Aw-Asen Falls At A Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Brgy. Santo Rosario, Sigay, Ilocos Sur |
| Best time to Hike | November – May |
| Trek Difficulty | 2/9 (Beginner Friendly) |
| Total Drop | 110-120 Meters (30m Main Curtain) |
| Best Feature | Bamboo Raft (Balsa) Hydro-Massage |
| Travel Time | 6-8 Hours from Metro Manila |
| Est. Budget | PHP 4,995 (Pair) – PHP 6,370 (Solo) |
Why Visit Aw-Asen Falls in 2026?
Aw-Asen Falls has transformed from a hidden mountaineering secret into Ilocos Sur’s premier eco-tourism destination, offering a massive 110-120 meter cascade with a unique bamboo raft experience. The 2026 infrastructure upgrades make it safer and more accessible than ever before.
I’ve watched Aw-Asen evolve over the years, and 2026 marks its true coming-of-age as a destination. Nestled in Sigay—the self-proclaimed “Coffee Capital of Ilocos Sur”—this waterfall has shed its niche appeal and now welcomes adventure seekers from across the archipelago.
The Spectacle:
- The falls plunge an impressive 110-120 meters down moss-covered limestone cliffs
- The main curtain drop measures 30 meters of thundering whitewater
- Emerald green pools collect at the base, framed by ancient boulders and wild ferns
- The sound alone—a constant roar that drowns out conversation—creates an almost primal atmosphere
The Experience:
What sets Aw-Asen apart is the Bamboo Raft experience, locally called “balsa.” I climbed onto the handcrafted raft with our guide steering us directly beneath the main curtain. The force of the water pounding against my back felt like nature’s most aggressive massage therapist—equal parts exhilarating and therapeutic. The cold spray mixed with the thundering pressure creates a sensation you simply cannot replicate anywhere else.
2026 Infrastructure Upgrades:
- Safety handrails now line the steepest descent sections, making the slippery clay slopes manageable
- New comfort rooms at the jump-off point eliminate the previous rustic arrangement
- Organized crowd management system prevents overcrowding at the rafting zone
- Improved signage throughout the trail with distance markers every 500 meters
The local tourism office has struck a perfect balance—upgrading safety without compromising the raw, untamed character that makes Aw-Asen special.
Table of Contents
When Is the Best Time to Go to Aw-Asen Falls?
The ideal window for visiting Aw-Asen Falls is during the dry season (November to May) when the emerald pool remains calm and safe for swimming and bamboo rafting. Wet season visits offer dramatic visuals but prohibit water activities due to dangerous currents.
Dry Season (November – May): The Sweet Spot
This is when I recommend booking your trip. Here’s why:
- The water flow remains consistent but manageable
- The pool takes on that iconic emerald-green color (perfect for photography)
- Swimming and rafting are safe and fully permitted
- River crossings during the trek are shallow and easy
- The clay trail, while still slippery, is far more navigable
Peak Perfection: March to April offers the best balance—water levels are ideal, and the summer heat makes that cold plunge irresistible.
Wet Season (June – October): The “Washing Machine”
I visited once during August, and the transformation was startling:
- The falls become an absolute monster—volume triples
- The emerald pool turns into a churning brown cauldron
- Swimming and rafting are strictly prohibited (and for good reason)
- The visual spectacle is incredible for photographers willing to stay on shore
- Trail conditions deteriorate significantly—red clay becomes treacherously slippery
- River crossings can reach waist-deep with strong currents
Festival Warning:
- Kannawidan Festival (Late January – Early February) celebrates Ilocos Sur’s heritage
- Roads from Manila experience heavy traffic
- Accommodation in Tagudin and Vigan gets fully booked weeks in advance
- If visiting during this period, reserve lodging at least one month ahead
- Consider the festival visit as a two-for-one experience, but expect crowds
How to Get to Aw-Asen Falls From Manila?
From Manila, take a 6-8 hour overnight bus to Tagudin’s Bitalag Junction via Partas or Florida Transit, then charter a habal-habal motorcycle for the final 24km mountain ascent to Sigay. Total travel time including transfers is approximately 8-10 hours.
Step 1: Metro Manila to Ilocos Sur (The Northbound Route)
Your journey begins at one of Metro Manila’s northern bus terminals:
Bus Carriers:
- Partas (Cubao, Pasay terminals) – My personal preference for comfort
- Viron Transit – Budget-friendly option
- GV Florida Transit – Reliable, clean buses
- Fariñas Trans – Good for groups
The Route:
- Via NLEX → SCTEX → TPLEX (full expressway comfort)
- Look for buses bound for Vigan, Laoag, or Bangued
- Night travel (10:00 PM – 12:00 AM departure) is highly recommended
- You’ll sleep through most of the journey and arrive fresh for the trek
Cost & Time:
- PHP 800 – 1,200 per person (one way)
- 6-8 hours depending on traffic and stops
- Round-trip tickets can sometimes offer slight discounts
Pro Tip: Book online through official websites to secure window seats. The left side offers better views of the Cordillera mountains at dawn.
Step 2: Arrival at Tagudin (Bitalag Junction)
This step is critical—many first-timers miss their stop:
- Tell the conductor explicitly: “Bitalag Junction” or “Bitalag Satellite Market”
- This is a distinct Y-intersection—you’ll see the satellite market structure
- NOT the main Tagudin town proper (which is 3km further south)
- Arrival time is typically 5:00-7:00 AM
Bitalag Junction Amenities:
- 24/7 eateries serving Ilocano breakfast (this is your Sinanglaw moment)
- Budget lodges available if you need to rest (PHP 400-800/night)
- Habal-habal drivers congregate here starting at 5:30 AM
- Small stores for last-minute supplies (water, snacks, sunscreen)
I always grab a steaming bowl of Sinanglaw (beef innard soup with bile) here—it’s a cultural rite of passage and fuels you perfectly for the trek ahead.
Step 3: The Ascent to Sigay
The final leg is an adventure in itself:
Transport Options:
- Habal-Habal (Motorcycle Taxi) – Standard for 1-2 persons
- “Monster Jeep” – For groups of 6+ travelers (pre-arrange through Sigay Tourism Office)
The Ride:
- Distance: 24 kilometers of serpentine mountain roads
- Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours (depends on your driver’s confidence level)
- Road Condition: Fully paved but steep with hairpin turns
- Views: Jaw-dropping cliffside vistas of the Abra River valley
Cost & Negotiation:
- Roundtrip Charter: Approximately PHP 1,200 (regardless of 1 or 2 passengers)
- Agree on a specific pickup time for your return journey (usually 2:00-3:00 PM)
- Get the driver’s mobile number (though signal is spotty)
- Some drivers offer a “wait-for-you” service for an additional PHP 200-300
Safety Essentials:
- Helmets are non-negotiable—insist on one even if the driver doesn’t offer
- Wear long pants (the mountain wind is cold and provides skin protection)
- Secure your backpack tightly to avoid shifting weight on sharp turns
What Can You Expect on the Trek?
The Aw-Asen Falls trek covers 4.2km round-trip through jungle trails, river crossings, and clay slopes, taking 45 minutes to 1 hour each way. Rated 2/9 in difficulty, it’s beginner-friendly but requires proper footwear due to slippery red clay and multiple water crossings.
Trek Statistics:
- Distance: 4.2 kilometers (out and back)
- Duration: 45 minutes – 1 hour (one way)
- Elevation Change: Approximately 150 meters descent
- Difficulty Rating: 2/9 (Minor climb, suitable for beginners with average fitness)
The “Bright Green” Descent:
The trail begins innocuously enough at the registration area, but within 10 minutes you’re enveloped in thick forest canopy:
- Sunlight filters through in emerald-tinted rays (hence the nickname)
- The descent gradient starts gradually, then steepens considerably
- Red clay sections become your primary challenge—slippery when wet (which is always)
- Tree roots serve as natural steps and handholds
- The 2026 handrails installation makes the steepest 300-meter section significantly safer
River Crossings:
You’ll cross the same river three times:
- First crossing: Ankle-deep, easy confidence builder
- Second crossing: Calf-deep with mild current during dry season
- Third crossing: Thigh-deep if you’re not careful with foot placement
Footwear is critical—hiking sandals with straps or aqua shoes are mandatory. I witnessed someone attempt this in rubber slippers; they didn’t make it past the second crossing.
The Hanging Bridge:
About 60% into the trek, you’ll encounter the steel-cable suspension bridge:
- Spans approximately 20 meters across a rocky gorge
- Stable but sways gently with each step
- Maximum 3 persons at a time (posted sign)
- Perfect photo opportunity with the river rushing below
“Carrot Peak” View Deck:
Five minutes past the bridge, a wooden platform offers the first glimpse of the falls:
- Elevated viewpoint showcasing the full 110-meter cascade
- Named for the pointy rock formation resembling a carrot
- Take your wide-angle shots here before descending further
The Final Scramble:
The last 100 meters require boulder-hopping:
- Large, moss-covered rocks require both hands
- The newly installed handrails guide you down the trickiest section
- The roar of the falls becomes deafening
- Mist begins to drench everything despite sunny weather
How Much is the Budget for Aw-Asen Falls?
A solo traveler should budget approximately PHP 6,370 for a complete Aw-Asen Falls trip, while pairs can reduce costs to PHP 4,995 per person by splitting transportation and accommodation. The biggest savings come from sharing the habal-habal charter and guide fees.
| Expense Category | Solo Traveler | Pair (Per Person) |
|---|---|---|
| Bus Fares (Roundtrip Manila-Tagudin) | PHP 2,000 | PHP 2,000 |
| Habal-Habal Charter (Roundtrip) | PHP 1,200 | PHP 600 |
| Accommodation (1 night) | PHP 800 | PHP 400 |
| Guide Fee (Mandatory) | PHP 750 | PHP 375 |
| Environmental Fee | PHP 50 | PHP 50 |
| Bamboo Raft Fee | PHP 70 | PHP 70 |
| Food & Emergency Fund | PHP 1,500 | PHP 1,500 |
| TOTAL | PHP 6,370 | PHP 4,995 |
Budget Breakdown Analysis:
Fixed Costs (Cannot Be Reduced):
- Bus fare remains PHP 2,000 regardless of group size
- Environmental and raft fees are per-person charges
- Food budget should remain constant for safety
Sharable Costs (Major Savings):
- Habal-habal: Solo travelers pay full PHP 1,200; pairs split it 50/50
- Guide fee: Required by local ordinance, but divisible among up to 4 persons
- Accommodation: A single room accommodates 2 persons comfortably
The Buddy System Advantage:
Traveling with just one companion saves you PHP 1,375 (21.5% reduction). For groups of three or four, the per-person cost drops even further to approximately PHP 4,500-4,700.
Additional Optional Expenses:
- Side trips (Suyo Circuit): +PHP 300-500
- Porter service (if needed): PHP 300-500
- Souvenir coffee beans: PHP 150-300 per pack
- Extra raft session: PHP 70
Money-Saving Tips:
- Bring your own trail food instead of buying at inflated jump-off prices
- Pack a reusable water bottle with filtration
- Share a feast-style lunch instead of ordering individually
- Skip accommodation entirely with a carefully timed day trip (depart Manila 8PM, return by 8PM next day)
Where Should You Eat and Stay?
Accommodation options range from budget Bitalag Junction lodges (PHP 400-800/night) to mid-range Tagudin hotels with pools, while authentic Ilocano cuisine centers on the “Guide’s Feast” featuring pinakbet with bagnet and native chicken tinola. Sigay homestays offer the most immersive cultural experience.
Accommodation Options:
Bitalag Junction Lodges (Budget-Friendly):
- Perfect for: Late-night arrivals needing a few hours’ rest
- Price Range: PHP 400-600 per room
- Amenities: Basic—fan, shared CR, clean sheets
- Advantage: Walking distance from habal-habal pickup point
- Recommendation: Bitalag Travellers Inn (cleanest option)
Buenavista Family Inn (Mid-Range Comfort):
- Location: Tagudin town proper (3km from Bitalag)
- Price Range: PHP 1,200-1,800 per night
- Amenities: Air-conditioning, private CR, hot shower, small pool
- Advantage: Proper rest before and after the trek
- Booking: Call ahead during peak season
Sigay Homestays (Authentic Immersion):
- Arrangement: Contact Sigay Tourism Office (+63916-443-0028) minimum 3 days advance
- Price Range: PHP 500-800 per night including breakfast
- Experience: Stay with local families, learn coffee farming, traditional cooking
- Advantage: Support community-based tourism directly
- Note: Basic facilities but genuine cultural exchange
Gastronomy: What to Eat
The “Guide’s Feast” (Lunch at the Falls):
Our guide prepared this spread while we swam—unforgettable:
- Pinakbet with Bagnet: Mixed vegetables in shrimp paste with crispy pork belly crackling
- Native Chicken Tinola: Ginger-based soup with free-range chicken (tender and flavorful)
- Dinengdeng: Boiled vegetables with fermented fish sauce
- Steamed rice served on banana leaves
- Cost: Usually included in guide fee, but tip PHP 100-200 for exceptional cooking
Sigay Robusta Coffee:
- Locally grown at 600-800 MASL (meters above sea level)
- Strong, earthy, zero acidity
- Traditionally prepared with balikutsa (sugarcane molasses)
- Buy beans at the tourism office: PHP 200 per 250g pack
Bitalag Junction 24/7 Eateries:
Breakfast Essential: Sinanglaw
- Beef innard soup with bile (sounds intense, tastes incredible)
- The slight bitterness from bile cuts through rich organ meat
- Paired with steamed rice and suka (vinegar with chilies)
- PHP 80-120 per bowl
Other Options:
- Mami (Noodle Soup): PHP 60-80
- Silog meals: (Longsilog, Tapsilog) PHP 80-100
- Empanada: Vigan-style orange empanada PHP 35 each
What Sidetrips Are Available in the Suyo Circuit?
The Suyo Circuit offers three additional waterfalls and viewpoints within 30-45 minutes from Aw-Asen, adding PHP 300-500 to your budget. Sangbay ni Ragsak Falls and Urzadan Bridge are the most popular extensions for travelers with extra time.
Circuit Overview:
After conquering Aw-Asen Falls, you’re already 60% into the Suyo eco-tourism circuit. For an additional PHP 300-500 (transportation and entrance fees), you can extend your adventure:
Sangbay ni Ragsak Falls: “Falls of Happiness”
- Distance from Sigay: 15 minutes by habal-habal
- Trek: Easy 20-minute walk on established trail
- Character: Smaller than Aw-Asen (roughly 40 meters) but more intimate
- Unique Feature: Rook-shaped rock formation at the base creates natural jacuzzi pools
- Crowd Level: Significantly quieter—you might have it to yourself
- Swimming: Excellent, with multiple depth zones
- Best For: Travelers seeking tranquility over spectacle
Urzadan Bridge:
- Type: Spanish-era stone bridge spanning a deep gorge
- Location: On the road between Sigay and Suyo
- Activity: Photography and scenic viewing (not a falls)
- View: Panoramic vistas of the Abra River valley
- Duration: 15-minute photo stop
- Cost: Free (accessible from roadside)
Kankantuban Eco-Park:
- Features: Hanging bridge, river swimming area, picnic grounds
- Trek: Moderate 30-minute trail through secondary forest
- Entrance: PHP 50
- Facilities: Comfort rooms, covered cottages
- Best For: Families with children or those wanting a less intense outdoor experience
Circuit Logistics:
- Negotiate with your habal-habal driver for circuit package: PHP 1,800-2,000 total
- Add 3-4 hours to your itinerary
- Pack extra water and snacks
- Start Aw-Asen early (7:00 AM) to complete circuit by 3:00 PM
What Is the Recommended Itinerary for Aw-Asen Falls?
| Time | Activity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 10:00 PM (Day 0) | Depart Metro Manila | Board Partas/Florida at Cubao or Pasay terminal |
| 06:00 AM (Day 1) | Arrive Bitalag Junction | Breakfast (Sinanglaw recommended) |
| 06:45 AM | Charter Habal-Habal | Negotiate rate and return time |
| 07:30 AM | Arrive Sigay | Register at Tourism Office, meet guide |
| 08:00 AM | Start Trek | Apply sunscreen, secure belongings |
| 09:00 AM | Aw-Asen Falls | Swim, bamboo raft experience (1.5-2 hours) |
| 11:00 AM | Guide’s Feast | Lunch at the falls |
| 12:00 PM | Begin Trek Back | Take your time, enjoy the uphill climb |
| 01:00 PM | Return to Sigay | Wash up, change clothes |
| 01:30 PM | Optional: Side Trip | Suyo Circuit (if time permits) |
| 03:00 PM | Return to Bitalag Junction | Catch Manila-bound bus (next available) |
| 10:00 PM | Arrive Metro Manila | Exhausted but fulfilled |
Itinerary Variations:
Extended Weekend Version (Recommended):
Add one night in Tagudin or Vigan:
- Day 1: Night bus, morning arrival, trek Aw-Asen, rest in Tagudin
- Day 2: Explore Vigan Heritage Village, afternoon/evening bus home
- Advantage: Less rushed, proper rest
Ultra-Budget Day Trip:
Depart Manila 6:00 PM, sleep on bus, complete Aw-Asen, catch 4:00 PM bus back:
- Skips accommodation cost (save PHP 400-800)
- Extremely tiring but doable for the fit
- Only recommended during dry season
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Aw-Asen Falls
Can you swim at Aw-asen Falls safely?
Swimming is allowed, but it is strictly at your own risk because the basin is extremely deep and currents can change rapidly. It is highly recommended to swim only in calm dry-season conditions, use a buddy system, and bring your own life vest since local rentals are unreliable.
What are the complete fees at Aw-asen Falls?
The confirmed standard fees include a ₱50 environmental fee per person and a ₱750 mandatory guide fee per group (good for 1–5 pax). Additional costs include parking (₱20–₱50), while cottage rentals and shower (CR) fees should be confirmed upon arrival at the barangay registration area.
Where do you pay the fees for Aw-asen Falls?
All fees are typically paid at the Brgy. Santo Rosario Hall registration area right before you begin your trek. You must bring cash in small bills, as there are no ATMs in the area and digital payments (like GCash) are not guaranteed due to poor signal.
How do you get to Aw-asen Falls from Manila?
To get there, take a northbound bus from Manila and drop off at Bitalag Junction in Tagudin, Ilocos Sur. From the junction, charter a Monster Jeep or habal-habal (motorcycle taxi) up to Brgy. Santo Rosario in Sigay. After registering at the barangay hall, you will trek 45–60 minutes to the falls.
What time should I start the trek to Aw-asen Falls?
The best recommended start time is around 6:00 AM (always verify with the local barangay). Starting early helps you avoid the harsh midday heat, reduces the risk of slipping on tired legs, and ensures you finish the trek before unpredictable afternoon weather shifts.
Is Aw-asen Falls kid-friendly?
Aw-asen Falls is not ideal for young kids due to the trail’s steep, slippery sections and the extremely deep swimming basin. If you do bring children, treat it strictly as a viewing trip and keep them well away from the deep water edges.
Are life vests required at Aw-asen Falls?
While life vests may not be strictly enforced by guides, they are strongly recommended due to the depth of the water. Since on-site rentals are highly unreliable, anyone planning to swim who isn’t a confident swimmer should bring their own personal floatation device.
How long is the trek to Aw-asen Falls?
The trek generally takes 45 minutes to 1 hour one way, depending on your pacing and trail conditions. Along the route, hikers will navigate a hanging bridge, cross scenic rice paddies, make a river crossing, and tackle a steep descent right before reaching the falls.
How hard is Aw-asen Falls?
The trek is officially rated as a 2/9 (minor climb) difficulty, but it can feel more challenging because the final sections are quite steep and slippery. During the wet season, the muddy conditions increase the difficulty level significantly.
Is it safe during the rainy season?
Visiting during the rainy season is highly risky due to the threat of flash floods, much stronger water currents, and dangerously slippery terrain. Local Government Units (LGUs) frequently close access to the falls during heavy monsoon rains or typhoons for safety reasons.
Is mobile signal available on the trail?
Cellular signal is very limited in the area. Smart/TNT has intermittent coverage at the jump-off point, while Globe is weak to non-existent. Expect to have absolutely no data connection on the trail itself, so plan as if you will be completely offline.
Do I need a guide for Aw-asen Falls?
Yes, hiring a guide is mandatory, governed by a strict ratio of 1 guide for every 5 hikers. Solo hiking is strictly prohibited by local ordinances, so even highly experienced trekkers must follow the barangay rules and secure a guide.
What should I bring if I plan to swim?
If you plan on swimming, you should pack aqua shoes to protect your feet from sharp rocks, a dry bag for your electronics, a towel, a change of clothes, and ideally, your own life vest. Keep your swimming sessions short and controlled, and never enter the water if the level looks abnormally high.
Explore More Philippine Water Frontiers
If you survived the trek to Aw-asen Falls and loved the raw, unpolished beauty of the Ilocos hinterlands, challenge yourself with these next-level hydro-adventures:
The Terraced Wonder of the North: Just a province away in Abra, experience the seasonal grandeur of multi-tiered limestone pools.
Read the Ultimate Guide to Kaparkan Falls (Abra)The “New Zealand” of Zambales: If you enjoy the off-grid, pine-scented vibe of Sigay, you’ll love camping by this sunken lake created by the Mt. Pinatubo eruption.
Complete Boat & Camping Guide to Mapanuepe LakeInto the Kidaco Canyons: For those who want to trade waterfalls for river gorges and crystal-clear swimming holes in Central Luzon.
Travel Guide: Coto Mines & Kidaco River (Zambales)The OG Rapid Shooter: Compare the bamboo raft “massage” of Aw-asen with the world-famous “Shooting the Rapids” experience in Laguna.
Pagsanjan Falls Tour: Rates, Location & Entrance Fees
