Mantayupan Falls is a stunning sight to behold. It is a natural wonder with breathtaking beauty beyond compare. The highest waterfall in Cebu consists of two levels of water flowing into a deep aqua-colored pool.
The first falls near the entrance is a 14-meter waterfall with a suspending bridge you must cross to take you to the main attraction. The 98-meter falls for us one of the most beautiful falls in the province of Cebu and makes us love how perfect nature can be. Water cascades smoothly to the two falls before flowing down to the Mantayupan River.
What Makes the Waterfall Special
The falls is not just all beautiful as it is an integral part of the community—a mini-hydro plant nearby supplies electricity that is essential to the municipality. Also, the falls serve as a source of water for a nearby fishing pond and the surrounding rice fields.
Mantayupan Falls is the “Crown Jewel of Barili,” and it tops our list as our favorite falls in all of Cebu. You can hear the stunning roar of water splashing down that echoes around the lush greenery, making you feel like you’re inside the envelope of nature. Plus, the close proximity of the attraction to the city makes this falls a must-go for everyone looking for a new adventure.
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General Information:
Opening Hours:
7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Entrance Fee and Other Charges:
PHP 50 per person. Those swimming are required to rent a life-vest for another PHP 50. Tour guides are unnecessary since the falls are just a comfortable walk from the entrance. There are cottages for rent for those looking to stay overnight. Rates start at PHP 500.
In addition, you may also rent a raft for PHP 300 for those who are looking to get near the waterfalls.
Other Information:
The falls is locally known as Ambakan Falls, which means “to jump” in Bisaya. The falls can get very crowded during the weekend, so visitors looking for some peace may visit during the weekdays.
You don’t have to bring anything as there are food and beverages available in the store. There are also grilling stations for rent if you are up for some barbecues.
How to Get There:
By Bus: From Cebu South Bus Terminal, ride a bus going to Santander/Bato via Barili Road and ask the conductor to drop you off in the town proper (Barili Poblacion). Fare is around PHP90. After that, take a motorcycle (habal-habal) and tell the driver to drop you off at Mantayupan Falls (Fare PHP 30).
By Car: Navigate using Waze or Google / Apple Maps and key in Mantayupan Falls as the destination. Travel time from the city is around 2.5 hours, depending on traffic. There is ample parking space available for PHP 20.
Location Information:
Mantayupan Falls is located in Barili, 58 km south of Cebu City. Visitors can pass by Barili Milk Station to have some quick snacks as it is on the way. It is the nearest waterfalls in the south if you’re coming from the city, making it an ideal place if you want to go for a quick nature trip. In addition, it is also the gateway to other popular destinations such as Moalboal, Badian, and Oslob.