Planning a trip to Cebu and craving a taste of its natural beauty? This day trip to three of Cebu’s most breathtaking waterfalls—Inambakan, Kawasan, and Mantayupan—offers a great way to experience the island’s lush landscapes in a single day. With a well-organized tour, you’ll enjoy swimming in crystal-clear waters, snapping memorable photos, and soaking up the tranquility of the Philippine countryside.
What we really like about this tour is its focus on authentic natural settings and the ability to visit multiple waterfalls without feeling rushed. The inclusion of a professional guide and private, air-conditioned transport keeps things comfortable and informative. But a minor consideration is that not all waterfalls may be accessible at times, depending on cleaning schedules or other disruptions. Still, this trip suits travelers who appreciate scenic outings, moderate adventure, and a good value for the price.
If you’re someone who loves nature, enjoys a bit of swimming, and wants to see Cebu’s most scenic spots without a fuss, this tour could be just right. It’s especially great for those eager to explore beyond the city and embrace the island’s lush, cascading beauty.
Key Points
- Visit three waterfalls in one day — Inambakan, Kawasan, and Mantayupan.
- Includes transportation, entrance fees, and guides—making it a hassle-free experience.
- Swim and take photos at each site, with safety equipment provided.
- Moderate walking is involved; good shoes and light clothing are recommended.
- Not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or non-swimmers, due to physical activity and terrain.
- Price offers good value considering transportation, guide services, and access to three beautiful sites.
👉 Check out our guide to the 5 Best Guided Tours In Cebu City
What Makes This Tour Special?
This trip stands out because it hits the highlights of Cebu’s waterfall scene without requiring you to organize multiple excursions yourself. The day is carefully planned to maximize your sightseeing and relaxation time, offering a combination of adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural insight through your guides.
The waterfalls themselves are spectacular. Inambakan, in Ginatilan, is a peaceful five-tiered cascade, often less crowded than Kawasan but equally stunning. Its multiple levels allow for different experiences—some spots perfect for a refreshing dip, others ideal for photos. One reviewer noted it as a “hidden paradise,” great for those craving a quieter, more private experience.
Kawasan Falls, in Badian, is famous worldwide for its striking turquoise waters. It’s the busiest stop, but that’s part of its charm—its popularity means there are plenty of spots to relax or go bamboo raft riding beneath the falls. It’s the most iconic of the three and often the highlight for visitors. Expect to see many fellow travelers, especially at the main swimming areas.
Finally, Mantayupan Falls in Barili is notable for its impressive height and the serene park surrounding it. The peaceful setting makes it ideal for a leisurely swim or a picnic. While some travelers comment on the somewhat disorganized nature of the day, the scenic views and the chance to relax in a less crowded environment are well worth it.
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Cebu City
The Itinerary in Detail
The tour begins early from Cebu City, with a comfortable, private air-conditioned vehicle ready to whisk you away into the countryside. The journey to the waterfalls offers a glimpse of rural life and lush greenery, setting the tone for the day.
Inambakan Falls is your first stop. Here, the highlight is the five-tiered cascade, flowing through a quiet, forested area. You’ll have ample time to explore, swim, or take photos. The setting isn’t as commercialized as Kawasan, which is a plus for travelers seeking tranquility. The guide can assist with safety equipment if you decide to cliff jump or explore the terrain.
Next, you head to Kawasan Falls. Known for its glowing turquoise waters, it’s a popular spot for both locals and travelers. You can swim in the natural pools, enjoy a bamboo raft ride, or just relax with a cold drink and snap pictures of the cascading waterfall. The site can get busy, but guides are adept at helping you find quieter corners.
Lastly, the trip moves to Mantayupan Falls. Its towering height and peaceful park atmosphere make it a great spot to unwind. Visitors often comment on the well-maintained surroundings and the opportunity for a calm swim or a picnic amid scenic views.
Throughout the day, your guide provides insights into local customs and ensures safety, which reviewers have appreciated. Transportation between waterfalls is included, making it easy to focus on the scenery rather than logistics.
Practical Considerations
Transportation and Group Size: The tour uses a private, air-conditioned vehicle, which is a real plus for comfort and flexibility. The group size is generally manageable, ensuring personalized attention from guides.
Cost and Value: At $105 per person, the cost covers all entrance fees, transportation, safety gear, and the guide’s services. Considering the number of sites visited and the included logistics, it’s fairly priced, especially compared to arranging separate trips.
What to Bring: Good walking shoes, swimwear, a towel, a camera, sunscreen, water, and insect repellent are recommended. The terrain involves some walking and outdoor exposure, so being prepared makes the experience more enjoyable.
Limitations: This tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with back or heart problems, wheelchairs, or non-swimmers. Also, the schedule depends on weather and site conditions, so some waterfalls might be closed for cleaning or maintenance.
Flexibility: Booking allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind if plans change.
Highlights from Reviewers
Multiple travelers praised the knowledgeable guides, like Lauren’s comment about guides helping with photos and sharing local tales, which adds a layer of cultural richness. Others appreciated the organized logistics and scenic beauty—describing the waterfalls as “amazing” and “worth seeing.”
However, there were some mixed experiences. One reviewer, Imran, was disappointed to find that not all waterfalls could be visited due to ongoing cleaning, leading to a partial refund. This underscores that some aspects, like site maintenance, can affect the overall experience.
Despite this, many appreciated the value for money and the chance to see multiple waterfalls in a single day. The opportunity to relax, swim, and take photographs makes this tour a well-rounded experience.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Sum Up
This Cebu waterfall tour offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and scenic beauty. With professional guides and private transport, it’s an efficient way to see three of the island’s top natural attractions without the hassle of organizing each stop yourself. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate outdoor activities, stunning landscapes, and cultural insights in a comfortable setting.
While it’s not suitable for everyone—particularly those with mobility issues or non-swimmers—the experience is a great value for those seeking a memorable day immersed in Cebu’s lush environment. Expect gorgeous views, friendly guides, and plenty of opportunities to swim and take photos.
For anyone wanting an authentic taste of Cebu’s natural wonders, this tour delivers a rewarding, hassle-free day that captures the essence of the island’s serene beauty.
Cebu: Inambakan, Kawasan, and Mantayupan Falls Day Trip
FAQ
How long is the tour?
The tour typically lasts most of the day, starting early from Cebu City and returning in the late afternoon.
Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation in a private, air-conditioned vehicle is included.
Are entrance fees covered?
All entrance fees to the waterfalls are included in the price.
Can I swim at the waterfalls?
Yes, swimming is allowed at each waterfall, with safety equipment provided.
Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s suitable for anyone able to handle moderate walking and outdoor conditions. Not recommended for non-swimmers or very young children.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, water, and insect repellent are recommended.
Is lunch included?
No, meals are not included, but guides can recommend local spots or you can bring your own snacks.
Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Are there any restrictions?
Not suitable for pregnant women, people with back or heart problems, wheelchair users, or non-swimmers.
What if some waterfalls are closed?
Occasionally, waterfalls may be undergoing cleaning or maintenance, which could affect your plans. Partial refunds may be offered if less than three sites are visited.
This comprehensive tour balances adventure, scenic beauty, and comfort, making it a fantastic way to explore Cebu’s lush waterfalls while enjoying expert guidance and hassle-free logistics.
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