Ahhh, Biliran! What once was part of Leyte, now its own province hailed for its own beauty…
If you’re the type who’d rather trek than tan on the sandy beaches of Biliran, then we’ve got you covered as this island is filled with a treasure trove of waterfalls, each with its own lore that has been passed down from generation to generation of locals.
Here are 8 waterfalls in Biliran that are totally worth the splash:
Kasabangan Falls
First on the list is one that has 13 cascading layers! The Kasabangan Falls, located in Cabucgayan, is one of the favorites among locals and visitors because of its variety of levels. Its name is believed to be derived from the Visayan word for “meeting place,” as the falls serve as a convergence point for various streams. Over the years, it has been developed into a leisure park, offering amenities for those looking to relax amidst nature. And the best part is, this falls is not that far from the national highway, which means it’s fairly easy to spot and go to.
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: Brgy. Balaquid, Cabucgayan, Biliran
- By Commute: From Naval, take a van or bus bound for Cabucgayan (around 30–40 minutes). Ask the driver to drop you off near Brgy. Balaquid or the landmark closest to Kasabangan Falls. The falls are just a short walk from the national highway.
- By Car: Follow the Biliran Circumferential Road toward Cabucgayan. Signage to Kasabangan Falls is visible from the road, and parking is available near the entrance.
Saob Falls
Saob Falls isn’t your average cascade. Massive boulders occasionally tumble from its cliffs, shaping the falls and the riverbed below which is how it got its name. Because of the phenomenon, it sparked local legends, with some believing that unseen spirits are behind the falling rocks, giving Saob an eerie, mystical charm. It also stands approximately 100 meters tall and is not for the faint-hearted as the only way to reach it is through a river trek, wading and climbing upstream from a designated jump-off point.
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: Cabucgayan, Biliran
- By Commute: From Naval, Biliran, ride a habal-habal (motorbike) or take a private vehicle to Brgy. Caucab in Almeria, where most treks to Saob begin. You may coordinate with a local guide. The trek involves about 30–45 minutes of river trekking, depending on weather and water levels.
Bagongbong Falls
Cathedral-like, that’s how Bagongbong Falls is described as due to it being renowned for having towering walls that resembles a cathedral. And of course, legends and lore began spreading throughout Biliran about the falls, such as a legend referring to ancient rituals being performed in the area, believing that the falls was a sacred site.
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: Brgy. Caucab, Almeria, Biliran
- By Commute: From Naval, take a jeep or habal-habal to Brgy. Caucab in Almeria. From the drop-off point, it’s a 15–20 minute hike through a forested area to reach the falls.
- By Car: Drive to Brgy. Caucab, Almeria, and park near the trailhead leading to the falls. The hike to the falls takes about 15–20 minutes.
Ulan-Ulan Falls
The word “Ulan” means rain in Bisaya, which is how this waterfall got its name because amidst it being 25-meters tall, its cascades create mist that resembles rainfall. Many locals believe that the falls possess the ability to summon rain, making it a site of prayers during droughts in summer.
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: Brgy. Sampao, Almeria, Biliran
- By Commute: From Naval, take a jeepney or habal-habal to Brgy. Sampao in Almeria. Inform the driver you’re heading to Ulan-Ulan Falls. From the drop-off point, it’s a short hike to the falls.
- By Car: Drive to Brgy. Sampao, Almeria, and park near the trailhead. The falls are accessible via a short hike from the parking area.
Pondol Falls
One of the most secluded waterfalls, Pondol Falls is a top choice for anyone looking for pristine waters that cascades into a calm pool, for that refreshing dip. It is also surrounded by tons of trees and shrubs which is why local folklore tells of forest spirits guarding the area, ensuring its peace remains undisturbed.
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: Brgy. Iyusan, Almeria, Biliran
- By Commute: From Naval, take a jeepney or habal-habal to Brgy. Iyusan in Almeria. From the drop-off point, it’s a short walk to the falls.
- By Car: Drive to Brgy. Iyusan, Almeria, and park near the access road leading to the falls. A brief walk will take you to the site.
Tinago Falls
A local legend tells of a child named Tin-ag, hidden away due to her appearance, who was transformed into a beautiful waterfall by an enchantress, symbolizing hidden beauty which is how “Tinago Falls” got its name. Though close to the road, it’s concealed by dense Caibiran rainforest.
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: Brgy. Cabibihan, Caibiran Biliran
- By Commute: From Naval, take a van or jeepney to Caibiran. Upon reaching Brgy. Cabibihan, ask locals for directions to Tinago Falls.
- By Car: Drive to Brgy. Cabibihan, Caibiran, and look for signage or ask locals for directions to the falls. Parking is available near the entrance.
Kinaraha Falls
This waterfall has two basins connected by a natural slide which is how it was named “Kinaraha” as it is believed to be derived from the local term for “vortex,” referencing the swirling waters during the rainy season. It is mainly surrounded by smooth rocks and sandy bottoms, making it a favorite for those seeking a gentle adventure in Biliran.
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: Villavicente, Caibiran, Biliran
- By Commute: From Naval, ride a van or jeepney bound for Caibiran town proper (around 1 to 1.5 hours). Once in Caibiran, look for a habal-habal (motorbike) and ask to be taken to Brgy. Villa Vicenta. From there, locals can point you to the footpath that leads to Kinaraha Falls. Expect a short but scenic hike through greenery.
- By Car: Drive along the Biliran Circumferential Road toward Caibiran. Once you reach the town center, take the inner barangay road leading to Brgy. Villa Vicenta. Look out for small signs or ask residents for directions. You can park near the barangay hall or trail entrance and walk about 10–15 minutes to the falls.
Tomalistis Falls
Officially recognized by the Guiness World Records for having exceptionally sweet-tasting water, Tomalistis Falls is one to definitely add to your bucketlist. During World War II, it’s said that soldiers discovered the falls while searching for fresh water, and were amazed by its sweet taste. Locals believe the water possesses healing properties, making it a cherished natural resource.
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: Brgy. Asug, Caibiran, Biliran
- By Commute: From Naval, take a van or jeep bound for Caibiran town (about 1.5 hours). At the town center, ride a habal-habal to Brgy. Asug. Locals are familiar with the falls and can help guide you. The walk from the road to the falls is only about 5–10 minutes on a trail.
- By Car: Take the Biliran Circumferential Road to Caibiran, then turn toward Brgy. Asug via a well-paved inner road. Once in the barangay, follow directions to the Tomalistis area. Parking is available near the roadside, with the falls just a short walk from where you park.
Biliran’s waterfalls are more than just scenic destinations, they’re storytellers of the island’s culture, history, and lore. Each cascading waters show tales of nature’s wonders and the legends that have shaped the Biliran community. So, which among these waterfalls will you be chasing next in your summer adventure this year? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
