If you’ve heard of Cebu, you’ve likely heard of Kawasan Falls. It’s the waterfall that put Cebu on the map for backpackers and tourists, who travel from all over the world to get a glimpse of that blue water. We’ve been lucky enough to visit Kawasan Falls four times, and each time we were blown away by its vibrant blue hue. No wonder its earned the nickname Gatorade Factory! We’ve been visiting since 2016 and have noticed some big changes to Kawasan Falls in 2022. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know before you visit in 2022.
WHERE IS KAWASAN FALLS
South Cebu is full of waterfall gems, with Kawasan Falls the biggest gem of them all! It’s located in the town of Badian, just a short 30 minute drive from Moalboal, which is where most people will stay in the south. It’s easily reached by motorbike, car, or even public bus. The entrance to the falls is just off the main road, which is where we parked our car and walked to Kawasan Falls from there. The walk was only around 10 – 15 minutes on a developed path.
WHAT TO BRING TO KAWASAN FALLS
Prepare for your trip to Kawasan Falls with our must have travel essentials.
Waterproof backpack & phone case: Earth Pak 35L or 55L Heavy Duty Backpack, IPX8 Waterproof Phone Case Included (Click for price)
Quick dry microfiber travel towel: Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Travel Towel (Click for price)
Action camera: GoPro HERO9 Black (Click for price)
Drone: DJI Mavic 2 Pro (Click for price)
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO VISIT KAWASAN FALLS
The entrance fee to Kawasan Falls in 2022 is ₱45/$0.93 USD for foreigners and ₱20 for locals. It’s ₱1500 or $30USD per person for the full Badian canyoneering tour to Kawasan Falls, which you can book online via the the government tourism portal, Discover Cebu (click here for more info). Bring a little extra cash for snacks, souvenirs and bamboo raft rental (maybe… more on that later).
CANYONEERING TO KAWASAN FALLS
If you want to know more about canyoneering to Kawasan Falls, you can check out our guide to this epic experience here. Having done it in 2016, 2018 and 2021, we know a thing or two about this tour!
OUR EXPERIENCE AT KAWASAN FALLS – 2016, 2018 & 2021
There’s no denying Kawasan Falls is truly a sight to behold. Whether it’s the first, second, third, or even fourth time seeing it, our reaction is still one of pure awe. It’s one of those places that’s just as good, if not better, in real life than in photos.
The biggest difference in 2021 is just how quiet Kawasan Falls was. If you’ve been in previous years, you’d know how busy this place gets. If you haven’t been before, then picture life jackets galore! Waiting your turn to take photos in all the best spots, and still having to photoshop people out of the background anyway.
During our visit in January 2021, we had the place all to ourselves. We were able to swim, take photos and enjoy the place, just us. It was literally a once in a lifetime opportunity, and if you’re able to then we definitely recommend visiting Kawasan Falls asap! Once tourism opens up again, Kawasan Falls will go back to what it once was, which has its pros and cons. The biggest pro being that the livelihood of the locals will be restored, which we think is more important than needing to photoshop some life jackets out anyway.
“But, where’s the bamboo raft?”, you ask. Well, we hate to be the bearers of bad news, but it’s gone. You might have seen some very famous shots of Kawasan Falls featuring a bamboo raft, but unfortunately due to some bureaucracy, the raft has been removed for the time being. Hopefully, the officials can sort this out and bring the raft back soon, as its so iconic to Kawasan.
Our visit to Kawasan Falls in 2021 was definitely different to what we’ve experienced before, in both good and bad ways. In saying that, we can’t recommend it enough still! Particularly now, when you can enjoy the magic of Kawasan Falls without the crowds. It was a truly unique experience.
READ: 28 BEST TOURIST SPOTS IN CEBU
READ: 23 BEST WATERFALLS IN CEBU
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WHERE TO STAY IN MOALBOAL
Southern Cebu is where all the adventure is at, from waterfalls and whale sharks to island hopping and diving. When visiting anywhere in the south, the best place to stay is Moalboal. It has the most accommodation options, and is a fun little town with dozens of cafes, restaurants and bars. Check out our top four picks below for where to stay in Moalboal.
BUDGET/HOSTEL: CHIEF MAU
Right on the main strip of Panagsama Road you’ll find Chief Mau, a fun and social hostel that dubs itself the chillest place in town. Clean, modern and affordable, boasting a restaurant, bar and billiards, Chief Mau is a favourite amongst backpackers
MIDSCALE: ADAM’S VIEW HOTEL
Simple but with all the amenities and facilities you need – including a massive pool – Adam’s View Hotel is our top pick for those looking for a little more luxury than a backpackers. Located in the main town, Adam’s View Hotel is right next to Gaisano Mall, but still close enough to the action of Panagsama Beach to remain convenient.
LUXURY: TURTLE BAY DIVE RESORT
If you have deep pockets and an appreciation for the finer things in life, Turtle Bay Dive Resort is the place for you. Tucked away on a private cove in the quieter part of town, this luxury resort is perfect for couples looking for a little exclusivity.
AIRBNB: LRS APARTMENT
We can personally attest to how great LRS Apartment is, having spent two weeks there. Aside from a beautiful private pool, the apartment itself is modern, well furnished and spacious enough for a couple. (And a cat!) It’s just a 5 minute drive from the hustle and bustle of the restaurants and bars along Panagsama Road, but far enough away to offer a little peace and quiet. We can’t recommend LRS Moalboal enough!
SEARCH ALL HOTELS & RESORTS IN MOALBOAL
MORE CEBU TRAVEL GUIDES
Kawasan Falls Canyoneering
Montpellier Falls Alegria
Cancalanog Falls Alegria
Binalayan Falls Samboan
Balaygsawa Falls Samboan
Sumilon Island Oslob
Oslob Whale Shark Experience
Pescador Island Moalboal
Sardine Run Moalboal
Turtle Bay Moalboal
