Siquijor Waterfalls Guide: From Cambugahay to Hidden Cascades

Siquijor’s Waterfall Paradise

While Siquijor’s beaches draw initial attention, the island’s interior hides its true natural treasures: a collection of stunning waterfalls cascading through lush tropical forest. From the famous turquoise pools of Cambugahay to hidden cascades requiring jungle treks, Siquijor offers waterfall experiences for every type of traveler.

This guide covers all the major waterfalls on the island, plus a few lesser-known gems that reward adventurous visitors.

Cambugahay Falls ⭐

The crown jewel of Siquijor’s waterfalls and the island’s most-visited natural attraction. Cambugahay’s multi-tiered cascades and impossibly turquoise pools have made it an Instagram sensation—but the reality lives up to the hype.

What Makes It Special

• Three main tiers of swimming pools
• Famous rope swing on the second level
• Water color that seems digitally enhanced (it’s real!)
• Bamboo rafts available for floating
• Well-maintained trails between levels

Practical Information

Level-by-Level Breakdown

First Level (Bottom):

• Largest swimming area
• Deepest pool
• Starting point from entrance
• Most facilities nearby

Second Level:

• The famous rope swing
• Medium-sized pool
• Best for photos
• Moderate crowds

Third Level (Top):

• Smallest pool
• Less crowded
• More intimate atmosphere
• Short climb to access

Beating the Crowds

Cambugahay gets busy. Really busy. To experience it peacefully:

• Arrive at 6:00-7:00 AM: Near-empty pools, perfect light
• Avoid 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM: Peak tour group hours
• Late afternoon (4:00 PM+): Crowds thin, though lighting fades
• Weekdays: Noticeably quieter than weekends

Nearby Attractions

Combine Cambugahay with:

• Century-Old Balete Tree (10 minutes away)
• Lazi Church & Convent (15 minutes)
• Lagaan Falls (20 minutes)

Lugnason Falls & the 12-Zodiac Falls

For travelers seeking more adventure than Cambugahay’s manicured trails, Lugnason Falls offers an authentic jungle waterfall experience—plus access to the remarkable 12-Zodiac Falls trail.

The Main Falls

Lugnason Falls features a single dramatic drop into a deep swimming pool, surrounded by untouched forest. It sees a fraction of Cambugahay’s visitors.

The 12-Zodiac Falls Experience ⭐

The real magic lies upstream. Local guides lead visitors on a 2-3 hour trek through the jungle, discovering 12 cascading waterfalls, each named after a zodiac sign.

What to expect:

• Wading through streams
• Scrambling over rocks
• Natural waterslides
• Swimming holes at each tier
• Genuine jungle immersion
• Personal guide throughout

Practical Information

Guide Recommendations

Guides are mandatory for the 12-Zodiac trail (you’d get lost otherwise). They:

• Wait at the entrance
• Know the trails intimately
• Help with tricky sections
• Share local knowledge
• Work on donation basis

Tip: Our guide Richard was excellent. Ask for him by name, or let the community assign you someone—they’re all experienced.

What to Bring

• Water shoes (essential)
• Quick-dry clothing
• Waterproof bag for valuables
• Snacks and water
• Cash for entrance and guide tip
• Towel

Lagaan Falls

A hidden gem that remains off most tourist radars. Lagaan Falls requires effort to reach, rewarding visitors with a pristine waterfall in near-solitude.

What to Expect

• Single impressive drop
• Deep swimming pool
• Lush surroundings
• Very few visitors
• Basic facilities

Getting There

The access road to Lagaan is rough and requires either:

• A confident scooter rider
• A habal-habal (motorcycle taxi)
• Walking the final stretch

Practical Information

Locong Falls

Tucked away in Siquijor’s interior, Locong Falls offers another escape from the Cambugahay crowds. The waterfall drops into a natural pool surrounded by dense vegetation.

The Setting

Locong feels genuinely remote despite being accessible. The surrounding forest provides a cathedral-like atmosphere, with dappled sunlight filtering through the canopy.

Practical Information

Combining with Other Attractions

Locong’s location near Maria makes it easy to combine with:

• Salagdoong Beach (same municipality)
• Cantabon Cave (nearby)
• Eastern coastal drive

Other Notable Falls

Capilay Spring Park

Not technically a waterfall, but this natural spring in San Juan deserves mention. Crystal-clear water bubbles up from underground, creating a refreshing swimming spot.

Details:

• Location: San Juan town center
• Fee: Free
• Best for: Quick cooling dip

Kawasan-like Falls (Unnamed)

Several smaller cascades exist throughout the island’s interior. Ask locals about recent discoveries—new swimming holes seem to emerge regularly.

Waterfall Comparison Chart

Suggested Waterfall Itineraries

Half-Day: Greatest Hits

Focus on the essentials with limited time:

Morning Route:

• 6:30 AM: Cambugahay Falls (beat crowds)
• 9:00 AM: Century-Old Balete Tree
• 10:30 AM: Return to accommodation

Full-Day: Waterfall Immersion

Dedicate a day to chasing cascades:

Complete Route:

• 6:00 AM: Cambugahay Falls
• 9:00 AM: Lugnason Falls + 12-Zodiac tour
• 1:00 PM: Lunch in Lazi
• 2:30 PM: Lagaan Falls
• 5:00 PM: Return via coastal road

Adventure Day: The Challenge

For serious waterfall enthusiasts:

• Early: Complete 12-Zodiac tour at Lugnason
• Midday: Locong Falls
• Afternoon: Lagaan Falls
• End: Sunset at Paliton Beach

Waterfall Etiquette & Safety

Respect the Environment

• Pack out all trash
• Don’t disturb natural formations
• Avoid using sunscreen in small pools (it contaminates the water)
• Stay on marked trails

Stay Safe

• Water depth varies seasonally—check before jumping
• Rocks are slippery, especially near falls
• Watch for flash flood warnings during rainy season
• Inform someone of your plans for remote falls

Support Local Communities

• Pay entrance fees (they fund maintenance)
• Tip guides appropriately
• Buy snacks from local vendors
• Respect guide knowledge and instructions

Best Time for Waterfalls

Dry Season (November-May)

• Clearer pools
• Easier trails
• Lower water levels
• Better photography conditions

Wet Season (June-October)

• More powerful falls
• Greener surroundings
• Higher water levels
• Some trails may close

The sweet spot: Late dry season (April-May) offers fuller waterfalls while maintaining safe conditions.

Practical Tips

1. Start with Cambugahay if time is limited—it’s famous for good reason

2. Don’t skip Lugnason’s 12-Zodiac tour if you have 3+ hours—it’s the most memorable waterfall experience on the island

3. Wear the right shoes: Reef shoes or secure sandals work best

4. Bring a waterproof phone case for photos in the water

5. Hire a guide for unfamiliar falls—they know the safe spots

6. Visit early, stay late: The magic hours are 6-8 AM and 4-5 PM

Final Thoughts

Siquijor’s waterfalls offer something for everyone: the easy beauty of Cambugahay, the adventure of the 12-Zodiac trek, and the solitude of lesser-known cascades.

While Cambugahay rightfully draws crowds, don’t let it be your only waterfall experience. The island’s hidden cascades reward those willing to venture beyond the obvious—and that’s where the real magic of Siquijor reveals itself.

Pack your water shoes, bring your sense of adventure, and prepare to discover why this small island hides some of the Philippines’ finest waterfalls.

For a detailed guide to just Cambugahay Falls, see our dedicated Cambugahay guide.