5 Amazing Waterfalls in the Philippines (that you probably never heard of)

There are tons of waterfalls in the Philippines. You may have seen famous waterfalls through social media and you think that you want to add those waterfalls to your list.

In the post, let me share with you a set of amazing waterfalls in the Philippines that you probably never heard of.

I hope you want to visit these falls as much as I want to.

Saob Falls in Biliran, Philippines

Saob Falls is a 100 metre high falls hidden away in the mountains of Biliran, and the only way to reach it is by trekking upriver from its jump-off point.

Going to Saob Falls can be quite technical with lots of bouldering, some wading in chest deep water and a last hurdle steep cliff climb to reach the basin and falls.

The trail is only recommended to those who have experience in outdoor Activities.

Getting to Saob Falls you will need to first reach Kasabangan Falls.This is a small Falls with what looks like a mini stadium built riverside popular with locals for picnics. The caretaker of Kasabangan Falls can also act as your guide, if you do not already have one.

Once you arrive you will be rewarded by feeling the power of Saob Falls creating very strong winds that swirl around its enclosed basin. Be ready to get soaked from the spray too, as there is nowhere to hide.

The tornado like wind and fine swirling mist created by the falls made it almost impossible to take photos.

Beware of falling rocks too, as this is how Saob got its name. Saob means “to fall” in Visayan language.

The best way to travel around the province is by hiring a motorbike. This enables you much more freedom to go where you want to explore.

Not many outsiders make it to these Falls, but if you do, you will be one of the few.

– Dave, silverbackpacker.com

Kaparkan falls in Abra, Philippines

Kaparkan falls are located in Abra, Philippines. These falls are relatively untouched as it requires riding a military-style 6×6 truck for 3 hours through deep mud, rocks and jungle. The ride is popularly known as “the hell ride to paradise”. The track is so muddy, iron chains are wrapped around the wheels to prevent sliding.

These falls are about 47 km from the main town, Bangued in Abra province. The last 15 km of the ride to the waterfall is the most terrifying. You will have to get off the truck many times while the truck maneuvers through rocks, mud and slopes. You will end up with bruises and sores all over your body. But the adventure is worth all the suffering.

Kaparkan falls are naturally formed, cascading limestone waterfalls. The terraces of the falls stretch about 500m in length, starting from the stream above to the mother falls below. These falls come to life during the rainy season, so they are open to the public only 3 months a year. They are best visited in August and September when the water levels are high.

A trip to Kaparkan falls starts from the tourism office in Bangued. Abramazing tour agency runs military-style 6×6 trucks or jumbo 4×4 jeepneys to the waterfalls. The trucks leave the tourism office at 8 am. After 3 hours of rigorous ride, the trucks drop off the passengers at the end of the mud track. From there, you have to hike down for about 20 minutes to get to the waterfalls.

You can climb up and down the waterfalls, swim in the lagoons or just enjoy watching the beauty of these breathtaking waterfalls. Hike back to the parking to catch your truck back to the town. After another 3 hours of bone-crunching ride, you will be dropped off at the town center in Bangued as the sun sets. It’s a full day trip so make sure to bring enough water, food and dry cloths.

– Thirumal, visatraveler.com

Malabsay Falls in Naga City, Philippines

This beautiful waterfall is located about 20 kilometers outside Naga City on the southeastern tip of Luzon. It tumbles down the slopes of Mt. Isarog inside an area that’s protected as a national park. You’re allowed to swim in the pool at the bottom of the cascade, and you can even swim directly under the falls. But beware, you may be surprised at just how powerfully the water hits you after its 40-foot drop! Water temperatures can be a bit chilly, but you can warm up by visiting the hot springs in nearby Panicuason. A visit to both the falls and the hot springs makes for a great day trip from Naga.

There aren’t that many options for eating around here, so consider bringing a packed lunch. Many restaurants in Naga will be happy to prepare a takeaway meal for you. Green Earth Café has plenty of healthy options and is a lifesaver for vegetarians and vegans in the Philippines. Be aware that, in addition to paying a nominal entrance fee when entering the Mt. Isarog National Park, you will also have to leave an “environmental deposit”. This initiative is intended to stop people from littering inside the park. So be sure you bring your trash with you when you leave, or else you won’t get your money back!

To reach the falls from Naga, take a jeepney to Panicuason from the terminal next to the Metro Bank. From there, it’s a lovely hike through the forest to the falls. Wear good hiking shoes, as the trail can get slippery in wet weather.

– Wendy, thenomadicvegan.com

Nangolan Falls in Zambales, Philippines

Nangolan Falls, known locally as Anghalo Falls, can be found in Barangay Feria of San Felipe. Made up of three levels, each boasting their own appeal and size, locals and visitors flock to visit the falls, especially during holidays and more so during the rainy season to get away from the crowds and to enjoy the natural landscape. The region stands apart due to its serene and tranquil nature. The months of August to November is the best time for a visit as this waterfall, categorized as a stream waterfall, dries up during summer. However, during its peak, the pool builds up to eight feet deep. It is a quick ride on a tricycle from the national road of San Felipe and a 7-minute trek or 5-minute ride on a carabao cart. The trails along Nangolan lead to a pristine wilderness that is great for exploring alongside some of the best beach resorts in Zambales and is well worth the effort required to visit. Don’t forget to admire the panoramic view of the mountains as you make your way to the falls and be thrilled by the therapeutic sound of gushing water, signalling your nearness to it. If you’re brave enough, be sure to jump in. The cold waters are bound to make for a memorable visit.

– Rai, araioflight.com

Inambakan Falls in Cebu, Philippines

Cebu Island in the Philippines is home to a number of incredible waterfalls and is famous for the beautiful Gatorade blue water that flows down through the jungle. One of the best waterfalls in the area is Inambakan Falls which is in Ginatilan in South Cebu. 
Most people stay in Moalboal when visiting South Cebu. The easiest way to get to Inambakan Falls from Moalboal is to rent a scooter and drive yourself. If you don’t feel comfortable driving a scooter you can also hire a tricycle or habal habal to take you there and back again. The drive from Moalboal take around 1 hour and 20 minutes.

While the main waterfall at the bottom is the big attraction here, there are actually five different levels of the falls which you can explore and the majority of visitors only tend to visit the base of the main falls. You need to take a guide (make sure to leave them a tip) to explore the upper levels but it Is so worth it.

The upper levels of the falls offer a quiet place to cliff jump, swim in the blue pools and get natural massages as the water cascades down the rocks. You start at the top and swim, climb and jump your way all the way back down to the base of the main falls which are sensational. The water falls from around 100 feet into a liquid blue pool at the bottom. Finish your day by enjoying a swim in this crazy coloured water at the base of the falls.

– Luke, hecoastalcampaign.com

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Have you already visited one of these falls? Let me know in the comments below about your experience!