Top off your Siquijor travel itinerary with Cambugahay Falls – the trending waterfalls everybody’s talking about! Dip your toes in ‘gatorade-blue’ water, swing like Tarzan, and feel the drumming of water on your back like a natural massage. Experience its enchanting beauty up close and personal with the variety of activities you can do at this Siquijor tourist spot.

 

For your convenience, this article compiles a complete guide to Cambugahay Falls – getting there, must-try activities, delicious food, and everything else.

The Traveler’s Guide to Cambugahay Falls, Siquijor

 

All About Cambugahay Falls

Siquijor is typically associated with magic and wonder due to its background of folk healing practices. This waterfall carries that mystical charm in its beautiful waters. 

Cambugahay Falls is located in Lazi, a laid-back town in the island of Siquijor. It is a tiered waterfall, recognized for its natural beauty. Though its is not a tall and powerful waterfall, Cambugahay Falls’ true beauty lies within its dazzling clear, blueish pools. All tiers have falls ranging from 3-6 meters tall, and offer diverse activities at each level.

The lowest tier is the largest and liveliest part of Cambugahay Falls. Visitors can swim, take a bamboo raft, a rope swing, and more. The higher you go, the quieter it gets. Travelers seeking a serene spot may prefer the less crowded upper tiers.

Best time to visit

Generally, the dry season from December to April is the best time to travel to Siquijor. Arrive at the falls between 8:00 am to 9:00 am to experience Cambugahay Falls activities all to yourself. 

As much as possible, schedule your visit on a weekday. The falls tend to get very busy on weekends or public holidays, resulting in long lines for admission and activities.

Traveling to Cambugahay Falls

Cambugahay Falls Location

The falls are located along the stretch of Luyang-Poo-Lazi Road on Siquijor. The island can be reached via ferry, whereas tricycles and scooters can be rented near the port to drive to Cambugahay Falls.

Driving to Cambugahay Falls

• By motorcycle (approx. 30-40 minute drive): 

• Rent a scooter or motorcycle for around 200-400 pesos per day. Most rentals are open to haggling.
• Follow the route from Siquijor Circumferential Road, then turn left to take the Luyang-Poo-Lazi Road.
• Once you reach Tigbawan, you’re close to the falls. Locate the falls on the left side of the road, where a small tourist office is located. Parking is available on the opposite side for a small fare.

1. By tricycle (approx. 30-40 minute drive):  

• Take a tricycle for around 250-250 pesos one way.
• You can rent a tricycle for a whole day tour (up to 1,500 pesos).

• By car (approx. 30 minute drive):

• If you are traveling with a group, you can take a van for around 1,500-2,500 pesos per day.

Admission and Fees

Whip out your calculator to compute your budget.Take note of the existing fees for a hassle-free experience at Cambugahay Falls.

 

Operating Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Fees (as of April 2025)

Cambugahay Falls Entrance Fee: 50 pesos

Parking: 20 pesos

Bamboo Raft: 100 pesos per ride

Tarzan Swing: 20 pesos per ride – unlimited swings

Pay Toilets and Changing Rooms: 5 to 20 pesos

Tour Guide: Donations accepted

 

Rental Fees for Equipment (as of April 2025)

Life Vests: 100 pesos

Tables and cottages: For rent or donation basis, depending on the tier

Fun Cambugahay Falls Activities

Once you arrive at the falls, you must walk down a steep 135-step staircase to reach the lowest level.

As mentioned earlier, things to do at Cambugahay Falls differ per tier. Here are the activities you can experience, starting from the lowest or bottom level.

• Swimming

The lowest tier has the largest pool among other levels. It is also the busiest and most exciting. Cambugahay Falls activities will not be complete without a good swim. Dip into the gleaming water, fondly called a ‘gatorade-blue’ color and swim under the canopy of lush greenery and cascading water.

• Tarzan Rope Swing

For a small fee of 20 pesos, you can swing all you can on their rope swing. Sturdy ropes were installed by the locals to create a unique experience for tourists. Pretend you are Tarzan and swing from a small cliff to dive into the waters below. The drop is somewhere between 5 and 8 meters.

The Cambugahay Falls tour guides are also excellent photographers who can take your photos for the swing experience, as well as help you get ready for a safe swing.

• Balsa / Bamboo Raft

Experience rowing a balsa or bamboo raft for 100 pesos. Get a relaxing splash massage with your back to the falls while standing or sitting on the raft. In case the area gets too crowded, another bamboo raft is available at the third level of Cambugahay Falls.

• Cliff Diving

Free cliff diving is also another must-try activity if you are not too fond of the rope swing.  Although the drop is not as high as other cliff diving spots in Siquijor, the pool of water is cooler and even more refreshing due to its fascinating lagoon-like appearance. 

• ‘Fairy Walk’ Swing

The middle level is calmer than the lower tier, but it still packs the same thrill with another swing, dubbed the ‘fairy walk’, made popular by Filipina celebrity Anne Curtis on her trip. Hold on to the rope and ‘walk’ above the water like a fairy or diwata.

• Picnics

Tables can be rented on a donation basis if you want to picnic by Cambugahay Falls. A small shop and vendors at the entrance of the falls sell food, drinks, and ice cream. You can find cottages and tables on every level for convenience. Remember to clean as you go to preserve the beauty of the waterfalls.

• Lower Swings

The third and highest level of Cambugahay Falls has another rope swing, which is lower and shorter than the one at the lowest pool. If you are hesitant to make the huge drop at the main ‘Tarzan’ swing, this will be more doable.

Because the higher levels are less crowded, swinging here tends to be more fun and safe – less chances of accidentally crashing into someone during the dive.

• Hidden Cave

Who would have guessed there was a hidden cave at Cambugahay Falls? To reach this, visit the third level of the falls and carefully wade beneath the cascading water. Here, you can spot beautiful stalactites and listen to the steady rhythm of falling water. 

Epic Photo-Op Ideas

Record your most picturesque moments at Cambugahay Falls with the following photoshoot ideas.

Paddling a Bamboo Raft

For 20 pesos per head, you can ask one of the guides to take your photo aboard a bamboo raft.

Swinging Over the Water

Maximize your unlimited swings by striking different poses in midair. Try different types of rope swings like the fairy walk and get creative with your shots.

Aerial Photography using Drones

Visitors who wish to use their drones can capture magnificent overhead photos and videos of the entire falls. Remember to mind people who are swinging to avoid accidents and damage.

Commission a ‘Human Drone’

Local tour guides at Cambugahay Falls are exceptionally skilled at taking drone-like shots. Their secret? The swings! A donation-basis shot from any of the guides can capture you and your companions having fun in the water below, at a bird’s eye-view indeed.

What to Bring for an Enjoyable Visit

• Water
• Cash
• Non-slip sandals
• Change of clothes
• Sunscreen
• Insect repellant
• Waterproof bags or containers

Grab a Bite Near Cambugahay Falls

• Cambugahay Falls Vendors

For convenience, there are drink and snack vendors at the entrance to the falls. An ice cream vendor at the place sells a must-try charcoal flavored ice cream.

• K&S Restobar

This recently-opened two-story restaurant and bar is located just a few meters from Cambugahay Falls. Choose from a wide variety of rice bowls, burgers, fries, and refreshments. Perfect for satisfying your hunger after hours of swimming and swinging.

• Y Road Restaurant

Craving bigger platters and sizzling options? Drive down the road from Cambugahay Falls in the direction of Lazi town proper, until you reach a fork in the road. There, you’ll find Y Road Restaurant, which offers Filipino cuisine in servings that are great for sharing.

• Twenty4 Cafe and Burger Bar

Located in the town of Lazi, Twenty4 Cafe and Burger Bar has an extensive menu of comfort food and vegan options. Take your pick from pastas, salads, rice meals, panini, pastas, halo-halo, drinks, and sweets.

Find an Accommodation to Stay

Budget Hotels

• First Baby Bytes Guest House (Lazi)
• Tagbalayon Lodging House (San Juan)

Beach Resorts

• Runik Beach Club and Resort – Adults Only (San Juan)
• Coco Grove Beach Resort (San Juan)

Unique Airbnbs

• Jungle Hut (Lazi)

Tourist-Friendly Tips for Visiting Cambugahay Falls

• Plan your trip ahead

Determine the best time that Cambugahay Falls will fit in your itinerary. Take the time to plan your budget and pack your essentials.

• Choose a reliable ferry operator

Traveling by ferry is the best choice for visitors coming in from Cebu City  or Tagbilaran. Not only is it cost-effective, but it also offers a scenic way to get to your location. Sail the seas of Central Visayas with a trusted operator such as SuperCat. Book online or check the nearest ticket outlets for a smooth booking process. 

• Check the weather

Cambugahay Falls is known for its striking blue waters, but even a short rainfall can affect the color and clarity of the water. The falls appear muddy after the rain due to loose soil and sediment brought about by rain water. Although it is typically still safe to swim, your expectations of a pristine blue pool may not be met.

• Be physically prepared

Descending or ascending the stairs may be challenging for some. It is steep and made up of cobblestone, so make sure to wear appropriate footwear. Warm-up before swinging and diving to avoid injuries.

• Hydrate often

Bring your own bottled water to keep hydrated in between your dips.

• Be mindful of other visitors

Drone flyers, especially, should be careful of where their devices are being flown. For everyone’s safety, be mindful of where you land during rope swinging.

• Supervise young children and companions

Keep children and non-swimmer companions away from hazards such as rocky areas or deep ends.

• Do not leave your valuables out in the open

Do not flash your gadgets, jewelry, or money when not in use. To have a safe and secure adventure at Cambugahay Falls, exercise caution when using and storing your items. In case of emergencies, there is a police assistance desk by the entrance.

 

Why Should you Visit Cambugahay Falls?

This lovely waterfall is beyond an instagrammable travel destination. It is the perfect place to appreciate and bask in the beauty of nature. Being the pride and joy of Siquijor island, Cambugahay Falls showcases one side of the island that embraces serenity, harmony, and natural wonder.

 

ALSO READ: The Travel Guide You Need for a Worry-Free Cebu to Siquijor Trip