Quick FactsOverview
About Mapaso Hot Spring
Mapaso Hot Spring, Philippines is a natural geothermal spring in Barangay Rizal II, Oquendo District, Calbayog City, Samar, known for its warm mineral-rich waters and a unique ecosystem of small freshwater crustaceans called pokot that thrive in the heated pools. These crustaceans develop a pinkish colour from the warm temperatures, resembling scalded shrimp. The name Mapaso comes from the Waray dialect and translates as hot. The spring is managed by the local government unit of Calbayog City. Open daily 7 am to 5 pm. A minimal entry fee applies.
The pools sit in a forested mountainside setting with a river running through the area. Facilities include a barbecue area, toilets, and a small shop selling cold drinks. The site was significantly damaged by Typhoon Yolanda and again by a 2017 earthquake and storm, and has undergone partial rebuilding. Conditions may vary from older accounts.
Mapaso Hot Spring is one of the less commercialised thermal destinations in the Philippines. Among the hot springs near Calbayog, it is the most distinctive for its crustacean ecosystem and river valley setting.
Location & Access
Getting to Mapaso Hot Spring
Mapaso Hot Spring requires a combination of road and river travel from Calbayog City. From the city centre, take a tricycle or private vehicle north along the National Highway to Oquendo District, approximately 30 minutes and 5 km from Calbayog. From Oquendo, a boat ride up the Hibatang River reaches Barangay Longsob, the access point for the spring. The river crossing takes approximately 15 to 30 minutes. From the river landing, a short walk of approximately 15 minutes leads to Barangay Rizal II and the spring pools. Total travel time from central Calbayog is typically 1 to 1.5 hours.
Calbayog City is accessible by air from Manila via Calbayog Airport (CYP), served by domestic carriers including Cebu Pacific, with a flight time of approximately 1.5 hours. Alternatively, Calbayog is reachable by bus from Tacloban City in approximately 3 hours along the Pan-Philippine Highway.
Visitors should be aware that road conditions on the approach to Oquendo can be affected by weather, and the river boat crossing may not be available after heavy rain. The site is best approached with a local guide or by asking tricycle drivers in Calbayog for current access conditions. For visitors seeking hot springs near Calbayog, the remote river access is part of the character of the site, giving it a more adventurous feel than a standard road-accessible thermal complex.
Suitability & Accessibility
Who Should Visit Mapaso Hot Spring
Mapaso Hot Spring suits independent travellers and nature enthusiasts already in Calbayog City who are looking for a local, off-the-beaten-path thermal experience. The warm natural pools, river setting, and pokot crustacean ecosystem make it genuinely distinctive for those willing to navigate the boat access. The low entry cost and informal atmosphere reflect a local recreational site rather than a tourist resort.
Families are welcome and the site has historically attracted local families for day outings. Children who are comfortable with boat travel and outdoor settings will find the site engaging. The pokot crustaceans are a particular point of interest for younger visitors. However, the site is not suitable for visitors with limited mobility due to the boat crossing and the walk from the river landing to the pools.
Wheelchair accessibility is not documented. The multi-stage access via boat and hike makes this site unsuitable for visitors with mobility impairments. The site has experienced significant storm and earthquake damage in recent years; conditions may differ from pre-2013 accounts. Visitors are advised to check current access conditions in Calbayog before travelling. The dry season from November to May is the most reliable time to visit. Families seeking hot springs near Calbayog who are comfortable with adventure-style access will find Mapaso the most distinctive option in the region.
Safety & Etiquette
Mapaso Hot Spring Safety Tips
Mapaso Hot Spring is generally safe for most healthy visitors who are comfortable with semi-remote natural settings. The water is warm rather than scalding at the accessible pool areas. Test the water before entering as temperatures may vary between pools and can be higher near the spring source. The pokot crustaceans in the pools are harmless small freshwater shrimp that do not bite or sting.
The boat crossing on the Hibatang River adds a safety consideration that does not apply to road-accessible hot springs. Only use the river crossing in a properly equipped boat with an experienced local operator. Do not attempt the crossing alone or in adverse weather or after heavy rain when water levels rise and currents strengthen. The walk from the river landing to the spring involves uneven trail terrain; wear closed-toe footwear or water shoes with grip for the combined boat and trail access. Children should be supervised throughout the river crossing and the trail section.
The site has suffered structural damage from Typhoon Yolanda and the 2017 earthquake and storm. Pool and facility conditions may be partially rebuilt but not fully restored. If the water appears discoloured or has an unusual taste, exit the pool. Bring your own drinking water as the site is remote and the small shop may have limited supplies. Cash is required for entry and on-site purchases. The site is managed by the local government unit; check with local authorities or tourist offices in Calbayog for current operating status before making the trip.
