Maitum

Maitum is a coastal municipality in Sarangani Province, famous for the Maitum Anthropomorphic Jars -- secondary burial jars from the Metal Age (c. 5 BC-225 AD) discovered in the Ayub Cave, now designated a National Cultural Treasure. The town also offers white-sand beaches and access to Lake Holon (also known as Lake Maughan), a pristine crater lake.

By Plane

Fly to General Santos (GES IATA), 1.5 hr west by bus or van.

By Train

No passenger rail.

By Car / Road

Jeepneys and buses from General Santos heading west along the Sarangani coast.

Tricycles and habal-habal for local transport.

• Maitum Anthropomorphic Jars -- Displayed at the municipal museum and the National Museum in Manila.

• Lake Holon (Lake Maughan) -- Crater lake in a dormant volcano; pristine turquoise water surrounded by cloud forest.

• White-sand beaches -- Several quiet beaches along the Sarangani coast.

• Trek to Lake Holon -- Guided 2-day/1-night trek through the forest; permits required.

• Swim and camp at Lake Holon -- Basic accommodation on the lake shore.

• Snorkelling along the coast.

• Seafood grills along the beach -- Fresh catch of the day.

• Buko juice from coastal vendors.

• Budget: Maitum Beach cottages -- from P500. Lake Holon camp -- from P300.
• Mid-range: Lake Holon Eco-Lodge -- from P800.

• Maitum Public Market -- Local produce and handicrafts.

• General Santos -- 1.5 hr east; tuna capital.
• Lake Sebu -- 1 hr north-west; highland lakes.
• Glan / Gumasa Beach -- 1 hr south; white-sand beach.