.
Please note, however, that there are no lifeguards around so swim at your own risk. Make sure you stay only at the shallow parts of the spring to avoid untoward incidents. Likewise, be careful in climbing up towards the diving spot as the path is steep and slippery.
I can’t help but associate Casili Spring with Hinatuan Enchanted River for is its mesmerizing azure waters and mysterious beauty. But I know for a fact that Casili Spring has its own tourism value, a natural wonder unlike any other.
READ ALSO: 25 International and PH wonders found in Cebu
Casili Underwater Cave System
Below Casili Spring’s basin lies a unique underwater cave system. Meaning, the cold spring that people visually see and experience is just an underwater river outlet of the cave. Several articles online suggests that the CUCS was first explored by Filipino Cave Divers in 2011 and found out after series of exploration that the underwater cave’s deepest point is about 40 meters (or 130 feet) deep.
A gaping arctic chasm, Casili Spring commands reverence and at the same time invites those who are daring enough to explore its complicated network of underwater fissures.
Responsible Tourism
To date, there is no ordinance yet declaring CUCS as a protected area. But as a responsible tourist, one must respect the environment by not throwing garbage anywhere or causing unnecessary damage around the area’s ecosystem. I encourage everyone visiting Casili Spring to take good care of the spot as this is not ours to destroy, this came from nature that needs to be protected. You know the drill!
Part II (Lucob Cave and Falls)
My weekend adventure buddies often recall that the captivating sight, yet otherworldly, left them speechless, even breathless. But our adventure didn’t end there. We left Casili Spring after lunch and traced the river leading to another mysterious twin attractions – to be published soon!
How To Get to Casili Spring
Public Transport: From Ayala Van Terminal, ride a van bound for Balamban via scenic transcentral highway, Php 120.00/person. Alight at Jolibee Balamban branch, head to the public market by walking around the corner wherein you’ll see a busy street (center of the town’s commerce). You may buy your lunch (try the original Balamban liempo) before taking a pedicab going to barangay Arpili (Php 13.00). Tell the cab driver to drop you off at Benjsacz Gas Station near USJR Balamban. From the main highway, Casili Cold Spring is just a 15-minute walk thru a partly concrete but mostly unpaved road. Don’t hesitate to inquire direction from the locals.
Private Transport: Go on a road trip to one of Cebu’s hidden gems along a highway with a countryside vibe. For convenience and accessibility, just follow the route mentioned above (Transcentral Highway –> Balamban Proper –> USJR, Arpili). You may bring your own vehicle up to the entrance of Casili Spring. Wide parking spaces and attendants are available in the area.
