Travel Stories

If you love waterfalls, a tour to Laguna in the Philippines is a must-do. Located just south of Manila, the Laguna Province in Luzon has some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the country. Created by Laguna de Bay, the largest lake in the country, these various waterfalls each create a beautiful cascade down rocks and lush green vegetation. But if you're a first-time visitor, you should focus on these three waterfalls as they are the best and most awe-inspiring in the region.

1. photo by Zean Villongco

   Hulugan falls

   Dubbed by some as the social media waterfall of the Philippines, the Hulugan Falls don't disappoint – the tourist or instagram. And after having a moment in 2015 after backpackers started posting images of the falls online, tourists have been flocking to get in on the action ever since.

   Trekking to this waterfall is an adventure in itself as one walks over the waterfall down to the basin instead of the traditional way of walking towards the basin and then needing to climb up. But there are benefits to being that high up – the million dollar Instagram-worthy views.

   Quick tip: When you're planning your trip, make sure to visit after the rain season. When it's raining, the trails become muddy and it's very easy to slip and lose your footing. Aside from that, for the best experience, make sure you get an in-the-know guide to help you out so that you can see as many falls in your limited time in the Philippines as you can.

   
   

2. photo by Zean Villongco

   Pagsanjan falls

   One of the major tourist attractions in all of the Philippines is the Pagsanjan Falls. Most popularly reached via canoe, these falls are respected and revered by locals. Legend states that the falls originated when a local man named Magdapio begged the Gods for water after a terrible drought that caused the death of his brother. In anger, he stood up to the Gods and hurled his staff into the ground. Then, suddenly, water started spurting out reviving him and giving him strength. And today, many many years later we have the falls.

   But whether you believe in local legend or not, one thing all visitors agree on is that the falls are stunning. And with the water rushing down from a 90-meter drop, there's a magical quality that all experience once there as well.

   
   

3. photo by Magalhães (via Creative Commons)

   Taytay falls

   Looking for crystal clear and clean waters? Maybe a place to also camp out for the night? Then the Taytay Falls should be first on your itinerary. With a wide mouth, this waterfall delicately gushes down in a nice sheet of water. Surrounded by lush greenery, you'll feel like you're in your own world enclosed from the hustle and bustle of city life.

   For those wanting to take a dip, be warned that the water is icy cold. Some will find it refreshing after a hot trek whereas others may just want to dip in their toes and eat a sandwich instead. But all agree that the turquoise waters are mesmerizing and any photos you take on location won't disappoint.

   
   

So if you're ready for your Laguna waterfall adventure, make sure you reach out to a talented tour guide that can keep you safe as well as fill your itinerary with the most fun and opportunity for chasing a large variety of waterfalls in a short amount of time.