The Definitive Guide to Kawasan Falls Canyoneering (2025)
The Kawasan Falls canyoneering route is a 3 to 4.5-hour trek through the limestone canyons of the Matutinao River. Starting in the municipality of Alegria (Kanlaob River) and ending at the world-famous Kawasan Falls in Badian, this adventure features a series of 7 optional cliff jumps ranging from 4 meters (13ft) to 10 meters (33ft).
1Technical Details & Jump Highlights
The Jump Stats
- Warm-up Jump: 4 Meters (mandatory for most, but walk-arounds available).
- The Adrenaline Leap: 7 Meters (Station 2).
- The Max Jump: 10 Meters (The current safe maximum as of 2025).
- *Note: The 15m jump is currently closed for safety following changes in river depth.
Course Features
- Natural Slides: Two rock-carved water slides (Station 1 & 3).
- Rope Swings: Located at the 4th station (Level 4).
- Stalactite Caves: Swim through 100-meter dark corridors of natural limestone.
- Standard Route: 5.5 Kilometers of river trekking and swimming.
What Gear Do You Need?
Canyoneering is high-impact. Don't rely on cheap flip-flops. We recommend:
Footwear
Sturdy non-slip trekking shoes. Brands like Salomon (Trail Runners) or specialized Aqua Shoes with thick rubber soles are essential for the slippery Kanlaob River rocks.
Protection
Wear a Rash Guard and Leggings (to avoid scrapes from limestone walls). We provide the high-buoyancy life vest and certified helmet.
Tech
A GoPro (Hero 10 or newer) is the standard for filming. If using a phone, ensure you have a IP68-rated waterproof pouch.
Exploring South Cebu: Nearby Landmarks
Badian is the heart of adventure in Cebu. If you are staying with us, these attractions are within easy reach:
Moalboal (Panagsama Beach)
Famous for the Sardine Run and sea turtle snorkeling. Most travelers base themselves in Moalboal and take a 45-minute tricycle to our jump-off point in Badian.
Osmeña Peak & Casino Peak
The highest point in Cebu. These jagged "Chocolate Hills-like" peaks in Dalaguete are often paired with a morning canyoneering tour for the ultimate day trip.
Oslob Whale Shark Watching
Located on the southeastern tip of Cebu. It is common to book a Combo Tour: Whale sharks at 6:00 AM, followed by Kawasan Canyoneering at 10:00 AM.
Lambug Beach
A hidden white-sand beach in Badian. Perfect for a sunset "chill" session after finishing your canyoneering tour.
3Travel Logistics for 2025: How to Reach Us
Option 1: Private Pickup Service
The most common mistake travelers make is underestimating Cebu traffic. Our private door-to-door transfer saves you up to 2 hours of travel time.
- ★ Moalboal: 45-min pickup (Free for most packages).
- ★ Cebu City/Mactan: 2.5 - 3 hour private van.
- ★ Zero Walking: We take you directly to our Canyoneering Headquarters, skipping the 1.5km trek from the main road.
Option 2: The Public Bus
For backpackers on a strict budget, the public bus is a viable, though slower, option.
- From Cebu City: Go to the South Bus Terminal. Board a Ceres Bus labeled "Bato via Barili."
- Travel Time: 3.5 to 4.5 hours depending on traffic.
- Stop: Ask the conductor for Matutinao Church, Badian. From the church, you will need to walk 15–20 minutes to find the falls or a tour station.
- Fare: Approx. 200–250 PHP per person.
The "Alegria Entry" (Pro Tip)
Most travelers don't realize that Kawasan Canyoneering actually begins in Alegria, not Badian. To get the best experience (including the Kanlaob River slides), ensure your tour includes transport from the Badian headquarters to the Alegria jump-off point. We handle all these transfers internally so you can focus on the adventure.
Book Your 2025 Adventure
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