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Burnham Lake is open again: What visitors should know before going

Published

1 hour ago

September 8, 2026

Abi Sarabia M.

Abi Sarabia M., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
September 08, 2026

Photo courtesy: Baguio City Guide

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — One of Baguio City’s most familiar attractions is welcoming boat riders again.

Burnham Lake officially reopened on September 1, bringing back its popular boating activity after nearly a year of rehabilitation. The reopening coincided with Baguio City’s 117th Charter Day.

The lake had been closed since October 2025 to allow rehabilitation works aimed at improving its water quality, ecological condition and facilities. Improvements include upgraded docking and boating areas, new lakeside amenities, structural works, landscaping and seating around the lake.

For visitors planning a trip, here are the key things to know.

Boat rides are back. Visitors may once again rent boats and paddle around Burnham Lake. The Baguio City government has ordered concessionaires to maintain the existing rate of P250 for a 30-minute boat ride, regardless of boat size. Any fare increase would still require City Council approval.

Not every old boat can immediately return. The city has required operators to upgrade their boats and meet new standards before they are allowed to carry passengers. As of September 2, only two of nine boat operators had complied with the upgrading requirement, according to the City Environment and Parks Management Office.

The rehabilitation also introduced improved docking platforms and other facilities intended to make the boating area safer and more convenient for visitors.

While Burnham Lake is open, improvements within the wider Burnham Park are not yet finished.

The lake rehabilitation is part of a broader redevelopment plan for the park. The next phase is expected to include work on areas such as the Children’s Playground and Rose Garden, meaning visitors may still encounter ongoing improvements in parts of the park.

For generations, Burnham Lake has been one of the defining stops on a Baguio trip, whether for a boat ride, a walk around the lake or simply a break in the middle of the city.

After months behind construction barriers, the boats are back on the water and one of Baguio’s classic experiences is once again open to locals and tourists.