Kawasan Falls Cebu

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The Kawasan Falls are among the best-known waterfalls on the Philippine island of Cebu and attract many tourists every day. But what really awaits visitors at this place, which is shaped both by its natural beauty and by the crowds? In this post, we’ve put together our honest opinion and current impressions of the Kawasan Falls in Cebu.

General information & entrance fees at Kawasan Falls

Admission to the Kawasan Falls costs 200 PHP per person, and your stay is limited to a maximum of three hours. That window is enough, though, to explore the main attraction – the first waterfall – at a relaxed pace and take a refreshing dip in the turquoise water. If you arrive by motorcycle, you should also budget a parking fee of 50 PHP per bike . The walk from the parking area to the waterfall takes about 15 minutes and is pleasant and flat, so most visitors will find it easy.

Getting to Kawasan Falls

How you get to the Kawasan Falls depends on your starting point. From Moalboal, the waterfalls are about a 35-minute ride by scooter or taxi. The route is scenic and relatively straightforward, which makes it a popular option for day-trippers. On guided tours, hotel pickup and the transfer to the falls are usually included.

From Cebu City, though, the journey takes much longer – about three hours each way. In this case, we recommend traveling by rental car or a private transfer* to make the long drive more comfortable and flexible.

• Address: Kawasan Falls, Alegria, Cebu, Philippines

Kawasan Falls guide: Limited access and new attractions

Since the reopening in 2024 after extensive renovation work, there have been a few changes: visitors who have not booked a canyoneering tour* may visit only the first waterfall. It has been expanded into the main attraction and now impresses with new amenities such as modern restrooms and a large mural painted on a nearby ruin. A large lettering sign has also been installed, which is perfect for Instagram-worthy photos.

Despite the upgrades – or perhaps because of them – the waterfall remains very busy: around 600 people visit the first waterfall every day without a canyoneering tour. These high visitor numbers make for a lively scene and significantly reduce any sense of peace and seclusion. Guided tours are estimated to bring in more than twice as many visitors again.

The different waterfalls

The Kawasan Falls consist of several waterfalls arranged in three stages one after another, forming natural pools. The first waterfall is the largest and best known, and its turquoise pool is often considered the most beautiful. It is 14 meters high, and the pool is about 7 meters deep. This pool is ideal for swimming, and the depth also makes it possible to jump from the rocks into the cool water.

Further up there are more, smaller pools that are less crowded and offer a quieter atmosphere. These higher levels are especially appealing for visitors looking for a more intense nature experience, because they sit away from the main bustle and offer a little more seclusion. Each pool has its own charm, from large, open stretches of water to small hidden pools surrounded by lush vegetation. Levels 2 and 3 can only be reached on guided tours, which unfortunately takes a little away from the sense of peace and seclusion in the end.

Kawasan Falls canyoneering: Adventure or mass tourism?

For adventure seekers, canyoneering is a popular activity at the Kawasan Falls. But a word of caution: these tours have become the very definition of mass tourism. The high number of participants often means you’re moving through the narrow canyons packed tightly with other tourists. If you care about an intense nature experience, you should think carefully about whether you want to book this tour. There are quieter, less crowded places on Cebu that also have a lot to offer adventurers and offer canyoneering.

Because of the close location to Moalboal, though, the canyoneering tour is a favorite of many travelers and is definitely worth the experience, as long as you know you’re signing up for mass tourism.

On the canyoneering tour, by the way, you get access to all the visitable pools, which clearly expands the experience. The tours are best booked online via GetYourGuide* or on site in Moalboal.

Best time to visit and practical tips

The last entry to the Kawasan Falls if you’re arriving on your own is at 3:00 p.m. So if you’re planning a visit, you should arrive in good time. The waterfall is especially impressive in sunny weather, when the water shimmers a brilliant blue. In bad weather, though, the place loses some of its magic, because the water then looks rather murky and can take on a brown color. This is especially true in the rainy season or after long spells of rain.

On the plus side, swimming is allowed and drone photography is permitted, which is a real highlight for photo and video enthusiasts. However, smoking and eating on site are strictly prohibited.

Verdict: Kawasan Falls Cebu

The Kawasan Falls are undoubtedly a must for anyone staying on Cebu, especially if you’re overnighting near Moalboal. The journey from Cebu City is longer and can take up to three hours each way, which is why a private transfer or rental car makes sense. Despite the heavy tourist crowds and the limitations in bad weather, a visit is worthwhile if you have the right expectations. If you’re looking for a quiet nature experience, though, you may want to look at alternative waterfalls on Cebu.

Still have questions or anything to add about the Kawasan Falls in Cebu? Leave a comment!