Pagsanjan Falls
A canoe ride up a jungle gorge to a thundering waterfall, then a wild ride back down the rapids.
Quick answer
- Where: the falls are in Cavinti, Laguna, but most visitors reach them by boat from the town of Pagsanjan.
- The ride: two boatmen paddle and push a canoe upstream through a gorge, then shoot about 14 rapids on the way back.
- The falls: about 90 metres high; a bamboo raft can take you through the spray into a cave behind the water.
- History: the boat trip has been an attraction since Spanish colonial times, with written accounts from 1894.
- Getting there: about two to three hours by road from Manila.
Why it is a wonder
Pagsanjan Falls has thrilled visitors since Spanish times. The trip starts in the town of Pagsanjan, where two boatmen take you upstream in a narrow canoe along the Bumbungan River. They paddle, pull and push the boat over boulders through a deep, green gorge lined with cliffs and smaller cascades.
At the end, the main falls, about 90 metres high, thunder into a pool. A bamboo raft can take you right through the spray into a small cave behind the water. Then comes the fun part: “shooting the rapids” on the way back downstream, through about 14 rapids.
The falls themselves are actually in neighbouring Cavinti, where they are also called Magdapio Falls, and where a hiking trail offers another way in.
Beat the crowds
- Go on a weekday morning.
- Book through the official tourism office or an accredited resort to avoid touts.
Getting there
Pagsanjan is about two to three hours by road from Manila. Buses run to Santa Cruz, Laguna, then jeepneys or tricycles to Pagsanjan. Many visitors book a day tour with transport included.
A perfect day
- Start early with the boat ride upstream.
- Raft behind the falls and swim in the pool.
- Shoot the rapids back down.
- Lunch in Pagsanjan or nearby Lucban, famous for its longganisa.
Through the seasons
- About July to January: the river is higher, which makes the boat ride easier and the falls stronger.
- Late in the dry season: low water can mean more pushing and dragging.
- After heavy rain: trips are cancelled for safety.
Respect the place
Wear the life jacket, keep your hands inside the boat in the rapids, and take your rubbish back. The boatmen work hard: treat them fairly.
Frequently asked questions
Is it Pagsanjan Falls or Cavinti Falls?
Both. The falls are in Cavinti, where they are also called Magdapio Falls, but the famous boat ride starts in Pagsanjan.
Can I hike there instead?
Yes. From Cavinti, a trail with steps and an optional rappel leads down to the falls.
Is the boat ride safe?
It is run by licensed boatmen, and life jackets are provided. Go only with the official tourism office or accredited resorts, and avoid trips after heavy rain.
Should I tip the boatmen?
It is customary to give a tip for the hard work, but agree on prices officially first and don't let anyone pressure you.
Kalinga
Remote mountain villages, rice terraces and a living tattoo tradition in the northern Cordillera.
We checked this guide against the 3 sources listed below. Last updated 14 November 2026. Basis: researched from official sources. Written and edited by Delfin, with AI-assisted research (how we work). Prices, hours and rules change, so confirm before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.
