Just about everyone who goes to Dumaguete in search of nature has heard of Casaroro Falls, but if you’re really wanting some untouched adventure then the Original Casaroro Falls is a must visit. This 75ft waterfall is rugged and powerful, and it even has a cave at the base of the falls.
You might be wondering why these two waterfalls have the same name, with the only difference being one is the “original”. Legend has it, the guy tasked with naming the falls had one too many beers and got the two falls mixed up. Original Casaroro Falls is the original Casaroro, but the more popular Casaroro Falls just up the road stole the spotlight… and the name. It’s a local legend so who knows how much truth there is in it, but it’s a good story to tell!
READ: 23 EPIC WATERFALLS IN NEGROS ORIENTAL
BEST TIME TO VISIT THE PHILIPPINES
GETTING TO THE ORIGINAL CASARORO FALLS
Original Casaroro Falls in Valencia is conveniently located just 20 minutes from downtown Dumaguete, but has somehow managed to remain mostly a local secret. The easiest way to get there is via scooter, which you can rent for $8 USD a day. If you don’t want to drive a scooter, you can rent a car for $40 a day or hail a tricycle from town, but make sure to barter for a reasonable price since it’s a “special ride” to the falls.
Instead of following the Google Maps pin all the way to the falls, we recommend you follow our dropped pin on the map above, as that will lead you to where you need to park and begin the hike. You’ll see a sign on the left side of the road showing all the waterfalls in the area, and this is where you start.
The path down the mountain is mostly dirt and rocks, with makeshift steps made from rice sacks filled with soil. It’s incredibly steep but should only take you around 20 – 30 minutes down. Going up is a different story! There’s a few forks in the road but as long as you keep right you’ll make it down to where you need to be. Once you arrive at the river, if you keep following it upstream, occasionally crossing it to stay on the path, and you’ll eventually make it to Original Casaroro Falls!
The Original Casaroro Falls is tucked away in a dark crevice, with very little light from above piercing through the thick rainforest canopy. You can take a dip in the near freezing water, or head into the cave and find refuge from the spray coming off the waterfall.
The Original Casaroro Falls is well worth the visit if you’ve got a little time to spare while you’re in Dumaguete. And since you’re in the area, you’d be crazy not to check out the more popular Casaroro Falls just up the road.
READ: CASARORO FALLS ULTIMATE GUIDE
READ: 26 BEST TOURIST SPOTS IN DUMAGUETE
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WHERE TO STAY NEAR THE ORIGINAL CASARORO FALLS
Most people who visit Negros Oriental are told to stay in Dumaguete, but what they really mean by that is stay around Dumaguete. True, Dumaguete City has plenty of tourist inns and budget hotels, but it’s the surrounding towns of Dauin and Zamboanguita that offer the best spots to stay. There’s not a whole lot to do in the city itself, so when you stay in the nearby municipalities there’s plenty of nature to explore whilst still being nice and close to Dumaguete City. Check out our top picks for accommodation near Dumaguete City.
LUXURY: Atmosphere Resorts & Spa, Dauin
Atmosphere Resorts & Spa in Dauin is the resort to stay at if you’ve got a big budget and fancy the finer things in life. Atmosphere has hosted its fair share of local celebrities and deep pocketed divers looking for the best beachfront luxury in Dauin.
MIDSCALE: Mike’s Dauin Dive Resort, Dauin
If you want to stay by the ocean without breaking the bank, Mike’s Dauin Dive Resort in Dauin is a comfortable midscale accommodation option perfect for diving enthusiasts. If you’ve never dived before, you can get your certification at Mike’s, and divers of all skill sets can enjoy the abundance of macro diving opportunities in and around Dauin.
BUDGET: Bongo Bongo Divers, Dauin
Bongo Bongo Divers is one of the most popular hostels in Dauin for backpackers looking for cheap accommodation in a convenient location. The rooms are simple, without any glitz and glam, but the vibe is fun and welcoming. They have a variety of room styles to choose from, ranging from couples rooms to AC or fan only dorms.
AIRBNB: Villa Amani, Zamboanguita
Villa Amani in Zamboanguita is the perfect holiday home for small families or groups of friends looking for privacy that a traditional resort or hotel can’t offer. The main house sleeps 4 with additional space for 2 in the guest house, or you can book the guest house separately if it’s just the 2 of you and you’re on a budget. The property has a swimming pool, an unbeatable view of Apo Island and kayaks to use whenever you want.
MORE NEGROS ORIENTAL GUIDES:
Casaroro Falls, Valencia
Pulangbato Falls, Valencia
Tottyn Falls, Valencia
Palaypay Falls, Pamplona
Hidden Beach, Siaton
