Highest Water Falls in the Philippines: A Comprehensive Guide

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The Philippines boasts some of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world, with cascading waters plunging from great heights amidst lush tropical landscapes. From the towering Aliwagwag Falls in Davao Oriental to the majestic Maria Cristina Falls in Iligan City, these natural wonders attract tourists and nature enthusiasts alike. This guide explores the highest water falls in the Philippines, their unique features, and how to experience them.

What Are the Top 5 Highest Water Falls in the Philippines?

  1. Aliwagwag Falls (1,110 feet)
  2. Limunsudan Falls (870 feet)
  3. Busay Falls (800 feet)
  4. Abaga Falls (640 feet)
  5. Tudaya Falls (492 feet)

Where Is the Tallest Waterfall in the Philippines Located?

highest water falls in the philippines

The tallest waterfall in the Philippines, Aliwagwag Falls, is located in Cateel, Davao Oriental. This magnificent natural wonder stands at an impressive height of 1,110 feet (338 meters) and features 84 cascading tiers. Its unique structure and breathtaking beauty have earned it the title of one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the country.

What Makes Aliwagwag Falls Unique?

Aliwagwag Falls stands out not only for its height but also for its distinctive features:

  • 84 cascading tiers creating a staircase-like appearance
  • Critical habitat for local wildlife
  • Cultural significance to the Mandaya Tribe
  • Surrounded by lush tropical forest

How Can Visitors Access Limunsudan Falls?

Limunsudan Falls, the second-highest waterfall in the Philippines, can be accessed through the following steps:

  1. Travel to Iligan City, Lanao del Norte
  2. Head to Barangay Rogongon
  3. Take a car or habal-habal (local motorcycle transport) from Talakag, Bukidnon
  4. Reach the viewing deck, which serves as the main entrance

What Are the Notable Features of Busay Falls?

Busay Falls, the third-highest waterfall in the Philippines, offers visitors:

  • A multi-tiered cascade with seven stages
  • Located on the picturesque Loboc River
  • A major tourist attraction in Bohol
  • Accessible via road and a short walk or boat ride

How Do the Highest Water Falls in the Philippines Compare?

Waterfall Name Height (feet) Location Notable Features
Aliwagwag Falls 1,110 Cateel, Davao Oriental 84 cascading tiers, wildlife habitat
Limunsudan Falls 870 Iligan City, Lanao del Norte Two-tiered structure, lower cascade 400 feet
Busay Falls 800 Bohol Seven stages, located on Loboc River
Abaga Falls 640 Iligan City, Lanao del Norte Accessible only through hiking
Tudaya Falls 492 Sta Cruz, Davao del Sur Tallest waterfall in Mount Apo National Park

What Are the Best Viewpoints for Experiencing These Waterfalls?

Aliwagwag Falls

  • Multiple viewpoints along the 84 cascading tiers
  • GPS Coordinates: Approximately 7.5333° N, 126.2833° E
  • Accessible via road from Cateel Town

Limunsudan Falls

  • Main viewing deck at the entrance
  • GPS Coordinates: Approximately 8.0667° N, 124.7833° E
  • Accessible via car or habal-habal from Talakag, Bukidnon

Busay Falls

  • Viewable from the riverbank or floating restaurants on Loboc River
  • GPS Coordinates: Approximately 9.6333° N, 124.1667° E
  • Accessible via road and short walk or boat ride

What Amenities Are Available Near These Waterfalls?

Visitors to the highest water falls in the Philippines can enjoy various amenities:

  • Aliwagwag Falls: Ziplining, hiking trails, Monkey Bridge, eco-park with restrooms and food stalls
  • Limunsudan Falls: Basic restrooms and local food vendors near the viewing deck
  • Busay Falls: Floating restaurants, restrooms, and local shops near the riverbank

What Hiking Trails Lead to These Waterfalls?

Aliwagwag Falls Trail

  • Length: 3-5 kilometers
  • Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
  • Estimated time: 2-4 hours
  • Challenges: Forest trails, river crossings, slippery during rainy season

Limunsudan Falls Trail

  • Length: 5-7 kilometers from Talakag town center
  • Difficulty: Challenging
  • Estimated time: 3-5 hours
  • Challenges: Remote location, rugged terrain, steep and slippery paths

Busay Falls Trail

  • Length: 1-2 kilometers
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Estimated time: 30 minutes to 1 hour
  • Challenges: Minor vegetation navigation, small stream crossings

What Tour Packages Are Available for Visiting These Waterfalls?

  1. Aliwagwag Falls Eco-Tour
  2. Activities: Ziplining, hiking, Monkey Bridge crossing

  3. Cost: PHP 500 to PHP 2,000 per person

  4. Limunsudan Falls Adventure

  5. Includes: Waterfall visit, Del Monte pineapple plantation tour, Bukidnon flower farm visit

  6. Cost: PHP 1,000 to PHP 3,000 per person

  7. Bohol Waterfall and Attractions Tour

  8. Highlights: Busay Falls, Chocolate Hills, other local attractions
  9. Cost: PHP 1,500 to PHP 3,500 per person

The highest water falls in the Philippines offer visitors a chance to experience the country’s natural beauty at its most impressive. From the towering Aliwagwag Falls to the culturally significant Tudaya Falls, each waterfall presents unique features and challenges for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

References:
1. https://www.southpolecentralhotel.com/highest-waterfalls-philippines/
2. http://davaocitybybattad.blogspot.com/2011/10/ten-highest-waterfalls-in-philippines.html
3. https://philippinetravels.ph/katibawasan-falls/

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