Introduction: Discovering Inambakan Falls
Cebu has long been a paradise for waterfall chasers, with spots like Kawasan Falls in Badian and Tumalog Falls in Oslob often topping every traveler’s must-visit list. But tucked away in the quiet town of Ginatilan, far from the crowds and tour buses, lies a lesser-known yet equally mesmerizing cascade—Inambakan Falls.
When I first heard about Inambakan Falls, it was through a local guide I met in Moalboal. He described it not just as a waterfall, but as a five-level adventure. That alone intrigued me. So I carved out a full day, rented a scooter, and set off to find it. The final stretch—an incredibly steep uphill ride—was intimidating, but the reward? Absolutely worth it. The first level greeted me with a powerful 100-foot drop plunging into a turquoise pool that looked like it had been lifted from a fantasy film. But what surprised me most was how few people were there. At one point, I had the entire place to myself.
Inambakan Falls isn’t just a destination; it’s a refreshing escape from Cebu’s more commercialized attractions. Each level offers a unique experience—from deep pools perfect for swimming to hidden spots ideal for quiet reflection or cliff diving if you’re feeling bold. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, this waterfall adventure has something for everyone.
If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path gem in Cebu, Inambakan Falls is a must-see. It’s wild, serene, and wonderfully unfiltered.
Table of Contents
Where is Inambakan Falls Located?
If you’re wondering where is Inambakan Falls, the answer takes you deep into the southern countryside of Cebu—specifically, the peaceful municipality of Ginatilan, located approximately 135 kilometers from Cebu City. This small coastal town, often bypassed by tourists rushing toward more famous destinations like Oslob or Moalboal, holds one of the province’s most underrated natural treasures: Inambakan Falls in Ginatilan Cebu.
Nestled in Barangay Calabawan, Inambakan Falls sits at the edge of dense forest and foothills, about 4 kilometers inland from Ginatilan’s town proper. Despite its remote location, getting there is relatively easy via local transport, with habal-habal (motorcycle taxis) offering quick access from town to the falls’ entrance. The road leading up is steep and narrow but paved, ending at a registration hut with modest facilities.
Ginatilan itself is a fourth-class municipality in southwestern Cebu, bordered by Samboan to the north and Alegria to the east. Known for its friendly locals, clean coastline, and unspoiled rivers, Ginatilan is also the birthplace of Filipino saint Pedro Calungsod. This gives the town a quiet spiritual charm that blends well with its natural landscape.
What I appreciated most about visiting Inambakan Falls in Ginatilan Cebu was the contrast: the journey starts in a sleepy town plaza, passes through rice paddies and hills, and ends in a jungle paradise. It’s one of those places where getting off the tourist trail actually pays off. So if you’re searching for something both scenic and serene, this is exactly where you’ll want to be.
How to Get to Inambakan Falls
From Cebu City to Inambakan Falls
Getting from Cebu City to Inambakan Falls is a long but scenic journey that takes you through coastal towns and rolling countryside. If you’re traveling on a budget or looking for a DIY experience, I recommend taking the Ceres bus from the South Bus Terminal in Cebu City. Look for a bus headed to Bato via Barili, not via Oslob, as the Barili route takes you through Cebu’s southwestern corridor where Ginatilan is located.
Bus Option:
Travel time: 3.5 to 4.5 hours, depending on traffic
Fare: ₱150–₱180 one-way
Pro tip: Catch an early morning bus (4:00–6:00 AM) to arrive at Inambakan Falls before midday. The buses leave every 30–60 minutes, but it’s best to come early to get good seats.
Once you reach Ginatilan town proper, usually near the 7-Eleven or public market, hire a habal-habal (motorcycle taxi) to bring you up to the entrance of the falls. The ride is steep but short—about 15–20 minutes.
Habal-habal Fare: ₱50–₱100 per person (round-trip, negotiable)
Private Car/Taxi Option:
If you’re traveling in a group or prefer more comfort, renting a car or booking a taxi for the day is another option. Travel time by private car is roughly the same, and parking is available near the registration hut. Expect to pay around ₱3,000–₱4,000 for a round-trip car hire.
If it’s your first time driving in Cebu, I recommend letting someone experienced handle the uphill roads to Inambakan Falls. The final climb is surprisingly steep.
From Moalboal to Inambakan Falls
If you’re coming from Moalboal to Inambakan Falls, you’re in luck—this route is shorter, more flexible, and ideal for travelers who prefer to DIY their way around Cebu.
By Scooter:
Renting a scooter is by far the most popular option among independent travelers in Moalboal. The drive south to Ginatilan takes 1.5 hours along a scenic coastal road. Just follow the highway through Badian, Alegria, and Samboan until you see signs for Ginatilan.
Rental rate: ₱300–₱500 per day
Gasoline: ₱120–₱150 round-trip
Safety Tip: The final ascent to the falls is steep and narrow. Unless you’re confident navigating rough inclines, park at the town and take a habal-habal for the last few kilometers.
By Bus:
From Moalboal’s highway junction, flag a Ceres bus going to Bato via Barili. Make sure to tell the conductor you’re getting off in Ginatilan. Once there, the same habal-habal arrangement applies.
Fare: ₱80–₱100 one-way
Travel time: About 1 hour by bus, plus 15 minutes by motorbike
By Tour/Private Hire:
If you’re with friends or short on time, a private van or tour guide can take you round-trip from Moalboal to the falls. Expect to pay ₱2,000–₱2,500 for a day trip, depending on the number of stops.
Whichever route you take, the road from Moalboal to Inambakan Falls is filled with coastal views, charming villages, and spontaneous roadside fruit stands—worth the ride even before you reach the falls.
Entrance Fees and Practical Information
When planning your visit to this stunning multi-level waterfall, it’s essential to know the actual costs involved. The entrance fee in Inambakan Falls is very budget-friendly—just ₱50 per person. You’ll pay this at the registration booth located near the parking area, which also serves as the jump-off point for your waterfall adventure.
If you’re bringing a motorbike or car, a small parking fee of ₱10 is collected upon entry. For travelers planning to spend a few hours relaxing by the pools, you can rent one of the open-air cottages for ₱300 per day. These shaded nipa-style huts are perfect for picnics or storing your bags while you explore.
Facilities are basic but sufficient:
A toilet and changing area is available at the entrance—simple but clean.
There are also a couple of cold-water showers if you want to rinse off after your swim.
A few sari-sari stalls or small vendors may sell snacks, bottled water, and soft drinks, but choices are limited. I suggest bringing your own lunch or trail food, especially on weekdays when vendors may not be present.
From my experience, it’s best to arrive between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM. By this time, the sunlight hits the turquoise pools perfectly for photos, and you can enjoy the area before any local groups arrive in the afternoon. If you plan to hire a local guide or negotiate habal-habal rides, always clarify if the price is per person or per trip—and bring small bills for easier transactions.
Best Time to Visit Inambakan Falls
When planning a trip to Ginatilan’s hidden gem, one of the most frequently asked questions is: What’s the best time to visit Inambakan Falls? Based on my experience and tips from locals, timing your visit well can make a huge difference—not just for weather, but also for overall enjoyment.
Dry Season vs. Rainy Season
The best time to visit Inambakan Falls is during Cebu’s dry season, which runs from December to May. This is when the weather is most predictable, the trail is less slippery, and the falls’ iconic turquoise waters are at their clearest. The pools are especially photogenic during sunny days, and the multi-level trail is easier to navigate without the mud.
On the other hand, the rainy season (June to November) brings heavier water flow, which can be a double-edged sword. While the falls are more dramatic, the trails can get muddy, and the upper levels may be slippery. I’ve hiked here during the early rainy season, and while still stunning, it required extra caution.
Weekday vs. Weekend
If you prefer a quiet experience, I highly recommend visiting on a weekday. On my Tuesday morning visit, I had nearly all five levels to myself. Weekends and holidays can attract local families, especially during summer, so expect more foot traffic and crowded pools during those times.
Pro Tip
For the best lighting and fewest crowds, aim to arrive between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM. You’ll avoid the midday heat while still getting beautiful photos with the sun overhead.
Activities at Inambakan Falls
Swimming and Relaxing at the Main Falls
Swimming at the base of Inambakan Falls is, hands down, one of the most invigorating things I’ve ever done in Cebu. The main cascade plunges around 100 feet into a large, jade-blue basin that feels like nature’s private pool. The first time I dipped into that cool, mineral-rich water, I was hit by both the chill and the beauty of it—water so clear you can see your toes, and mist so fine it cools the air even under the midday sun.
The main pool is deep in the center and shallower near the rocks, which makes it perfect for both swimmers and waders. If you’re not a confident swimmer, I highly recommend renting a life vest (available at the registration hut for about ₱50) or staying close to the rock walls on the edge. The waterfall’s current near the center is strong, so it’s best to admire the thundering cascade from a safe distance if you’re unsure in deep water.
What I loved most? The chance to snap dramatic Inambakan Falls photos—standing on the mossy boulders or floating in the turquoise pool with the mist behind me felt like a travel magazine moment. Just keep in mind that the rocks can be slippery, so water shoes or sandals with grip are your best friend here.
This level also has shaded picnic cottages, so after a swim, you can relax, rehydrate, and just enjoy the sound of rushing water echoing through the canyon walls.
Cliff Diving and Canyoneering Adventure
If you’re the type who looks at a pool of water and wonders, “Can I jump into that?”—you’re in luck. Inambakan’s upper levels offer just the right amount of adrenaline without the need for ropes or professional guides. While it’s not as commercialized as Badian’s Kawasan canyoneering circuit, you can still get a taste of adventure here.
Level 3 and Level 5 are where the real cliff-jumping happens. At Level 3, there’s a clear, deep pool with rock ledges that are perfect for a clean jump. The locals assured me it was safe—and after watching a few of them leap in, I finally gave it a try. Let’s just say my landing wasn’t Olympic-level, but it was thrilling enough to go twice.
There’s no official Inambakan Falls canyoneering tour as of writing, but that’s part of the charm. It feels more organic. You hike, climb, and occasionally slide your way between pools and rocks, with nature as your only guide. That said, always scout your landing zone before jumping. Water levels can change based on rainfall, and submerged rocks aren’t always visible.
Safety tip: If you’re unsure, ask a local or fellow traveler who’s jumped before. And if you’re traveling alone, don’t attempt cliff dives without someone nearby to assist in case of injury.
Even if you don’t plan to jump, just watching others plunge into the crystalline water while you soak in the view makes this part of the falls unforgettable.
Multi-level Waterfall Hiking Experience
One of the most magical things about Inambakan is that it’s not just a single cascade—it’s a five-tiered waterfall system, each level with its own unique features. Hiking up to explore all five levels is like moving through a natural obstacle course, with each step more enchanting than the last.
The trail begins right after the main pool, leading you through a mix of concrete steps, muddy paths, and rock-hopping detours. I brought a small dry bag and wore strap-on sandals, which saved me a few slips along the way.
Level 2 is just a few minutes up and feels like a hidden cove—smaller falls, shallow pools, and perfect for wading.
Level 3, as mentioned, is a cliff diver’s paradise. It also offers one of the most serene spots to float and look up at the jungle canopy.
Level 4 is a peaceful midpoint, where butterflies and birds sometimes flutter by. I rested here and listened to nothing but cascading water and chirping birds.
Level 5, the highest, is the most secluded. The hike to get there gets a bit rugged—expect to use your hands for balance—but the pool at the top is crystal-clear and framed by trees like something from a dream.
Hiking all the levels takes about an hour round-trip, longer if you stop for photos (which you will). Be sure to carry water and wear a hat or sun protection. And don’t worry—there’s no rush. Inambakan rewards the slow traveler.
Unique Features & Photography Tips
One of the most underrated aspects of Inambakan Falls is how photogenic—and unexpectedly unique—it is. Beyond the towering main cascade and its vivid blue pool, there’s a special surprise for curious swimmers: a small cave hidden behind the waterfall. Yes, you read that right. If the current isn’t too strong and you’re a confident swimmer, you can actually swim through the mist and slip behind the waterfall into a little cavern. It’s dim, echoey, and surreal—like being inside the heartbeat of the jungle. Just be careful, as the rocks can be slick and the current can push you back if the water flow is heavy.
When it comes to capturing Inambakan Falls photos, I’ve found a few favorite angles:
From the left side of the main pool, you can photograph the entire curtain of water with people swimming for scale.
Climb the stone steps to the upper viewpoint just above Level 1 for a top-down perspective—especially stunning around mid-morning when sunlight cuts through the trees.
Level 3 is your best bet for those tropical oasis shots, with a turquoise pool framed by palm trees and cliff walls.
For gear, I recommend:
A waterproof action camera (like a GoPro) for swimming shots
A dry bag or waterproof pouch for your phone
A lens cloth—there’s a lot of mist in the air!
Whether you’re shooting wide landscapes or candid poolside moments, Inambakan Falls photos will no doubt become a highlight of your Cebu travel gallery. Just remember to soak in the moment, too.
Suggested Itinerary: Day Trip or Overnight
Day Trip Itinerary (from Cebu City or Moalboal)
If you’re planning a one-day adventure to Inambakan Falls, it’s totally doable from either Cebu City or Moalboal with an early start. Here’s a sample itinerary based on my personal experience:
From Cebu City:
4:30 AM – Depart South Bus Terminal via Ceres bus to Ginatilan (Bato via Barili route)
8:30 AM – Arrive in Ginatilan, hire a habal-habal to the falls
9:00 AM – Start your hike and explore Levels 1–3
12:00 PM – Lunch break at a cottage (bring packed food or grab something from town beforehand)
1:00 PM – Continue hiking to Levels 4 and 5, swimming and relaxing
3:30 PM – Head back to the entrance and freshen up
4:00 PM – Catch the return bus to Cebu City
From Moalboal: You can start later (around 6:30 AM) and arrive by 8:00 AM. The route is shorter and less tiring, making it ideal for spontaneous trips.
Overnight Stay Option
For a more immersive experience, I recommend staying the night in Ginatilan or nearby Samboan. I once stayed at Fantasy Lodge in Samboan—it’s serene, comfortable, and a short drive from several waterfalls. You’ll have time to explore Inambakan in full, visit nearby falls like Dao or Aguinid, and avoid rushing your trip.
Budget Tips
Day trip budget: ₱600–₱800 (bus, entrance, food, habal-habal)
Overnight trip: ₱2,000–₱3,500 (with accommodation and meals)
Travel hack: Bring exact fare and small bills; many places don’t offer change for large denominations.
Where to Stay and Eat Near Inambakan Falls
Recommended Accommodations
If you’re extending your adventure beyond a day trip, there are a few great places to stay near Inambakan Falls—from no-frills local stays to cozy mid-range resorts.
1. Village Garden Resort (Ginatilan Proper):
This small, family-run resort is just a few minutes from the town center. Rooms are basic but clean, with fan and air-conditioned options. What I loved most was its peaceful garden and ocean view—a perfect way to wind down after a full day of hiking.
2. Fantasy Lodge (Samboan):
Roughly 15 minutes from Inambakan by motorbike, Fantasy Lodge is one of my personal favorites. It’s perched on a cliff with an infinity pool and even a kawa hot bath experience. It’s mid-range in price, but the ocean views and spa vibe make it totally worth it.
3. Local Homestays:
For budget travelers, there are a handful of homestays and guesthouses around Ginatilan town. Ask locals near the plaza or market—they’re usually happy to connect you with hosts offering clean, affordable rooms.
Where to Eat and What to Try
Food options in Ginatilan are simple but satisfying. For a local dining experience, stop by a carenderia (canteen-style eatery) near the public market.
Try the local utan bisaya (vegetable soup) or freshly grilled fish.
At Happy Bowl & Café, you can grab a decent coffee and some light snacks.
If you spot a vendor selling budbud kabog (millet rice cake), buy one—it’s a sweet, soft local delicacy that makes a great trail snack.
Just remember: most eateries close early, so plan your meals before sunset.
Safety, Accessibility, and Local Tips
Navigating the Access Road
The road leading up to Inambakan Falls is deceptively steep. During my visit, I rode a scooter from Moalboal, but the last 10 minutes felt like a rollercoaster climb. If you’re not confident riding uphill or on narrow curves, I strongly recommend parking in Ginatilan town and taking a habal-habal (motorbike taxi) driven by locals who know how to handle the road safely. Also, avoid visiting right after heavy rain—the concrete becomes slippery, especially on the descent.
Accessibility for Families and Seniors
While the main waterfall (Level 1) is accessible via a short walk from the parking area, the upper levels require some stamina. There are steep stairs and natural rock paths, so if you’re traveling with kids or older adults, it’s best to stick to the lower levels. I met a family with seniors during my trip, and they enjoyed the picnic areas and natural pools at the base without hiking further.
Mobile Signal and Emergency Prep
Signal reception around the falls is patchy to nonexistent. I suggest downloading offline maps in advance and letting someone know your itinerary. For minor injuries, bring a small first-aid kit—scrapes and slips are common on wet rocks. The nearest clinic is in Ginatilan town proper.
Respecting the Environment and Community
Inambakan Falls remains clean and tranquil because visitors take care of it. Carry out your trash, use eco-friendly sunscreen, and keep noise levels down. I personally encourage supporting local guides and vendors—it’s a small but meaningful way to give back to the community that preserves this natural gem.
FAQs About Visiting Inambakan Falls
Is Inambakan Falls safe for kids?
Yes—with a few precautions. Inambakan Falls is kid-friendly, especially at the main pool near Level 1, where there are shallow areas perfect for wading. However, the central part of the pool is deep and has a strong current near the waterfall’s base. When I visited, I saw families enjoying the lower pools, but parents made sure children wore life vests (which are available for rent at the entrance). The path to the upper levels is steeper and may not be suitable for toddlers, so it’s best to stay at the main tier if you’re traveling with young kids or elderly companions.
Do you need a guide for Inambakan Falls?
No guide is required to visit Inambakan Falls, which is rare for multi-tiered waterfalls in Cebu. The trail is straightforward, well-trodden, and marked at each level. That said, hiring a local guide is a great way to support the community—and they can point out safer jump spots or take your photos. I explored on my own and didn’t encounter any difficulties, but if it’s your first time hiking or you’re not confident navigating rock paths, a guide can enhance the experience.
Can I visit multiple waterfalls nearby in one day?
Absolutely. In fact, many travelers pair Inambakan Falls with nearby waterfalls in Samboan, such as Aguinid Falls or Dao Falls. If you start early, you can explore 2–3 waterfalls in one day. Just plan transport in advance or hire a local guide with a motorbike to save time between stops.
Conclusion: Why You Should Visit Inambakan Falls
If you’re searching for a destination in Cebu that offers beauty, adventure, and tranquility all in one setting, Inambakan Falls should be at the top of your list. Unlike the more commercialized waterfalls in the province, this hidden gem in Ginatilan delivers a raw, immersive experience—without the crowds.
What makes Inambakan Falls so special is the combination of its towering 100-foot drop, turquoise-colored pools, and multi-level trekking path that turns a simple visit into an outdoor adventure. From the dramatic cliff-diving ledges of Level 3 to the serene jungle pool at Level 5, each tier offers something distinct. Whether you’re a casual traveler or a thrill-seeker, there’s a part of the falls that feels tailor-made just for you.
Personally, I loved the balance of accessibility and remoteness. You don’t need to be an experienced hiker or book an expensive tour to enjoy this place. But you do need a sense of curiosity—and perhaps a bit of courage to hike further up or jump from a ledge. The reward? Breathtaking views, refreshing waters, and that indescribable feeling of discovering something untouched.
If you’ve been to Inambakan Falls, I’d love to hear about your favorite level, your best jump, or that one moment that made you stop and say, “Wow.” Leave a comment or share your experience—I always enjoy hearing how others experience places I’ve fallen in love with.
And if you haven’t been yet? Let this be your sign. Inambakan Falls is waiting for you.
