Old Enchanted Balete Tree: Siquijor's Mystical Icon

If there’s one image that captures Siquijor’s mystical reputation, it’s the Old Enchanted Balete Tree. This 400-year-old giant, with its massive trunk and ethereal hanging vines, has become the island’s most iconic landmark—a living symbol of the folklore, mystery, and magic that make Siquijor unlike anywhere else in the Philippines.

The Tree That Launched a Thousand Stories

The century-old Balete Tree isn’t just any old tree. In Filipino folklore, balete trees are believed to be homes for supernatural beings—kapre (tall, dark tree-dwelling giants), engkanto (nature spirits), and other mystical creatures. This particular tree, with its gargantuan size and bizarre, otherworldly appearance, has accumulated centuries of stories and beliefs.

Long vines hang like hair from its outstretched branches. The thick canopy creates an almost cave-like atmosphere underneath. And at its base, a natural spring bubbles up from an unknown source—adding to the mystery.

What Makes It Special

The Tree Itself

Standing before the Old Enchanted Balete Tree is genuinely impressive. This isn’t just any tree—it’s a massive, ancient presence that dominates its surroundings. The tangled roots, the hanging vines, and the twisted branches create a scene that feels pulled from a fantasy novel.

The Mysterious Spring

At the base of the tree is a freshwater pond whose origin remains unknown, according to locals. The water simply appears, flowing from somewhere beneath the roots. Some locals claim to have seen serpents emerging from inside the hole, adding to the mystique.

The Fish Spa

Small fish fill the spring, and visitors can dip their feet in for a natural fish spa experience. The fish nibble on dead skin from your soles—ticklish at first, but you get used to it. It’s free with your entrance fee and genuinely fun.

The Souvenirs

A souvenir shop near the tree sells:

• Love potions (the “mild” variety)
• Amulets and charms
• T-shirts and caps
• Traditional healing items
• Other mystical accessories

The Honest Truth

We’ll be straight with you: opinions on the Old Enchanted Balete Tree are mixed.

The Pros:

• Genuinely impressive ancient tree
• Fun fish spa experience
• Quick, easy stop on any Lazi itinerary
• Great photo opportunity
• Interesting souvenir shopping

The Cons:

• Can feel a bit touristy
• The whole experience takes only about 15-30 minutes
• Some visitors find it underwhelming after the buildup

One traveler put it perfectly: “I know this spot shows up on pretty much every Siquijor itinerary, but personally, I wouldn’t go out of my way for it. Cool if you’ve never done a fish spa before, but the whole thing took about five minutes, and I left thinking, ‘that’s it?’”

That said, if you’re passing by anyway (and you will, since it’s on the main road), it’s absolutely worth a quick stop. Just don’t build it up as the highlight of your trip.

Getting There

The Old Enchanted Balete Tree is located along the highway in Lazi, on the south coast of Siquijor. It’s impossible to miss—there are signs, and you’ll see the parking area and stalls from the road.

Travel Times:

• From San Juan: approximately 20 minutes
• From Cambugahay Falls: 5-10 minutes
• From Lazi Church: 5 minutes
• From Larena Port: 35 minutes

What to Expect

Arrival

You’ll park near the entrance area where you pay the PHP 10 fee. From there, it’s a short walk to the tree.

At the Tree

The tree is shrouded by lush roadside greenery. You can walk around it, take photos from various angles, and appreciate its size and character.

The Fish Spa

Concrete platforms have been built around the spring, making it easy to sit and dip your feet in. The water is cool and refreshing, and the fish get to work immediately. It’s ticklish for the first minute, then strangely relaxing.

The Shops

After the tree, browse the souvenir stalls. This is where you’ll find the famous love potions, among other interesting items. Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s worth looking at what’s on offer.

The Restaurant

Next to the tree is a two-story restaurant where you can grab a meal or cold drinks. It’s a convenient spot for a quick break before continuing your journey.

Tips for Your Visit

1. Come with low expectations — Enjoy it for what it is: a quick, quirky stop
2. Do the fish spa — It’s included and genuinely fun
3. Bring a towel — For drying your feet after the fish spa
4. Browse the souvenirs — Even if just for entertainment
5. Combine with Cambugahay — They’re very close together
6. Grab a coconut — Fresh buko (coconut) is often available nearby

The Folklore

For those interested in the mystical side, here’s what locals believe:

Kapre

Balete trees are traditionally said to house kapre—tall, dark, hairy giants who smoke enormous cigars. They’re not necessarily evil, but they can play tricks on travelers.

Engkanto

Nature spirits (engkanto) are also believed to live in balete trees. Some locals leave offerings to appease these spirits.

Healing Powers

The spring water is believed by some to have healing properties, adding to the tree’s significance in a place known for traditional healing practices.

Warnings

Some older Filipinos believe you shouldn’t disrespect balete trees or their inhabitants. Whether or not you believe, respecting local customs and beliefs is always appropriate.

The Bigger Picture

What makes the Old Enchanted Balete Tree interesting isn’t really the tree itself—it’s what the tree represents. This is a place where Siquijor’s mystical reputation becomes tangible. You’re standing at a spot that has accumulated 400 years of folklore, belief, and mystery.

The love potions, the healing waters, the supernatural associations—these things might seem like tourist kitsch, but they connect to real traditions that still exist on the island. Just kilometers away, actual healers practice their craft. The potions sold here might be “mild,” but they’re made by people who genuinely believe in their power.

Whether you’re a believer or a skeptic, the tree offers a glimpse into a worldview that’s quite different from mainstream modernity—and that’s worth experiencing.

Combining with Other Attractions

The Balete Tree is conveniently located between Cambugahay Falls and Lazi Church:

Suggested Lazi Itinerary:

1. 8:00 AM — Cambugahay Falls (before crowds)
2. 10:30 AM — Old Enchanted Balete Tree (quick stop)
3. 11:00 AM — Lazi Church and Convent
4. 12:00 PM — Lunch in Lazi town
5. 2:00 PM — Lagaan Falls or Locong Falls
6. 4:00 PM — Return to San Juan for sunset

Final Thoughts

Should you visit the Old Enchanted Balete Tree? Yes—if you’re in the area anyway, which you almost certainly will be. It’s a quick, interesting stop that takes minimal time and offers a fun fish spa, photo ops, and a taste of Siquijor’s mystical culture.

Should you build your entire trip around it? Probably not. Set your expectations for a 15-30 minute stop, enjoy it for the quirky roadside attraction it is, and save your awe for Cambugahay Falls down the road.

And hey, if you leave with a mild love potion in your bag… no judgment here.