Kanlaob Falls in Alegria, Cebu is often overshadowed by its adrenaline-filled neighbor, the Kawasan canyoneering route. But this quiet waterfall offers a completely different vibe, slow, peace, and perfect for anyone who wants to chill rather than chase thrills. It’s easily accessible, local-friendly, and surprisingly peaceful despite being the starting point for one of Cebu’s biggest tourist activities.
The Falls & the Local Scene
Kanlaob Falls is a small waterfall flowing into a shallow, emerald-green pool. During summer, it turns into a gentle trickle, but the clear basin remains a crowd favorite for cooling off. Locals typically lounge on the rocks, chat by the riverside, and take turns playing on the rope swing, creating a warm, communal atmosphere that feels like visiting someone’s backyard paradise.
A Relaxed Experience Without the Usual Restrictions
Unlike many Cebu waterfalls with mandatory guides, Kanlaob Falls keeps things simple. Visitors only pay a small entrance fee before walking down the short trail to the river. There are no required guides, although you may meet a park ranger whose job is to ensure no one accidentally enters the restricted canyoneering path without supervision.
The Upper Pools and Rope Swing
Past the lower basin, the river opens into a wider, shallow pool framed by limestone rock and forest cover. A bamboo ladder leads up into a small cave where a rope swing hangs, an iconic local highlight. Watching locals take confident leaps is often what convinces first-timers to give the swing a try. The spot is calm, refreshing, and ideal for swimming or simply floating on your back as the afternoon light filters through the trees.
How To Get There?
Location: Alegria, Cebu, Philippines
- By Car: From Moalboal, drive south along the coastal highway for about an hour until you reach Alegria. Look for the inland road heading toward the canyoneering jump-off area, this route is well-paved and easy to follow. Continue driving uphill for several minutes until you reach the small entry booth where visitors are asked to park and pay the entrance fee. The trail to the falls starts just beyond the booth.
- By Commute: From Cebu City, take a bus bound for Bato via Barili at the South Bus Terminal. Inform the conductor you’re getting off in Alegria near the canyoneering jump-off point. From the highway, ride a habal-habal (motorbike taxi) to Kanlaob Falls. Drivers in the area are familiar with the drop-off and will bring you directly to the entry booth where the short walk to the falls begins.
