7 BEST WATERFALLS IN SOUTH CEBU FOR 2021

Note: As a precautionary measure in this time of COVID-19 pandemic, it is best to check with the authorities the updated travel requirements and possible restrictions that might affect your travel plan. Contact Cebu Tourism Office at [email protected] or at (032) 888 2328 to know the latest update.

Remember to always follow the health and safety protocols imposed from your travel origin to your destination. I wish you a safe trip ahead!

CEBU WATERFALLS AT A GLANCE

CEBU is a showground of majestic waterfalls. In fact, there are at least 50 that are spread out within the outskirts of its southern part ready to come rush at you the moment you step out of the bus. Any waterfall lover would definitely feel bewildered, not knowing where to go first as each waterfall brings an A-game of their best properties.

In my 5-day round South Cebu, I was able to visit 7 waterfalls; some are near the main road, others would require a long trek. As a dearly beloved guest, I found not a single thought of dissatisfaction. Each waterfall performed in their most competitive and intriguing nature which kept me all entertained and pleased.

TOP WATERFALLS IN SOUTH CEBU

Here are the top 7 waterfalls in South Cebu in an order from least to most favorite based on my short trip.

(Note: At the bottom part is a sample DIY itinerary covering these awesome waterfalls, which is good for a whole day trip but can be extended to 2-3 days.)

7th spot: MANTAYUPAN FALLS

A tenured in the field, Mantayupan falls is one of the early discovered waterfalls in South Cebu which brags of a wide basin that is perfect for swimming and whole day relaxation. The waterfall has two levels: the first has 3 water cascades falling 14 meters to the ground while the second (which is only 5 minutes away) has a one strong cascade reaching 98 meters high. Despite that it is well-known and has been serving the locals for already a decade, Mantayupan falls never ceases in sustaining its rugged, unspoiled yet clean atmosphere. Its catch basin is mixed with shallow and deep parts, and is filled with cold water. At times, the waters here may appear brownish (especially during December) but is still considerably good for swimming. While going around, it is advisable to move slowly as rocks tend to be slippery on some of its sections.

A closer look at the main cascade of Mantayupan falls.
  • Operating Hours: 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
  • Entrance fee: P20 for adults, P10 for children
  • Picnic table rent: P200 (P50 corkage for all foods and drinks)
  • Location: Barangay Campangga, Barili, Cebu

To get there: Ride a bus plying to Bato/Barili at the South Bus terminal. It will take 2 hours to reach the drop off at Shamrock stopover in Barili. From there, take a motorcycle-for-hire for P30. Getting there will be an easy-breezy as the path is well-paved and drivers are required of a 30-kph speed. The ride will take 10 minutes before you get to its entrance with a canopy of trees leading to the main gate of the waterfalls.

Rating: 2.5/5

6th spot: INAMBAKAN FALLS

Inambakan falls is generally an off-beat, charming pool of turquoise water at the highlands of Ginatilan, a municipality in southern Cebu and hometown of the second Filipino saint, Pedro Calungsod. Its cascade runs to a hundred feet from the top while its catch basin plunges around eight-feet deep. Swimming around its pool requires life vest especially if you plan to approach near its strong cascade. The falls sources out its water from another two smaller waterfalls located at its top, namely Bugnawan and Kampael falls, which can be reached on foot on a 10-minute rocky yet manageable trail.

  • Operating Hours: 6:00 a.m to 5:00 p.m.
  • Entrance fee: P50
  • Parking Fee: P30 for car, P10 for motorcycle
  • Cottage rent: P300
  • Location: Brgy. Calabawan, Ginatilan, Cebu
The Kampael falls situated 2 minutes away from Inambakan falls.

To get there: At South Bus terminal, take a van or bus via Barili/Bato, then alight at the town of Ginatilan. Travel time may take 4 hours. Once at the junction, look for a motorcycle-for-hire. The road is a bit rough and tricky so be sure to agree with the driver on the speed limit to avoid catching risk. Fare is P30 per person. From the main road, it will take 20 minutes to reach the jump-off point. Once there, follow the path that is drawn out in cement to get to the waterfall. Walking may take for about 5 minutes.

Rating: 3/5

(Note: Hingitaon cave is a grand cave in Ginatilan near Inambakan falls. If you fancy a side trip, kindly ask the caretakers at Inambakan for details.)

5th spot: BINALAYAN FALLS

Binalayan falls is a unique entertainer that pleases the adventure seekers. You can climb on its wall and jump from its cavern located 50-feet away from its cold, crystal, deep catch basin. Before getting to its main cascade, the falls has a first layer drop which streams to three shallow basins as can be seen halfway through the trail.

The first layer drop of Binalayan falls.
  • Operating Hours: 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
  • Entrance fee: P30
  • Location: Brgy. Bonbon, Samboan, Cebu
Having the entire basin to myself. Please excuse my flab.

To get there: Take a bus at the South Bus terminal that goes to Bato/Barili. Tell the driver to drop off at Binalayan falls in Samboan. Travel time takes for about 6 hours; fare is around P160. The jump-off point is near the main road which has a “Binalayan falls” signage. Go to the registration area and start the trek with a guide for 15 minutes in a plain terrain. The first waterfall layer will guise as the Binalayan falls but the real one is hidden in a rock. Climb up the cemented stairs and be prepared to get the adrenaline rush going!

A small cavern at the top part of Binalayan falls.

Rating: 3.5/5

4th spot: DAO FALLS

Dao or Dau falls entices its visitors in a reverse approach. It will first test your physical and emotional limits by letting you cross a bridge, a trail of forest and a dodgy canyon before it will show its grand scale of limestone that assists a long stretch of mesmerizing cascade of waters.

Top Waterfalls - Dao Falls
The grand Dao falls.
  • Operating Hours: 6:00 a.m to 5:00 p.m.
  • Entrance fee: P20
  • Location: Brgy. Suba, Samboan, Cebu
Taking a moment after a good dip in the catch basin of the falls.

To get there: Ride a bus via Bato/Barili at the South Bus terminal. Travel time to Samboan is close to 6 hours. Estimated fare is P160. Tell the driver to drop off at the main road for Dao falls or at Samboan town proper. At the stopover, charter a motorcycle-for-hire to take you to the falls. Travel time is close to 20 minutes; fare is P50. Once at the jump-off point, register and get a guide. The trail — which can be challenging for the unfit — runs for another 20 minutes through a cluster of trees and pile of big rocks.

Rating: 4/5

3rd spot: TUMALOG FALLS

Tumalog is a huge waterfall that can only be contained by a single shot using a wide angle camera. That is how enormous it is! (which is helpful as it can be easily seen by approaching visitors even at hundred meters away from its jump-off point) The falls cascades strongly in a horsetail and never misses to contact with its wall as it descends to the ground. Its spray when catches by a light creates a well-defined rainbow ornamenting an already breathtaking waterfall. The catch basin is shallow and wide which can accommodate a multitude of visitors.

A closer look at the majestic Tumalog falls.
  • Operating Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
  • Entrance fee: P20
  • Location: Cebu South Rd, Oslob, Cebu
Chasing Waterfalls - Tumalog falls
A closer look at the majestic Tumalog falls, with its horsetail cascade.

To get there: Ride a bus at the South Bus terminal that goes to Bato via Oslob. Fare is P167. Travel time is 5-6 hours. Drop off at “MB Sunrise View Resort” where you can find a signage for “Tumalog falls.” Charter a motorcycle-for-hire which would cost for P50 per person. Travel time is 15 minutes. Start hiking down from the jump-off point for 10 minutes or ride another motorcycle-for-hire to the falls which will cost for P50.

Rating: 3.9/5

2nd spot: AGUINID FALLS

Aguinid is challenging but never intimidating, that’s how it packages itself to the adventurous spirits who are willing to undergo their first mini-canyoneering experience. The waterfall is multi-tiered with each layer giving enough dose of fun, thrill and excitement. It prides of beautifully refreshing cascades, a shallow pool between its layers and a non-slippery formation of limestone which can make trekking easy, safe and bearable. Aguinid is building up a promising image to mainstream tourists, and with proper regulation, it might soon give Kawasan falls a run for its money.

The first level of the 8-tier Aguinid falls.
The second level, a non-slippery rock formation. Visitors will be required to climb up with a rope in order to proceed to the next level.

The third level, a beautifully carved rock formation which drips off water from its top.
  • Operating Hours: 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
  • Entrance fee: P30
  • Location: Brgy. Tangbo, Samboan, Cebu
The fourth level, the blackish rock between the cascades is where visitors prepare to jump off to the catch basin below.
The fifth level which gives off a shallow catch basin and a small cavern at its center where you can freely climb up for a photo opportunity.

To get there: At South Bus terminal, take a bus via Barili/Bato. Fare is P160. Travel time is 6 hours. Drop off at “Aguinid falls” stop where you will see a welcome signage. Take a walk to the registration area which is only 5 minutes away. Get a guide and start the mini-canyoneering experience.

Posing on a background of a dreamy waterfall at the fifth level. As per guide, the 6th to 8th level are dangerous without proper harness. It will not be made available to the public until the caretakers acquire the suitable equipment.

Rating: 4/5

1st spot: KAWASAN FALLS

Kawasan falls easily comes atop of my list. It’s mainstream, crowded but never overrated. It is the most famous among all waterfalls in Cebu and has continuously drawn flocks of visitors for a decade and counting for its clean, long stream, fantastic rock formation and adrenaline-rushing canyoneering properties which make experience fun and memorable.

The first level of Kawasan falls. As of January 2018, the rafts which are supposed to take guests near the cascades are prohibited due to the abuse of its operators.
A closer look of Kawasan falls cascades and its small cavern.
  • Schedule: 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
  • Entrance fee: P50
  • Location: Badian, Cebu
A top view of Kawasan falls.

To get there: Take a bus bound for Bato via Barili at the South Bus terminal. The jump-off point to Kawasan is at the main road. It will take 5 hours to get there from the bus terminal. Fare is P140. From the jump-off point, take a walk in a well-paved path where you can enjoy a moment with nature for 15 minutes. Go to the registration area and take another walk for 5 minutes to reach the first level of Kawasan falls.

The fourth level of Kawasan falls where the “graduation jump” happens after each canyoneering. The jump is 50 feet high.

Rating: 4.5/5

SOUTH CEBU CHASING WATERFALLS ITINERARY

You can visit these seven waterfalls in two days. On the first day, start with Tumalog falls in Oslob, then to the three waterfalls in Samboan: Aguinid, Dao and Binalayan. On the second day, kick off with Inambakan falls in Ginatilan, then proceed to Kawasan falls, and finally head off to Mantayupan falls. All jump-off points can be reached by a bus or a motorcycle-for-hire. A bus is cheaper while a motorcycle is faster if you are trying to save some time.

Here’s a sample DIY itinerary for “chasing waterfalls” in South Cebu.

ActivityPrice
Bus Fare (Round trip: Cebu City-South Cebu)Php300.00
Tumalog Falls (Transpo and Entrance Fee)Php140.00
Bus Fare from Badian to SamboanPhp30.00
Samboan Waterfalls (Aguinid, Dau and Binalayan)Php400.00
AccommodationPhp500.00
Bus Fare from Samboan to GinatilanPhp50.00
Inambakan Falls (Transpo and Entrance Fee)Php110.00
Bus Fare from Ginatilan to BadianPhp30.00
Kawasan Falls (Entrance Fee only)Php50.00
Bus Fare from Badian to BariliPhp60.00
Mantayupan Falls (Transpo and Entrance Fee)Php90.00
FoodPhp200.00
TotalPhp1,960.00

TIPS FOR TRAVELERS

  1. Coming to waterfalls is a chance to get wet. Bring a dry bag and always waterproof your gadgets.
  2. Hire a guide whenever necessary. Tips for them are mostly regulated. If you feel generous, share some more. It’s a way of paying back to the community.
  3. Most of the waterfalls do not have changing cubicles. Better be ready and come in your swimwear.
  4. Visit the waterfalls early in the morning to get a chance of lesser crowd.
  5. Wear a comfortable trekking or aqua shoes.
  6. Bring a bottle of water and fill your stomach with enough food.
  7. The waterfall is best enjoyed with your family and friends.
  8. Take extra caution when it rains. Some trails like that of Dao and Inambakan falls can be tricky and dangerous.

For instructions on how to get to South Bus terminal from any area in Cebu City, read this link: How to Get Around Cebu.

MORE TIPS

While this article is best suited for DIY budget travelers, we also share the same sentiments with those who love to go on a tour package. KLOOK offers the most affordable and hassle-free tour services for Cebu.

Here are some of its tour packages. Click each link for more details.

For other KLOOK services like transport and tour offers, use the search box below:

Klook.com

WHERE TO STAY IN SOUTH CEBU

Accommodations in South Cebu are walk-in ready. But it is highly suggested to book your stay ahead of time. Below is a list of mid-range to luxury accommodations of the key areas around South Cebu.

MOALBOAL

SAMBOAN

OSLOB

BADIAN

USEFUL PHRASES

Like in any parts of the Philippines, the locals in Cebu can speak and understand English. However, here are some good phrases that might prove useful when you find yourself endearing with them.

English to Cebuano (the prevalent language among the locals in South Cebu)
Thank you – Salamat
Good morning – Maayong buntag
Good afternoon – Maayong hapon
Good evening – Maayong gabii
How much is… – Pila ang…
Where is… – Asa ang…

Osmeña peak
After chasing waterfalls, how about going on a mountain trek? Check out my blog about Osmeña, Casino and Candongao peak in this link.

MORE OF CEBU

MEET THE BLOGGER

Leaning on our boat at Punta Sibaring 1. This photo was taken during a high tide.

Hey there! I’m Ker, The Fun-sized Traveller. Fun-size because I’m a short guy from the Philippines. Thanks for checking out this virtual block I have started building since my 30th birthday to document my 2nd quarter life. Yup, it’s more of a personal pursuit, but a part of me also wants to give back to the travel community that is why I make it a point to share travel articles out from my trips around Asia.

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