Mantayupan Falls is a beast of a waterfall in Barili, South Cebu, and takes the title as the tallest waterfall on Cebu island. At 98 metres tall, she’s a sight to behold as she plummets down the cliff face into the large basin below. Miraculously easy to get to, Mantayupan Falls is a must-visit if you’re in the area!
HOW TO GET TO MANTAYUPAN FALLS BARILI CEBU
It’s around a 2-hour drive from Cebu City to Mantayupan Falls, or just under an hour from Moalboal. You can easily find Mantayupan Falls on Google Maps, or follow the pin below. From the Barili town centre it’s not even 10 minutes to the entrance of the falls.
MANTAYUPAN FALLS CEBU ENTRANCE FEE
Mantayupan Falls is by no means a secret waterfall or hidden paradise, so expect an entrance fee of ₱40/USD $0.80 and a further ₱500/$10 to rent a cottage. We didn’t rent a cottage, but at least you know the option is there.
WHAT TO BRING TO MANTAYUPAN FALLS
Prepare for your trip to Mantayupan Falls Cebu 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)
Insulated water bottle: Hydro Flask Vacuum Insulated Water Bottle (click for price)
Hiking Sandals: Teva Women’s Hurricane Hiking Sandals (click for price), Teva Men’s Hurricane Hiking Sandals (click for price)
If you’re interested in photography and/or videography this is the gear we can’t live without:
Professional camera: Sony a7iii (click for price)
Action camera: GoPro HERO9 Black (click for price)
Drone: DJI Mavic 2 Pro (click for price)
To see our complete camera gear read this post here.
If you plan on flying your drone here, our tip is to fly it from the carpark up the top. There’s no GPS signal down at the waterfall so you won’t be able to take off. We enjoyed our time at the waterfall and then flew the drone right before leaving.
WHAT TO EXPECT AT MANTAYUPAN FALLS
There’s not much of a hike involved at Mantayupan Falls, and it only takes a minute to reach the first waterfall from the entrance. There are a few separate cascades here all flowing into a large swimming basin, and whilst these waterfalls are beautiful, they’re by no means the main attraction.
You’ll need to cross a hanging bridge to reach Mantayupan Falls, so if bridges aren’t your thing, beware. Bridges definitely aren’t Zowie’s cup of tea, but in terms of wooden hanging bridges, it’s pretty safe and sturdy.
You definitely don’t want to visit Mantayupan Falls on a weekend, because this place can get crowded. We went on a weekday and there were just a few other people until right when we decided to leave and a large group arrived, so keep in mind this place is pretty popular. It’s easy to see why it attracts so many visitors though. It really is a magnificent waterfall.
READ: 23 BEST WATERFALLS IN CEBU
READ: 28 BEST TOURIST SPOTS IN CEBU
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WHERE TO STAY IN SOUTH CEBU
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
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Badian Canyoneering
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Kabutongan Falls Malabuyoc
Kawasan Falls Badian
Montpellier Falls Alegria
Cancalanog Falls Alegria
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