If you're new to spelunking, I strongly encourage you to check out Hoyop Hoyopan Cave. It's beginner-friendly, making it the perfect spot for your first experience, and trust me, you'll enjoy this...
My daughters and sister had an amazing time on their first spelunking adventure here, and I was thrilled to join them in exploring this fantastic location in Brgy. Cotmon, Camalig, Albay. Hoyop Hoyopan Cave truly stands out.
The fresh, cool air circulating throughout the cave and the impressive round dance floor at its center set Hoyop Hoyopan apart from other caves. Its vast structure and rich history make it a must-visit destination.
Located just fifteen kilometers from Legazpi City, Albay, Hoyop Hoyopan Cave has a fascinating past. Artifacts, bead works, human bones, and pottery dating back to 700-800 BC have been discovered here, with some of these remarkable finds now residing in the National Museum in Manila.
The name "Hoyop Hoyopan" derives from the way the wind flows through its openings; "Hoyop" is a Bicolano term meaning the blowing of wind.
This cave is steeped in history, having served Filipinos through different eras. During World War II, it functioned as a guerrilla camp, a refuge, a hospital, and even an orphanage. Additionally, it became a gathering place for party-goers looking to escape the curfews imposed during Martial Law in 1970's.
Today, Hoyop Hoyopan Cave is a protected area and a prominent tourist attraction. Visitors can expect a captivating twenty to forty five-minute tour inside the cave. Given its spacious halls, high ceilings, and excellent ventilation, it's easy to see why it was once used as a camp and hospital-it can accommodate many people comfortably.
I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to the three families dedicated to managing and maintaining this captivating cave. A special mention goes to our insightful and entertaining tour guide, Kuya Gabriel, affectionately known as "Balong." His blend of humor and knowledge transformed our journey into a truly memorable and welcoming experience-one of the highlights of my time in Albay.