Heaven won’t seem so far away once you go to Aliwagwag Falls. A must visit destination in Davao Oriental; known as the “Curtain falls” or the “Stairway-to-Heaven”; Aliwagwag falls is the highest waterfalls in the Philippines and is composed of more than 100 cascading waterfalls. Towering with the total of 1,110 feet in length and 20 meters in width, this interesting spot is a place that is heaven on earth and what better way to lose yourself in paradise.
Aliwagwag falls is the perfect go-to place for those who love to swim and do thrilling activities. A zipline in the Aliwagwag Falls Ecopark was created to attract more travelers. The 680 meter long zipline hovers above the ground and has an overlooking view of the canopy of the rainforest and breathtaking Cateel River. Travelers are encouraged to climb the monkey bridge to have a closer look of the exquisite scenery. And if you just want to sit back and relax and grab a bite to eat, the Ecopark situated picnic tables opposite of the falls still giving you a great view.
HOW TO GET THERE
Tip: best to book your flight months ahead of your trip so the airfare wouldn’t be that expensive.
- Take the Bachelor Bus ride to Mati. Tip: It is going to be a long ride so do some stretches before.
- Once you arrive, the only option you have going around Cateel is the motorcycle ride or habal-habal. Tip: It’s cheaper to choose the round trip option than the one way.
Other Option
Fly to Butuan City.
- At Butuan Integrated Land Transportation Terminal, ride in a bus bound to Mangagoy – Bislig (Surigao del Sur). There is a bus line servicing Mangagoy-Cateel route but in 1 trip only (morning). Travel time is more or less 2 hours. If you failed to catch this trip, the other option is to hire a habal-habal from Mangagoy to Cateel - but this is too costly.
The waterfall is located just along the Davao Oriental- Surigao del Sur highway. You can witness the stunning view of Aliwagwag from the national highway (actually a bridge).
TRIVIA
Typhoon Pablo caused devastation not only in infrastructures in Mindanao but also in Aliwagwag Falls. Trees were uprooted caused by strong winds. Trunks and branches were scattered around different areas of the waterfalls. But the residents did not allow some storm to destroy this beautiful destination. That is why the residents worked hand in hand to bring back the glory of this place. Talk about fighting for Mother Nature.
If you’re worried about how much you’re going to spend while you’re in the area, don’t. There is no need to worry because not only is the view of the place beautiful but so are their prices.
PASALUBONG
Of course your trip would not be complete without something to take home!For all you spicy lovers out there, the dumang or chili powder, of Cateel Davao is a MUST HAVE. It is the literal way to spice up your trip. Cateeleños grew native chili as an alternative source of livelihood after typhoon Pablo destroyed the coconut plantation that was a major source of their income
TRAVEL NOTES
- The monkey bridge is quite slippery so bring your trekking shoes or sandals
- Bring bug repellent spray because surely you’ll encounter some mosquitoes
- Bring some plastic containers to protect your gadgets from the water
- DO NOT THROW AWAY YOUR GARBAGE IN THE WRONG PLACE.
- There is a bathroom found in the Ecopark so going to the loo won’t be a problem.
RATES
Entrance Fee:
Adult – Php 50.00
Children – Php 10
Table and Chair rental – Php 75.00
Activities:
Monkey Bridge – Php 50.00
Zipline – Php 200
Monkey Bridge and Zipline – Php 225.00
So what are you waiting for? Take a break from city life and take a breather in a place that is heaven on earth.
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