Siquijor Serye: Chasing Falls and Flying Like Tarzan – Cambugahay Adventure

After our thrilling freediving adventure earlier that day, we weren’t ready to slow down just yet. The next stop on our Siquijor escapade was one of the most talked-about natural wonders on the island—Cambugahay Falls in Lazi, Siquijor. With the sun still high and our energy levels even higher, we hopped back on our TukTuk with our ever-reliable driver-slash-tour guide, who felt more like a travel buddy at that point.

When we arrived, the place already buzzed with excitement. For only ₱20 per person, we gained access to a slice of paradise. The entrance fee was nothing compared to the beauty that awaited us below.

Together with my fellow Bilasa and travel buddies, Blooming and Jeric, we began our descent, roughly 135 steps down into the lush jungle. The path, shaded by tall trees and surrounded by the sound of rushing water, added to the anticipation. As we made our way, we passed by both local and foreign tourists, all with smiles, towels slung over their shoulders, and GoPros in hand.

When we finally reached the main area, Cambugahay Falls did not disappoint. Crystal-clear turquoise waters flowed gracefully from multiple tiers, surrounded by dense greenery. It was like something out of a dream. We took a moment just to breathe it all in before diving into the experience—literally.

I first tried the balsa (bamboo raft) for ₱100, wanting to get closer to the cascading waters. I asked our guide to capture every moment, and he did—dutifully snapping photos and taking videos of me enjoying the peaceful yet majestic vibe of the falls from the raft. It felt like time slowed down as the cold mist kissed my skin and the water’s rush filled my ears.

But the real adventure came with the Tarzan swing. For just ₱20, I got unlimited tries—unlimited thrills. My first attempt was... well, let’s say, memorable. Though I’ve never had a fear of heights, something was unnerving about launching myself from the platform with a crowd of strangers watching below. My hands gripped the rope too tightly, and instead of letting go mid-air, I forgot to release it. I awkwardly swung back to the starting platform like a pendulum. The surrounding people gasped—and laughed—calling it an accident-prone move. I laughed too, partly out of embarrassment and partly from nerves.

But I couldn’t let that be my final moment. I tried again—and this time, I got it right. I let go at just the right moment, and the rush was indescribable. My body cut through the air, then splash! I hit the cool water below. Adrenaline surged through my veins, and I resurfaced with a victorious whoop. It was one of those moments when you feel so alive, so proud, so free. Honestly, it was a "love yourself" moment—and I mean that in the best possible way.

After a few more swings (and lots more laughter), I took time to roam the area. I watched my friends experience their own Balsa moments; they didn't try the Tarzan swing. We each had our turn under the spotlight—posing, slipping, splashing, laughing. We made sure to capture every detail, every stunt, every genuine grin.

Eventually, the time came to move on. With our hearts still pounding and hair dripping, we made our way back up those 135 steps, pausing now and then to look back one last time at the falls. But our adventure wasn’t over yet—Sambulawan Cave and Underground River was next on the itinerary.

Cambugahay Falls was everything I imagined it to be and more—a perfect blend of serenity, fun, and wild moments that make a trip truly unforgettable.

Tips for Visiting Cambugahay Falls, Siquijor:

✅Arrive Early: To enjoy Cambugahay Falls without the heavy crowds, aim to arrive as early as 7:00 AM. This gives you more space and time to enjoy the swing, raft, and take photos without too many photobombers.

✅Wear Water-Friendly Footwear: The rocks around the falls can be slippery and uneven. Water shoes or sandals with a good grip will save you from slipping or walking awkwardly barefoot.

✅Try the Rope Swing—but Know Your Limits: The "Tarzan Swing" is safe and fun if done properly. Ensure you follow the local staff’s instructions and release the rope at the correct time. Don’t hold on too long, or you’ll swing back to the platform like I did on my first try!

✅Secure Your Valuables: Bring only essentials and store gadgets in waterproof bags or dry pouches. If you’re taking photos, assign a buddy or guide to handle your phone or camera while you’re in the water.

✅Pack Light but Smart: Aside from swimwear and towels, don’t forget sunscreen, extra clothes, and a power bank if you’re vlogging or taking lots of photos. There are no charging stations nearby.

✅Respect the Environment: Leave no trace—don’t litter, avoid using single-use plastics, and respect the locals and fellow tourists. Cambugahay is beautiful because people have worked hard to keep it that way.

My First Hike to Mt. Kulago: From Couch to Summit

When 2024 started, I wasn’t chasing fitness trends or weight goals—I simply wanted to move more, feel better, and live a little healthier. My routine was simple: daily walks, light jogs, a bit of cycling. I wasn’t aiming for anything extreme.

Then one random day at work, during a casual lunch, my officemates shared their past experiences in hiking and mountain climbing.

“It must be very tiring,” I told them.

They laughed and replied, “Yes, but once you're up the mountain, the experience is amazing.”

That sentence sparked something in me.

The Spark: Discovering Mt. Kulago

Later that week, I started searching for beginner-friendly hikes—and as if by magic, Facebook started showing me mountains. One caught my eye: Mt. Kulago in Bukidnon, also known as the "Hummingbird of Bukidnon."

As I dug deeper, I found out it offered breathtaking views and side trips to Communal Ranch and Cedar Falls. The photos looked like scenes from a postcard. I checked the tour dates and fees and immediately shared it with my officemates.

They were in.

The Plan: A Weekend Escape

We booked an overnight tour for January 20–21, 2024, with a package rate of ₱2,500 per person.

Here’s a breakdown of what I spent:

Expense Cost

Tour Fee ₱2,500

Tent (Rent) ₱200

Tourism Fee ₱30

Habal-Habal Ride (Optional) ₱100

Food & Misc. Expenses ₱500

Total ₱3,330

The Journey Begins

At around 12:20 AM, I met Nikay and Nely at Petron, Mintal, just a few meters from home. We waited for our van ride from Davao to Bukidnon. The van was packed—I had a hard time getting a seat—but excitement made it bearable.

By 5:30 AM, we reached Maramag, Bukidnon, for a quick breakfast. Then we headed to Impasug-ong Tourism Office to pay the environmental fee before continuing to our first destination.

Stop 1: Communal Ranch – “Little New Zealand of Bukidnon”

Our first stop was the Communal Ranch, the jump-off point for the Mt. Kulago trek. Spanning over 600 hectares, it’s the largest communal ranch in the Philippines, managed by the local government for cattle raising.

It honestly looked like New Zealand—rolling green hills, grazing cattle, and a view that instantly relaxed the soul. We took photos here and prepped ourselves for the climb.

The Trek to Mt. Kulago Begins

By 9:00 AM, under the blazing sun, we began our hike. It was an open trail, no shade, just us, our backpacks, and the mountain ahead.

We reached a river crossing and rode a “balsa” (bamboo raft) to get to the other side—Mt. Kulago’s basecamp.

By 12 noon, we arrived at the campsite, set up our tent, had lunch, and spent the afternoon resting and soaking in the scenery. That evening, we enjoyed a bonfire and acoustic music played by locals. The vibe was pure and authentic—something you don’t get in the city.

As joiners, we met new friends, played games, shared stories, and yes—had a few shots of liquor to cap the night.

The Summit Climb: A Mix of Pain and Awe

At 3:00 AM, it was time. We made a short offering and started the climb to the summit.

I wore shorts and a windbreaker, thinking it would be enough. But soon, the cogon grass started cutting into my skin. It was itchy and painful. I was sweating buckets, so I took off my jacket and hiked topless—itchy, sweaty, but determined.

After nearly 3 hours of steep uphill, we reached the summit.

And wow.

Just wow.

The sunrise was like a painting—the mountain ridges, bathed in golden light, took my breath away. I wanted to take more photos, but sadly, my phone battery was nearly dead. Still, the view is forever etched in my memory.

Going Down and Moving On

By 7:00 AM, we started the descent as the sun grew stronger. It was faster but painful—my legs ached with every step as I tried not to slip. I reached the campsite by 9:00 AM, ate breakfast, and prepped for the next leg of our adventure.

We packed up and headed back to Communal Ranch, then drove to find a lunch spot before going to our final stop: Cedar Falls.

Stop 2: Cedar Falls – A Hidden Gem

As we approached the Cedar area, I was amazed by the towering, straight trees lining the road. Based on what I read, they were White Lauan trees, often mistaken as "cedars." Regardless of the name, they were majestic.

A short walk took us to Cedar Falls. We crossed a small river, and then it came into view—a crystal-clear waterfall, refreshing and wild.

I swam in the cold water and jumped near the falls like a kid again. The whole place felt untouched, like a hidden paradise.

The Final Stop: YAKA Restaurant

Before heading back to Davao, we stopped at YAKA Restaurant in Malaybalay. It's a cozy spot made of bamboo where you sit “yaka”-style (on the floor). The food was delicious and affordable—a perfect end to a tiring yet fulfilling trip.

By 6:00 PM, we were on the road again. And before midnight, I was finally home.

Final Thoughts

This was my first real hike, and it tested me physically and mentally. My legs were sore for days, but something inside me changed. I proved to myself that I could do it. All the walking, jogging, and cycling before the hike helped—but nothing prepared me for the sense of awe and achievement I felt on that mountain.

So if you're thinking of trying something new for your health—consider climbing a mountain. You might come down tired, yes, but you'll also come down stronger, braver, and more alive.

Quick Tips for First-Time Hikers:

• Wear leggings or hiking pants – avoid scratches from grass!
• Bring power banks – don’t let your phone die at the summit!
• Hydrate and bring trail snacks
• Respect the environment and the locals
• Most importantly—enjoy every step.