Cancalanog Falls
A clear, deep swimming hole in a narrow limestone canyon in Alegria, fed by a small emerald-pool waterfall.
The overview
About Cancalanog Falls
Cancalanog Falls sits in Barangay Compostela, Alegria, along a river system connected to the Kawasan Falls watershed. Rather than one large cascade, it's built around a natural swimming hole where a modest waterfall feeds a deep, glass-clear pool cut through a narrow limestone canyon. The water is transparent enough that boulders on the bottom are visible from the surface. The pool sits below a small information center where local caretakers collect an entrance fee. From there it's a short walk down to the water. Cliff jumping spots line the canyon walls, and because the falls sit off the main tourist circuit, it tends to stay quiet even during peak travel months. The access road is rough and pitted in places; visitors uncomfortable driving on loose gravel can park higher up and walk the rest of the way in.
What makes it worth it
Highlights
- Emerald, glass-clear pool
- Narrow limestone canyon
- Cliff jumping spots
- Part of the Kawasan Falls river system
- Rarely crowded
- Short walk from parking
- 1 Bring cash for the entrance fee and water shoes for the rocky approach. The access road is rough gravel — park higher up and walk in if unsure about driving it. Visit on a weekday for a chance to have the pool to yourself. Location approximate — confirm on arrival.
Wayfinder route
How to get there
From Cebu City South Bus Terminal, take a bus toward Moalboal/Barili (3-4 hours), then continue to Alegria/Sangi. From Alegria, hire a habal-habal or drive toward Cambais Falls as a landmark; the turnoff is signposted about 20 minutes before reaching Cambais.
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Entrance Fee
PHP 50 entrance fee
Opening Hours
Daylight hours
Duration
1-2 hours
Difficulty
Easy
Best Time to Visit
Dry season, December to May; weekday afternoons for solitude.
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