Laguna: Chasing Waterfalls (A Trilogy)
Laguna is known to be the cradle of numerous natural attractions that is known all over the Philippines. Adding to this roster is a series of waterfalls – particularly in the municipality of Luisiana – where some of its iconic waterfalls are being celebrated by travelers and explorers.
Read also: ZamBaSulTa: Mindanao’s Exciting Destination
Chasing Waterfalls: Laguna Edition
Luisiana, Laguna has been blessed with a number of iconic and gram-worthy waterfalls that can be seen and explored in one go. In this blog, I have (re)visited 3 of the waterfalls that can be found in the municipality.
I first explored these waterfalls in Laguna in 2017 with my friends from World Youth Alliance. Coming back after 7 years, its magic still never fails to surprise me. As a nature lover myself, I am easily attracted to places that have been preserved and well-maintained and I commend Luisiana for that.
The first in the trilogy of falls is Talay Falls. This simple falls is quite hidden from sight but it is the first falls that you will be visiting while on the trail to Hulugan Falls. The trail going to Talay Falls is still easy and I suggest that you eat lunch here since there is a makeshift table near the falls. All of these waterfalls call Lamiyo River as its source.
Second falls on the trail is the “Hidden Falls.” This falls is one of the bigger falls that you will pass through on the trail. I suggest that you go here during the rainy season so that the water current will be quite strong and the cascade of water would be more “instagrammable.”
Now for the main attraction, the 70-meter (230 feet) Hulugan Falls is up for nature-lovers. Its unique high curtain cascade gives you a dramatic cinematic feeling. With the flowing river below, it is also a nice place to bathe after a tiring 30-minute trek. This is the main attraction along the hike and is also a nice place to just relax and breathe in nature.
How to register going to Hulugan Falls
From the Barangay Outpost, just walk to the registration area and get a guide. It is mandatory to have a guide. Ride a tricycle going to the Barangay Captain’s house or drive your car to the registration area where you will pay for the registration fee. Riding a tricycle is optional if you are in a hurry. If not, you can just walk going to the start of the trail. You can also park your private car in the parking space provided near the registration and briefing area. You can also rent a life vest prior to hiking to the falls trilogy.
Schedule of Fees in Hulugan, Talay, and Hidden Falls (as of June 2024):
| Registration Fee (per person) | ₱ 50 |
| Guide Fee (1:5) | ₱ 500 (minimum) |
| Tricycle Fee (per person) | ₱ 40 (round trip) |
| Life Vest Rental (per person) | ₱ 70 |
| Parking Fee (per vehicle) | ₱ 50 |
| Bathing Fee (per person) | ₱ 20 |
But wait, there’s more!
After visiting Talay Falls, Hidden Falls, and Hulugan Falls, you can also go and visit Aliw Falls just near the outpost for registration. This multi-cascade waterfall is an experience on its own as you can go into one of its wider cascades and feel its cool waters. There is also a man-made pool near the falls if you want to swim and let time pass.
You can also enjoy the trilogy waterfalls hike in Laguna by camping near the shortcut jump off point going to Hulugan Falls. The overnight camping fee is at ₱ 500 per person and the guide fee is at ₱ 1000 (1:5) as the guide will sleep with you inside the campsite for security purposes. You can also bring your own tent for the camping but you can also rent a tent for a fee (I forgot to ask how much). You can bring your own food but always practice CAYGO! 🙂
My Laguna Trilogy Falls Take
If you are starting your journey in Laguna, better yet start it by chasing waterfalls! There are a lot of beautiful waterfalls in the province and this waterfall tetralogy is just the tip of the iceberg. Many natural wonders can be found in Laguna and this would be a great start to your nature trip.
Suggested Laguna Waterfalls Hopping Itinerary
| 0600 – 0700 H | Go to Barangay Outpost + Register + Secure Travel Guide + Pay Fees | ₱ 50 (Registration) + ₱ 500 Guide Fee (1:5) + ₱ 40 (tricycle fee – per pax, round trip) |
| 0700 H | Start Trek to Hulugan Falls | |
| 0730 H | Talay Falls | |
| 0830 H | Hidden Falls | |
| 0900 H | Hulugan Falls | |
| *Brunch at Hulugan Resting Area | ||
| 1100 H | Aliw Falls | |
| 1300 H | (if time permits) Cavinti Falls |
*Note that the places, prices, and information written as of publication date and time are true and are given best during my visit. Changes may occur without prior notice. If you notice any changes to the information given above, you can e-mail me here so we can dish things up!*
We’re born to travel!
About Aldrick 'chiki' Agpaoa
