Cebu: Inambakan, Kawasan, and Mantayupan Falls Day Trip

Cebu’s natural beauty is on full display with this popular day trip visiting three of its most captivating waterfalls: Inambakan, Kawasan, and Mantayupan. This tour promises a mix of relaxing swims, scenic vistas, and just enough adventure to keep things exciting.

What really stands out are the professional guides, the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters, and the beautiful photo opportunities at each site. The price is also quite reasonable considering the all-inclusive nature and the variety of waterfalls explored.

However, one factor to keep in mind is that some waterfalls may be temporarily closed for cleaning, which might slightly limit what you see. Still, this trip is ideal for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone wanting a straightforward, well-organized way to experience Cebu’s lush landscape in a single day.

Key Points

• Three waterfalls, one day: Explore Inambakan, Kawasan, and Mantayupan in a single trip for maximum variety.
• Guide-led tours: Knowledgeable guides help you navigate each site, share local tips, and ensure safety.
• Swim and relax: Plenty of opportunities to swim in turquoise pools and enjoy a day of laid-back fun.
• Photo opportunities: Stunning cascades and scenic backgrounds make for memorable snapshots.
• Value for money: All entrance fees, transportation, and safety equipment are included.
• Some site limitations: Waterfalls like Inambakan may undergo cleaning, affecting access.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

How the trip begins: transportation and logistics

Starting from Cebu City, your journey kicks off with round-trip transportation in a private, air-conditioned car. This is a clear advantage, especially on a hot day, as you won’t need to worry about navigating or haggling for rides. The tour is typically guided by a professional guide, who is crucial for making the experience smooth and informative.

The trip generally lasts a full day, with a flexible schedule that allows enough time at each waterfall to enjoy swimming, photos, and some relaxed exploring. The moderate walking involved means comfortable shoes and light clothing are recommended.

First stop: Inambakan Falls

Your adventure begins at Inambakan Falls in Ginatilan, a five-tiered cascade hidden in lush greenery. The guide helps you navigate the trail, which is relatively manageable but requires some light trekking. Reviewers highlight the guide’s knowledge and friendliness, with one mentioning that guides like Antonio go the extra mile—taking photos and helping you explore safely.

Inambakan’s charm lies in its quiet beauty—less crowded than Kawasan, it offers a peaceful backdrop for a dip in cool water. Cliff jumping is possible if you’re feeling brave, adding a splash of adrenaline. Keep in mind that sometimes, parts of Inambakan might be undergoing cleaning, which could limit access to certain areas, as some travelers discovered. Still, the scenery—verdant surroundings and cascading water—makes it worth the visit.

Second stop: Kawasan Falls

Next, your group heads to the iconic Kawasan Falls in Badian, which is well-known for its vivid turquoise waters. This site tends to be busier but offers a lively atmosphere. Here, you can swim in natural pools, take photos of the waterfalls, or enjoy a bamboo raft ride underneath the cascade—a favorite among visitors.

According to reviews, guides at Kawasan are helpful, offering assistance with photos and safety. One reviewer appreciated how they were guided to great photo spots and even given tips on how to best capture the scenery. The waters are perfect for swimming, and the site’s vibrant setting makes it a highlight of the trip.

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Final stop: Mantayupan Falls

Your last visit is to Mantayupan Falls in Barili, renowned as one of Cebu’s tallest waterfalls. Surrounded by a well-maintained park, it’s a relaxing place to take a dip or have a light picnic. The towering waters provide a dramatic backdrop for photos, and the peaceful environment offers a bit of quiet after the more energetic Kawasan.

One reviewer mentions that guides help with photos and exploring but also note that tolls are not included in the price and need to be paid separately, which is a small inconvenience. Still, the towering cascades and serene park setting make Mantayupan a fitting finale.

Value and Practicalities

For $105 per person, this tour offers a good combination of convenience and variety. The comprehensive package includes all entrance fees, transportation, safety gear, and swimming opportunities—which means fewer surprises or hidden costs. Plus, the flexibility to book and pay later gives you some peace of mind, especially if your plans are still flexible.

While the itinerary is well-organized, some travelers note that the schedule can feel rushed, especially if waterfalls are undergoing maintenance or if there are delays in travel. Also, the lunch is not included, so you may want to bring snacks or plan for a meal afterward.

The transportation in a private, air-conditioned vehicle helps keep the journey comfortable, especially during Cebu’s hot season. The group size is generally manageable, with guides like Jiovanie making sure everyone feels safe and informed.

What to Pack

• Comfortable shoes for walking and light trekking
• Swimwear and towel for swimming in pools
• Camera for capturing the scenery
• Sunscreen and insect repellent to stay protected
• Water to stay hydrated during the day

Restrictions and Considerations

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with back, heart problems, or mobility issues. Non-swimmers should also be cautious, as swimming is part of the experience. Smoking, alcohol, and littering are prohibited, ensuring the environment remains pristine.

Review Highlights and Authentic Perspectives

The guides really make this experience special. One traveler raved about Antonio, who took their photos and guided them around Mantayupan, making their visit more memorable. Others appreciated the knowledgeable guides at each waterfall, which enhanced their understanding of the sites.

That said, some visitors were less satisfied. One review pointed out that some waterfalls were under maintenance, and they only got to visit Kawasan and Mantayupan, which caused some disappointment. They also noted that tolls are not included, adding an extra expense.

The value for money is evident, especially with all logistics sorted out, but expectations should be managed for possible site closures or delays.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is ideal if you want a hassle-free way to see some of Cebu’s best waterfalls without renting a car or navigating public transport. It’s perfect for nature fans, photographers, and those seeking a refreshing escape from city life.

If you’re after adventure and photo ops, the stops at Inambakan and Kawasan are particularly compelling. Families with children (who are comfortable swimming and walking) will also find it suitable.

However, not suitable for pregnant women, non-swimmers, or those with mobility issues, due to the physical nature of some stops and the walking involved.

Final Thoughts

Cebu’s Waterfalls Day Trip offers an accessible, well-organized way to enjoy some of the island’s most striking natural sights. The combination of stunning scenery, professional guides, and swimming opportunities makes it a solid option for a full-day adventure.

While you may encounter some site-specific limitations like temporary closures, the variety of waterfalls and the overall value make this a worthwhile experience. It’s especially suited for those who want a balanced mix of relaxation, adventure, and picture-perfect moments.

If you’re looking for a straightforward, scenic tour that showcases Cebu’s natural beauty without the fuss, this trip hits the mark.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes professional guides, round-trip transportation in a private air-conditioned vehicle, entrance fees to all waterfalls, safety equipment, and swimming opportunities at each site.

How long does the trip last?
It’s a full-day experience, allowing enough time at each waterfall to swim, take photos, and explore comfortably.

Are meals included?
No, lunch and other meals are not included, so bringing snacks or planning to buy food locally is recommended.

Can I book the tour and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot and pay later, which offers flexibility in planning.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with back or heart problems, wheelchair users, or non-swimmers.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, towels, a camera, sunscreen, water, and insect repellent.

What if some waterfalls are closed?
In some cases, waterfalls like Inambakan may be undergoing cleaning, which could limit access. The guides will inform you of current conditions.

Is tipping expected?
While not mandatory, tipping guides and drivers is appreciated for their friendly service.

In summary, this waterfall tour offers a fantastic snapshot of Cebu’s lush landscape, combining adventure, relaxation, and plenty of photo-worthy moments. It’s a great way to see the island’s natural highlights with comfort and ease—perfect for travelers wanting a memorable day out in paradise.

You can check availability for your dates here: