Cebu: Dao, Inambakan, Kawasan and Mantayupan Waterfalls Trip

Four waterfalls in one morning.

This is a long-but-fun Cebu day that strings together Dao Falls and Kawasan Falls (plus two more) so you get variety without wasting time bouncing around the island. I like how the day mixes calm forest water with the kind of swim time you actually plan for, not just a quick look. I also like that it’s built around active moments—short hikes, photo stops, and cooling dips—so the day feels like doing something instead of waiting on the bus.

One real consideration: you’ll start early and you’ll spend serious hours on the road. In one recent booking, pickup was around 4:30 a.m., and that’s a common trade-off for catching these waterfall areas in a good order.

Key things you’ll notice on this Cebu waterfalls day

• Four waterfalls, one route: Dao, Inambakan, Kawasan, and Mantayupan in a single day flow.
• Swimming time is part of the plan: you’ll have chances to get in the water at multiple stops.
• Kawasan includes thrill options: there’s cliff jumping from the right spots into the pools.
• A proper lunch break: you’ll stop in Badian for lunch time, with time to reset before Mantayupan.
• Pickup options are broad: you can be picked up from many Cebu City/Mactan/Lapu-Lapu-side areas, plus some farther locations.
• English live guide + included entrance fees: you’re not stuck sorting tickets while the day is moving.

Price and logistics: what $117 really buys you

At about $117 per person, this trip isn’t the cheapest way to do Cebu waterfalls—but it’s also not a bare-bones option. You’re paying for a full day that includes a private tour setup, an English live guide, hotel pickup and drop-off in several Cebu City/Mactan/Lapu-Lapu/Lapu-lapu–area locations, and entrance fees for all four waterfall stops. On top of that, you get water, and the day includes guided time plus the longer-drive coordination that makes multi-waterfall trips possible.

The math usually works out best if you’d otherwise hire separate transport and pay multiple entrance fees yourself. The other value is time. When a day is built around four waterfalls, the schedule lives or dies on timing—and this route is designed to keep you moving.

Now, the catch: the route is spread out. If you’re staying closer to the north/east Cebu side, you’ll still be looking at a big early start. When the driver is punctual and the car is comfortable, the long ride feels manageable. When the group is tight in the vehicle, the hours on the road can feel long.

Dao Falls in Samboan: calm forest water and an easy warm-up

You start in the Samboan area with time at Dao Falls, roughly a couple of hours built in for sightseeing, light hiking, and swimming, plus scenic viewpoints along the way. This is the waterfall stop that tends to feel like the warm-up act—still dramatic, but with a slower, more relaxed feel.

What I like about Dao Falls on a route like this is the contrast. You’re not going from one chaotic big crowd scene to another right away. Dao’s setting works well for that “stand back, take a breath, then move closer” rhythm. If you want to ease into the day, Dao is where you do it.

Practical tip: treat Dao like your warm clothing-dry-run. After the first swim break, you’ll learn how quickly you cool down, how wet your stuff gets, and what kind of towel setup works for you later at Kawasan and Mantayupan.

Inambakan Falls near Ginatilan: greenery, photos, and a refreshing reset

Next comes Inambakan Falls around the Ginatilan area, with time for photo stops and a mix of sightseeing, hiking, and swimming (about an hour). This stop is shorter, so it helps to arrive with a plan: take your key photos early, then use the middle window for the slower walk and water time.

I also like that Inambakan is framed as part of a sequence rather than the one-and-only highlight. It keeps you from getting “waterfall fatigue.” After Dao, Inambakan gives you another look at what Cebu’s waterfalls do well—falling water, thick greenery nearby, and that sense of being in a place that feels a bit separate from the road noise.

If you’re the type who wants one perfect photo, Inambakan can deliver, but timing matters. You’ll want to bring a camera strategy: use your waterproof camera or waterproof housing when you’re near the waterline.

Kawasan Falls in Badian: turquoise pools, trails, and cliff jumping

Then you reach Kawasan Falls in Badian, and this is the stop most people plan the day around. You get about an hour and a half here with guided time, plus hiking trails and time to swim. The big feature is the crystal-clear turquoise water cascading through lush tropical vegetation—and yes, you can also take on the more thrilling options like jumping from cliffs into deep pools when conditions and safety allow.

Here’s how I think about Kawasan: it’s not just a waterfall stop. It’s an activity zone. You’ll be moving, wading, climbing to viewpoints, and choosing whether you want the calm swim version or the adrenaline version (cliff jumping). That’s why it’s worth bringing the right footwear and the right patience.

Practical, get-it-right advice:

• Bring water shoes or water-ready footwear. The surface near waterfalls can be slippery.
• Bring a towel and a plan for where to put wet clothes immediately after.
• If you’re bringing a camera, use waterproof gear. Water + river rocks can be hard on electronics.
• Be ready to spend time on trails, not just the main pool.

Also, because Kawasan is famous, this is where you’ll appreciate having a guide to help you find the right spots for photos and water time. It’s easier when someone already knows the flow of the area.

Lunch break in Badian: plan for downtime, not a free feast

You’ll have a lunch break in the Badian area (about 30 minutes). The key detail: meals aren’t included in the price. So this isn’t a catered lunch; it’s more like a chance to refuel, buy food, and reset your energy before the final stretch.

I suggest you treat this break like a survival checkpoint. Grab something simple, hydrate, and don’t turn it into a long sit-down meal. You want to leave the lunch stop feeling ready—because Mantayupan is next.

Mantayupan Falls in Barili: one of Cebu’s taller falls and a two-tier sight

Finally, you move to Mantayupan Falls in Barili for about an hour of guided time, with sightseeing, hiking, and swimming. This one has the size factor: it’s listed at around 98 meters and features a two-tier cascade. When the day’s earlier waterfalls are about variety and swim access, Mantayupan is where the height and the full visual show take over.

What makes Mantayupan work on this particular itinerary is pacing. By the time you get here, your body has warmed up to waterfall routines—wet clothes, short hikes, time near the water, and then drying off enough to move to the next spot. At the base, you can also enjoy the cool natural pool.

I’d also keep expectations realistic. Even with “time to swim,” waterfalls are always weather-dependent and safety-dependent. You’ll want to follow your guide’s instructions on where you can stand, swim, or jump.

Transportation comfort and how to prepare for the long ride

A recurring theme with waterfall day trips is simple: the drive is the other half of the experience. One booking noted the vehicle felt a bit tight for four adults, which makes sense when you’re sitting for hours.

If comfort matters to you, do these small things:

• Bring water (it’s included, but you’ll still appreciate sipping during stops).
• Keep snacks handy. You’ll be busy all day and meal time is only a short window.
• Pack a change of clothes in a bag that seals well. Wet clothes + long rides can turn your day into a soggy backpack situation.

Your pick-up experience depends on where you’re staying, and the operator sends driver details and a pickup schedule. Plan to be ready about 5 minutes before pickup so you don’t lose time to delays.

What’s included, what’s not, and the real value check

Included:

• Private tour
• Hotel pickup and drop-off (Cebu City, Mactan, Mandaue City, Lapu-Lapu City, Talisay, and the option for other pickup spots)
• Entrance fees for Dao, Inambakan, Kawasan, and Mantayupan
• Local guide (English)
• Water
• Skip-the-ticket-line style convenience

Not included:

• Meals
• Insurance
• Airfare

So is it good value? For me, yes, especially if you want all four waterfalls in one day without coordinating transport and paying for separate guides/entrance tickets. The price looks more reasonable when you count the entrance fees across multiple sites and compare that to renting a driver or booking parts separately.

Packing for Cebu waterfalls: the list that actually matters

Bring swim gear. Seriously. This route is designed for water time, so packing like you’re going to the beach will save you stress.

You should bring:

• Swimwear
• Change of clothes
• Towel
• Waterproof camera option or waterproof housing
• Water shoes / waterproof shoes
• Trekking gear (for hiking sections)
• Snacks and extra drinks if you want more control

And don’t show up with the wrong stuff:

• Alcohol and drugs aren’t allowed.
• Baby strollers and baby carriages aren’t allowed.

If you’re prone to cold after swimming, plan for it. Even in the tropics, you’ll dry off slowly after multiple dips.

Safety and comfort tips that keep the day fun

This tour includes active elements: swimming, hiking, and optional cliff jumping at Kawasan. That means the best strategy is simple—follow your guide and keep your footing smart.

A few safety-minded habits you can use right away:

• Keep your belongings secure near water and around photo areas.
• Don’t rush the hiking parts. The time you save can turn into a slip or a sore ankle.
• Use waterproof storage for your phone/camera.
• Know that health conditions matter here. The tour isn’t suitable for people with high blood pressure and people with low level of fitness.

Also, do your own quick read on local safety and travel advisories before you go. Conditions change, and the best travel days are the ones you start prepared.

Who this Cebu waterfall trip fits best

This itinerary is best for active travelers who want a full day outdoors and don’t mind an early start. It’s a strong match if you want:

• Multiple waterfall experiences in one day
• Real swimming opportunities
• The option of cliff jumping at Kawasan
• A guided route with entrance fees handled

It’s not for everyone. The tour data lists it as not suitable for:

• Pregnant women
• People with altitude sickness
• People with high blood pressure
• People with low level of fitness
• Babies under 1 year

Wheelchair accessible is listed, which is a good sign for mobility needs. Still, waterfalls often involve water edges and changing terrain, so it’s worth asking what adjustments can be made for your specific situation.

Should you book this Cebu waterfalls trip?

Book this tour if you want a one-day hits tour: Dao for the calm start, Inambakan for greenery and photos, Kawasan for the turquoise pools and thrill option, and Mantayupan for height and a two-tier finish. The price makes more sense when you factor in the guided route, entrance fees for four waterfalls, and pickup/drop-off.

Skip it (or choose a gentler plan) if you hate early mornings, you’re not comfortable with swimming and short hikes, or you’re dealing with health conditions listed as unsuitable. Also, if vehicle comfort is a big deal for your group size, ask about vehicle type so you can plan for the long road time.

If you do book, I’d set your mindset like this: you’re not just sightseeing waterfalls—you’re doing waterfall time. Pack accordingly, move at your pace, and you’ll come away with a day that feels like more than a checklist.

FAQ

How long is the Cebu Dao, Inambakan, Kawasan and Mantayupan waterfalls trip?

It’s listed as a 1-day experience, with starting times depending on availability.

Where does hotel pickup and drop-off happen?

Pickup and drop-off are included for hotels in Cebu City, Mactan, Mandaue City, Lapu-Lapu City, and Talisay. There are also multiple pickup options listed, and drop-off locations include several Cebu-area cities.

What’s included in the $117 per person price?

The price includes a private tour, hotel pickup and drop-off (in the listed areas), entrance fees for Dao, Inambakan, Kawasan, and Mantayupan, a local English guide, and water.

Are meals included?

Meals aren’t included. The day includes a lunch break (30 minutes), but you’ll need to purchase your own food.

Can I swim and are cliff jumps available?

Swimming is included as part of the experience at the waterfall stops. Cliff jumping is mentioned as an option at Kawasan Falls.

What should I bring, and is the tour suitable for everyone?

Bring swimwear, a change of clothes, a towel, water shoes, and waterproof camera/gear if you have it. The tour is listed as not suitable for pregnant women, people with altitude sickness, high blood pressure, low fitness level, and babies under 1 year.