Lake Lanao

Ranao

Southeast Asia's second-largest freshwater lake, nestled in the highlands of Lanao and surrounded by Maranao culture and tradition. The serene mountain setting offers scenic views, cultural immersion opportunities, and access to local crafts and communities.

Things to do

• Boat Tour of Lake Lanao — Explore the lake's serene waters and scenic shorelines by traditional motorized boat, offering views of surrounding mountains and Maranao settlements.
• Visit Marawi City Floating Mosque — Tour the distinctive mosque situated on the lake's edge, an important religious and architectural landmark of the Maranao people.
• Explore Maranao Weaving Communities — Visit local villages like Tugaya or Bayabao to watch artisans create traditional handwoven textiles and purchase authentic malong fabrics.
• Trek Mount Makaturing — Hike the volcanic peak overlooking the lake for panoramic views and encounters with local flora unique to the Lanao highlands.
• Visit Dansalan Falls — Journey to this nearby cascade in the surrounding region for a refreshing waterfall experience amid lush vegetation.
• Attend Lake Lanao Festival — Time your visit for local celebrations featuring Maranao music, dance, and cultural performances honoring the lake and community.

Food to try

• Tinutuan — A savory rice porridge cooked with fish, ginger, and local herbs, commonly served for breakfast in lakeside communities.
• Linarang Alat — Smoked fish from the lake prepared with coconut milk and spices, a traditional Maranao preparation that showcases local catch.
• Palataw — Deep-fried sticky rice cake filled with brown sugar and sesame, a sweet snack sold by vendors around the lakeshore.
• Singgang Dilis — A soup made with dried anchovies from the lake, vegetables, and local spices, reflecting traditional Maranao comfort food.
• Biryani sa Lanao — Rice cooked with meat or fish, cardamom, and bay leaves reflecting the region's Islamic culinary heritage and available in local restaurants.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Islamic Customs — The Maranao people are predominantly Muslim, so dress modestly, avoid public displays of alcohol, and be respectful during prayer times, especially Friday midday.
• Learn Basic Maranao Greetings — Saying 'Salamat' (thank you) and 'Assalamu alaikum' (peace be upon you) shows respect and is warmly received by locals.
• Ask Permission Before Photography — Always ask community members, especially weavers and elders, before photographing them or their work, as this is a sign of courtesy in Maranao culture.
• Support Local Artisans Directly — Purchase crafts and textiles directly from weavers and makers rather than tourist shops to ensure fair compensation and authentic cultural exchange.

Nearby

• Marawi City — 4 km
• Iligan City (Northern Mindanao) — 27 km
• Initao Protected Landscape (Northern Mindanao) — 55 km
• Cagayan de Oro City (Northern Mindanao) — 66 km