One of the most popular places in Cebu is the Kawasan Falls. It is located in the mountains of Barangay Matutinao, Badian with a distance of about 130 kilometers southwest of metropolitan Cebu. I heard it takes a three-hour ride to get there and the whole trip should be worth it.

It was only three years ago when I visited the Kawasan Falls of Badian for the very first time. At first I was reluctant to go with my friends since they were talking about a long trek and I’m not really a fan of walking. But I was also curious about the whole thing. After all, it was during weekend and I didn’t have any other place to go plus, my friend has a car so transportation is a no problem. I only brought a little so that I won’t have a problem with the whole 30-45 minute-walk (if my estimation is correct). “Travel light”, that’s what they always say.

The experience

Barangay Matutinao, Badian is the place where the Kawasan Falls is located. A three-hour bus ride can get us there but we decided to just stick with our friend’s car. We got there at 3pm in the afternoon and it was cozy; perfect for a long trek. We get to walk on the riverbank, which is great by the way, then towards the grand place. After about 30 minutes, we arrived at this place that sells several souvenirs made by the local folk. There were beads, bracelets, Badian t-shirts and necklaces to be sold. We bought some and went ahead.

Kawasan Falls has actually three waterfalls. The first waterfall is the largest of them all and it’s usually the spot where the crowd gathers. The second one is where you have to climb uphill for at least 15 minutes and then to the third one. They have stores, cottages and tables for people to spend time eating and drinking their booze. It was a good thing that we were the only ones there at first; no crowd and just us. It was like we discovered a new paradise. We settled on the first waterfall then rented a raft to get closer to the falling water for a refreshing “massage” and a deep dive. They also have life vests though. We rented some for our lady friends for a very less price.

Getaway from it all

The setting is a very opposite from the busy streets of Cebu. Foreigners and local people are often seen to spend their time here to simply experience the ambiance of nature. The smell of the trees, sound of flowing water and fresh air along with families and friends enjoying together makes it a relaxing and calm moment.

In Kawasan Falls, it’s just the way how nature settles and away from the noisy and hectic lifestyle in the city.