South Cebu

Mantayupan Falls

One of the tallest waterfalls in Cebu, hidden in a green amphitheatre in Barili. An easy walk, cool pools and a great first stop on a west coast trip.

Quick facts

Location: Campangga, Barili, South Cebu
From Cebu City: 2-2.5 hours by bus from Cebu City
Best for: Easy waterfall trip, swimming, families
Budget: ₱500-₱1,500 per day
Best time: Weekday mornings, all year

Local contact

Barili Tourism Office

Ask about fees, opening times and conditions before you go.

Message on FacebookOfficial page

Printable pocket booklet

Take Mantayupan Falls with you

Map, routes and how to get there
Day plans and what things cost
Packing and safety checklists
Prints on A4 or A5, works offline

Get the booklet - $2.99

Secure checkout. Your download link arrives by email right away.

Tips for this trip

Mantayupan Falls, known locally as Ambakan, is one of the tallest waterfalls in Cebu. In the barangay of Campangga in Barili, on the west coast, a long ribbon of water drops roughly 98 metres down a cliff into a cool pool, surrounded by trees, vines and ferns. It is only a short walk from the parking area, which makes it one of the easiest big waterfalls to visit from Cebu City.

Why go to Mantayupan Falls

A huge, tall waterfall, among the highest on the island.
An easy, paved walk to the falls, good for families and older travellers.
Two swimming spots: a smaller cascade and the big pool under the main falls.
Closer to Cebu City than most southern waterfalls, so it works as a half-day trip.

The falls

Mantayupan has two levels. A smaller cascade upstream has its own round pool, and the main falls drop into a wide green pool in what feels like a natural amphitheatre. A path, steps and a hanging bridge connect the different viewpoints, and there are cottages for rent if you want to spend a few hours.

You can swim in the pools. A life vest may be required, and rentals are usually available. The water is cold and deep in places, so wear one if you are not a strong swimmer. Small rafts are sometimes available too.

Who it suits

Because the walk is short and paved, Mantayupan is a good choice if you are travelling with children, older relatives or anyone who does not want a long hike. Strong swimmers will enjoy the big pool, while others can sit in a cottage and enjoy the cool air and the sound of the falls. Photographers should come in the morning, when the light falls softly into the green amphitheatre.

It is also a handy first stop on a west coast road trip: visit the falls in the morning, then continue south for lunch and an afternoon of snorkelling in Moalboal.

How to get to Mantayupan Falls from Cebu City

Go to the Cebu South Bus Terminal.
Take a bus to Bato via Barili, or any bus going to Barili. Get off in Barili town. About 2-2.5 hours.
Take a habal-habal (motorbike taxi) or tricycle to Mantayupan Falls in Campangga, a few kilometres inland.
Pay the entrance fee and walk the short path to the falls.

If you are driving, search for Mantayupan Falls on your map app. There is a parking area near the entrance. Entrance, parking and life vest fees are small but change from time to time, so bring cash and check on the day.

Getting around

Habal-habal and tricycles wait in Barili town. Ask your driver to wait or to come back for you, since there is less transport at the falls themselves. From Barili, buses continue south along the coast to Moalboal and Kawasan Falls.

Where to stay and eat

Most visitors come on a day trip from Cebu City or stop on the way to Moalboal. Barili town has eateries and stores, and the falls have small snack stands and cottages where you can eat food you bring. If you want to stay longer in the west, Moalboal has the widest choice of places to stay.

When to go

Mantayupan flows all year and is often at its most powerful in the rainy months, from about June to November, though the water can then be cloudy. The dry season, from about December to May, usually brings clearer pools. Weekends get busy with families and groups, so come on a weekday morning for the quietest visit.