Thanks to its mountainous region, Luzon features beautiful waterfalls throughout its area. You definitely have to drive a few hours from Manila to find the best ones, but it’s doable.

There are easily a few dozen waterfalls near Manila, but each waterfall has different characteristics. Perhaps you’re looking for something that is easy to get to or a place that is tucked away to take a break from crowded areas.

Either way, this list of the best waterfalls near Manila will give you some ideas on what to visit next.

Pagsanjan Falls

Pagsanjan Falls is easily the most popular and one of the best waterfalls to visit near Manila. It is a multi-tiered waterfall, also known as the Cavinti Falls. It’s interesting that to enjoy the Pagsanjan Falls, you have to go through an exciting hike or canoe trip. There are only two ways to reach this location. One is through hiking in the jungle, and the other is taking a canoe by the river through narrow waterways. The canoe ride is very exciting, as it highlights a unique and panoramic experience.

It is recommended that you travel through it with an experienced and knowledgeable guide for your own safety and also to ensure that you will reach the waterfalls.

The Pagsanjan area is part of Laguna province which is southwest of Manila. It’s about 3-4 hours drive depending on the traffic and your transportation method, covering a little over 108 km (67 miles).

One of the best ways to reach Pagsanjan Falls is to go on a guided tour. A time-saving and enjoyable option is to book a day trip from Manila to Pagsanjan Falls. This tour will not only take you to this beautiful waterfall but also allow you to experience taking a trolley ride through old train tracks. You will ride a canoe with a local guide to reach Pagsanjan Waterfalls and try the famous Laguna’s coconut pie. 

Pagsanjan Falls. Photo by Marxtermind

Balite Falls

If you’re thinking of going to Tagaytay anyway, you might want to include a stop at Balite Falls. It’s a smaller or low waterfall, very suitable for swimming. The gentle slopes allow you to enjoy and plunge into the natural pool, especially during the hot season.

It’s quite a developed destination where you can rent a bungalow for a day. Because of this, it can get a little busy throughout the week and the summer seasons.

Hulugan Falls

Hulugan Falls is also in Laguna Province, 10 km/6.2 miles south of Pagsanjan Falls. You can actually drive up closer to the falls, but still requires a bit of jungle hiking. It is a huge waterfall and quite popular due to easy access.

This makes it a busy waterfall near Manila, especially at the weekend. You are required to wear a life vest, which you can rent in the area. Apart from the waterfalls which offer swimming, there are some hiking areas you can explore with a local guide.

Kipot Falls

This waterfall is a bit more east of Pagsanjan Falls. Kipot Falls is relatively less known than other waterfalls in Laguna, making it a tranquil and less crowded spot for visitors looking for a peaceful retreat in nature. 

The pool in the fall is a great spot to cool off, go swimming, and do some picnics. You are required to trek through jungles and rivers to reach Kipot Falls, but it’s worth the effort and it’s not a hard hike. You can still take public transportation on the main road, then start the walk along the Kipot Access Pathway.

Daranak Falls

Daranak Falls is east of Manila, around 3 hours away in the province of Rizal. Since it’s easy to reach, expect a large crowd at the weekend and during public holidays. It’s a spacious area, so you can walk around and find a spot for yourself.

There are also cottages and picnic tables that you can rent for the day and even do some grilling. There are showers and restrooms to use for the visitors and a decent parking lot for those getting here by car.

Just because you’re starting your trip in Manila or are living in Metro Manila doesn’t mean you can only spend your time seeing modern architecture and visiting shopping malls. You can still explore the natural beauty of the Philippines by visiting waterfalls near Manila without having to fly to the islands or take a long bus ride up north.