Mantayupan Spring, locally known as Tubod, is the life-giving source that feeds the famous Mantayupan Falls. Unlike the thundering falls downstream, the spring offers a gentler charm. Its clear, bubbling waters emerge from the earth, winding their way through greenery before eventually diving into the towering waterfalls below. Standing by the spring, one can feel the quiet power of nature at its very beginning, a reminder that great rivers and falls are born from small yet mighty sources.
Scenic Beauty and Natural Atmosphere
The Mantayupan Spring is set against a backdrop of thriving vegetation and cool mountain air. It is not as crowded as the falls, which makes it ideal for travelers seeking peace and quiet. In the early hours of the day, the sunlight filters through the trees and dances on the rippling surface of the spring, creating an enchanting spectacle. The surroundings are alive with the songs of birds and the rustle of leaves, turning a visit into a soothing escape from urban life.
Experiences at the Spring
Visitors to Tubod can enjoy the refreshing waters in a more intimate setting than the buzzing falls below. It is a perfect spot to soak your feet, relax by the water’s edge, or simply meditate to the gentle sound of flowing currents. Adventurous souls can follow trails that connect the spring with nearby viewing points, offering glimpses of the larger Mantayupan Falls in the distance. For families and groups, the spring is also an inviting spot to gather, share a meal, and savor the atmosphere of nature’s quiet beginnings.
Local Insights for Travelers
The charm of Mantayupan Spring is best experienced in the morning when the environment is calm and the water reflects the freshness of the new day. Many locals recommend bringing your own food and enjoying a simple picnic by the banks, as it allows you to linger longer in the area. Comfortable footwear is essential for navigating the damp trails, and a camera is always worthwhile, every ripple of water and every shaft of light makes for a striking photo.
How To Get There
Location: Barili, Cebu, Philippines
By Car: From Cebu City, drive south through the South Coastal Road (SRP) toward Carcar City, then continue your journey to Barili town proper. From there, road signs will guide you to the spring, which lies close to the famous Mantayupan Falls. The trip usually takes two to two and a half hours, depending on traffic conditions.
By Commute: Ride a bus at Cebu South Bus Terminal. Buses bound for Barili are available throughout the day and usually take two and a half to three hours. Once you arrive at Barili town proper, hire a habal-habal (motorcycle taxi), to take you to Mantayupan Spring. The short ride is an adventure in itself, offering sweeping views of the countryside before you arrive at the blue waters that serve as the very source of the grand falls.
While the falls capture much of the spotlight, the spring holds its own quiet magic. It is the source of Mantayupan’s beauty, the place where rushing waters first see the light of day. Visiting Tubod allows travelers to appreciate not only the spectacle of the falls but also the humble yet powerful spring that sustains it. To sit by its clear waters is to witness the beginning of a journey that culminates in one of Cebu’s greatest natural wonders.
