Canyoneering in Badian, Cebu (Matutinao River to Kawasan Falls)

Just when you thought Cebu is all about white-sand beach resorts and five-star hotels, Badian offers a breathtaking canyoning adventure you won't forget! The place is unbelievably fascinating with all its gigantic boulders lined up along the limpid pool where water naturally overflows unceasingly. The cave-like surface of the large rock formation where water drips are intricately shaped like candles, sorcerers' hats, fingers, butts, *LOL* or you can use your imagination and figure it out! Even with 'El Niño' hitting some parts of the country at its worst, this place had preserved its abundance. 

 

So how do we go about this whole canyoneering thing? 

First, get a reservation for a tour package. Since the activity may be a little risky, a tour guide is required. While there are a number of tour services you can search online, it is important to look for a trustworthy one; someone that's recommended by your friends who have experienced it first-hand. 

*I would recommend Highland Adventures-PH for an excellent touring services and sumptuous meal package. I didn't personally know them but their guides were awesome! They were very courteous and credible. They did not just walk us through the journey, they also proactively asked us to pose for a series of photos. They did not rush us and even had some words of encouragement when I was very hesitant to jump off a 40ft cliff. *hehe* One of the guides was really good in diving stunts! 

Highland Adventures Contact Information:

0917-950-8750 (look for Mike Muñoz)

Email: highland.adventures.ph@gmail.com

Facebook:  Highland Adventures.ph

                  Canyoneering Tour Guides

*Aside from canyoneering, they also offer tour services to Osmeña Peak, Dalaguete, Cebu

The tour package we got was inclusive of:

Getting there is quite easy because their office is located along the main road. You can take a bus for Bato,Oslob from South Bus Terminal. Fare is at P125 - P150.

Upon reaching the office, you will be asked to pay the full amount of your tour package. You will also be asked to sign a waiver. Then, select your gears! Knee caps were optional while helmets and life vests were absolutely compulsory. From the office, you have to take the motorcycle ride to the registration area where a short orientation is done. Littering, applying sunblock, and plant/animal hunting are NOT allowed.

*I felt adventure had started on that ride because of the bumpy road and a hasty driver! Wow perfect combination! I was on the edge of my seat, literally.

Here we go! Walked for a few meters and whoala! The first jump. There was no other way but to jump into the cerulean water. 

Basically, the journey consists of walking, jumping, swimming, floating, and there were crawling and gliding through incredible rock formations.

According to the guides, there are at least 10 jumps or diving spots. Seven of which do not have alternate routes so you either have to jump off or slide through the cliffs. The smallest ones are 10ft high and the sky-craping ones are at 50-60 ft which are optional. Nevertheless, you don't have to fear about jumping off into the water since you'd surely float up with your vest.

 The five-hour activity didn't feel that exhausting because of the relaxing scenery that seemed to envelope the canyons.

Save the best for last - Kawasan Falls it is! There are three amazing pools or levels here. Each level has awesome diving spots. What better way to end the foot trek than with a deep massage from the overwhelming influx of water. 

Lying down on a bamboo raft and feeling the weight of the water crushing your bones and muscles are the best feeling ever! * I was shouting the whole time. LOL!*

Shout out to this gorgeous woman  for her generosity. Thank you Ms. McGrath!

Here are the highlights of our canyoning adventure courtesy of AldrinVids. Enjoy!