Mantayupan Falls
Cebu's tallest waterfall at about 98 meters, with a swimmable pool and developed facilities in Barili.
The overview
About Mantayupan Falls
Mantayupan Falls is the tallest waterfall in Cebu, dropping roughly 98 meters (322 feet) in Barangay Campangga, on the western side of Barili municipality about 55 kilometers from Cebu City. The falls spill over a wide limestone face into a natural pool that is deep enough for swimming, and the surrounding forest keeps the area noticeably cooler than the lowland towns nearby. A short trail leads from the parking and cottage area down to the falls, crossing a hanging rope bridge and a few rocky sections before reaching the basin. Visitors can swim, rent a bamboo raft to get closer to the cascade, or simply sit on the rocks and take in the height of the drop. The site has been developed with restrooms, changing areas, picnic tables, and an on-site eatery, making it one of the more visitor-ready waterfalls in southern Cebu. Because of its height and easy public access compared to other Cebu waterfalls, Mantayupan draws steady weekend crowds, so weekday visits or early mornings are noticeably quieter. It pairs well with a stop at nearby Bolocboloc Spring, about two kilometers away.
What makes it worth it
Highlights
- Tallest waterfall in Cebu at ~98 meters
- Swimmable natural pool at the base
- Hanging rope bridge on the approach trail
- Bamboo raft rentals
- On-site cottages and restaurant
- Near Bolocboloc Sulfur Spring
- 1 Wear sturdy shoes with good grip for the rocky approach and rope bridge. Rent a life jacket if swimming with children, and bring a dry bag for phones and cameras near the spray. Visit on a weekday or early morning to avoid the weekend crowds.
Wayfinder route
How to get there
From Cebu South Bus Terminal, take a bus or V-hire van bound for Barili Poblacion (about 2-3 hours, roughly PHP 120 by bus). From the town proper, hire a habal-habal to Barangay Campangga and the falls (about 20-30 minutes, roughly PHP 100).
Keep exploring
You might also like
Cambais Falls
Alegria
A two-level waterfall in Alegria with a milky-blue pool and cliff jumps of about 7 and 10 meters.
Cancalanog Falls
Alegria
A clear, deep swimming hole in a narrow limestone canyon in Alegria, fed by a small emerald-pool waterfall.
Bugasok Falls
Argao
A scenic multi-tiered waterfall in Argao's highlands with natural swimming pools and a refreshing forest trek.
Montaneza Falls
Asturias
A hidden multi-tiered waterfall in Asturias's mountains with natural swimming pools, reached via a scenic trek through rural landscapes.
Entrance Fee
PHP 30-50 entrance fee (discounted rates for seniors, PWDs, and young children)
Opening Hours
6:00 AM - 5:30 PM daily
Duration
2-3 hours
Difficulty
Moderate
Best Time to Visit
Dry season (November-May); weekday mornings for fewer crowds
Share this destination
Planning your Cebu trip?
Our free guides cover what to do, how to get there, and where to stay across Cebu.
Explore travel guides →