Greetings, Hivers! This is 𝗪𝗵𝗼𝘀𝗲𝗲 again, and if you wish to know about the famous Kawasan Waterfalls in Cebu, Philippines, then the rest of this blog is all for you to read.
ALL ABOUT KAWASAN FALLS🍃🏞️
From 2001 to 2003, a waterfall inside the mountains of Barangay Matutinao, Badian was known and titles as Hall of Fame status for being the cleanest river in the Philippines. It spreads crystal-clear water around the mountains, especially into the Matutinao River System, which was also awarded many times for the same quality of inland water. Kawasan Falls is home to "multi" titles—not only has it received multiple awards, but it is also a multi-layered waterfall, with each level varying in height and distance. The first waterfall stands approximately 40 feet high and is the largest of the levels.
From the national road, tourists need to trek 1.5 km to reach the first waterfall—approximately 30 minutes of walking—usually guided by local guides since the slope and path can be accident-prone. Once you reach the first waterfall, you’ll immediately see clear turquoise waters falling into deep natural pools and a flock of visitors enjoying the view. It is a well-maintained site, located in the jungles of Badian, Cebu, and is part of the Kawasan River—where natural and cool features combine to create a real-life paradise.
For some geographical information, Kawasan Falls originally begins in the Kabukalan Spring, flows into the Matutinao River, and ends in the Tañon Strait. This popular waterfall is nestled at the foot of the Mantalongon Mountain Range. The succeeding levels and cascades are approximately 20 meters high, and from the largest waterfall, tourists can trek 10 minutes to reach the next.
This place requires trekking because vehicles are not encouraged and can be dangerous. It’s one of the best decisions made by the authorities to promote a pollution-free attraction and maintain cleanliness in both air and water. Undoubtedly, you may hear tourists complain about the walk, but once you reach the place, an ineffable magical landscape of inland waters and untouched trees washes away the tiredness and fatigue from trekking. The waterfall, as blue as the sky, is ideal for family bonding (like what we did)—especially if you want a natural and cooling dip under the scorching daylight. This famous water spot is perfect for swimming and is truly a home of solace and a peaceful environment, especially the second layer, which tourists don't often visit. Yes, the largest waterfall is more popular, but all are painted with turquoise water and a refreshing ambiance.
Kawasan Falls doesn’t only offer blue waters—though it wouldn’t be boring even if that was all. There are activities designed to make your stay memorable and to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the waterfalls.
ACTIVITIES OFFERED IN KAWASAN WATERFALLS
To have an intimate connection with the nature of Badian Falls, the authorities and locals created a series of activities for great exploration. The activities are as follows:
CANYONEERING
This is perhaps the best activity you can do in Kawasan Falls. It includes a series of slides, swimming, and leaps through the waters. If you avail of this activity, expect cliff jumps and natural slides. By paying approximately $27 for the guide and essentials, you can enjoy an in-and-out adventure of the waterfalls and the Matutinao River.
CLIFF DIVING
If you’re not into canyoneering, a dive from the cliff—20 meters high—can still fully immerse you in the adventure and excitement that Kawasan Falls offers. Just make sure to use safety equipment and follow the guidance of local authorities to ensure safety.
SWIMMING
It’s impossible to go to Kawasan Falls and not dip yourself in its cooling waters. If you’re not into canyoneering or cliff diving, swimming around the natural pool—no pressure to jump—is the best way to savor the moment. With its breathtaking view of the falling water and very clear inland pool, you won’t want to leave the water, and you’ll think twice before heading home. Relax in the water, take your favorite snack, and take nothing but pictures.
HOW AND WHEN TO GO TO KAWASAN FALLS
I heard before we visited the falls that the best time to go is during the “earliest” part of the day. At first, it didn’t make sense, but after reading the official Kawasan Falls website, I learned that it’s fully packed with visitors of all ages, including loud and playful children. So, if you wish for a short moment of peace, visiting early in the morning—around 7 A.M.—is encouraged. Not only is the pool peaceful at that time, but you also get to have the whole place to yourself before others arrive. Since Kawasan Falls is now popular, it may not be the best choice if you’re avoiding noise. However, the relaxing atmosphere and the waterfalls are still great stress-relievers—but the noise? You won’t get rid of it.
Since I’m from the northern part of Cebu, I had a different travel route compared to the information on the official Kawasan website, which provides directions from Cebu City. If you’re from Cebu City, you can ride a bus, specifically a Ceres Bus—the yellow one—which is the largest bus company in the Philippines. The fare varies depending on the type: non-air-conditioned or air-conditioned (the former is cheaper). Make sure the bus sign says “Bato via Barili” because that will lead you to the falls. Some buses, if you’re lucky, drop you right at the entrance. Otherwise, you can get off in Moalboal, and from there, ride a tricycle to the Kawasan entrance, which is approximately 20 km away. Other options include taking a shuttle ferry from Dumaguete heading to Bato, or trekking from Osmeña Peak in Dumaguete to Kawasan Falls—approximately 4 hours of trekking.
The trek is around 1.5 km before reaching the first waterfall. During that 30-minute walk, you’ll witness the lush rainforest, the clean Matutinao River, and see native trees, souvenir shops, local huts, and water cascades. Kawasan is also home to brilliant species like the Philippine long-tailed macaques and flying foxes. There are endemic species such as the Mosquito Hawk Damselfly and Kawasan Paperkite Butterfly. If you’re fortunate, you may encounter them—especially if they sense a kind person around.
The entrance fee to Kawasan Falls (including access to the largest waterfall) is around $3.50. The other levels require additional payments, so prices may vary. Life vests are mandatory for swimming and have separate rental fees. There are restaurants in the area, but I recommend bringing your own food, as the food and beverages are not very budget-friendly.
When going home from the falls, I also recommend having a guide—especially if you’re descending at night, when the path is dim and more dangerous.
THAT’S ALL ABOUT KAWASAN FALLS!
I truly enjoyed my stay at Kawasan Falls and will definitely go back if I have the chance. If you’re planning to visit, feel free to use this guide to reach Kawasan. There are also other blogs that feature the falls, so you may find even more information.
Thank you for reading my blog about Kawasan, Hiver! If you visit the place, I wish you a joyful and wonderful stay!
