Wazzup Pilipinas!?
Beyond the gold mines and the famous swells of Bagasbas lies a verdant, vertical world hidden within the rugged terrain of Bicol. This is a land where gravity meets grace—a realm of cascading white veils, ancient legends, and the raw, unyielding beauty of the Philippine jungle.
If you are looking for an escape that touches the soul, it is time to go Chasing Waterfalls in Camarines Norte.
1. The Tale of the Heartbroken: Anisong Falls
Location: Brgy. Mangkasay, Paracale
Locals call it the "Falls ng mga Sawi" (The Falls of the Unlucky in Love). This majestic curtain of water is shrouded in a bittersweet history. It is named after Venancio T. Lauce, an intelligent, English-speaking gentleman who retreated into this thick forest after his heart was broken by a woman named "Amor." Venancio chose a life of solitude amidst the mist, eventually passing away in 1997 in a cave near the falls. Today, the water falls like tears for a lost love, offering a hauntingly beautiful sanctuary for those seeking peace or a place to reflect.
2. The Romantic Sanctuary: Pag-Ibig Falls
Location: Brgy. Anameam, Labo
In stark contrast to the melancholy of Anisong, Pag-Ibig Falls (Love Falls) celebrates connection. After a 20-minute trek, you are greeted by a "curtain falls" with a hidden secret: a cave tucked directly behind the rushing water. It is a place where lovers can profess their affection, shielded from the outside world by a shimmering wall of liquid crystal. It is the ultimate destination for those looking to find their destiny amidst nature's embrace.
3. The Grand Expedition: Sagubsob Falls
Location: Brgy. Kabatuhan, Labo
For the true adventurer, the reward must be earned. Reaching Sagubsob Falls requires a grueling 2 to 2.5-hour hike through luscious, virgin forests. This is not just a walk; it is a pilgrimage through "God’s creation." When the canopy finally opens to reveal the grand, multi-tiered rush of Sagubsob, every drop of sweat is forgotten. It is a powerful reminder that the most beautiful things in life are found off the beaten path.
4. The Accessible Oasis: Malatap Falls
Location: Brgy. Malatap, Labo
Not every adventure requires a trek. Malatap Falls is a gift to the weary traveler. Located just meters from the main road, this multi-tiered beauty is visible the moment you step out of your vehicle. Its gushing waters have carved out a natural swimming spot that serves as the perfect weekend getaway for families and locals looking for a quick dip in paradise.
5. The Hidden Neighbor: Culiat Falls
Location: Brgy. Malatap, Labo
If you find yourself at Malatap, do not stop there. A 15-to-20-minute walk will lead you to Culiat Falls. The journey involves crossing a long, swaying hanging bridge—a thrill that only adds to the "enthusiasm" of the visit. The reward is a secluded spot of fresh, flowing water nestled deep within the greenery.
The Height of Adventure: A Summary of the Best
Mananap Falls
60 ft high; freshwater fishing
5 km uphill hike from Brgy. Fabrica
Nacali Falls
Longest zip line in Bicol
1.5 to 2 hour hike through pineapple plantations
Hagimit Falls
Surrounded by ancient medicinal trees
20-30 minute walk; perfect for diving
Why Camarines Norte?
Camarines Norte is a province that has been "gifted by the mountainous terrain." From the 60-foot heights of Mananap Falls—where you can camp and fish in deep, cool basins—to the Nacali Falls, which offers the thrill of a tramline or zip line over a dense forest canopy, there is a rhythm here for every traveler.
Whether you are healing a broken heart at Anisong, finding love at Pag-Ibig, or testing your endurance on the trails to Sagubsob, these waterfalls offer more than just a photo op. They offer a chance to disconnect from the "busy life" and experience the firsthand rush of rushing water and the deep tranquility of the fresh Bicolano air.
The water is calling. Are you ready to dive in?
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