Crawl into The Depths of the Salay Cave of Alegria

Anticipated for its stunning limestone formations and its untouched spelunking attraction, this location in Barangay Valencia, Alegria, is poised to become a key player in the town’s ongoing ecotourism revival. Those seeking nature in its most authentic state will find an immersive experience awaiting them. As future visitors discover its hidden gems, this gem will likely remain an off-the-beaten-path destination, offering unparalleled adventures for nature lovers.

What Is It Known For

Visitors will soon squeeze through the cave’s famously tiny entrance, leading them into an extensive limestone chamber filled with stunning speleothems that resemble marble chandeliers.

Anticipation builds as explorers prepare to uncover the wonders within, reassured by the formal identification from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) that ensures safety for all who venture inside.

Alegria’s efforts to expand its tourism industry beyond organic farming and canyoneering include the Salay Cave. It’s a secret gem that spelunkers and nature lovers are gradually discovering. 

What To Expect

A 30-minute stroll through bamboo forests, cornfields, and a massive balete tree awaits you after a habal-habal ride (motorcycle taxi). Headlamps are necessary because the cave is completely dark inside. Flashlights on cell phones are insufficient. 

Delicate stalactites and stalagmites may be seen in the cave. To protect their growth, it is not recommended to touch them. There are no official facilities, such as bathrooms, designated paths, or an admission booth. It’s a genuine sensation of being in nature. The cave is unlabeled and well hidden. It is strongly recommended to hire a guide.

How To Get There?

Exact Location: Alegria, Cebu 

• By Commute: Start at Cebu South Bus Terminal. Ride a Ceres Liner bus bound for Bato via Barili. Tell the conductor to drop you off at Sangi Junction in Alegria. From Sangi Junction, hire a habal-habal (motorcycle taxi) to take you to the village near Salay Cave. From the village, it’s a 30-minute hike through bamboo groves, cornfields, and a giant balete tree. The trail is relatively easy but can feel eerie due to the dense jungle and insect sounds

• By Car: Drive south from Cebu City via the Barili route. Follow signs to Alegria town proper, then head toward Sangi Junction. From there, continue to the village trailhead (ask locals for directions or hire a guide). Parking may be limited near the trail, so plan accordingly.