Tumalog Falls: The Serene, Silk-like waterfalls of Oslob

Oslob is one of the most naturally gifted municipalities in Cebu. It boasts not only some of the most grand beaches but also majestic waterfalls such as Kawasan and Aguinid Falls.

Another stunningly beautiful waterfall that’s worth the visit is the gentle and serene Tumalog Falls.

Unlike Kawasan and Aguinid Falls, the beauty of Tumalog Falls is quite seasonal but be that as it may, its beauty still holds a candle to the other famous waterfalls in the Philippines.

The safest time to visit Tumalog Falls is during the months of January to June, the dry seasons, but drought and other seasonal factors may also make the falls look quite underwhelming. To experience the beauty of the waterfalls at its fullest, it may be wise to visit between the early weeks of the rainy season to have a sufficient amount of waterfall that is safe and properly showcases the beauty of Tumalog.

What makes Tumalog Falls stand-out from other waterfalls in Oslob is its sheer size. It stands at approximately 80 to 100 meters in height. Moreover, as the water falls from the top, it hits many rock formations that jut out and creates multiple cascades of water that just looks breathtaking.

The curtains of water are so diaphanous that it easily lets light pass through which makes the falls look like silk over the rocks. The image that it gives when looking from below makes it look so serene and almost holy as it bends the light.

Of course the waterfalls aren’t just for display. Like all waterfalls, Tumalog falls create a pool of turquoise waters at the bottom that visitors will find irresistible. It has the perfect depth that’s deep enough to submerge the body but also shallow enough to keep everybody safe. The breathtaking beauty of nature and the splashing sounds made by the waterfall are so hypnotizing and very therapeutic for the mind and the body.

The waterfalls also don’t have many unnatural structures around it except for the road that leads to the falls for the reason that these may destroy the natural beauty of the falls. In this way, visitors are able to witness the untouched and raw beauty of Tumalog Falls.

Before visiting, make sure to check  https://discover.cebu.gov.ph or call the Oslob Tourism Office if the falls are already open to the public. As of December 2020, the waterfall has been closed as a precaution to COVID-19.

RATES & OTHER INFORMATION

Fees:

• Entrance fee: P20 per person
• Opening Hours: 6:00AM – 5:00PM

NOTES:

• Bring waterproof bags to protect your gadgets and other electronic devices from getting wet.
• The best time to visit the falls during the day is in the morning – less people and good amount of sunlight
• Don’t forget to bring necessities such as snacks and water because there are no stores in the vicinity.
• Wear water shoes or other non-slip shoes as the ground to the falls are quite slippery.
• Pack light.

OTHER INFORMATION:

• Corkage fee: None
• Oslob Tourism Office: 0922-250-4860
• Before visiting, make sure to check  https://discover.cebu.gov.ph or call the Oslob Tourism Office if the falls are already open to the public. As of December 2020, the waterfall has been closed as a precaution to COVID-19.

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact location: Brgy. Luka, Oslob, Southern Cebu — approx. 4 hours away from Cebu City.

BY BUS: Find your way to the Cebu South Bus Terminal. From there, ride a bus bound for Bato via Oslob and alight in Brgy. Luka, Oslob at the crossing of Tumalog Falls. Ask the locals where you can ride habal-habal or motorcycle taxis. A one-way trip to the falls costs around P30 and P50 for a round trip.

BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Tumalog Falls” in Oslob. There is a space for parking near the falls but you will still need to walk for about 15 minutes to reach the falls area.