Information about Kawasan Falls

Kawasan Falls

Cebu is a province in Visayas region of the Philippines that is often recognized as a premier destination. This is so because the island has numerous white sand beaches lining its shore and in islands within its district. Many local and foreign tourists make their way here throughout the year to enjoy the top Cebu tourist spots, learn about its culture and history, and taste its delicious delicacies. Other than the beaches, the province has a number of waterfalls, one of which is Kawasan Falls.

From the entrance, you will need to do a bit of walking to reach the first waterfall. During the short walk, you will see some shops selling souvenirs and maybe some snacks and drinks. After a while, you will reach the first waterfall and pool, this is also the biggest of the three you will visit during your trip. Since this section is the most accessible, it tends to draw the most people.

Go swimming, free diving, cliff jumping or rafting under the waterfall during your stay. Wash off the dirt and sweat, and douse the midday heat. There are cottages and tables for rent, if you want to stay a bit longer, have a picnic or a place to leave your things and rest.

Escape the crowds by hiking to the second and third waterfalls. Both sections don’t get much attention because of the extra effort it takes to reach them. Wade in the waters, relax, forget your worries and take many photos. Kawasan is a top-notch destination and is a welcome break from beach and island hopping.

How to Get There

There are several jump-off points around the province of Cebu to get to Kawasan Falls. Getting to the province is not a problem at all either, as its airport and seaports are some of the busiest travel hubs in the country, with plenty of trips every day. The easiest way to get to Kawasan Falls is by booking Cebu Kawasan Falls tours with hotel transfers from Cebu City. 

If you prefer to commute: Once you are in Cebu City, the capital of the province, proceed to the South Bus Terminal and ride a bus that goes to Bato (Santander) via Barili. Make sure to ask the driver if the route to Bato is via Barili and not via Oslob because the latter stops on the east side, while Kawasan Falls is located on the west. Just also ask the driver to notify you when the stop going to Kawasan Falls is already nearby so you won’t miss it.

If you are coming from the town of Oslob, take a bus to Bato and then hop on another bus going to Badian or Cebu City, still via Barili. Coming from the town of Moalboal, another popular tourist destination in the province of Cebu, you can also take a bus heading south to Bato and ask to get dropped off the stop leading to Kawasan Falls. Alternatively, you may opt to rent a motorbike and drive your way to Kawasan Falls, whether you are coming from Oslob or Moalboal.

From the drop-off point, it takes about 10-15 minutes of hiking to get to Kawasan Falls.

Tickets and Entry

At the drop-off point and path leading to Kawasan Falls, many locals, including children, will approach you and offer to guide you to the falls. This is not necessary as the road is easy to navigate. But if you are happy to shell out a small fee for them, then the walk will be enjoyable with the locals’ company.

There is an entrance fee to Kawasan Falls. Tables and chairs are also available for rent. But if you don’t find the need for these, you can simply sit and relax by the natural pool and other shaded areas around. If you have belongings you would like to keep while you take a dip into the refreshing pool or hike up to the second and third falls, lockers are available for rent .

If you are not a confident swimmer, life jackets are also available. Another option is to ride a bamboo raft that goes all the way to where the water drops for a natural water massage. This can accommodate up to 20 people.

Best Time to Visit

As with the rest of the Philippines, the province of Cebu experiences both dry and wet seasons. For a destination like Kawasan Falls, which involves trekking and swimming, it is highly recommended to visit it during the dry months from December to May. Peak travel season is during the months of March, April, and May, and while you will avoid chances of rain, expect to bump into a huge crowd of tourists.

If you also plan to do canyoneering in Kawasan Falls, it is advisable not to go during days when there has been constant rainfall, as the area will get slippery and the water flow in the rivers and falls will be strong.

The best time to visit Kawasan Falls during the day is early morning. Plan your trip to arrive at the falls before 9 AM so you have the chance to have the waterfalls all to yourself or with just a few people around. Holidays and weekends also get very busy as Kawasan Falls is a popular hangout destination for the locals around.