Kawasan Falls Cebu
Hidden in the lush jungle of Alegría Cebu, Kawasan Falls offers the adventure of a lifetime! Canyoneering at Kawasan Falls will see you navigating through stunning turquoise waters, leaping off cliffs, and sliding down natural rock formations, all while surrounded by breathtaking scenery.
In this travel guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know for an unforgettable canyoneering experience, including what to expect, how to avoid the crowds, entrance fees, and the best tour options available. We completed the entire route and did every single jump at Kawasan Falls so we could answer the burning question: is this famous canyoneering adventure safe enough to make your grandma proud? Let’s Dive In!
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Canyoneering At Kawasan Falls – Our Experience
One very early morning, we hopped on our scooter from Moalboal and made our way to the starting point of what would soon be the canyoneering adventure of a lifetime.
After a quick change into all safety gear, including a life jacket, hard hat, and water shoes, we jumped on the back of an open jeep for the start of a very bumpy ride! Ten to fifteen minutes of rocky road and stunning scenery later, we arrived at what was ironically a large basketball court in the mountains for a safety briefing. Basketball is the Philippines’ national sport and also our sport, so we absolutely love how many courts there are everywhere!
Following the safety briefing, we made our way up to the zipline to zoom our way to the start of the canyoneering adventure. You can choose to do the zipline at an extra cost, saving you about a 40-minute hike, but more on that later!
The zipline was INSANE; words don’t really do it justice. It was very high and quite nerve-wracking, but the views were INCREDIBLE! Just an amazing start to a fantastic day!
We had two guides, and our group consisted of just us two, so we had a guide each for the whole day! The jumps start small, around 4m, and gradually increase in height. This was nice, as it allowed us to build our confidence along the way!
The last jump of the day was over 10m high, and we both could not believe we did it! It’s so crazy what you can achieve when the environment permits, and it was awesome being around others who were also facing their fears!
We wondered if Kawasan Falls Canyoneering would live up to the hype as it is so popular, but honestly, we had the best day from start to finish! Below, we will cover everything you need to know so you can do the same!
Kawasan Falls Location
Kawasan Falls is located in the municipality of Badian, Cebu, Philippines, nestled in the region’s lush landscapes. Situated approximately 19km from Moalboal and 130 km southwest of Cebu City, this stunning natural attraction is easily accessible by road.
The falls are renowned for their vibrant turquoise waters and multi-tiered cascades, making them a popular destination for locals and tourists seeking adventure and relaxation. Surrounded by dense tropical vegetation, Kawasan Falls offers a picturesque setting that enhances its appeal as a must-visit spot in Cebu.
We have highlighted Kawasan Fall’s location on Google Maps for reference:
How Do You Get To Kawasan Fall’s?
By Scooter (The option we did): The start of the trail to Kawasan Falls Canyoneering is only about a half-hour scooter ride from the popular travel hub of Moalboal. The roads are smooth, and the journey is relatively easy if you would like to make your own way there.
Our favorite scooter shop in Moalboal is: Majona’s Scooter Rental. This one is slightly more expensive but offers larger bikes with a higher cc and, most importantly, very good breaks!
By Tour: Alternatively, you can choose to book a transfer as part of your tour. Most tours will include the option of a private transfer from Moalboal or Cebu City, sometimes at an additional cost. We have highlighted our favorite Kawasan Falls Tours below.
The Best Kawasan Falls Tours
Is It Safe To Take A Scooter To Kawasan Falls
Yes, the route from Moalboal to Kawasan Falls is safe via scooter, with smooth roads and no steep hills. It is about a half an hour drive but can get busy at points during peak traffic hours so plan ahead. The main route that pops up on Google Maps when you type in Kawasan Falls is the best one to take!
The drive to Kawasan Falls from Cebu City is far, far longer, and not one we would recommend doing via a scooter. The better option here would be to make use of one of the private transfers included in many Kawasan Falls Tours.
If you are planning to make the trip from Moalboal by scooter, there are some other amazing must-see places not too far away, including Lambug Beach, Cancalanog Falls and Cambais Falls.
You can read more about these epic locations and other top things to do in and around Moalboal Cebu in our complete travel guide: Moalboal Cebu – 12 Best Things To Do | Ultimate Travel Guide.
You Can Also Check Out The Best Of Moalboal In Our YouTube Video:
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Do You Need To Book In Advance To Visit Kawasan Falls
In short, yes, you do need to book ahead to do Canyoneering at Kawasan Falls! Canyoneering here is arguably one of the most popular activities throughout all of the Philippines and gets very busy during peak season! This, coupled with the fact that you are only able to go Canyoneering here with a guide, means that pre-booking is essential. However, if you just wish to visit Kawasan falls without Canyoneering, then pre-booking is not necessary.
We have included some of our top tour picks below; however, you can also book with several tour companies through your accommodation or at tourist stands once in Cebu. Just make sure you book at least a few days ahead, especially in peak season!
Also, make sure you go with a reputable company! Look at reviews on Google and Trip Advisor beforehand to ensure they are legitimate. There are a number of companies/ individuals trying to rope tourists off the street near Kawasan Falls to go Canyoneering. Not all of these are legitimate tour companies or tour guides, and often, they do not uphold safety standards. So, just be cautious.
Kawasan Falls Entrance Fee
The price of Canyoneering at Kawasan Falls can range quite significantly, depending on several factors, including whether you do the zipline, whether your tour includes a transfer, whether your chosen tour includes other activities, and whether you have selected a group or a private tour!
A tour without the zipline where transfer is not included can generally start from around the £30 mark. If you a looking to do the zipline its often closer to the £40 mark, and if you want to include a transfer from your accommodation this can be anywhere from £50 upwards depending on where you need to be collected from. Tours that include other activates in Cebu as part of a whole day trip are of course a higher price but a great way to see lots of top places if you are coming from further afield. These prices will of course change over time.
Prices also vary depending on the company you go with. In the case of activities such as Canyoneering, cheaper is not always best! The most reputable companies are often slightly more expensive, but they are reputable for a reason and keep you safe. So, just ensure you check reviews before making your choice!
Its also worth mentioning that nearly all tours include a delicious lunch!
How Scary Is Kawasan Falls Canyoneering?
This one is very subjective, but Kawasan Falls definitely gets the adrenaline going! However, the guides are incredible at making you feel safe and helping you pick the best routes. The jump heights range from 4m to 10m, but plenty of options exist for enjoying the canyon and the river without jumping.
If you are worried about how you will find Canyoneering at Kawasan Falls, you can check out our full experience of every jump in our YouTube video! This will hopefully give you a great idea of what to expect!
Is Kawasan Falls Safe?
Canyoneering at Kawasan Falls is generally safe when proper precautions are taken, and we certainly felt safe throughout the day! All participants must wear safety gear, including helmets and life jackets, and are accompanied by experienced guides throughout the adventure. The guides are trained to assist with jumps, slides, and navigating the course safely.
However, as with any outdoor activity, there are inherent risks. The difficulty level can be adjusted based on your comfort and skill level. It’s crucial to follow your guide’s instructions, stay within your comfort level, and inform them of any health concerns before starting the tour.
Do You Have To Do Every Jump At Kawasan Falls?
No, the fantastic thing about Kawasan Falls Canyoneering is that at every jump, there is an alternative route where you don’t have to jump if you do not want to. This means even if you are nervous about heights, you can still really enjoy this experience because just the views in the canyon alone are worth it!
Should You Do The Zip Line At Kawasan Falls?
In our opinion, this is a resounding YES! Not only does the zipline save you a very long walk, it allows you to beat the crowds if you arrive early in the morning and… it is the most amazing, adrenaline-fueled experience! The views are incredible, and you can ride in a Superman position!
However, as a disclaimer, this may not be the one for you if you are afraid of heights! It is very high, and our friend said she would rather have walked the 40 minutes 10 times over than done the zipline in retrospect, so just a heads up, aha! If you are worried about how you will find the zipline and the Canyoneering, you can check out our full experience in our YouTube video!
Can You Visit Kawasan Falls Without Canyoneering?
Yes, you can absolutely visit Kawasan Falls without going Canyoneering. In fact, the falls sit at the end of the canyoneering route, and there were plenty of people who came to enjoy the beautiful Kawasan Falls at the bottom!
The entrance fee to Kawasan Falls is around 200 PHP (~£3). This gives you access to only one level but a very beautiful level! On the contrary, Canyoneering at Kawasan Falls gives you access to multiple levels.
How To Avoid The Crowds At Kawasan Falls
As mentioned, Kawasan Falls is very popular, with up to 1000 visitors per day during peak season! During very busy times, it is not uncommon for there to be a long line waiting for each jump.
However, we never had to queue; in fact, at the beginning of our experience, no one else was in sight! How you ask? Well, here is our top advice…
Firstly, get there early… and we mean very early! We were up at 5 am and at the start of the Canyoneering by 6 am. Many other visitors caught up to us even this early, but we took our time and enjoyed it!
In order to go this early, though, you would have to book directly with a company and make your own way there as from what we understand, most organised transfers don’t start pick up until 7 am or 8 am.
Secondly, avoid the weekends and school holidays in The Philippines! Kawasan Falls Canyoneering is very popular with locals as well as tourists. Therefore, the weekends and holidays are much busier than the weekdays! Plan your trip on a weekday for a quieter experience.
It is also worth noting that seeing others facing their fears and completing the jumps is actually such a great part of the experience, and we absolutely loved it! So, meeting a few friends along the way is not a bad thing!
Top Tips For Kawasan Falls
Here are our top tips for Canyoneering at Kawasan Falls:
- Choose a Reputable Tour Operator: Select a well-reviewed tour company that provides experienced guides and safety gear.
- Wear Appropriate Gear: Use a swimsuit, rash vest or quick-drying clothes, and sturdy water shoes with good grip to navigate slippery surfaces. Your tour company can usually rent you water shoes if needed, but if you want to buy some good value ones, here’s our recommendation.
- Listen to Your Guide: Pay close attention to your guide’s instructions on safety and techniques for jumps and slides.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring water to stay hydrated throughout the adventure, especially under the sun.
- Know Your Limits: Be honest about your comfort level with heights and physical challenges; you can skip jumps if needed.
- Bring a Waterproof Bag: Protect your valuables by using a waterproof bag for your phone or camera.
- Arrive Early & Pick A Weekday: Start your day early and visit on a weekday to avoid crowds and enjoy a more serene experience at the falls.
- Respect Nature: Follow Leave No Trace principles by not littering and being mindful of the environment.
- Capture the Moment: Bring a waterproof camera or GoPro to document your adventure, but ensure it’s securely attached.
- Plan for Post-Canyoneering: After your adventure, relax and enjoy the beauty of Kawasan Falls, perhaps with a refreshing swim in the pools.
Where To Stay In Moalboal
Looking for where to stay Moalboal? Here are our top recommendations depending on your budget and the vibe you are going for!
Hostels:
Hotels:
Looking for a more relaxing experience away from the hustle and bustle of hostels? Here are our top hotel recommendations in Moalboal from Agoda:
When To Visit Kawasan Falls
The best time to visit Kawasan Falls is during the dry season, as it offers less rainfall and more reliable weather conditions. However, towards the end of the dry season, at the end of May, the water can get too shallow to do some bigger jumps, so this is something to consider.
Likewise, the dry season is also the busiest time, so it comes with more visitors to Kawasan Falls. For those who prefer a quieter experience, the shoulder seasons can also be a good option for your visit. Below, we have outlined the best months to consider.
Dry Season: Typically extending from November to April, this period brings clearer skies, calmer waters, and minimal rainfall, creating ideal conditions for outdoor exploration. However, bear in mind that this period also sees a surge in tourist activity, resulting in larger crowds and increased accommodation prices.
Shoulder Seasons: If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of May or October when the weather is still pleasant and the crowds are fewer. Avoid planning your trip during the rainy season, from June to September, as heavy downpours and choppy waters can hinder your plans.
Below we have included a table of average monthly rainfall in the Philippines to help you plan the perfect time to visit. Hover over the bars to also see average monthly temperature.
Average Monthly Rainfall In The Philippines
Conclusion
Canyoneering at Kawasan Falls is an unforgettable adventure that combines the thrill of flying through the air with the beauty of nature. From breathtaking jumps and exhilarating slides to the serene turquoise waters, every moment spent in this stunning landscape is sure to create lasting memories. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a first-time canyoneer, Kawasan Falls offers something for everyone. Embrace the excitement, immerse yourself in the stunning surroundings, and enjoy the unique experience that awaits you at this remarkable destination. This was one of our highlights in The Philippines, and it definitely lives up to the hype!
Don’t hesitate to let us know any questions you might have in the comments below!
Big Love As Always
Beth and Denz