The waterfalls in Cebu are some of the most picturesque attractions on the island.
Did you know that the waterfalls in Cebu are frequently visited tourist spots?
Adventurous travelers have lauded the natural beauty of these magnificent attractions, with one Tripadvisor review describing them as enchanting, refreshing, and one of the best places to connect with nature.
Another user shared that it was one of the most exhilarating adventures they’ve ever had.
It’s easy to book tours that will take you directly to the different waterfalls in Cebu. But expect more than just sightseeing, as some of these places are a challenge to get to.
Some are in secluded areas, as they haven’t been developed into full-on tourist attractions yet. You may need to ask around for directions, trek different rock formations, pass through lush forests, or take the local transportation to get there.
The journey is an experience in itself, but reaching a picturesque location you may have only ever seen on postcards, travel magazines, or nature documentaries is what makes traveling so fulfilling.
That being said, here is a list of the top waterfalls in Cebu to visit.
1. Kawasan Falls
Located in the quiet town of Badian, Kawasan Falls is one of the country’s crown jewels. It welcomes millions of tourists every year.
There is a long list of places in southern Cebu worth visiting, and Kawasan will always be a part of it.
The attraction is famous for its canyoneering tours, where guests swim through massive canyons and jump off cliffs into freshwater pools.
Kawasan Falls has three tiers, with the famous Kabukalan Spring at the top. Its water is extremely cold and clean enough to drink. The pools on the lower levels are just as enjoyable.
Kawasan has a reputation for getting overcrowded, especially during the dry season, which is from December to June. However, this is considered the best time to visit since it is also the safest time to go canyoneering in Cebu.
It is recommended that you go earlier in the day as the trail can get dark later in the afternoon throughout the evening.
2. Mantayupan Falls
Photo by Jeboie Rafol Montebon on Pexels
In the quiet neighborhood of Barili, you will find the tallest waterfalls in Cebu known as Mantayupan Falls. Standing 98 meters high, this breathtaking beauty is a scenic natural wonder.
Many foreigners and locals look forward to seeing the falls, and it never fails to draw massive crowds on the weekends. Aside from taking a dip in the waters, you can rent a grill to cook your meals or purchase some snacks at the nearby food stalls.
It’s better to visit Mantayupan on weekdays to avoid the crowd. This gives you a feeling of having the place all to yourself as you enjoy the canopy of trees and rich foliage.
Also, the falls is not just a tourist spot. It provides residents with hydropower to generate energy as well.
It’s given the town of Barili renewable electricity since 2006.
3. Tumalog Falls
Photo by Marvin Galang on Unsplash
Another one of the iconic waterfalls in Cebu is located in Oslob, known as Tumalog Falls.
Similar to Mantayupan, it only has a single tier that is easily accessible.
The waters are shallow and known to be extremely cold, making it an ideal place to cool off during the summertime.
One of its notable features is the viewing deck next to the falls, which many use as a backdrop for photos. Take note that this area can get slippery.
The falls is in a relatively remote location, but there is now a path that connects it to the main road.
The road from the car park to the falls is also steep, so it’s recommended to take a habal-habal to get there.
Many tourists go to Tumalog after joining in the whale shark watching activity in Oslob. Take note that tour operators may forgo this during the dry season.
4. Budlaan Falls
Not many people are aware that there are waterfalls in Cebu City. These locations have not yet been developed and can be challenging to find.
However, the journey itself can be exciting as you trek the city’s mountainside neighborhoods and enjoy the great outdoors.
One of the most visited is Budlaan Falls, located in Apas near Barangay Talamban.
The site is believed to be the closest to the city, accessible through the four-kilometer Budlaan trail, a fan-favorite hiking route.
Along the trail are several waterfalls that have different names but are all collectively referred to as Budlaan Falls. There are a total of seven levels all pouring down to the Budlaan River.
Because of its remote location, you will need to either join a group or ask someone who knows the path to guide you.
There are several routes you can take, but it’s best to have a guide so that you don’t get lost.
As of writing, you can trek to Budlaan Falls free of charge.
5. Aguinid Falls
Last on the list is a southern Cebu tourist spot where you are likely to get an intense workout done. Activities you can look forward to include rock climbing, swimming, and hiking through a thick forest.
In Samboan, Aguinid Falls takes canyoneering to the next level, with multiple tiers and harsh terrain that can frighten many first-timers (and maybe excite the daredevils).
Of the eight levels, only the first five are easily accessible. The last three require a lot of skill and endurance, including a local guide for assistance.
Luke and Roxy from the Coastal Campaign consider the fifth level as the most impressive, with 25-foot limestone rocks forming a tunnel leading to a natural slide which goes back to the water.
The sixth level is where it gets a bit extreme.
Guests have to carefully climb to the side of the falls and possibly need assistance to get to the top. There, you will find a stunning infinity pool with a view of the countryside.
WHEN EXPLORING THE WATERFALLS IN CEBU
Here are several things you should know before visiting the various waterfalls in Cebu.
Photo by Toa Heftiba on Unsplash
- Travel light
Trekking through the waterfalls in Cebu can be physically daunting, so make sure you are well equipped for this rigorous activity. Wear light clothing that will make traveling on foot easier.
Board shorts won’t only make it easier to walk, but you can also jump right into the water when you reach your destination. Bring a towel to dry yourself off after swimming.
For footwear, you can wear sandals or aqua shoes that are lightweight and have good traction to keep your balance when canyoneering rivers.
Bring spare cash in case you need to buy something along the way.
- Find reliable canyoneering guides
There are several official canyoneering guides that let you book tours online conveniently. Some of these websites have been recognized in other forms of media, and were even given awards from international travel agencies.
- kawasancanyoneering.com.ph
- cebutours.ph
- mcrichtravel.com
- canyoneeringcebutours.com
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The waterfalls in Cebu are magnificent spectacles that shaped the island into a major tourism hub.
Government agencies continue to assist in the development and maintenance of these natural wonders, bringing in more tourists every year. Whether you’re in it for the scenery or the adrenaline pumping action, these stunning attractions make every visit worth your while!
