A Complete Guide To Katibawasan Falls: Camiguin’s Tallest Waterfall

Planning a trip to Camiguin? Don’t skip Katibawasan Falls — the island’s tallest and most breathtaking cascade.

Known as the Island Born of Fire, Camiguin is home to majestic volcanos, steaming hot springs, pristine waterfalls, black-sand beaches, and vibrant marine life – all without the crowds.

The island’s slow pace, friendly locals, and commitment to ecotourism make it a refreshing destination to visit in the Philippines.

The mountainous landscape and lush vegetation hide some stunning waterfalls in Camiguin, including the stunning Katibawasan Falls.

Its convenient location and breathtaking beauty mean there is no excuse not to add this natural wonder to your Camiguin itinerary.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to visit Katibawasan Falls — including how to get there, entrance fees, and tips to make the most of your visit.

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Katibawasan Falls: Overview

If you don’t have time to read the whole guide, here is a quick summary –

How to get to Katibawasan Falls

Katibawasan Falls are conveniently located near the main tourist hub, Mambajao.

Their close proximity makes them a perfect way to start or end your day – Katibawasan Falls was the first Camiguin tourist spot on our itinerary.

To reach Katibawasan Falls, I would suggest renting a scooter – this is the most common way to get around Camiguin Island.

👉 we hired our scooter from our accommodation for 350 PHP ($6) a day. For further details, you can check it out here

Katibawasan Falls is located roughly 15 minutes inland from the Central Nautical Highway (Camiguin Circumferential Road) – follow this location on Google Maps.

If you are not so keen on a scooter, you can take a tricycle to reach Katibawasan Falls – this should cost you no more than 200 PHP ($3.50) each way.

If you do take this option, make sure to speak with your driver and organise for them to wait for you outside whilst you explore, as these falls are quite isolated.

Katibawasan Falls Entrance Fee

The entrance fee for Katibawasan Falls is 80 PHP ($1.40).

If you have a student card, the entrance fee is 60 PHP ($1.00). We also paid a further 20 PHP ($0.36) for bike parking.

Not only conveniently located, but visiting Katibawasan Falls is also one of the cheapest things to do in Camiguin.

Opening times

Katibawasan Falls Camiguin is open every day from 8 AM to 5 PM.

We visited in the late morning and were the only people there apart from one other couple. Typically, though, try to visit earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds of tourists.

I would recommend roughly 1 hour to visit Katibawasan Falls.

What to expect

When you arrive at Katibawasan Falls, you’ll find a designated area to park your scooter.

Just by the entrance, there are a few small stalls selling snacks, cold drinks, and local souvenirs — the perfect spot to stock up before heading in, as there are no shops inside.

After paying your entrance fee, there is a short 5-minute walk through the lush jungle to reach the falls. There are about 150 steps down.

As you get closer, the sound of rushing water grows louder — and then, through the trees, you catch your first glimpse.

Katibawasan Falls is truly a dramatic sight, cascading straight down a mossy cliff into a cool, shallow pool below.

How tall is Katibawasan Falls?

Katibawasan Falls is the tallest of the Camiguin Island waterfalls.

In fact, it is one of the tallest single-drop waterfalls in the Philippines.

The water effortlessly flows from the nearby Mount Timpoong, before plunging 250 ft into a shallow basin of water.

The tall but narrow cascade surrounded by dense green jungle makes this one of the most stunning natural wonders and things to do in Camiguin.

Things to do at Katibawasan Falls

• Marvel at the beauty of the falls
• Refreshing dip in the swimming hole
• Picnic with friends or family

Marveling at the beauty of the falls is one of the best things to do here.

Spend some time soaking in the peaceful atmosphere and admiring this dramatic natural wonder in all its glory.

The shallow basin of water is perfect for a refreshing dip with the roaring sound of the waterfall to accompany you.

Although no vibrant turquoise swimming holes or rope swings like some of the more popular waterfalls in Siquijor, to see a waterfall of this height is truly spectacular and not so common in the Philippines.

It reminded me a little of Can-Umantad Falls in Bohol.

Compared to some of the other Camiguin falls, the area is actually quite developed. You can tell this is one of the more popular Camiguin tourist spots.

However, this has its benefits as it means the area is dotted with tables and huts to keep your belongings for a fee – renting a table will set you back 100 PHP ($1.80).

This makes it a great thing to do in Camiguin for families, or those interested in a picnic in a serene setting. There are also very well-maintained toilets and changing rooms.

Despite this, the natural beauty and atmosphere have not been affected. This is therefore a must-visit Camiguin tourist spot for nature enthusiasts and waterfall chasers.

As with most destinations in the Philippines, the WiFi in Camiguin can be a little patchy and unreliable. For a stress-free trip, I would suggest getting a data plan with an Airalo eSIM.

Where to stay in Camiguin

When visiting Camiguin, the majority of travelers tend to stay in the tourist hub Mambajao.

From here, you will be perfectly located near all of the main Camiguin tourist spots and restaurants.

Borbon’s Treehouse By The Sea

My favourite accommodation in the Philippines and a great option for travellers on a budget.

These cozy bamboo beachfront cottages are located in the heart of the tourist hub Mambajao but feel worlds away from the hustle and bustle.

With its own black sand private beach, you are just steps away from the ocean. You can enjoy sunrise and sunset each day in this slice of tropical paradise.

These beautiful private cottages have a rustic feel and each is equipped with a spacious room and a private balcony area.

The owners are digital nomads, so all of the cottages boast super-fast wifi. There is also a fully-equipped shared kitchen.

Prices start at about $27.00 per night.

Tongatok Cliff Resort

A great Camiguin accommodation for couples or groups with a medium budget.

Nestled perfectly on the cliff’s edge, this Camiguin accommodation offers breathtaking panoramic views of the sea and nearby mountains. It is one of the best spots to catch sunset.

Each room has a private terrace, some with hammocks. The resort also boasts its own private beach area, a locally sourced restaurant, and a bar.

Prices start from about $60 per night.

Bintana Sa Paraiso

The best place to stay in Camiguin for luxury travelers.

Located in Mambajao at the foot of Mt. Hibok Hibok, this accommodation offers one of the most jaw-dropping views in Camiguin.

Each room has a balcony area and a private infinity pool overlooking the sea. The modern and spacious rooms also come with a 24-hour personal butler service.

This resort also offers meditation, yoga, and massage services, as well as a delicious restaurant elevated above the beach.

Prices start from about $100 per night.

How to get to Camiguin

There are 3 main entry points to Camiguin Island –

• Camiguin Airport
• Balbagon Port in Mambajao (coming from Cebu/Bohol)
• Benoni Port on the eastern coast (coming from Mindanao)

Your best option would be to fly. Either fly direct from Manila with Sunlight Air or change in Cebu.

✈️ For the best deals, I would recommend booking your flights with Skyscanner.

There are no direct ferries from Cebu to Camiguin.

You will first have to take a ferry from Cebu to Bohol (book here) and then a ferry from Bohol to Camiguin (book at port).

If you’re coming from Cagayan de Oro or Davao, the bus and ferry schedule is super regular and does not need to be booked in advance.

➡️ For my full post from Manila, Cebu, Cagayan de Oro, or Davao, check out my full How To Get To Camiguin Guide here.

FAQs

How many waterfalls are on Camiguin Island?

Camiguin is home to a few stunning cascades hidden amongst the lush vegetation and mountainous landscape.

The three major Camiguin waterfalls are –

• Katibawasan Falls
• Tuasan Falls
• Binagawan Falls

What is Camiguin known for?

Camiguin is known as Isla del Fuego, for its seven volcanos that dominate the surface.

The seven volcanos create a unique landscape and many extraordinary natural wonders. It is the perfect destination for nature lovers looking to get off the beaten path.

These volcanos are totally omnipresent and many of the most popular tourist spots act as a testament to the island’s volcanic past.

➡️ Full Post: ULTIMATE CAMIGUIN TRAVEL GUIDE: Budget & Itinerary

Is Camiguin Island worth visiting?

A small but mighty island, Camiguin is most definitely worth visiting and deserves a spot on your Philippines itinerary.

Camiguin is a unique island and boasts many natural wonders unparalleled in the Philippines. If you’re looking for a change of scenery and a true topical island feel, then Camiguin is the place for you.

The island hasn’t been overwhelmed with tourism, so the island still has a rustic laidback charm and some of the friendliest locals.

Whether you’re interested in hiking volcanos, relaxing in hot springs, marveling at waterfalls, or exploring vibrant coral reefs and marine life, there are so many amazing things to do in Camiguin.

➡️ Must Read: 13 Must-Visit Tourist Spots & Things To Do in Camiguin

How many days do you need in Camiguin?

Camiguin is a very small island and you can visit most of the main tourist spots in a couple of days.

I would recommend 3 days in Camiguin to visit all of the highlights. You cannot miss White Island, Ardent Hot Springs, Katibawasan Falls, and the Sunken Cemetery.

However, if you are hoping to take advantage of this laid-back island to relax and unwind, then 5 – 7 days would be ideal.

You can read my Camiguin Travel Guide with a recommended 3-day itinerary here.

When is the best time to visit Camiguin?

The best time to visit Camiguin coincides with the best time to visit the Philippines in general.

This would be in the dry season, from March – October. However, in general, Camiguin boasts a tropical climate and is generally hot all year round. We visited in March and had great weather.

I would recommend visiting for the annual Lazones Festival in October, a sweet tropical fruit Camiguin is famed for.

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Katibawasan Falls in Camiguin: Final Thoughts

Well, that’s it! Everything you need to know to visit Katibawasan Falls on Camiguin Island, for a refreshing start or end to your day.

If you have visited Katibawasan Falls, I would love to hear from you – drop me a comment below or reach out to me on Instagram or Pinterest and let me know how it was!

Planning your Philippines trip?

With so many amazing islands to explore, how do you decide where to visit? For inspiration, itinerary ideas, and dream destinations, check out the following –

1-Month Philippines Itinerary – the ideal backpacking route exploring popular destinations & off-the-beaten-path spots

Top 10 Best Places To Visit in the Philippines – your ultimate guide to the best destinations to suit every type of traveler