Mambukal mountain resort
Mambukal is where Bacolod goes to cool off: a mountain resort in the hills of Murcia, about 30 km east of the city at the foot of Mount Kanlaon, wrapped in forest and drifting wisps of sulphur steam.
It is Negros Occidental’s favourite fresh-air escape - natural hot sulphur springs, a boating lagoon, a canopy walk, and above all the trail of seven waterfalls that climbs through the forest behind the resort.
The drive up from Bacolod takes 45 minutes to an hour, and from Bacolod-Silay airport a little over an hour.
With no single direct public route, a private car makes the half day easy: soak in the springs, walk as many of the falls as you like, and be back in the city for dinner.
How to get to Mambukal
- Private transfer (what we arrange)~45 min-1 hr
A private car door-to-door from Bacolod or the airport, with your driver waiting while you walk the falls and soak in the springs. Request a quote for the fixed half-day fare.
- Jeepney via Murcia (public)~1.5 hrs+
By public transport you would take a jeepney towards Murcia, then a habal-habal up to the resort gate. Cheapest, but slower and less direct.
What to expect
Seven waterfalls trail
A forest trail that climbs past a chain of waterfalls; walk the first few or push on to the higher ones.
Hot sulphur springs
Natural warm dipping pools set among the trees, the classic reason to visit.
Cool mountain air
Higher and cooler than the city, a refreshing change from the coastal heat.
Family friendly
Boating lagoon, gardens and a canopy walk make it an easy day out for all ages.
Best time to visit
Dry season (roughly February to May) for the firmest trails and clearest falls; weekdays are quietest. Bring a light layer, it is cooler up in the hills.
Mambukal: frequently asked questions
How far is Mambukal from Bacolod?
Mambukal Resort is about 30 km east of Bacolod in Murcia, a 45 minute to one hour drive, or a little over an hour from Bacolod-Silay airport. A private car with a waiting driver is the simplest way to enjoy the springs and the seven-waterfalls trail without watching a bus schedule. A resort entry fee is paid at the gate.
How many of the seven waterfalls can I see?
You can walk to the first few falls on an easy trail, or continue to the higher ones on a longer, steeper hike with a local guide. Choose how far you go on the day; your driver waits at the resort.
Can I combine Mambukal with Bacolod city sights?
Yes, Mambukal is an easy half day, so many visitors pair it with The Ruins, Silay heritage or a Bacolod food trail. Tell us your plan and we will quote a private car with the waiting time included.