Written by Actualitate, Calatorii

Kawasan Falls, Cebu – The Waterfall That Stays With You

kawasan-falls-cebu - philippines

An unforgettable adventure through turquoise water, jungle trails, and a natural thrill park in the heart of the Philippines

When I first heard about Kawasan Falls, I expected another “Instagram spot.” You know the kind—looks great in photos, but reality hits different. But what I found in the heart of Cebu was way more than a pretty waterfall. Kawasan is alive. It’s the kind of place that shakes you awake, pulls you out of your head, and reminds you how incredible nature can be.

The falls are tucked away in the small town of Badian, about three hours from Cebu City. Getting there is an adventure in itself. Whether you take a private van or hop on a local bus from Cebu South Terminal, the journey winds through small villages, rice paddies, and coastal roads. Once you get dropped off near the entrance, there’s a short 15-minute walk through lush jungle trails, where the sound of rushing water gets louder with every step.

Then suddenly, the jungle opens up—and there it is. Kawasan Falls. Turquoise like a gemstone, cascading into a pool so clear it almost glows. Mist rises from the base as locals gently guide bamboo rafts under the pounding water. It’s loud, cool, and overwhelming in the best way possible. You’re not just looking at a waterfall—you’re in it.

The main pool is deep and perfect for swimming. Around you, people are floating, laughing, or climbing onto the rafts to feel the full force of the water pounding down. It’s intense and calming all at once. For a few pesos, you can hop on a raft and drift right under the waterfall. Don’t worry, there are locals steering it and they even know how to take those epic action shots if you hand them your phone in a waterproof case.

But Kawasan doesn’t stop there. If you hike a bit further uphill, you’ll find Level 2 and Level 3—two more pools, quieter and less crowded. The water here is shallower, perfect for a lazy float or a more private swim. If you’re brave (and smart about it), there are spots to jump into the water from rocky ledges. Not too high, just enough to feel alive.

And then there’s the real deal: canyoneering.

If you’ve ever wanted to live a full-on action movie scene—this is it. The full canyoneering tour starts from Alegria and winds down a narrow river canyon that eventually leads into Kawasan Falls. You jump off cliffs, slide down natural rock chutes, wade through aqua-blue pools, and float on your back under sunlit jungles. The biggest jump is around 12 meters—but every second is worth it. Most tours include a helmet, life vest, snacks, and a guide who’ll become your best friend by the end of it.

After all that action, the riverside eateries near the falls feel like a reward. Local stalls offer grilled chicken, pancit, fresh coconuts, and that fried banana snack you didn’t know you needed. No fancy restaurants, just local flavor and jungle views.

If you’re planning a trip, go early—before the tour groups arrive. Weekdays are quieter. And bring cash, because this is a place where ATMs don’t exist and digital detox is part of the charm.

Kawasan Falls isn’t just something to see—it’s something to feel. You don’t walk away with just photos. You leave with soaked clothes, a few new friends, legs sore from jumping, and a smile you can’t shake off.

So yeah, Kawasan Falls is not just worth it. It’s essential.
If you go to Cebu and skip this place… did you even go?


Want to see what it really looks like?

🟢 Check out my own photos and drone footage at the bottom of the post

Visited 1 times, 1 visit(s) today

Close