Cebu: Dao, Inambakan, Kawasan and Mantayupan Waterfalls Trip

Cebu: Dao, Inambakan, Kawasan, and Mantayupan Waterfalls Trip offers a full day of natural beauty and adventure. For $110 per person, you’ll spend about nine hours exploring four of Cebu’s most iconic waterfalls, each with its own unique charm. Expect a blend of relaxing swims, exhilarating jumps, and scenic hikes, all with the comfort of private transportation. What makes this experience stand out is the chance to visit Kawasan Falls’ famous turquoise waters and the tall, majestic Mantayupan Falls, both perfect for refreshing dips. We also appreciated the personal touch of a local guide who can help with photos and navigating the tricky bits.

One thing to consider: the long drives between waterfalls can eat into your limited time at each spot. If you prefer more leisurely visits or are traveling with small children or seniors, this may not be the best fit. But if you’re looking for a full-day adventure that balances scenic beauty and active fun, this tour suits energetic travelers craving a taste of Cebu’s waterfalls—and don’t mind a bit of long driving.

Key Points
– Variety of waterfalls: Experience four different waterfalls, each with its own character.
– Active and relaxing: Swim, jump, or just unwind in natural pools.
– Private transport: Comfortable, flexible, and tailored to your schedule.
– Guided experience: Local guides assist with safety and photos.
– Long drive considerations: Expect around 9 hours, with some time spent in transit.
– For adventure seekers: Ideal for those comfortable with travel distances and outdoor activities.

Exploring Cebu’s Waterfalls: A Nature-Filled Day

If you’re after a day immersed in nature, the Cebu Waterfalls Tour offers a great way to see some of the island’s natural wonders without a complicated multi-day plan. Visiting Dao, Inambakan, Kawasan, and Mantayupan waterfalls, this trip combines scenic beauty with the chance to dip into cool waters and enjoy some mild adventure. At $110, it’s a fair price for a full day that includes transportation, entrance fees, and a local guide—making it a convenient and affordable option for those wanting a comprehensive waterfall experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

The journey begins early in the morning with hotel pickup in Cebu City or nearby. You’ll be whisked away in a private vehicle, which means more flexibility and comfort compared to larger group tours. From the start, the emphasis is on experiencing each waterfall at your own pace, with guide-assisted visits to ensure safety and help capture memories.

Dao Falls in Samboan kicks things off with a serene atmosphere and lush surroundings—a perfect start to the day’s nature immersion. Its pristine forest setting makes it ideal for those looking to escape the city buzz. We loved the quiet, peaceful vibe here, making it perfect for some tranquil moments amid nature.

Next, the journey takes you to Inambakan Falls in Ginatilan. This spot offers a mesmerizing natural spectacle—the falls cascade into a tranquil pool surrounded by vibrant greenery. Visitors can relax in the peaceful surroundings after a short hike, with many praising the lush environment that creates a sense of calm and escape.

Then, it’s on to Kawasan Falls in Badian. This is the most famous waterfall on the tour, known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and scenic hiking trails. Kawasan is often crowded, but its beauty and the chance to take a refreshing swim or try cliff jumping make it a favorite. The area is well-developed, with facilities and guides available to assist with jumps or safety tips. Tour reviews highlight the “exhilarating rush” of jumping into the deep pools, appealing to thrill-seekers.

Finally, the tour concludes at Mantayupan Falls in Barili. Standing about 98 meters tall, it’s one of the tallest waterfalls in Cebu and offers a striking two-tiered cascade. The lush backdrop makes for a stunning photo opportunity, and the natural pool at the base invites visitors for a cool dip. Many travelers appreciate how less crowded and more relaxed Mantayupan feels compared to Kawasan, offering a peaceful end to the day.

The Guide and Transportation

One of the tour’s biggest advantages is private transportation. As some reviewers noted, the long drives can be tough—around 3.5 hours to the first waterfall, with additional time navigating between stops. But the comfort of a dedicated vehicle means you can leave early, take breaks as needed, and avoid the hustle of group buses. Guides are available to help with photos, safety tips, and navigating the sometimes tricky paths leading to each waterfall.

Reviews reveal that guides like Jerome and Raul are professional and friendly, making the day more enjoyable. They help with taking pictures and making sure everyone stays safe, especially if cliff jumping or swimming is on your list.

What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind

Everything is laid out clearly: hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance fees, a local guide, and water are all included. But, notably, meals and insurance are not included, so plan to bring snacks or meals if you want to avoid spending extra. Some travelers find the timing of the trip a bit tight—spending around 9 hours in transit with limited time at each waterfall. If you’re looking to spend more time relaxing at each spot, this may feel rushed.

Reviewers appreciate the flexibility of this private tour but also mention that it’s more of a scenic drive with stops rather than an in-depth guided experience. If you prefer a more relaxed pace with scheduled stops for meals, you might want to prepare accordingly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for adventure-minded travelers who enjoy active outdoor experiences and don’t mind a full day on the road. It suits families with older children, groups who value privacy, and those eager to tick off multiple waterfalls in one go. However, it’s less suitable for pregnant women, the elderly, or those with limited mobility because of the walking and swimming involved.

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Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This Cebu waterfall tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, adventure, and convenience. The guides’ local knowledge and safety assistance enhance the experience, and the variety of waterfalls ensures you’ll see different landscapes and environments. The price reflects the full-day logistics, entrance fees, and private transport, making it a good value for a comprehensive experience.

While the long drives might be a downside for some, the stunning sights and refreshing swims compensate for the travel time. It’s a great choice if you want an active, full-day adventure with scenic highlights and the flexibility of a private tour.

If you’re comfortable with some travel time, eager for waterfalls, and enjoy outdoor activities, this trip is well worth considering. It’s especially perfect for those wanting to combine sightseeing with a little adrenaline and the chance to cool off in nature’s pools.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins with hotel pickup early in the morning, around 4:30 am for some, to maximize time at each waterfall.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. It’s recommended to bring snacks or plan to buy food during the day, as reviews mention limited options and long waits.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s best for children over 1 year old who are comfortable with outdoor activities. Some reviews note it’s good for families with kids aged 6 and up.

How long do we spend at each waterfall?
You might find the time at each spot varies; some reviews mention only 6 minutes at one waterfall. Expect some rushing, with about 2-3 hours total at the waterfalls.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, towels, water, and sunscreen. Since safety is important, sturdy footwear is recommended for hikes and rocky paths.

Can I try cliff jumping?
Yes, at Kawasan Falls, cliff jumping is popular and available with guides’ assistance, adding an adrenaline boost to the trip.

Is the tour private or part of a group?
It’s a private tour, giving you flexibility and a personalized experience, but the pace can be quick due to the long drives.

To sum it up, this tour is best suited for adventurous travelers eager to see multiple waterfalls without fuss. It offers authentic natural beauty, good value, and friendly guides, making it a solid choice for those who enjoy active outdoor pursuits. Just be prepared for a long but rewarding day, and don’t forget your swim gear!

You can check availability for your dates here: