Kawasan Falls Canyoneering Guide: Route, Jumps, Safety and Tips

Kawasan Falls in Badian is the most famous waterfall in Cebu: milky-turquoise pools surrounded by jungle. The best way to arrive is the adventurous one, by canyoneering down the river that feeds it. Here is what to expect.

What canyoneering is

Canyoneering (also called canyoning) means travelling down a river canyon: you walk along the rocks, swim through calm pools, float with the current, slide down smooth rock and, if you want, jump from ledges into deep water. In Kawasan it is done with a helmet and life vest, in small groups led by trained local guides.

The route

Most canyoneering starts upriver near the town of Alegria, with a short ride and a walk down to the river. From there you follow the water for roughly 3–4 hours, depending on your group's pace and water levels, until you reach the main Kawasan Falls. The main falls have a large basin where you can swim and take a bamboo raft under the waterfall.

Along the way there are several jumps of different heights. The highest is around 10 metres, but almost every jump is optional: guides show you a way to climb or slide down instead.

Who can join

• Anyone in reasonable health who is comfortable in water. The life vest keeps you afloat, but you should not be afraid of swimming in a river.
• Children who are confident in water can usually join; ask us about the minimum age for your date.
• Not recommended if you are pregnant, have back, neck or heart problems, or a recent injury.
• Not sure? Choose the easy visit: a short walk to the falls, a swim and lunch, no canyon.

What to wear and bring

• Water shoes or sandals with straps (no flip-flops). The rocks are slippery.
• Swimwear with a rash guard or quick-dry shirt and shorts.
• A waterproof phone pouch or action camera; leave valuables at the hotel.
• A change of clothes and a towel for the ride back.
• Reef-safe sunscreen and drinking water.

Safety

Canyoneering in Badian is regulated by the Province of Cebu: guides are trained and registered, and a helmet and life vest are standard. The fees are set by the local government. Heavy rain can raise the river and make it unsafe; in that case the canyon closes and we change the plan (for example to the easy Kawasan visit or another activity). Always follow your guide, especially at jumps.

Combine with Oslob or Moalboal

Kawasan is in the middle of South Cebu, so it pairs well with:

• Oslob whale sharks early in the morning, then Kawasan in the afternoon (our most popular full day).
• Moalboal, about an hour away: sardine run and Pescador Island, or stay overnight in Moalboal and do both over two days.