Must-Visit Incredible Waterfalls In Mindanao

The Philippines is so blessed with fabulous attractions that never fail to draw crowds, whether they come from near or far. Lucky for travel enthusiasts who love nature and the outdoors - the country, particularly Mindanao region, is bountiful of white sand beaches and magnificent waterfalls.

If you'd like to discover the Philippines beach holiday destinations by yourself, why not go visit Cotabato and Surigao? Here, you'll discover the allure of cascading waters thundering mightily into marvelous pools down below.

• Asik-Asik Falls in Alamada, North Cotabato

Most people especially those from outside Mindanao only hear about Cotabato as a conflict-ridden province. Yet, many are unaware that Alamada town is peacefully endowed with splendid natural landscapes. Deep in one of its mountainous forests can be found Asik-Asik Falls, its waters bursting from the abundant wall of the mountain.

The lush vegetation that covers the mountain walls is the perfect backdrop for photo opportunities. However, the place is only for the brave of heart, as going up is quite tough, the path being unpaved. But, those who make it successfully can become proud of such a once-in-a-lifetime feat.

To get to the area, take the van from Cotabato City to Midsayap which should be about an hour. Then, find a habal-habal that will take you to Upper Dado in Alamada for about an an hour and a half. Upon arrival, you have to transfer to a tougher ride towards the jump-off point and pay a certain amount for entrance fee. You likewise have to register at the tourism booth in Upper Dado. Upon reaching the jump-off point, start your 30-minute trek towards the falls.

• Tinuy-an Falls in Bislig, Surigao del Sur

Perhaps, no other water formation in the country can equal the grandeur of Tinuy-an Falls, aptly dubbed as the “Niagara Falls of the Philippines”. Visitors will be awe-inspired by the tremendous volumes of water crashing down amidst a scenery of rich vegetation and rock formations.

Enjoy a water massage by riding a raft for an affordable fee that will take you to the cascades and feel the powerful downpour against your body. Explore the upper region and savor the spectacular view down below and around the falls. There are picnic tables for rent in designated areas.

For more time to discover the best beach holidays Philippines, start your journey today.

Must-See Amazing White Sandbars of Mindanao

The Philippines boasts of a myriad of exhilarating attractions regardless of whether they are situated in Mindanao, Luzon or Visayas. If you're a northerner or hailing from the central region, it's about time to see the southern areas and be amazed by various tourist spots.

Here in the Land of Promise are a plethora of stunning Philippines beach holiday destinations just waiting to be explored. For this journey, let's experience magnificent sandbars you may never have seen before in your entire life.

• Puting Balas in Zamboanga del Sur

Powdery cream sand set in crystal clear, deep, cerulean waters – are what greet the travel enthusiast upon reaching this stretch of sandbar made even more beautiful by the low tide. Puting Balas, meaning white sand in English is found off the coast of Pagadian City. It is rather isolated as the place rarely sees visitors, so expect it to be something of a haven if what you're need is a venue far away from the harried metropolis. 

Ideal for leisure swimming, snorkeling, jet skiing and diving, this impressive piece of sand-island has its ecosystem still well-preserved in its natural form. There are no commercial establishments out to adulterate the area, hence, a wide assortment of marine life thrives and even roam/swim around its surroundings.

It's easy for to reach the place since the sandbar is just a  just few kilometers off the southern part of Pagadian seaport. Find private motorized bancas in Brgy. San Pedro that can be hired roundtrip for  very reasonable rates. For a much-needed respite from the humdrum of urban living, Puting Balas is the perfect place to be.

• White Island in Camiguin

Unlike the destination mentioned above, the more than kilometer long White Island sandbar is popular with tourists from all over. Perhaps, its fine sands set in emerald green and azure waters plus the postcardesque panorama of Mt.Hibok Hibok and Mt.Vulcan, are its greatest attractions. Here, visitors could just bask in the sun or go leisure swimming in its calm waters.

For adventure seekers, take time snorkeling, diving and witnessing a magnificent panorama underwater, or viewing the sunrise and sunset over Camiguin. Remember to bring your beach umbrella, parasol or anything to cover you from the heat of the sun as there are no trees or any form of vegetation around – this is a virgin sandbar! To get there, take an eastbound tricycle from Mambajao town proper for the jump off point.

From these two attractions, proceed to other areas in Mindanao to find the best beach holidays Philippines.