Top 5 Best Waterfalls in Siquijor: The ULTIMATE Guide
Siquijor is home to some of the most stunning waterfalls in the Philippines.
This post will detail the top 5 most beautiful waterfalls in Siquijor, including how to get there, how much it will cost, and what to expect at each, updated for 2024.
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Siquijor Island is becoming increasingly popular for its untamed natural beauty and attracts both nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
From Tarzan swings and hidden caves to vibrant blue-tiered cascades, amidst the dense green jungle, you will find some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Philippines.
Whilst Siquijor is home to some pretty striking and Instagram-worthy falls, the rawness and tranquility of the lesser-known falls will leave you wanting more.
Spending the day waterfall hopping is one of the best things to do in Siquijor. If you follow the tips in this post, you might even get to enjoy some of these falls all to yourself.
In this post, we will cover the best Siquijor falls, including how to get there and what to expect at each one.
Where are the most beautiful Siquijor Falls?
Most of the waterfalls on this list are concentrated in Lazi, Siquijor. This means that you can visit them all on the same day.
One on this list is located in the main tourist hub San Juan, for those who do not want to travel so far.
For those who are up for a bit of exploring, one of the waterfalls you will find up in the mountains in the center of Siquijor.
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As with most destinations in the Philippines, the WiFi in Siquijor can be a little patchy and unreliable. For a stress-free trip, I would suggest getting a data plan with an Airalo eSIM.
How to get around Siquijor
The best way of getting around Siquijor is with a scooter, which is the main mode of transport for everyone. The roads are very well-maintained.
We hired our bike for 350 PHP ($6) a day from Stella’z Guesthouse for 5 days.
If you’re not keen on hiring a scooter, you can speak to the tricycle drivers and negotiate with them a price for the day.
Cambugahay Falls
Cambugahay Falls are the most famous of the Siquijor waterfalls, and arguably the most beautiful too.
This waterfall has three tiers, vibrant turquoise waters, and is surrounded by dense jungle. This is one of the most stunning waterfalls I have seen in the Philippines.
After arriving and a short walk down some stairs, you will catch your first glimpse of the crystal-clear waters in the first swimming hole.
Cambugahay Falls is an adventurer’s playground and is kitted out with jumping points, Tarzan rope swings, and bamboo rafts.
Keep walking upstream to explore the different tiers – you will also find some shacks here to keep your stuff.
For unlimited use of the rope swing it is 50 PHP ($0.88). Similarly, for those who want that picture-perfect shot, you can also pay 50 PHP for the bamboo raft.
The third tier was my favourite and the most relaxing. Here, there were very few people, the water was warmer and the little cascades coming down make you feel like you’re in a spa.
The only downside is the number of tourists, which is why this wasn’t my favourite waterfall in Siquijor. I found it a little commercialised compared to other lesser-known Siquijor falls.
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How do you get to Cambugahay Falls?
From the tourist hub San Juan, it takes about 40 minutes to reach Cambugahay Falls.
Coming south out of San Juan, take the Siquijor Circumferential Road for about 30 minutes until you reach the town of Lazi.
Here, you will take a left inland and can follow the Google Maps directions to reach the falls.
This Siquijor fall is clearly signposted, letting you know that you have arrived. Park up and make your way over to the entrance desk to purchase your ticket.
Entrance fee and opening hours
The entrance fee for Cambugahay Falls is 20 PHP ($0.35) and scooter parking is 10 PHP ($0.17).
If you want to use the rope swings or the raft, this is an additional 50 PHP each. This you pay for directly from the local guides at the waterfall.
Cambugahay Falls is open every day from 8 a.m – 5 p.m. As one of the most popular tourist spots in Siquijor, Cambugahay Falls can get pretty busy.
If you’re hoping for a more peaceful experience away from tourists, or perhaps you want to snap that Instagram-worthy drone short, I would recommend coming as early as possible.
Note: try to avoid visiting Cambugahay Falls if it has rained the night before. The rain makes the water lose its striking blue colour and it will be murky brown instead.
How many steps are there in Cambugahay Falls?
To reach Cambugahay Falls from the parking area there are about 135 steps going down. Rest assured though, they are in good condition and there is a handrail going down.
Related: ULTIMATE SIQUIJOR TRAVEL GUIDE: Budget & Itinerary
Why is Cambugahay Falls famous?
Cambugahay Falls has gained fame as one of the most aesthetically pleasing waterfalls in the Philippines. The bright blue water contrasts beautifully with the wild green of the surrounding jungle.
With its three tiers and vibrant cascading water, it is no surprise that these epic falls have gained lots of attention on social media, turning it into a must-visit attraction in Siquijor.
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Kawasan Falls and Cave
Kawasan Falls is my favourite waterfall in Siquijor and possibly the most underrated.
Full Post: Kawasan Falls: A Complete Guide To Siquijor’s Best-Kept Secret
Although not as striking as the popular Cambugahay Falls, Kawasan Falls is totally immersed in nature and better yet, not many tourists know it is here.
When we visited, we were the only people there, which made the experience so much more special.
As well as the waterfall and swimming hole, there is a rope swing to have some fun jumping and flipping into the water. You can also use the waterfall as a slide, as the surface is pretty smooth.
You have to swim under the waterfall itself to access the small cave hidden behind, which boasts some pretty unique rock formations.
To reach these Siquijor Falls, there is quite a steep trail so it is compulsory to have a guide with you. The guide took lots of great photos for us and showed us some freshwater pools behind the waterfall too.
Entrance fee
Entrance to Kawasan Falls and Cave is FREE, you just need to pay 20 PHP for parking. As it is compulsory to have a guide, a donation or tip is expected.
For more detailed information, including how to get there and how much we tipped, you can check out my detailed guide here.
Lagaan Falls
Another one of the most beautiful Siquijor waterfalls is Lagaan Falls.
This fall is also lesser known to tourists, so you can spend hours enjoying the peace and practicing your backflips into the water.
Lagaan Falls also offers an epic rope swing, a natural rock slide, as well a small cave to explore. This is therefore a great spot for those looking for some adventure in Siquijor.
This waterfall also requires a steep 5-minute walk through the forest, before you catch a glimpse of the blue waters. A guide is not mandatory here, but I would recommend one.
The tip for the guide is also based on donation and this is how they make their living. It’s great to chat with the locals and they can snap some great photos too.
Visit the main Siquijor highlights including Salagdoong Beach, Cambugahay Falls, the Old Balete Tree, and Paliton Beach.
This full-day tour includes roundtrip transportation from Dumaguete, entrance fees, a private guide, and lunch.
How to get to Lagaan Falls
Just like with the other falls in Lazi, you will need to take the Siquijor Circumferential Road south out of San Juan for about 30 minutes.
Once you reach Lazi, take a left inland and follow the Google Map directions to reach these Siquijor falls.
Entrance fee
This is one of the pricier falls on Siquijor Island. The entrance fee is 50 PHP ($0.88) and parking is 10 PHP ($0.17).
Must Read: How To Spend 3 Days in Siquijor: Ultimate Travel Guide
Lugnason Falls
Lugnason Falls, also known as Zodiac Falls, is another one of the most stunning falls in Siquijor.
These Siquijor falls are hidden in the lush greenery of the jungle. The blue-tinged water cascades about 5 meters down a unique rock, before plunging into a deep swimming hole.
Full Post: Lugnason Falls Siquijor: EVERYTHING You Need To Know
Although there are no swings or activities here, this waterfall and the surrounding foliage provide great cover for a cooling dip.
The water is deep so there is the chance to scale the rock and jump in if you’re feeling up to it (please judge the depth yourself).
If you’re up for a bit of exploration, you can also follow the stream through the forest to the man-made pools and cold springs further downstream.
How to get to Lugnason Falls
Lugnason Falls is actually the easiest waterfall to reach from the tourist hub of San Juan. Following the Google Maps directions, it should take about 10 minutes.
How much does it cost to go to Lugnason Falls?
The entry to Lugnason Falls is FREE. We also did not get asked for a parking fee.
Full Post: Lugnason Falls Siquijor: EVERYTHING You Need To Know
What time does Lugnason Falls open?
Lugnason Falls is open all day every day. If you want the place to yourself, I would recommend coming as early as you can.
We visited at about 10 AM and had the whole place to ourselves.
It is worth bearing in mind that these are seasonal falls. The water feeds the nearby rice fields and farmland, so in the dry season the water can be diverted for this purpose, leaving the falls dry.
If you are visiting in the peak dry season, from December to May, then it is worth keeping in mind to avoid disappointment.
What is Lugnason Falls known for?
Lugnason Falls is known for being one of the most stunning falls in Siquijor, conveniently located 10 minutes from the tourist hub San Juan.
Cangbangag Falls
The final of the most beautiful waterfalls in Siquijor is Cangbangag Falls, the tallest waterfall on the island.
Unfortunately, we did not get a chance to visit this fall due to its location. Cangbangag Falls is located high up in the mountains in the center of the island.
Although not as grand and vibrant as other waterfalls on this list, for those who want to escape the crowds you will be rewarded with 30 meters of cascading water, a swimming hole to cool off, and a tranquil atmosphere.
There is a 15-minute walk to reach the falls after parking, so sturdy footwear is advised as the path can be slippery.
You will also catch some beautiful viewpoints on your way down to this waterfall in Siquijor.
Must Read: How To Get To Siquijor Island 2024: A Step-By-Step Guide
How to get there
To reach Cangbangag Falls, you’re going to take the Siquijor Circumferential Road north coming out of San Juan. After about 25 minutes you will reach Guiwanon Spring Park.
Here, you will take a right inland and follow this road for a further 20 minutes following the Google Map directions.
The journey should take just under an hour from San Juan. Always ask the locals if you’re feeling lost.
Where to stay in Siquijor
The best area to stay in Siquijor is San Juan. This is the main tourist hub and where you will find all the main bars, restaurants, hostels, and guesthouses.
Stella’z Guesthouse
Best low-budget option with a choice of dorms or private rooms, centrally located in San Juan.
Each room comes with an aircon, a mini-fridge, a kettle, and a hot shower. Each room also has a private terrace area with a table and drying rack. Reasonable scooter rental.
Prices start from $7.00 for a shared dorm room and $29.00 for a private room per night.
Mandala Tribe Treehouses
One of the most unique and one-of-a-kind accommodations in Siquijor. A great option for couples.
Embrace jungle living in these rustic treehouses surrounded by nature. Excellent location near Paliton Beach.
Treehouses come with an outdoor shower, aircon, and a little balcony. Breakfast is included and served to your room each morning.
Private cabins start from $60.00 per night.
Coco Grove Resort
The best luxury Siquijor resort. Centrally located in San Juan on 800 meters of private beach.
A choice of native-style cottages or villas set in lush gardens or on the beachfront. Amazing sunset views.
The resort has three swimming pools, a beachfront restaurant and bar, and a spa. Coco Grove offers many amazing tours and recreational activities, such as a day trip to Apo Island on their very own private yacht!
Prices start from $100.00 per night.
What makes Siquijor famous?
Siquijor is known as a mystical island, with a long-standing reputation for black magic and witchcraft.
Siquijor has retained many traditional healing practices and celebrates festivals and rituals each year.
The fascination with this mystical land has turned Siquijor into a rapidly developing tourist destination in the Philippines.
The island is also increasingly known for its untamed nature, waterfalls, rich marine life, and pristine beaches.
Must Read: Top 13 BEST Things To Do In Siquijor
How to get to Siquijor
There is no airport on Siquijor Island, so you will have to take a ferry for the last leg of the journey wherever you’re coming from.
If you choose to fly, I would suggest flying to either Dumaguete, Bohol, or Cebu. From these destinations, you can then take a ferry across.
- Ferry from Cebu City to Siquijor (book here)
- Ferry from Dumaguete to Siquijor (book here)
- Ferry from Bohol to Siquijor (book here)
For full details and instructions from all popular destinations, check out my How To Get To Siquijor Guide here.
Is Siquijor worth visiting?
Siquijor Island is definitely worth a visit.
Not as touristy as other destinations in the Philippines, it is the only place I have ever visited where you can have a waterfall all to yourself!
The island has a laidback vibe and there is a much slower pace of life. Siquijor is a must-visit island for those wanting to escape hoards of tourists and enjoy nature in its purest untamed form.
There are heaps of activities for you to enjoy, whatever you’re into.
From Siquijor you can also take a day trip to the stunning Apo Island, one of the best snorkeling and diving sites in the world.
Full Post: Apo Island Day Trip From Siquijor: The ULTIMATE Guide
This post has detailed the most beautiful waterfalls in Siquijor to add to your itinerary for an action-packed adventure.
If you’re going to be in Siquijor for a while, then feel free to check out my other handy guides –
- ULTIMATE SIQUIJOR TRAVEL GUIDE: Budget & Itinerary
- How To Get To Siquijor Island 2024: A Step-By-Step Guide
- Top 13 Best Things To Do In Siquijor
- How To Spend 3 Days in Siquijor: DIY Travel Itinerary
- Where To Eat: Top 10 Best Siquijor Restaurants
- Kawasan Falls: A Complete Guide To Siquijor’s Best-Kept Secret
- Lugnason Falls Siquijor: EVERYTHING You Need To Know
- How To Get From Siquijor To Siargao: Schedule & Fare
- Apo Island Day Trip From Siquijor: The Ultimate Guide 2024
- How To Get From Moalboal To Siquijor: Fare & Schedule 2024