Pumped up from our downstream canyoneering from Alegria to Kawasan Falls in Badian the day before, we drove 20 kilometers farther from Matutinao Badian down to Samboan to chase more waterfalls. The sweltering 40 degree summer heat just calls for longer and relaxing cold dips.
Samboan is about 150KM south of Cebu City and the municipality boasts of 6 waterfalls and is home to one of the oldest Spanish-built churches in Cebu.
With no maps and without the help of Mr. Google, we explored quaint Samboan, occasionally asking friendly Samboanons for directions. In a span of 5 hours, we got to chase 3 out of 6 waterfalls in the municipality, starting with Aguinid Falls.
With the very recent canyoneering experience, upstreaming Aguinid Falls was a piece of cake (geeeez, now I want a slice of red velvet. teehee.) Treking along Aguinid river and climbing a 45 degree limestone wall (don’t worry, there are holes that serve as foot markers) and a cold dip at the last waterfall tier were the highlights of the experience .
Remember how you thought you’d never be able to ride the bike because your fear of crashing just takes over? Then you start pedaling, get those wheels running and it was awesome! Throwing myself off a 15 foot waterfall was just about the same jittery experience and the adrenaline rush from my first jump gave me the urge to do it again and again.
Canyoneering or canyoning recently became a popular attraction in Cebu where adventure seekers walk through nature trails, jump waterfalls, swim a river and climb boulders. The most famous route is downstreaming Kanlaob Alegria to Kawasan Falls in Badian. The iLuvCebu team (Reymond & Doyzkie Buenaviaje, Charlene Retalla and Lui Balbuena) together with our friends, Marco of Lamikaayo.com and Jeemah of JeemahVillaverde.com, took the weekend off to experience the thrill ourselves.
Getting there:
If publicly commuting, you can either hop on a bus from Cebu South Bus Terminal or a V-Hire(Van for hire) at the South V-Hire Terminal. Both terminals are located at N. Bacalso St. Cebu City. You can also hire a private van to bring you to Badian which would probably cost around 3,ooophp/70USD one way.
The cheapest way to get there is to take the bus ride from Cebu South Bus Terminal to Matutinao Badian which would cost around 150php (3.5USD). Then riding a habal-habal (motorcycle for hire) at 70php per person to Kanlaob Alegria drop off point.
Driving to Matutinao Badian would take roughly 3.5 hours/130KM. And when doing the downstream canyoneering, It’s best to park your car at the parking lot in front of the Matutinao Chapel since you’ll be exiting there after canyoneering. Parking Fee: 100php
Booking a guide:
[Updated]
Recently (August 16, 2015) went Canyoneering again and this time we booked licensed guide Raymund Sande (highly recommended). Fee’s at 1,200PhP per person (as of September 2015), which included the motorbike ride from Matutinao to Alegria, entrance and exit fees, vest and helmet fee and lunch. You can contact him through 09151392249 or 09326079016.
The guide we booked last May 23, 2015 was licensed guide named Noynoy. We contacted him through 0936 133 5001 and booked at a discounted price of 700 php per person (group of 6, Price as of May 2015). The fee only includes the guide fee and vest and helmet fee.
Walk-ins are also welcome, but we recommend you to book ahead.
The Canyoneering Experience:
Canyoning noobs, my friends and I took the downstream route from Kanlaob Alegria to the majestic Kawasan Falls in Badian. The tour started with a quick safety briefing, then a short walk to Kanlaob river where you’ll be jumping off the first waterfall, entering the Kanlaob canyon.
“Sayon ra man ang downstream. Ug dili sad kaayo hago.” Downstream route is easy and not that exhausting as per our guide Noynoy. The downstream route is perfect for beginners because it’s relatively effortless. (Well, except for jumping off the waterfalls part which require a bit more courage… and time.. Teehee)
The aberrant summer heat Cebu is currently experiencing calls for a cold refreshing dip, and one of the allures of canyoneering is jumping and swimming in a pool of cold fresh water. Refreshing! And the beautiful scenic nature around you is a bonus.
Difficulty:
If jumping a 15 foot waterfall doesn’t bother you, then Alegria-Badian downstream canyoneering would be like a walk in the park. For those looking for a higher jump-off point, there’s the 25 foot drop. The plunge is optional though so for those afraid of plummeting down a quarter-hundred foot high fall should not be discouraged from doing this canyoneering route.
Be prepared for a long trek, a bit of swimming and climbing. But it’s relatively easy and is a great experience for newbie adventure seekers.
What to wear on your Cebu Canyoneering adventure :
Wearing something light and comfortable is advised when canyoneering. One may also wear a full body rash guard to prevent possible cuts and scrapes.
Canyoneering shoes are recommended but cross-fit training shoes would very much do. Aqua shoes do give a good grip when climbing on rocks and doesn’t slow you down when swimming, but aren’t comfortable enough when walking on pebbly and rocky paths. Rubber slippers don’t offer a good foot grip and definitely not suitable for canyoning.
The guides have dry bags to store your valuables. But bringing your own doesn’t hurt too.
You can also bring your mobile devices but be sure to have them inside waterproofing cases for safety.
What to bring during Canyoneering:
Bring snacks and at least 500ml water. Store them inside a dry bag. And of course, a waterproof camera or your mobile devices inside a waterproofing case to document the experience.
After 3 hours (we took too many photos that’s why it took us that long. hehe), we finally reached the majestic Kawasan Falls. The unfiltered photo below is taken using my iPhone and yes, it’s naturally beautiful! ^_^
Ending this blog with a sample itinerary and an expense estimate which we hope would be very helpful to aspiring adventure enthusiasts like you. Enjoy!
Have you been downstream canyoneering from Alegria to Badian already? Share with us your experience by commenting below.
Sample Cebu Canyoneering Itinerary with expense estimate per person :
4:00AM —Meet up at South Bus Terminal
4:30AM — Leave South Bus for Matutinao, Badian (Fare: 150Php)
(Bring some take out for breakfast – fast-food take out 100Php)
8:30AM — Arrive at Matutinao Chapel
9:00AM — Start Canyoneering
(Snacks & Water 100php +
Habal habal ride to Alegria 70Php +
Canyoneering Fee: 700Php +
50PhP tip = 920PhP)
12:00Noon — Finish Canyoneering
12:30PM — Lunch at Kawasan Falls (200PhP)
01:30PM — Dip at Kawasan Falls
3:30PM — Stroll back to Matutinao
4:00PM — Wait for a bus/van back to the city/ drive back to the city
8:00PM Back in Cebu City (Fare 150Php)
Canyoneering Expense Estimate Total: 1,520PhP
You have an option to add another day to this itinerary and drive farther south to Samboan to visit some of the municipality’s beautiful waterfalls. You can book your accomodation in Matutinao for a night and head to Samboan the next day. Click here to see sample itinerary + expense estimate: http://www.iluvcebu.com/samboans-beautiful-waterfalls/
The tropical summer weather makes us yearn for a continuos blast of soft breeze – even a small gush of wind teases you to put on your swimwear for a dose of vitamin sea.With most people rushing to get sand between their toes, you might consider a colder dip a good alternative for the aberrant climate we are currently experiencing.
To be honest I’ve only been to three waterfalls in Cebu. And to satisfy my craving to chase waterfalls this summer, it would be best to consult friends who know better. I have been following adventure enthusiast Elei Matthew Tatad (@iameleimath) on instagram since last year and his photos would make you wish you acquire Barry Allen’s speed and don’t miss a single good exploit around Cebu.
On a brief online interview, Elei shared his Top 9 Waterfalls to visit this summer in the south of Cebu, plus a beautiful falls in the west to close the list to 10. And he is even kind enough to make it easier for us and share information on how to get to these amazing spots!
10 Beautiful Waterfalls in Cebu
1. Dao Falls, Samboan
How to get there:
– From Cebu South Bus Terminal: Take Ceres bus liner bound for Barili – Bato. Estimated fare – P163 ( travel Period 3 -4 hours)
– Alight at Samboan town proper then hop on a habal – habal (motorcycle for public transport) that would take you to Dao Falls. Estimated fare P30 ( travel time 15 to 20 mins )
– Entrance fee P20
– Arriving at the waterfalls drop off point, the locals will provide a personal guide who would accompany you to the falls (15 to 20 mins. trek to the main falls).
2. Tumalog Falls – Oslob
How to get here:
– From Cebu South Bus Terminal: Take Ceres bus liner bound for Bato – Oslob. Estimated fare – P180 ( travel Period 3 -4 hours). Alight at the Tumalog Bus Stop where a “Tumalog Water Falls” welcome signage is erected .
– Habal-habal (motorcycle for hire): Php50.00 /person roundtrip (from drop-off point down to the Falls | Solo ride.
– Entrance fee P20
3. Binalayan Hidden Falls, Samboan
– From Cebu South Bus Terminal: Take Ceres bus liner bound for Barili – Bato. Estimated fare – P163 ( travel Period 3 -4 hours). Alight right where the “Binalayan Hidden Falls” signage is. It’s always a good idea to tell the driver and the bus conductor where you would be alighting.
– Entrance fee P20.
– 15 -20 mins. walk will take you tothe falls’ first tier.
4. Aguinid Falls – Samboan
– From Cebu South Bus Terminal: Take Ceres bus liner bound for Barili – Bato. Estimated fare – P163 ( travel Period 3 -4 hours). Tell the bus conductor to drop you off at “Aguinid Falls” stop. There’s a welcome signage to the falls and alight there. Then just follow the signage going to the falls. Then take a 5 to 10 mins walk to the site.
– Entrance fee P20
5. Inambakan Falls – Ginatilan
– From Cebu South Bus Terminal: Take Ceres bus liner bound for Barili – Bato. Estimated fare – P160 ( travel Period 3 -4 hours). Alight where the “Inambakan Falls” welcome signage is.
– Take a 20 minute Habal-habal ride to Inambakan (Inambacan) Falls. – Ginatilan to Inambakan Falls fare – Php 80.00 (round trip).
Parking spaces are available for those bringing their cars with them.
6. Cambais Falls – Alegria
–From Cebu South Bus Terminal: Take Ceres bus liner bound for Barili – Bato. Estimated fare – P139( travel Period 2 – 3 hours).
From Alegria you can ride a habal-habal ( Motorcycle ) and inform the driver to drop you off in Cambais Falls. P140 ( Round Trip ).
– Entrance fee P20.
7. Kawasan Falls – Badian
–From Cebu South Bus Terminal: Take Ceres bus liner bound for Barili – Bato. Estimated fare – P120( travel Period 2 – 3 hours). Kawasan Falls is located at Matutinao Badian, Cebu. Getting to the Water Falls is a 1+ kilometers hike from the main road.
– Entrance Fee P20.
8. Bugasok Falls – Argao
– From Cebu South Bus Terminal: Take Ceres bus liner bound for Argao. Estimated fare – P97( travel Period 2 – 3 hours).
–The habal-habal ride from the town proper to the starting point of the trail would approximately take 20 minutes. ( P160 Round Trip )
– Entrance fee P20.
9. Mantayupan Falls – Barili
–From Cebu South Bus Terminal: Take Ceres bus liner bound for Birili. Estimated fare – P70( travel Period 2 hours). Get off at Shamrock bakery (which is also the bus stopover). Take a habal-habal ride to Mantayupan Falls. ( P60 Round Trip )
– Entrance Fee P25.
10. Bon-bon Falls – Brgy. Bonbon, Busay
– Bonbon is a mountain barangay on the outskirts of the queen city of the south, Cebu. It is a thirty minute ride from Lahug and is accessible via habal-habal – a local term for a motorbike that carries passengers to far flung places not easily accessible to cars. It is also accessible to jeepneys who make trips at far intervals. ( P50 One way per head )
– in order for you to reach to the main falls, you need to cross 2 rivers and it would take you 2 – 3 hours of trek.
Breathtaking! So who’s up to chasing all the waterfalls on the list? (raises hand as high as I can.) Are you coming? Tana!
Thank you Elei for sharing your list with iLuvCebu! | Photos by: Elei Matthew Tatad
Reymond and I are members of non-profit organization iLearners Inc., promoting literacy in rural Cebu. Lunas Elementary School, which is in Carcar, is one of three adopted schools benefiting from iLearners projects for 5 years now. And it’s about time I do a post about this lovely city!
Home to structures from Spanish to American period, Carcar City is coined the Heritage City of Cebu.The Carcar Plaza hosts several heritage structures like the Don Mariano A. Mercado Museum and the Church of St. Catherine of Alexandria.
Don Mariano A. Mercado Museum
Church of St. Catherine de Alexandria, Carcar Cebu
Church of St. Catherine de Alexandria, Carcar Cebu
Just across the Carcar Plaza is Sta. Catalina street where you can find quaint and several heritage houses with very distinctive architectural details including the Sarmiento -Osmena House which is famously called Balay na Tisa.
Old houses in Carcar
Old houses in Carcar
Old houses in Carcar
Old houses in Carcar
Old houses in Carcar
Carcar once stood as the center of the culture and arts of Cebu South, and Carcar Rotunda is one of the testaments of many Carcaranon artistic acumen. Considered one of the busiest rotundas in Cebu, it is a turning point not just for municipal transportation but also from neighboring provinces like Dumaguete, as buses pass by here from that city to the City of Cebu.
Carcar Rotunda
Carcar Cebu
Heritage City of Cebu, Carcar
Heritage City of Cebu, Carcar
Century Old Tress in Carcar
How to get to Carcar Cebu?
About 60-90 minutes from Cebu City depending on your mode of transportation. Driving to Carcar will take around 60 minutes from the city of Cebu and about 1.5 hours if riding a bus from Cebu South Bus Terminal.
Sandy palm-fringed shoreline, Dalaguete Beach Park is one of Cebu’s best public beaches! It’s clean and well maintained government property which both locals and tourists would definitely enjoy! A minimal fee of 5php per person and 20php for parking is not bad at all for a very well maintained property. Cottages are also for rent for about 100-200 bucks. But we prefer setting our own beach mats and lying with sand on our back.
There’s also a shower fee of 20php per person. 🙂
How to get to Dalaguete Beach Park via public transportation?
Bus: From South Bus Terminal, hop on a bus bound to Dalaguete, and tell the driver that you will be alighting at Dalaguete Beach Park entrance. The ride’s about 2-2.5 hours, and if coming from the city, it’ll be at your left side. And then you have to ride a tricycle (around 10php per person) to the gate of Dalaguete Beach Park
Van for hire: From South Bus Terminal, hop on a V Hire bound to Dalaguete, and tell the driver that you will be alighting at Dalaguete Beach Park entrance. The ride’s about 2 hours, and if coming from the city, it’ll be at your left side. And then you have to ride a tricycle (around 10php per person) to the gate of Dalaguete Beach Park.
You may also want to visit Obong Cold Spring which is just a few minutes away from Dalaguete Beach Park. 🙂
About a two-hour drive or 2.5 – 3 hour bus ride from the city of Cebu, Obong Dalaguete is a perfect destination to cool down this summer. Obong Spring is one of Dalaguete’s natural attractions where the sea and spring meets. Aside from the cool water of Obong Spring, one very notable feature is the 400-year old Dalakit tree, which locals say Dalaguete’s name is derived from.
Obong Cold Spring Dalaguete Cebu
Obong Cold Spring Dalaguete Cebu
The place gets really packed on weekends, so if you want to enjoy Obong Spring with just a few people swimming around, go on a weekday. You’ll get charged a hundred bucks to use a table just beside the spring, but we would suggest you bring a picnic mat and set it on the beach just after the parking area and eat there, then after go back to the spring and go for a cool swim. 🙂
Obong Spring Dalaguete
Obong Spring Dalaguete
Obong Cold Spring Entrance Fee:
Car parking fee at 20php and 5php per person entering Obong Spring.
Obong Spring Dalaguete
So how to go to Obong Spring Dalaguete via public transportation?
Bus: From South Bus Terminal, hop on a bus bound to Dalaguete, and tell the driver that you will be alighting at Obong Spring Dalaguete. The ride’s about 2-3 hours, and if coming from the city, it’ll be at your left side. Watch out for the Obong Spring sign on your left. 🙂
Van for hire: From South Bus Terminal, hop on a V Hire bound to Dalaguete, and tell the driver that you will be alighting at Obong Spring entrance. The ride’s about 2 hours, and if coming from the city, it’ll be at your left side. Watch out for the Obong Spring sign on your left. 🙂
Every Good Friday, it has been a family tradition to visit 14 churches, and this year we were again south bound! Starting with three fixed stations on our annual church itinerary – Lapu-lapu, Mandaue and Cebu cities’ major parishes, and then en routed to Minglanilla heading farther down south to our last stop in Boljoon. We fondly call this pilgrimage “The South Cebu Church Trail.”
Itinerary’s first stop is Birhen sa Regla in Lapu-lapu City. The church which was built around 1730-1740s, houses the Lady of the Rule which we Oponganons (people living in Mactan are called) believe blesses the island with abundance. November 20 and 21, Oponganons commemorates the feast of the Lady of the Rule.
National Shrine of St. Joseph Church in Mandaue is the course’s second stop (still in Metro Cebu). Formerly known as Parrochia de San Jose located at the heart of Mandaue City functions as a sanctum of St. Joseph – the father of Jesus.
From where the church is standing, Basilica Del Sto. Nino is believed to be the site of the first church ever built in Cebu and where the image of the Holy Child was found burnt. Many devotees believe that the miraculous Holy Child Sto. Nino gives protection, redemption and guidance – bringing pilgrimage from around the globe. His feast, Sinulog, is the country’s most celebrated and grandest fiesta solemnized every third Sunday of January. Sinulog is a vernacular word which means ” imitate the current movement of the water,” thus explaining the forward- backward steps in dancing the Sinulog! With that said, Basilica del Santo Niño is the third list on the itinerary.
Lighting a Candle at The Basilica del Sto. Nino
SRP (South Reclamation Project)
The first three stops are unchangeable on any of our yearly lenten itinerary. Now southbound – the 4th church on our list is Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Minglanilla. According to wikipedia, this currently-pink-Church was established by the Augustinians in 1878. 🙂
Immaculate Heart of Mary Church Minglanilla
Parish Church of St. Francis de Assisi, Naga Cebu was constructed from coral and limestone by Fr. Simon Aguirre in 1839 patterned after the designs done by Bishop Santos Gomez Marañon.The convent was made in 1864. Together the bell tower and convent were demolished in 1942 and reconstructed in 1974. Parish Church of St. Francis de Assisi is our 5th stop.
Parish Church of St. Francis of Assisi Naga Cebu
Church of San Isidro Labrador in San Fernando is our 6th stop. The parish was established by diocesan decree on January 19, 1858 with San Isidro Labrador as patron saint. Feast is celebrated every May 15.
San Isidro Labrador Church San Fernando Cebu
St. Catherine of Alexandria Church Carcar Cebu is 7th church to visit on the list. Feast of Saint Catherine is celebrated every 25th of November. The church was built by Augustinians from 1860 – 1875 with the use of stones as its main material.
St. Catherine of Alexandria Church Carcar Cebu
8th station, Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Ocana Carcar. Founded in 1962 and celebrating its feast every February 11. Its present parish priest is Rev. Fr. Sofronio dela Pena.
9th, Nuestra Senyora Del Pilar Church Sibonga Cebu. Construction of the church started between 1846-1868 and was completed in 1881 under the term of Father Enrique Magaz.
Nuestra Senyora Del Pilar Church Sibonga Cebu
10th. Simala Church Sibonga Cebu. This is the house of the miraculous Mother Mary who is said to grant the prayers of her devotees.
When you are here, you are to light a candle depending on what you are asking. Here’s a guide. 🙂
11th. St. Michael the Archangel Church Argao Cebu was founded on October 16, 1733 and was constructed by Fr. Mateo Perez from 1803 to 1836. Murals on the ceiling done by the country’s best painters. The first part were the murals of biblical scenes done by Canuto Avila and the second part on the altar, murals of St. Michael defeating Lucifer and his followers, done by Ray Francia.
St. Michael the Archangel Church Argao Cebu
12th, San Guillermo Parish Church Dalaguete Cebu. The church was built in 1802-1825.
San Guillermo Parish Church
The 13th station was the Church of Sta. Rosa de Lima in Alcoy Cebu, celebrating its feast every August 30. Rev. Father Virgilio Dolloso is its present parish priest.
Sta. Rosa de Lima Church Alcoy Cebu
Last stop was the beautiful Patrociñio de Maria Parish Church. Built in 1783 and is made of coral and hard wood. The church’s roof is made of clay tiles with 26 pilasters supporting the walls.
Patrocinio de Maria Parish Church Boljoon Cebu
Beautiful and historic, each of our churches in Cebu has its own story to tell, making each an attraction of its own. Can’t wait to revisit them and discover the stories behind each church. Until next time! 🙂
In 2011, Oslob Cebu was placed on the map with an attraction that’s both exciting and controversial. The buzz on swimming with the gentle giants instantly made Tan-awan Oslob one of Cebu’s top tourist destinations after some visitors posted pictures of their adventure swimming alongside the whale sharks on social media.
How to get there?
Oslob is about 2.5 to 3.5 hours from Cebu City depending on your mode of transportation. If your renting a car/van (renting a car, one way is about 3,000php/ Van one way is around 4,000php), it would take you 2-3.5 hours to get to Oslob. You could also take a VHire (Van for Hire) from the South VHire Terminal which costs around 250 per person one way and takes you 3 hours to get to Oslob. Another alternative and the cheapest way to get to Oslob is to take the bus which would take you to Oslob for just 160php for airconditioned buses and around 120php for the non-airconditioned buses. Frequency of the bus liners leaving the South bus terminal to Oslob would be every hour for the airconditioned buses and every 30minutes for the non airconditioned buses.
Cebu South Bus Terminal
Boljoon Cebu
Staying overnight?
There are several resorts in Oslob. For this trip we opted to stay at Lagunde Beach Resort in Lagunde Oslob. Its around 10 minutes away from the Tan-awan where the whale sharks are. We booked the house for 3,500php for a night (good for 6-8 people) . Not bad at all! Towels are provided so no need to bring one. ^_^
Our porch’s view at Lagunde Beach Resort
Sunrise at Lagunde Beach Resort
Lagunde Oslob
Lagunde Oslob
Lagunde Beach Resort
After checking in at the resort, now it’s time to go around and see Oslob. Going around Oslob is easy. Just hail a tricycle, a multicab or a bus. Fare is roughly 8-12php.
Places of interest when in Oslob:
1.Church of the Immaculate Conception , Cuartel and Baluarte (Boljoon).
The municipality before Oslob, Church of the immaculate Conception in Boljoon was built in the early 1800s and is such a beauty until now. And just across the church is a cuartel, an unfinished building resembling a Spanish-era barracks stand. And at the cuartel you can see the ruins of the watch tower or baluarte.
Church of the Immaculate Conception
your view on the right when standing in the cuartel
2. Tumalog Falls
To get to Tumalog Waterfalls, alight at “Eskina Saging” Tumalog Oslob or just tell the driver that you will be going down where you can ride a motorcycle or locally called “Habal-habal” to Tumalog Waterfalls. The habal-habal ride is steep but it’s all worth it when you reach the Tumalog waterfalls or “Mag-ambak Falls” as per our habal habal driver. The motorcycle ride is at 30php one way and another 30php going back down the highland. And don’t forget to advice your habal-habal driver to go back at a specified time to get you for its the only transportation down the mountain. Well you can always walk about .75 kilometers down. 🙂 Or you can bring your car with you up the mountain. There’s a parking space provided before descending to the waterfalls. Taking a cool dip in the water of Tumalog falls is a great weekend chill after a week of hard work at work or school. And the gentle fall of cool water above is just like drops of chubby rain. ^_^
5:00am —- Hop on a bus/drive from the city to Tan-awan Oslob to see the whale sharks
8:00am — Arrival at Tan-awan and swim with the whale sharks
(Swimming with the whale sharks is timed at 45 minutes and then your boat will send you back to the shore)
10:30pm –Go up the Tumalog highland to Tumalog falls
Eat and swim time
2:00pm — Descend and ride a bus to the Church of Immaculate Conception
2:30pm — Look around the Church of the immaculate Conception, cuartel and baluarte.
3:30pm — Hop on a bus back to the city
6:30pm — back to the city
Suggestion 2: An overnight stay would give you a relaxed itinerary to see Oslob, here is our suggestion.
(Reminder: Pack light)
9:00am —Hop on a bus/drive from the city to Tan-awan Oslob to see the whale sharks
12:00am — Check in at a resort of your choice
(eat and freshen up)
1:00pm — Go to Tumalog Falls
3:30pm – Descend and ride a bus to the Church of Immaculate Conception
4:00pm – Look around the Church of the immaculate Conception, cuartel and baluarte.
5:30pm -Hop on the bus to Lagunde market for fresh fruits and dinner at their barbeque stations.
7:00pm – Back to your hotel
————next day ——–
5:00am — wake up , take a bath, eat breakfast
5:45am — Watch the sunrise at the beach
(If planning to go to Sumilon Island and not staying near Tan-awan, you can check out before leaving your hotel or have your bags, if you have any, at the hotel’s courtesy booth.If you are drove a car on your way to Oslob, leave your car at the resort where you are checked in. But If you opt not to go to Sumilon then check out at 12noon)
6:30am –Go to Tan-awan to see the whale sharks
8:00am – Island hop to sumilon or chill at the resort’s beach or pool.
(12:00noon Check out of the hotel if you opt not to go to Sumilon and drive back to the city)
4:00pm – (If you opt to island Hop to Sumilon) Go back to Tan-awan Oslob or your preferred drop off point back to Cebu island.
4:15pm drive/hop on a bus back to the city
These are just suggestions so you can play around with it and choose which attractions you are comfortable visiting at your preferred time. We hope you find these information helpful in planning your trip to Oslob. Until our next adventure. 😉
Here’s a short video on What to do in Oslob Cebu! Enjoy
Text by: Andrew “Doyzkie” Buenaviaje | Photos by: Reymond and Doyzkie Buenaviaje
It was a gloomy Saturday as we headed to Poblacion Aloguinsan for an afternoon of mangrove planting with IBM Philippines people and RAFI Foundation. It was about a 2-3 hour bus ride from the city of Cebu, and with CBS Founder Mark Monta and IBM’s Owen Cammayo as my bus buddies, talking about camote and food, I am positive that the ride’s not going to be a drab. haha. I know, we are weird like that! 😛 When we arrived in Aloguinsan, we headed straight to Bojo River before partaking lunch.
Bojo River Nature Reserve
Around 2 kilometers from the town center, we arrived at the Bojo River Nature Reserve. Alighting from the van, we are set to walk for 5-10 minutes to the river.
Walk to the river
After orientation and a short lecture on mangroves and wildlife in Bojo River, we were now off to the river cruise, where we learned more about mangroves and the wildlife that benefit the river and of course, the Bojo River fairy, Diwata Maria Tang-an.
Bojo River
The Tale of Diwata Maria Tang-an
The river was once the docking area for big ships during the Spanish colonial period and was said to be very mystical and mysterious. It has been said that a very beautiful fairy named Diwata Maria Tang-an guards the Bojo river and the forest. She had protected the area from Spaniards digging for treasures and banish them from the land. Diwata Maria Tang-an was the townsfolk provider of things as well.
Bojo River
Its been told that every time there’s a celebration,whether it’s a wedding, a birthday or a fiesta, the town’s people would go to the “cathedral” – the rivers opening to the sea and call Diwata Maria Tang-an and borrow things they need for the celebration, provided they return them a few days after they have used the borrowed items and should be returned in good condition.
Cathedral
But what happens to borrowers who do not return the items they loaned or returned incomplete or damaged items? The local medicine woman said that the borrower would suffer a misfortune, a sickness or a temporary abnormality.
Bojo River
With Diwata Maria Tang-an, were birds and monkeys that made the forest full of life and wild orchids that beautified it. But one day, a girl had borrowed a dress for her wedding and returned it to the fairy with parts of the dress burnt. Diwata Maria Tang-an was so angry she punished the girl with an misaligned jaw and from then on, Diwata Maria Tang-an was gone, with the monkeys and the birds never to be seen again. Spanish then started digging for treasures in the area and with no one to protect the forest and the river, the Spaniards took advantage of the Bojo River and Forest. Today, some say Diwata Maria Tang-an still visits the river’s opening to the sea and is still protecting the area and punishing those who came to destroy the protected area. ^_^
Bojo RIver
^_^
Today, Bojo River Nature Reserve, includes 1.4 Kilometer-long Bojo river and its riparian zone — home to about 61 bird species and remarkable native Flora. You can hop on the traditional baroto as local guides interpret the river’s natural and cultural heritage. You can also trek the 400-meter long boardwalk cutting across a mangrove forest and a 150-step natural trail carved on a hillside which will bring you to a gazebo overlooking the river landscape.
Bojo River
Bojo Tour is organized by Bojo Aloguinsan Ecotourism Association (BAETAS.)
Special Thanks to Rudney Carcuevas. Contact him at +639059133055 | 0922479822 for more information and booking about Bojo Ecotourism tours.
In Tan-awan Oslob Cebu, whale sharks had been spotted swimming around, playing and even getting along well with the fisher folks. Whale sharks are the largest living fish species that feed on planktons, small squids or vertebras, krills and macro algae. Its behavior towards humans? Whale sharks are quite gentle and divers and snorkelers can swim with the giant fishes without harm , apart from the unintentional hits from the fish’s large tail. (learn more about whale sharks here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Whale_shark) ^_^
Tan-awon Oslob is about 2.5 to 3.5 hours from Cebu City depending on your mode of transportation. If your renting a car/van (renting a car, one way is about 3,000php/ Van one way is around 4,000php), it would take you 2-3.5 hours to get to Oslob. You could also take a VHire from the South VHire Terminal which costs around 250 per person one way and takes you 3 hours to get to Oslob. Another alternative and the cheapest way to get to Oslob is to take Ceres Liner Bus which would take you to Oslob for just 150php for airconditioned buses and around 90php for the non-airconditioned bus. Frequency of the Ceres bus liners leaving the South bus terminal to Oslob would be every hour for the airconditioned buses and every 30minutes for the non airconditioned buses. Estimated travel time for buses to arrive at Oslob would be 3.5hours.Long trips could sometimes make you dizzy so be sure to bring a mint rub or drink Bonamine to prevent motion sickness and fully enjoy the trip. Just tell the bus/VHire driver that you’ll get off at the Tan-awon whale shark watching. ^_^
In our case, we left Cebu City at 4:00AM on board my friend’s car and arrived at Tan-awon Oslob at around 7:30am. The delay was due to breakfast stop over at Dalaguete Cebu. It was definitely a great day, sunny yet windy – a perfect day to swim. 🙂 The fee for seeing and swimming with the whale sharks is 300php/6.90USD inclusive of round trip ride in a small boat for 40 minutes.Rash guard and fins are for rent for 100php/2.30USD.If you’re concerned about hygiene, be sure to bring your own rash guard, fins, snorkel set and etc.If you are afraid of the deep deep waters (like me hehe), then bring a life jacket with you. Also don’t forget to bring your first aid kit, some corals are a bit sharp that may cause some small cuts. Also there are jelly fish sightings on the area so better be ready with that vinegar or your preferable first aid for jellyfish stings. hehe.
Though I just discovered that I had fear swimming in the super deep blue sea, it was such a great experience seeing and swimming with the whale sharks at a very very close distance (when I say close it means just an arm away. ^_^.) Definitely would go back soon with a life vest. LOL.
As of March 21, 2012: Admission to watching the whale sharks are at 300php and ticketing is from 6-12:30noon. Call 032-4819054. Thanks to Ms. Beth Benologa of Oslob Tourism Office.
The cold fresh water and the nature that surrounds you at Kawasan Falls is definitely a great escape from the city life. The emerald green water is really enchanting and with the all-year-round tropical heat, dipping for hours in this nature pool is never a bad idea.
Since Kawasan Falls is about 3.5 hour bus ride (one way) from the city of Cebu, I would suggest for the trip be at least an overnighter. 🙂 If planning to publicly commute to Kawasan Falls, you can either hop on a bus from Cebu South Bus Terminal or a V-Hire(Van for Hire) at the South V-Hire Terminal. Both terminals are located at N. Bacalso St. Cebu City. You can also hire a private van to bring you to Badian which would probably cost around 3,ooophp/70USD one way.
If you are riding a bus, it would cost you 130php (3.02USD) to get to the barangay of Matutinao where the falls is located. Cebu buses run fast and if you are the person who get motion sickness, then be prepared with a motion sickness medicine or a mint rub. If you choose to be riding a V-Hire, then the farthest it can go is in the municipality of Moalboal. Van from the city of Cebu to Moalboal is 100php (2.33USD). Drop off point is at the town’s terminal where you would be getting another ride to your resort in Badian. I would prefer to ride a bus though over the V-hire to save me the trouble of getting off to Moalboal and hail another ride to Badian. My friends and I stayed at Laplaya. An airconditioned room with 2 king size and 2 single beds houses a maximum of 8 people for just 1900php(44.18USD) a night.
Laplaya Beach Resort with Sun setting
(On Laplaya Resort’s beach: Sand is white but coarse. water is brackish, seabed – some part sandy, some part muddy, some part weedy)
Laplaya room
If you are taking the 8am Bus, you should arrive in Badian at around 11am. So better be ready with lunch. I suggest you bring a packed lunched from the city for you would be tired and starving after that 3 hour ride. Laplaya Resort offers a gas range for rent for 200php (4.65USD) for an overnight stay. So you can cook lunch upon check in, dinner, breakfast the next day and lunch before checkout. With that you and your friends can plan the menu for the trip and do the grocery in the city and buy what you need. Plates, spoons, pans, glasses and utensils are already provided by the resort.
For our group we had this menu: (Group of 7)
Note: We bought all the groceries in the city.
Lunch upon arrival ———— 2 Lechon Manok and 21 Puso (Hanging Rice) —- 392.50php (56.07php/1.30USD each)
Dinner ————————- 6pcs. pork belly and 3 porkchop (bought from rustans) — 400php (57.14php/1.33USD each)
We arrived and checked in at the resort at around 11am, ate lunch and at around 12noon, walked our way to the baranggay of Matutina where Kawasan Falls is. It is about 25-30minute walk from Laplaya Resort. Bring with you snacks and drinks just in case you get hungry, you would have something to munch. There is a mini mart just right outside the trail to Kawasan just in case you need to buy anything. It’s at the left side of the Matutina Chapel when you are facing the chapel (the Kawasan trail is at the right side of the chapel.) Theres a small fee of 10php/.23USD for going to Kawasan Falls.
Badian to Matutina where Kawasan Falls is
Trail to kawasan
Rivers on your way up releases fresh air and cool relaxing sound
swimming spot
Swimming spots before arriving to the first waterfall
The walk to Kawasan falls might be quite long for some but it definitely is worth it. 🙂 And FYI when swimming in Kawasan, Kawasan Falls‘ bed is not flat so be careful when swimming, I bet you don’t want to bump your head to a boulder. 🙂
Kawasan Falls
Oh yeah!
Kawasan Falls
Expenses at the falls? Cottages for rent at 300php/7USD. Raft ride to the falls is at 300php/7USD for the whole group where you can also get a few facts about the falls. TIP: you can haggle the price of the raft. We got ours at 200php(28.60php/4.65USD per person for our group). Life vest is at 50php/1.16USD per person.Climb up to the second waterfall is around 15-25 minute walk where it is less crowded compared to the first waterfall. There are also cottages up the second waterfall which are also for rent at 300php. If you rented a cottage at the first waterfall, there would be a different fee for the cottages here, same as with the life jackets. You can choose not to rent a cottage if you are just gonna go for a short swim. Just look out for your belongings. 🙂 Kawasan Falls has 3 waterfalls, unfortunately me and my friends only had time to get up the second waterfall.
Swimming at the secondwaterfall of Kawasan
a dip on the second waterfall of Kawasan
For our itinerary, first day we visited Kawasan’s first waterfall and swam the whole afternoon and rode the raft. Then had a swim at the resort’s beach during the night and had videoke at the resort (we spent 200php for the around 3 hours). Then in the morning we had a morning swim at the beach and basked in the sun, then after breakfast visited the second waterfall of Kawasan. At around 10:30AM we walked back to Laplaya Resort and arrived at the resort at 11:00AM just in time for lunch. We then packed things and prepared to go back to the city. Buses to the city is scheduled to pass by Laplaya Resort at 2PM so we were at the Laplaya Resort entrance at 1:30pm and waited the bus to the city. We were craving for ice cream and decided to drop by the Molave Milk Station before we head back to the city.
Soft Ice Cream at Molave Milk Station
Ice cream is good. Melts fast but the cones melts faster. hope they get to change the cones for it gets a bit messy. ^-^
So here is a rundown of the expenses of our Badian/Kawasan Adventure (group of 7)
Vhire Fare to Moalboal from South Vhire Terminal ——————– 100php
Multicab to Laplaya Badian ———————————————— 30php
Room for max 8 persons (1,900php) —————————————–382php/8.88USD per person
But since two of our friends rented another room, only 5 of us shared the 1900php rent
Food for the entire trip (2,527.50php)—————————————361.07php/8.40USD each
Fee to Kawasan falls 10php x 2 = 20php ———————————– 40php/0.93USD
*since we visited the waterfalls twice we paid entrance fee twice during our first day and second day in Badian
Cottage rent 300php ——————————————————— 42.88php/1USD each
Raft rent 200php ———————————————————— 28.60php/4.65USD per person
Videoke 200php———————————————————— 28.60php/4.65USD per person
Bus Badian to Barili Milk station ——————————————– 60php/ 1.40USD
2 Serving of soft ice cream, a glass of fresh milk and snacks —————125php/1.90USD
Bus from Barili to Cebu City ————————————————— 70php /1.63USD
———————————————————————————————————————-
Total expenses for the overnight in Badian -1239.55php/28.83USD
The cost is just an estimate and a guide for people who wants to travel to Badian and Kawasan. Prices may not exactly be the same. Be mindful of the blogpost date. Thank you for reading and I hope you find this blogpost helpful.
(Post Date: February 2011) It was a gloomy and rainy Saturday morning yet I was excited to enjoy and experience Sumilon! I woke up at 430am and grabbed a pair of board shorts, an extra shirt, a pair of boxers, sunblock and deodorant and slipped it on my camera bag.
Sumilon is about 2.5 to 3.5 hours from Cebu City depending on your mode of transportation. If your renting a car/van (renting a car, one way is about 2,700php/ Van one way is 4800php), it would take you 2-3.5 hours to get to Oslob which is the jump off point to Sumilon Island. You could also take a VHire from the Southbus Terminal which costs 200 per person one way and takes you 3 hours to get to Oslob. Another alternative and the cheapest way to get to Oslob is to take Ceres Liner Bus which would take you to Oslob for just 90php for airconditioned buses and 45php for the non-airconditioned bus. Frequency of the Ceres bus liners leaving the South bus terminal to Oslob would be every hour for the airconditioned buses and every 30minutes for the non airconditioned buses. Estimated travel time for buses to arrive at Oslob would be 3.5hours.
Long trips could sometimes make you dizzy so be sure to bring a mint rub or drink Bonamine to prevent motion sickness and fully enjoy the trip.
My friends and I, assembled at SM Northwing Entrance, hopped on the the resort’s van and departed at around 6:30am. If You are taking a day tour, I would advice you to depart Cebu at 5AM so you could have more time to enjoy Sumilon Bluewater Island Resort. When we arrived at Bancogon, Oslob, we were greeted with a refreshing ice cold Lemongrass Tea which is native to people in Oslob and a cold herby towel to freshen up after a long ride to the drop off point.
We then waited for a pumpboat(provided by the resort) to transport us to Sumilon Bluewater Island Resort. It takes around 15 minutes from the Oslob Drop off point to the beautiful Island of Sumilon!
The 15 minute pumboat ride made me more excited and jumpy more than ever during the whole trip. Though I was wishing the sun would give us hope for a good tan but the sun stayed dark and cloudy.
While storm Jolina is on her full force on the southwest of Visayas, we (on Central visayas) were experiencing stong winds, drizzles and big waves. But it wouldn’t stop us from our excitement in our Sumilon island adventure which was about 8 mins ahead of us.
The pumpdoat toured us around the island giving us a preview of the scenic Sumilon Island. I also took pictures of the Oslob fisherfolks who were fishing. hehe
Our 15 minute pumpboat ride just ended and as we disembark the boat, we were greeted by Sumilon Bluewater Island Resort Staff. It was still gloomy and no sign of Mr. Golden Sun but was still looking forward to all the activities we can do on the island. We then walked our way up to a the Island Pavilion, the resort restaurant, to grab some munchees before we start going around the island.
We munched on a Tuna sandwhich and fries for our mawnin snacks! Yum!
After eating our sumptuous tuna sandwhich, we checked out the room and the facilities of the Island Resort. Sumilon Bluewater Island resort has 14(fourteen) 48sqm rooms which can accomodate 3 guests per room.
Room features a private veranda with lounge chairs, Private toilet and hot and cold shower, mini bar, ceiling fan, WiFi Connection, telephone and airconditioning.
Private Veranda
A private toilet and shower with hot and cold running water
A Mini Bar
After checking out the comfy rooms, we headed back to The Island Pavilion for lunch. Island Pavilion serves a delectable fair of local and international cuisine. We were delighted with a lunch buffet!
After our hefty lunch, Atty. Ethelbert, McBilly and I went to Aquamania to get our snorkel gear and life vest. We then started snorkling and saw some corals and fishes but gave up after 20minutes because waves were big and strong.
We then went to the Lagoon teeming with high mangroves to kayak!
After we took pictures on the mangrove, we then shifted to swimming in the infinity pool and relaxed at the Jacuzzi!
Surrounding the infinity pool are stairs heading down to a “chill cliff” where you can just sit down and enjoy the beautiful sea view and fresh air.
Want a glass of margarita ora shot of tequlia? Order some refreshments and drinks at the bar beside the Island Pavillion.
Chill chairs under the green shades of island trees are perfect when your reading a book, playing favorite games on psp or nintendo ds or even checking your facebook account with the resort’s Wifi connection.
We then went to sand bar, where we spent most of the afternoon enjoying the big waves and the strong winds!
Sumilon sand bar changes shapes and shifts locations around the island depending on the season.
Since the wind was strong and waves were getting bigger due to tropical depression, we headed back to the infinity pool and enjoyed the last few hours of our day tour swimming.
It was 5pm and its time to pack up. But before leaving the island, we had carbonara and tea for our afternoon snacks! Then as I packed my wet boxer (which Wil used because she did not bring swimming clothes) and my boardshorts in my yellow SM plastic Bag, I swore I’d be back!
As Doyzkie and Friends embarked the pumpboat bringing us back to Oslob, I took this pic of a Korean couple having fun and enjoying the beautiful scenery of Sumilon Island! Aneyong hasseyo!
Maybe next time when Doyzkie the explorer and friends visit Sumilon we would go diving? What do you think? hehe
Get your backpacks now and enjoy Sumilon like Doyzkie the Explorer and friends did!
Day tour package on weekdays is priced at 1,500php nett per person and weekends & holidays is priced at 2000php nett per person. Inclusions are day tour lunch, roundtrip boat transfers ( Mainland Bangcogon Oslob-Sumilon Island-Mainland Bangcogon Oslob), afternoon snacks at the Pavilion, Island Activities like Kayaking, trekking , snorkeling and Canoeing and use of resort facilities including beach, infinity pool, beach volley, billiard pool, picnic grove & payags.
And if a day tour is not enough, avail of their Island Discovery Package. Single room is at 8500php. Extra person is charged 3,200php and 1,500 is charged for kid guests. Package inclusions are roundtrip boat transfers ( Mainland Bangcogon Oslob-Sumilon Island-Mainland Bangcogon Oslob), room accomodation good for 2 persons, resort breakfast, lunch and dinner, welcome drink and shell lei upon arrival, Island Activities like Kayaking, trekking , snorkeling and Canoeing and use of resort facilities including beach, infinity pool, beach volley, billiard pool, picnic grove & payags.
Children below 11 years old is free from room accomodation charges but will be charged for meals.
For more information, Contact 63-32-481 0801 or email them at sumilon@bluewater.com.ph
