Nothing comes close to the majesty of a waterfall. There’s something about seeing water gush from a higher point and cascade into a waiting pool that makes it one of the most mesmerizing scenes in nature.
We all know that the Philippines is one of the best beach destinations in the world. But in case you’ve been misled to believe that the islands are just for beach bumming, let me tell you that the Philippines is also a great place for chasing waterfalls.
Now I could go on and on about the water cycle and where the sea gets its waters from but this isn’t a science paper. So let me just go ahead and say that wherever there’s a beach, there’s bound to be a waterfall somewhere.
There are probably hundreds of waterfalls of different sizes all over the Philippines and I do not claim to have seen a lot of them. There’s just too many and it’s not every day that I find myself out of the concrete jungle I live in. But here are some of the most beautiful waterfalls in my beloved island of Mindanao.
Tinuy-an Falls
Bislig, Surigao del Sur
This is considered as the Niagara of the Philippines and judging by the nickname, this waterfall is as majestic as it can get. Tinuy-an is a three-tiered waterfall which has gained much popularity among domestic travelers. It is a favorite summer destination for locals and concessions and cottages have since found their way around the waterfall.
Katibawasan Falls
Camiguin Island
Located in the small island of Camiguin in northern Mindanao, Katibawasan Falls is a worthy side trip when the excitement of the beach dies down. The water has a 70-meter drop into catch basin where it is safe to swim. There are areas where visitors can picnic and those who would like to take postcard-worthy photos need only to snap their cameras at any angle.
Tinago Falls
Iligan City, Lanao del Norte
“Tinago” means hidden in the local tongue and this waterfall in Iligan is named such because it is essentially hidden from plain view. Iligan itself is known as the City of Majestic Waterfalls. Tinago falls is secluded in a deep ravine accessible only after going down a few hundred steps. The cold waters of the Tinago Falls go into a deep blue basin. There is also a small cave behind the falls.
Maria Cristina Falls
Iligan City, Lanao del Norte
Also in Iligan City, Maria Cristina is one of the city’s most prominent attractions. In fact, it is the city’s icon, its twin falls is part of the official seal. The twin falls appearance of the waterfall is due to a boulder protruding at the its brink, effective dividing its cascade into two. The waterfall provides power to the surrounding area.
Hagimit Falls
Island Garden City of Samal, Davao del Norte
Just an easy trip from Davao City, Hagimit Falls is a favorite weekend destination for local adventurers. It is located in Samal Island, within Peñaplata district where a good number of stunning beaches can also be found. The waterfall is a series of small cascades that end up in cool natural pools fit for swimming. It got its name from the Hagimit trees that form a canopy above it.
Asik-Asik Falls
Alamada, North Cotabato
Asik-asik is a recently discovered natural wonder in Mindanao. Its difficult access adds to its charm, one has to endure an arduous trek to see its majesty. Those who have seen the waterfall have wondered where the water comes from, they seem to spurt and flow out of a solid rock wall adorned by lush foliage. Asik-asik is one of the relatively untouched waterfalls in Mindanao. Developments on the road going to Asik-Asik have been made to make it easier for travelers to reach it.
Seven Falls
Lake Sebu, South Cotabato
Lake Sebu’s Seven Falls is one of the most coveted adventure destinations in Mindanao. Aside from the sheer beauty of the area, this part of the island is full of natural wonders that make it a veritable playground for outdoor lovers. The Seven Falls is a series of waterfalls that originate from high up in the mountains; some parts have been installed with a zipline that thrill-seekers can ride. One trip to Seven Falls and you would know the real meaning of exhilarating.
Already visited some of these spectacular waterfalls in Mindanao? Please share your experience with us in the comments below. If you have never visited any of these waterfalls, which would you like to see most?
