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Your Complete Travel Guide to Benguet's Hidden Geothermal Wonder
Nestled in the pine-covered mountains of Barangay Daclan, Bokod, Benguet, Badekbek Sulfur Spring is one of the province's most unique natural attractions. Unlike the typical hot springs found across the Philippines, Badekbek features naturally steaming sulfur vents, bubbling mud pools, geothermal activity, and warm sulfur-rich water surrounded by beautiful pine forests.
If you're looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination near Baguio or planning a side trip before or after visiting Mt. Pulag, Badekbek Sulfur Spring deserves a spot on your itinerary.
Where is Badekbek Sulfur Spring?
Badekbek Sulfur Spring is located in Barangay Daclan, Municipality of Bokod, Benguet, approximately 2 kilometers from the Bokod–Kabayan Road (Andres Cosalan Road).
The attraction is about:
- 50 km from Baguio City
- 2 to 3 hours travel depending on traffic and road conditions.
How to Get There
From Baguio City (Private Vehicle)
The easiest way is by private car or motorcycle.
Route:
Baguio City
→ Marcos Highway
→ Ambuklao Road
→
Bokod
→ Daclan
→ Badekbek Sulfur Spring
Simply follow navigation apps toward Badekbek Sulfur Spring. The road is mostly paved, although the final approach includes a short detour from the national road.
Travel time:
Approximately 2–2.5 hours
By Public Transportation
From Baguio City's Dangwa Terminal, ride a jeepney or bus bound for Bokod or Kabayan.
Tell the driver you're getting off at Daclan Junction or the road leading to Badekbek Sulfur Spring.
From the junction:
- Hire a tricycle if available, or
- Walk approximately 2 kilometers to the attraction.
Public transportation schedules may be limited, especially in the afternoon, so plan your return trip ahead of time.
Google Maps Location
The spring is listed on Google Maps and Waze as Badekbek Sulfur Spring.
Location:
GRC7+MJ8, Bokod, Benguet
Entrance Fee
Recent visitor reports indicate the following environmental fees:
- Adults – ₱75
- Students – ₱50
Fees may change without prior notice, so it's best to bring extra cash.
What Makes Badekbek Special?
Unlike ordinary hot springs, Badekbek is known for its active geothermal landscape.
Here you'll find:
- Steaming sulfur vents
- Bubbling mud pools
- Boiling geothermal craters
- Sulfur mineral deposits
- Warm sulfur pools for foot dipping
- Pine forest scenery
- Bamboo walkways and viewing areas
The smell of sulfur (similar to rotten eggs) is completely natural and comes from gases released underground.
What Does "Badekbek" Mean?
The name Badekbek comes from the Ibaloi language.
It refers to bubbling water, describing the continuous bubbling caused by geothermal activity beneath the ground.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time is:
- Early morning (8:00–10:00 AM)
- During the dry season (November to May)
Morning visits usually offer cooler weather and more dramatic steam rising from the sulfur pools.
Things to Bring
✔ Comfortable walking shoes
✔ Drinking water
✔ Camera or drone (where permitted)
✔ Jacket
✔ Cash
✔ Face mask (optional if you're sensitive to sulfur odor)
Safety Reminders
Although the site is fenced and maintained, visitors should:
- Stay on designated pathways.
- Do not cross safety barriers.
- Never touch or step into boiling mud pools.
- Supervise children at all times.
- Follow instructions from local tourism personnel.
The boiling geothermal vents can be extremely hot.
Nearby Attractions
If you're already visiting Bokod, you can also explore:
- Ambuklao Dam
- Jang-Jang Bridge
- Mt. Pulag
- Bila Mountain Saddle
- Palansa Panoramic View
- Bobbok Second Growth Pine Forest
Many travelers combine these destinations into a full-day road trip.
Travel Tips
- Fuel up before leaving Baguio.
- Mobile signal may be weak in some areas.
- Visit on weekdays if you prefer fewer crowds.
- Wear proper footwear, especially during the rainy season.
- Respect the environment by taking your trash with you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is swimming allowed?
No. The main attraction is the geothermal landscape with boiling mud pools. Some warm areas are suitable only for foot dipping, when permitted.
Is it family-friendly?
Yes, but children should be closely supervised because of the hot geothermal vents.
Is the road accessible?
Yes. Most of the road is paved and accessible to motorcycles, cars, and SUVs.
How long should I stay?
Most visitors spend 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on whether they're taking photos or simply enjoying the scenery.
Badekbek Sulfur Spring is one of Benguet's most fascinating natural attractions. Its steaming earth, bubbling mud pools, sulfur-rich waters, and peaceful pine forest setting make it a memorable stop for nature lovers, photographers, and road trip enthusiasts. Whether you're heading to Mt. Pulag or exploring Bokod, this hidden geothermal wonder offers a unique glimpse into the natural forces shaping the Cordillera mountains.
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