Mantayupan Falls, Barili

For years, whenever I have the urge to go dipping in the cold icy water that only a waterfall can offer. I would drive nearly 4 hours just to get to Badian, Cebu and walked nearly 30 minutes just to get a glimpse of the famous Kawasan Falls. This have been one of the best Cebu Tourist Spot for as long as I can remember but as time goes by the trip to the said pleasure prove to be very taxing and the path going to the falls have prove to be not so child friendly.

As I am planning for yet another trip to this famous Cebu Tourist Spot this year. A friend of mine suggested going to Mantayupan Falls instead. The first question I ask “Is it as good as Kawasan Falls?”. He said "It is much better, nearer and much more majestic" after all the talk and chit-chat I decide to give Mantayupan Falls a go. Actually to tell you guys the truth he got me at nearer.

Located in Campangga, Barili, which is roughly over an hour drive from Cebu City proper, this jewel is probably the tallest waterfall in the whole Cebu Island. This 98 meters high waterfall is breathtaking due to the fact that it have manage to remain untouched and well preserved. This place have a wonderful ambiance and people here are so polite and helpful. The entrance fee is a mire 10.00 pesos, while the parking fee is pegged at 20.00 pesos. From the parking area it will take you no less that 10 minute to get to the foot of the waterfall where one's can take his time to admire the environment and savor every moment of it. A word of caution for future goers the only downside to this place is that the rocks surrounding the waterfall is so slippery, one should be very careful and watch your step first and be sure that you are properly footed when admiring probably the best well preserved Cebu Tourist Spot ever.

A tip of advise for people who want to travel light. There’s a fishing pond located a few meters before reaching Mantayupan falls where you can enjoy cook Tilapia fish at a cheap price of 160.00 pesos/kilo. The price inside one of the establishment in Mantayupan falls is pegged at 200.00 pesos/kilo.

From Cebu South bus terminal you can take a bus ride for 80.00 pesos to Barili or you can opt taking a much more comfortable V-Hire for 90.00 pesos.Upon reaching Poblacion, Barili take a motorcycle ride to Mantayupan which will cost you 15.00 pesos or for a more Green approach a pedicab for 30 pesos.

A table with an umbrella and comes with 4 chairs is priced at 150.00 pesos. You can also ask for additional chair which is priced at 10.00 pesos a piece.

Reminder : The floor is uneven so be careful and make sure that the chair is properly footed before sitting.

P.S. These prices that you see here are based on my last visit to Mantayupan Falls (September 25, 2011)

Visited this place again last November 13, 2011. The fishing pond restaurant near Mantayupan falls is called AC Tilapia Fun Fishing and I wish to recant my recommendation to dine here. I will write a hub why.