I'm sure you've seen the pictures of the waterfalls tucked away in the jungle cascading into a turquoise pool. I know I have and I knew that I had to go there and see these popular waterfalls for myself!
HOW TO GET THERE:
These waterfalls are located on Cebu, Philippines. Specifically on the southwest side of the island in the town of Badian.
OPTION 1:
You can take a taxi from Cebu City down to the south for around $65 and it takes 3 hours.
OPTION 2:
Take the bus which leaves out of the south station for 115 pesos per person. Buses run 4 times per day. The bus is a lot cheaper but has a lot more stops and takes longer.
When we were visiting the falls, we stayed in the town of Moalboal which was 45 minutes away. You can rent a moped for 300-500 pesos for the day or a cheaper option, the bus costs around 20 pesos.
PARKING:
We opted for the moped as we didn't want to be restricted on time. You will drive 45 minutes until you see a church on the left side of the road which will be where you will park your moped. It cost 50 pesos to park in church which you will give to a 'parking' attendant and he'll give you a parking voucher when you pay.
WALK TO THE FALLS:
The path is paved and straight forward and its a 10 to15 minute walk to the falls. Locals will offer to guide you for a fee, just politely say no. It cost 45 pesos per person to enter.
ABOUT KAWASAN FALLS:
The Kawasan Falls are a top attraction in the Philippines, becoming an instagram hotspot over the past couple years. The water really is that blue!! And clean!
The first waterfall you reach is the most famous one of the Kawasan falls. There are a couple restaurants next to the falls to grab food or beers. We indulged in some beers so we could occupy a table to put our stuff on and take photos and swim around.
You can walk yourself up through the levels and the falls without a guide. On the left there are some stairs to head up to the second and third waterfall. These waterfalls are less busy and allow swimming. There are also spots to go cliff jumping! Super FUN, definitely recommend that you take the leap.
At the very top there is a rope swing that cost 10 pesos that you can swing off into the turquoise pool.
For the traveler that wants more adventure, it’s possible to go canyoneering from Kanlaob River to the Kawasan falls. This involves some cliff jumping up to 30 feet. It takes around 2-3 hours to make your way to the main falls on these tours. The price of a tour guide to take you canyoneering is about 700-1000 pesos per person depending on if you're traveling in high season or not. You can arrange a tour when you arrive at the start of the walk to the falls or you can book your tour in advance here.
Of course the guides are fun and awesome! And if your traveling with a mate they’ll get you some great photos together, including some action shots.
SURVIVAL TIPS:
Get there early before 8 or late afternoon to avoid crowds. We went in the afternoon. After 4 pm we had the falls to ourselves!
Bring a towel and change of clothes for the way home.
You're able to rent life jackets there for 50 pesos if you're not that confident of a swimmer.
Make sure you bring ample money as many things cost and there are no close ATM's
There is NO SMOKING allowed inside (hooray!)
I recommend staying in the Moalboal area for a couple nights so you can have ample time to explore the falls and enjoy other activities in the area like swimming with the whale sharks in Olsob or seeing the world-renowned sardine run. Check out prices and activities here.
ACCOMODATION RECOMENDATIONS:
Budget
Garden Village - Private and comfortable. Good value for the cost. Rooms start at $35 per night.
Blue Abyss Resort - If visiting the falls isn't the only reason you're visiting this area and you're into diving than this place is great if you're on a budget. Good restaurant on sight. Friendly atmosphere. Rooms start at $32 a night.
Mid Range
Moalboal Tropics - Located in town around a number of restaurants to choose from and some night life. Large pool. They don't let you bring alcohol into your room tho. You had to consume it in the dining area only where you purchased it and not allowed at the pool. Rooms start at $55 a night.
The Blue Orchid Resort - A secluded resort located on White Beach. Amazing pool, rooms and location. Rooms start at $100 a night.
Luxury
Badian Island Wellness Resort - This eco-friendly health resort is located on Badian Island which is closer to the falls. Its luxurious especially for Philippines standards. Complete with lush grounds, a professional spa, and a pool table. If you book you're own villa, you'll have your own private salt water pool! Prices start at $193 a night.
Search for hotels yourself here.
I had been looking forward to visiting the Kawasan Falls for a while and they did not disappoint. The picturesque falls are truly a magical place and worth all the hype. This was one of my favorite days on this Philippines trip! Have you ever been? If so I'd love to hear about your experience. Follow me @imjess_traveling to see more of my adventures around the globe.