Cabugsayan Falls: The Hidden Gem in the Philippines You’ve Never Heard Of
Looking for an off-the-beaten-path waterfall in the Philippines that’s free of crowds and full of natural charm? Let us introduce you to Cabugsayan Falls, one of Siquijor’s most underrated waterfalls - and possibly one of our favorite hidden travel experiences in the country.
Located deep in the lush jungles of Siquijor Island, Cabugsayan Falls offers an unforgettable mix of serenity, adventure, and natural beauty, far from the usual tourist trail.
What Makes Cabugsayan Falls So Special?
Unlike the more popular waterfalls in the Philippines, Cabugsayan Falls is a peaceful, lesser-known escape, where you can actually enjoy the moment without tour buses or crowded selfie spots.
✅ Crystal-clear blue waters
✅ Crowd-free experience — we had the place to ourselves for over an hour
✅ Interactive fun — swim, jump, swing, and raft!
✅ Genuine connection with locals and nature
From the moment we arrived, the vibe was magical. After a short jungle walk, we hopped on a tiny bamboo raft led by a friendly local guide - gliding down a quiet stream surrounded by dense tropical foliage.
As we approached the falls, we were greeted by joyful local kids leaping off platforms and swinging from ropes into the pool below. Their laughter was contagious — and before long, we were climbing, swinging, and diving in ourselves.
How to Get to Cabugsayan Falls (Siquijor)
Cabugsayan Falls is located in the southern part of Siquijor Island, around 50 minutes by motorbike from Siquijor Town.
🛵 Rent a motorbike for the day - affordable and convenient
🚖 Tricycle taxis are also available from town (around 200 PHP one-way)
🛣️ Roads are mostly paved; the final section can be a little muddy but manageable
Entrance Fee, Guide Info & Safety Tips
🎟️ Entrance fee: 60 PHP (around £0.70 or $1.10)
👨🌾 Local guide required - included in entry, but tips are expected (we gave 200 PHP)
🛟 Safety-conscious site - we even saw a local police officer conducting safety checks with the guides
Your guide will walk you down roughly 100 jungle steps, help you onto the bamboo raft, and stay with you throughout the experience. There are no hard sells or pushy vendors here - just warm, welcoming locals and raw beauty.
Why Cabugsayan Falls Should Be on Your Philippines Itinerary
If you're the kind of traveller who seeks authentic, non-touristy experiences, Cabugsayan Falls is a must-visit.
🏝️ Unspoiled nature: Clean, clear water and zero litter
🚫 Crowd-free: Enjoy uninterrupted time in nature
🧗 Adventure-friendly: Swing from ropes, dive off platforms, or just float peacefully
📷 Photogenic paradise: Perfect for travel reels, nature photography, and chilled-out moments
Final Thoughts: Hidden Paradise Worth the Journey
Whether you’re backpacking through Siquijor or island-hopping across the Philippines, Cabugsayan Falls is a magical stop that captures the heart of true travel - raw, unscripted, and unforgettable.
Take your time. Soak it in. And if you’re lucky, you’ll have this hidden gem of a Filipino waterfall all to yourself too.
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