General Santos Sightseeing - Philippines
General Santos is widely recognized as a first class, highly advanced city, among the finest in Mindanao and the Philippines. However, aside from being conducive to business ventures, the city is also recognized for being a major tourist hotspot.
The Kalaja Karst Area
Of the myriad tourist spots in General Santos City, the one that should always be a priority would have to be the Kalaja Karst area.
About 9 miles (15 km.) off the northeast of Barangay Conel, the Kalaja Karst is a sprawling natural reserve that features something for every nature lover and camper. One of the most well visited is the Kalaja Cave. Together with a tour guide, you will find the experience going underground has few comparisons. The highlight is a body of water about 3 meters (10 ft) deep and more than 20
meters (60 ft) wide.
There are also plenty of gorgeous waterfalls, and also lots of space for campers. For those who are more interested in climbing or hiking, the rugged environment also provides a variety of options.
Lake Sebu
There is a reason why the T’boli tribe in General Santos settled in the spot where they have, and it is due to Lake Sebu itself.
Looking over the lake one will be impressed by its clearness and purity, but also the overall serenity of the area, with the pool of water seeming to hold everything together. If you get the feeling that there is something mystical about it, you are not alone, for the local tribes in General Santos have always held the belief that it is miraculous, a body of water that never goes dry, and a source of nourishment provided by the Creator.
Lake Maughan
There are five large rivers in T’boli, and the source of all is Lake Maughan.
The lake and the surrounding land has been declared a sanctuary and a natural preserve. The vast area (50,000 hectares) is home to some of the most exotic plants and animals in the Philippines. Some of them in fact, can only be seen in South Cotabato and General Santos.
The Kalsangi Golf Course
Adjacent to Mount Matutum lies the Kalsangi Golf Course, a place where lovers of the game can gather and play.
The Kalsangi Golf Course is not just for game lovers; it is also the site for DOLE Philippines. There are also other amenities, including a restaurant and a swimming pool. Furthermore, it is also the place where you can begin to explore Mount Matutum.
The T’boli Settlement
Long before the arrival of the Spaniards, the area comprising General Santos City and South Cotabato had already been settled in by various tribes. Now, by going to the west side of Lake Sebu, one can glimpse of its glorious past through the T’boli tribe.
The T’boli tribe is one of several indigenous tribes in the area the others include the Manobo Blit and the famous Tasadays). There you can see these natives, clad in their colorful attires and performing their daily activities. Among these are weaving and crafting complex and stunning beads, baskets, and other local craft. Some of the men can also be seen making various ornaments.
Mount Matutum
Rising over 7,600 ft (2,000 meters), Mount Matutum is one of the highest mountains in all of Mindanao.
The mountain is much sought after by climbers, as the reward for ascending to the top is a spectacular view of the skies and a vast mountain range. Its complex landscape will present a challenge to anyone.
Nopol Hills
If you enjoy hiking, Nopol Hills in General Santos is the best place to go to. Only half an hour away from Kalaja Karsts, it is a great way to start or end your day.
As one of the most expansive and highest grounds in the city, Nopol Hills gives you a good look at Sarangani Bay, and also some of the other towns and municipalities in the vicinity. For several people, the most enjoyable thing that can be done is to just watch the sun go down.
