Cebu South Falls: Mantayupan, Kawasan, Inambakan & Aguinid

Contents hide

2 Discovering Cebu’s Waterfalls: What to Expect

3 Real Experiences and Traveler Insights

Introduction

If you’re dreaming of plunging into cool mountain pools, hiking lush trails, and snapping photos of waterfalls that look like they belong in a postcard, then this waterfall tour in Cebu might just be your perfect day out. It covers four of the island’s most stunning cascades—Mantayupan, Kawasan, Inambakan, and Aguinid—giving you a taste of the region’s natural beauty all in one package.

What we particularly like about this tour is how diverse and active it is. You’ll enjoy swimming in turquoise waters, riding a bamboo raft, and even climbing on rocks with guides to help you navigate the tiers of Aguinid Falls. Plus, the inclusion of lunch means you can fuel up without worrying about extra costs. One thing to consider is that the entire day can be quite long—with around 7 hours of travel from Cebu City—so it’s best suited for those who relish full-day adventures and don’t mind a bit of a bus ride.

This experience is ideal for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and families with kids over 6 who want to see some of Cebu’s best waterfalls with an organized guide. If you’re pressed for time but craving a comprehensive day in the outdoors, this tour offers genuine value—especially considering the convenience of hotel pickup and all entrance fees included.

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Key Points

Four Waterfalls in One Day: Experience Mantayupan, Kawasan, Inambakan, and Aguinid, each offering unique scenery and activities.
Active and Relaxing Mix: Swim, hike, and even climb at Aguinid—perfect for those who want a bit of everything.
All-Inclusive Convenience: Pickup, guide, environmental fees, safety gear, and lunch included for a hassle-free day.
Authentic Experience: Guides are praised for their professionalism and support, making even the more challenging climbs safer and more fun.
Long Day with Travel Time: Expect around 7 hours round-trip from Cebu City, so be prepared for a full-day outing.
Great for Photographers and Nature Fans: Expect lush scenery, cascading waterfalls, and plenty of photo opportunities.

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Badian.

Discovering Cebu’s Waterfalls: What to Expect

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off early in the morning with pickup from your hotel or designated location in Cebu City, Mactan, Mandaue, Moalboal, or Talisay. The round-trip transport is comfortable, and the driver and guide team are friendly and bilingual—speaking English and Tagalog—making the journey smoother. Expect around 7 hours in total, including travel time, which is a significant chunk of your day but allows you to see four incredible sites.

Mantayupan Falls

Your first stop is Mantayupan Falls, famous for its 98-meter cascade. It’s a breathtaking sight and perfect for photos. You’ll have around an hour here to take in the views, swim in the cool waters, or simply relax with the sound of rushing water in the background. The falls are accessible and don’t require strenuous hiking, making it a great warm-up for the rest of the day.

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Kawasan Falls

Next is Kawasan Falls, arguably Cebu’s most famous waterfall, known for its vibrant, turquoise waters. This spot is a favorite for travelers wanting to swim, relax, and enjoy the scenery. The tour includes a guided walk and a chance to ride a bamboo raft beneath the falls—an experience that’s both fun and photogenic. You’ll spend about 1.5 hours here, giving you plenty of time to splash around or snap some memorable shots.

Here's some more things to do in Badian

Inambakan Falls

Moving on, the tour takes you to Inambakan Falls, a less-crowded gem often praised for its natural beauty and tranquility. It’s a multi-tiered waterfall surrounded by dense jungle, perfect for hikers and nature lovers. The guide will take you on a short hike, crossing streams and exploring the greenery, culminating in some time to relax in the pools or take photos of the lush landscape. One reviewer raved about their guides supporting them during the climb, emphasizing the importance of knowledgeable guides in making the experience safe and enjoyable.

Aguinid Falls

The final stop is Aguinid Falls, which is known for its five cascading levels of waterfalls. Here, you’ll get a real dose of adventure—climbing up rocks, walking along natural pathways, and swimming in the pristine waters. Guides assist in making the ascent safer and more manageable. Expect about two hours at Aguinid, with plenty of opportunities for photos, swimming, and even some light rock scrambling. This stop is often highlighted as the highlight of the tour, thanks to the personalized guidance and the thrill of conquering multiple tiers.

Lunch and Rest

Between Inambakan and Aguinid, there’s a scheduled 45-minute lunch break in Badian. The tour provides a hearty meal that fuels you for the rest of the day, so you won’t need to worry about snacks or extra expenses. The food is typically local and satisfying, adding to the experience of enjoying Cebu’s regional flavors.

Real Experiences and Traveler Insights

One traveler praised the guides’ professionalism at Inambakan, saying, “They supported us with climbing the 7-tier waterfall— I felt very safe. This was a highlight of my entire holiday!” That kind of support can turn what seems daunting into a fun challenge, especially at Aguinid, where climbing is part of the adventure.

However, not all reviews are glowing. Some travelers felt the long travel time and organization issues impacted their experience. As one noted, “The journey from Cebu City (around 7 hours there and back) was very long and the organization was poor, no explanations and no real guides, unfortunately you were encouraged to pay for very expensive extras on site.” This highlights that while the tour offers many positives, it’s important to be prepared for a full day of travel and variable experiences.

The Value of Guided Tours

The guides are often singled out for praise, especially those who help with climbing and navigating tricky sections. Their knowledge and support add a layer of safety and fun that makes the adventure more accessible, even if you’re not an experienced hiker or swimmer. The inclusion of safety gear and environmental fees also makes it easier to relax and focus on enjoying the scenery.

Impact of the Price

At $101 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive package—transport, guides, fees, and lunch—making it a convenient, all-in-one option. When you consider the costs of individual entrance fees, transportation, and meals if organizing independently, this price provides decent value. Plus, the experience of visiting four waterfalls, with guides supporting you through climbs and swims, adds to the overall worth.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This adventure suits travelers who want to spend a full day exploring Cebu’s famous waterfalls without the hassle of organizing their own transport and guides. It’s ideal for families with kids over 6, groups of friends, or solo travelers eager for a mix of relaxation and activity. If you’re comfortable with some physical activity, like hiking and climbing, you’ll find this tour rewarding. However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, serious medical conditions, or those who prefer a more relaxed, less active day.

Final Thoughts

This waterfall tour in Cebu packs a lot into one day. You get to see four of the island’s most captivating waterfalls, all with the support of professional guides and included amenities. The combination of swimming, hiking, and photo opportunities makes it a compelling choice for those craving authentic nature experiences with a bit of adventure.

While the long travel time might be a downside for some, the chance to visit diverse waterfalls in a single trip is hard to beat. The guides’ support, especially at Aguinid, not only boosts safety but also enhances enjoyment, making what could be a daunting climb feel more accessible.

If you’re after a day filled with natural beauty, active exploration, and scenic views, this Cebu waterfall tour offers good value and genuine experiences. It’s perfect for travelers eager to see the island’s lush landscapes and enjoy some outdoor fun with all logistics handled for you.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are available for hotels in Cebu City, Mactan Island, Lapu-Lapu, Mandaue City, and Moalboal. Airport pickup can also be arranged.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring a hat, swimwear, change of clothes, camera, snacks, sunscreen, water, comfortable clothes, and water shoes. Expect to get wet.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts about 7 hours round-trip, including travel time from Cebu City to the waterfalls.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but participants must be at least 6 years old. The activity involves some physical effort, so children should be comfortable with hiking and swimming.

Are guides available at each stop?
Yes, guides support you at each waterfall, especially during climbs and swimming, enhancing safety and giving tips.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The booking is flexible, with the option to reserve now and pay later.

To sum it up, this Cebu waterfall tour offers a fantastic way to experience the island’s natural riches—perfect for those who love adventure, stunning scenery, and organized convenience. Whether you’re snapping photos of cascading waterfalls or enjoying a refreshing swim, it’s a full-day journey that’s hard to forget. Just remember, it’s a day for active exploration, so come prepared and ready for a memorable outdoor experience.