Nestled in the eastern part of Laguna, Philippines, lies a hidden gem waiting to be explored – the waterfalls of the 4th district. Just 2-4 hours away from Manila, this breathtaking tourist destination offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. In this blog, we will be featuring the top 6 waterfall destinations in this area. From the towering cascades to the serene pools, each of these waterfalls offers a unique experience that will leave you in awe. So, pack your bags and let’s get ready to discover the beauty of the best waterfalls in Laguna.
1. Pagsanjan Falls
Come see one the most famous waterfalls in Laguna – the Pagsanjan Falls, also known as Cavinti Falls (locally called Magdapio Falls). This natural wonder is the major tourist attraction in the 4th district of Laguna province, offering a thrilling adventure to visitors.
You can reach the three-drop waterfall by taking a river trip on a dugout canoe, which the locals call “Shooting the Rapids.” The trip starts from the municipality of Pagsanjan and takes you through the Balanac River and the Bumbungan River (also known as the Pagsanjan River). Alternatively, you can also take a short hike from Cavinti to reach the top of the falls.
The boat ride has been a popular attraction since the Spanish Colonial Era, with the oldest written account dating back to 1894. This exciting adventure will give you the chance to witness the stunning natural beauty of the region, including the ingenuity and resilience of the locals who have made this attraction possible. With accommodation options nearby, you can make the most of your trip and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Pagsanjan.
How to get there
To reach the Pagsanjan tourism office from Manila, you can take a bus from Buendia bound for Sta. Cruz and get off at the end terminal. From there, switch to a jeepney headed to Pagsanjan and inform the driver that you need to alight at the tourism office. Remember to only transact inside the office, and not with anyone outside who may try to negotiate with you. The jeepney ride has a minimum fare. It’s important to note that the “Shooting the rapids” activity in Pagsanjan can be quite expensive, so prepare accordingly.
For adventure seekers, the Cavinti Route provides an alternative option for exploring Pagsanjan Falls. Take a jeepney from Pagsanjan to Cavinti crossing and ride a tricycle to Pueblo El Salvador Nature’s Park and Picnic Grove. Be prepared for a challenging trek with steep stairs and repelling down to the falls.
Follow safety guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. This option is significantly cheaper than the shooting the rapids activity, costing only 350 pesos per person. The return route is also challenging, so it’s important to be physically prepared. If you’re looking for a thrilling adventure and want to save some money, give the Cavinti Route a try!
2. Aliw falls |Best waterfalls in Laguna|
Are you ready for another adventure? that will take your breath away. This natural wonder stands about 25 meters tall and 30 meters wide, making it an awe-inspiring sight to behold.
Located in town of Luisiana, Aliw Falls offers a thrilling experience to visitors. However, it’s important to note that the catch basin is relatively deep, and the surrounding rocks can be slippery. Only experienced swimmers should attempt to bathe here to ensure safety.
And if you’re looking for a unique vantage point, consider climbing the rocks on the left to reach the top of the falls. From there, you’ll have a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape and the cascading water below.
But why is it called Aliw Falls? The name Aliw comes from the Tagalog word which means to entertain or amuse. And that’s precisely what this natural wonder does – it entertains and amuses visitors with its stunning beauty.
As you gaze upon the falls, you’ll be transported to a world of natural wonders and cultural charms. Aliw Falls is the perfect way to kick off your tour of the various cascades in Luisiana, and we can’t wait to explore more, including the Hulugan Falls.
So what are you waiting for? Come see Aliw Falls for yourself and witness the stunning output of nature’s ingenuity. With its breathtaking beauty and thrilling adventure, Aliw Falls is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves to travel and explore the wonders of the world.
How to get there
To get to Aliw Falls, about 2-3 hours from Manila, take a bus in Buendia bound for Sta. Cruz and alight in Pagsawitan. From there, take a jeep parked at the terminal on the right side, bound for Lucena, and tell the driver to drop you off at Dafi Resort in Luisiana.
Alternatively, you can wait for a regular jeep with Luisiana signboard near the bridge/pedestrian overpass in Pagsawitan, but waiting time could be longer. Once at Dafi Resort, follow the signage pointing to Aliw Falls and go inside the compound all the way down to the dead end. The registration area is at the house with the blue roof.
3. Buntot Palos |Best waterfalls in Laguna|
Hidden away in the lush forestry of Sierra Madre lies the breathtaking Buntot Palos, also known as Hidden Falls. The name comes from its elusive beauty that’s tucked away from plain sight, waiting to be discovered.
As you make your way to the falls, you’ll encounter a challenging two-hour trek that’s sure to test your stamina. But don’t worry, the trek is part of the adventure, and the journey is just as rewarding as the destination.
The path leading to Buntot Palos is muddy and slippery, making it perfect for those who love a good challenge. As you navigate your way through the forest, you’ll be surrounded by the natural wonders of the region, including the towering trees and the glistening river.
After two hours of walking, you’ll reach the heart of the falls. Buntot Palos spans 80 meters in length, with water cascading down from the mountains of Sierra Madre. The sound of the water hitting the rocks is mesmerizing, and the mist created by the falls is refreshing.
For those who love to trek and explore nature, Buntot Palos is the perfect destination. You’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the falls and the surrounding landscape, and the experience is one you’ll never forget.
And while no one knows the origin of the name “Eels Tail,” it’s clear that Buntot Palos is a true gem of the Pangil, Laguna. So pack your bags, put on your hiking boots, and come explore the beauty of Buntot Palos. You won’t regret it.
How to get there
To reach the waterfall destinations from Manila via public transportation, you have two options. First, take the Sta. Cruz (Laguna) bound bus from Buendia that goes through SLEX or the Infanta bound bus in Legarda that passes the towns of Rizal Province. If you choose the Sta. Cruz bound bus, you need to get off at the end terminal and transfer to a jeepney that goes to Siniloan. Alight at Barangay Natividad Outpost, register at the outpost, and hire a guide. On the other hand, if you take the Infanta bound bus, you need to get off at Famy crossing and hire a tricycle to take you to Barangay Natividad Outpost (about 5km).
4. Taytay Falls of Majayjay
Nestled in the heart of Majayjay, Laguna lies a hidden gem that’s sure to captivate nature lovers and adventure-seekers alike – Majayjay Falls or Taytay Falls. This breathtaking waterfall is one of the clearest in the province, with icy cold waters flowing from Mount Banahaw, offering a refreshing respite from the country’s tropical climate
.The trail to the falls typically begins near the Multipurpose Hall of Gagalot and along Majayjay-Lucban Road, so make sure to come prepared with proper hiking attire. As you make your way towards the falls, the surrounding wilderness comes alive with a variety of wild plants and trees, and the sound of water crashing against rocks becomes louder with every step.
Upon reaching the falls, you’ll be greeted by a 10-15 meter high waterfall that cascades into a 1,000-square-meter river channel area, providing a picturesque backdrop for your adventure. The cool, clear waters of the falls are perfect for taking a refreshing dip or simply basking in the natural beauty of your surroundings.
As you explore the area, take note of the irrigation on the 2-km pathway and the cliff on the right portion, which add to the falls’ charm. The cold spring water flows freely from Mt. Banahaw, feeding the falls and making it one of the most stunning waterfalls in Laguna.
How to get there
If you want to get to Taytay Falls in Majayjay from Manila, you have two options. The first is to take a bus to Majayjay via Sta Cruz. From there, take a jeepney to the town center and then ride a Majayjay jeep or hire a tricycle to the falls. The second option is to take a bus to San Pablo and then a jeepney to Liliw. From there, take another jeepney or hire a tricycle to Majayjay town center and proceed to the falls as in Option 1.
The site is around 8.0 kms away from the Majayjay town proper, accessible by motor vehicles and a few hundred meters of hiking through a nature trail. Come and experience the beauty and serenity of Majayjay Falls for yourself, and let yourself be swept away by its natural wonder.
5. Tining falls
Tucked away in the lush forests of Sierra Madre in Santa Maria, Laguna, lies the hidden gem of Tining Falls. It’s a true adventure to get to the falls as it requires a 10-minute trek to reach the top and then a thrilling rappel down to the bottom or a daring leap into the cold spring below. This waterfall is not for the faint of heart and is definitely for the adventurous type.
Traversing the narrow river between awe-inspiring cliffs is made possible by riding a balsa, a type of bamboo raft. The cool and clear waters of Tiling Falls and its surrounding lush greenery make it an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. It’s a true paradise that will leave you in awe of its natural beauty. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Tining Falls!
If you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping adventure, Tining Falls is the perfect destination. But be sure to bring your courage and sense of adventure, as this is not your typical walk in the park.
How to get there
To reach the Tining Falls drop-off point from Manila, private vehicle is the only available option. Start by heading towards the Marilaque highway, which passes through the towns of Rizal Province. Once you reach the highway, look for Gav’s Nature Park and proceed to the registration area where you can hire a guide for your journey to Tining Falls.
6. Mount Romelo’s series of Waterfalls |Best waterfalls in Laguna|
Located at the foot of the Sierra Madre mountain range lies the town of Siniloan, which is often referred to as “The Waterfalls Sanctuary of Eastern Laguna” due to the numerous waterfalls that can be found along its various river systems. With at least thirteen waterfalls in the area, Siniloan is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Among the most popular waterfalls in Laguna are those located in the slope of Mount Romelo, in Siniloan, Laguna, which serves as the southwest border of the Sierra Madre range. Despite its relatively low summit elevation of only 240 meters above sea level, Mount Romelo is known to hide numerous beautiful waterfalls that are worth visiting.
In fact, there are at least nine waterfalls in the Mount Romelo area, with most of them being just a fifteen to thirty-minute trek from the campsite. While it is possible to visit all nine waterfalls, some visitors may only have time to explore a few. Regardless, the waterfalls in the Mount Romelo area are a must-see for anyone who enjoys trekking and exploring the beauty of nature.
Let us take a closer look at some of the breathtaking waterfalls that await you in this stunning destination.
Buruwisan Falls |Best waterfalls in Laguna|
Buruwisan Falls, nestled in the beautiful Mount Romelo, is one of the most popular and stunning waterfalls in the area. Located near the Siniloan River, this natural wonder boasts a breathtaking height of around fifty meters and flows into a serene and inviting natural pool. The falls can be easily accessed from the campsite, making it a favorite among visitors to the region. The picturesque surroundings and the serene atmosphere make Buruwisan Falls a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
Lanzones Falls |Best waterfalls in Laguna|
Located near the popular Buruwisan Falls in Mount Romelo, Lanzones Falls is a must-visit spot for those exploring the area. While smaller in size compared to its neighbor, Lanzones Falls still exudes a unique charm of its own. Water cascades from a height of around thirty meters and collects in a small shallow pool before joining the waters of Buruwisan Falls.
The trek to Lanzones Falls takes around 15 minutes from the campsite and is considered an easy hike, making it accessible to all types of travelers. With its serene atmosphere and stunning natural beauty, Lanzones Falls is a perfect spot for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat.
Sampaloc Falls |Best waterfalls in Laguna|
Located approximately 20 minutes away from the campsite, Sampaloc Falls is another remarkable waterfall in Mount Romelo that is definitely worth the trek. Towering at approximately 40 feet, it is situated upstream of Buruwisan Falls and features a magnificent water drop into another huge circular basin. The trail leading to the falls is decorated with Durian trees, and if you’re lucky, you may even chance upon some ripe ones. This trail is considered to be of moderate difficulty, so be prepared for a bit of a challenge.
Binaytuan Falls |Best waterfalls in Laguna|
Binaytuan Falls, also known as Old Buruwisan, is a towering cascade located approximately 30-45 minutes trek away from the campsite. With a height of approximately fifty to sixty meters, it is one of the tallest waterfalls in the area. However, reaching the falls can be quite challenging, especially during the rainy season. The trail leading to Binaytuan Falls is also along Siniloan River, downstream of Buruwisan Falls. Nevertheless, a few meters from the drop of Old Buruwisan are waist to chest deep tubs, which serve as a private jacuzzi tubs for visitors to enjoy. It is definitely worth the effort.
Twin Falls |Best waterfalls in Laguna|
Twin Falls is the most challenging waterfall to reach in Mt. Romelo and is not recommended for novice hikers. It requires an experienced and daring trekker to reach it. However, the effort is well worth it as Twin Falls is one of the most impressive waterfalls in the area. It is named for its two side-by-side waterfalls that tower at over 50 feet each. If you’re up for the challenge and brave enough to take on the hike, Twin Falls is a must-visit for adventure seekers
How to get there
To reach the Mount Romelo drop-off point from Manila via public transportation, you have two options. The first option is to take the Sta. Cruz (Laguna) bound bus from Buendia that goes through SLEX. The second option is to take the Infanta bound bus in Legarda that passes through the towns of Rizal Province. If you opt for the Sta. Cruz bound bus, you will need to get off at the end terminal and transfer to a jeepney that goes to Siniloan. Then, get off again at the end terminal and hire a tricycle to take you to Barangay Macatad, the drop-off point. From there, proceed to the registration area and hire a guide.
Alternatively, if you choose the Infanta bound bus, ask the driver to drop you off at Tres Restaurant and walk down to the registration area.
In conclusion, the waterfalls of Laguna’s 4th district are an excellent destination for anyone seeking a peaceful and refreshing retreat in the midst of nature. With a variety of waterfalls to choose from, each offering their own unique beauty and activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to swim, trek, or simply take in the breathtaking scenery, these waterfalls are a must-visit for locals and tourists alike. So why not plan your next adventure to Laguna’s waterfalls and experience the beauty of these natural wonders for yourself?
Plan your trip now and let these best waterfalls in Laguna be the perfect setting for your next adventure!