Southern Cebu’s Hidden Gem : Samboan

DAU FALLS. Samboan is the home of the most pristine and magnificent falls.

Work, go home, sleep, work, and so on, the cycle continues. In this world where technology runs things, sometimes, we yearn for a place of solitude and peace . We just need to take a pause, a short break and unwind. For me, the most effective way to relax and takeaway all the stresses is to travel and get in touch with nature.

Fortunately our country, Philippines, is gifted with bountiful natural gifts. Cebu, also known as "Queen City of the South" possesses some of these wondrous masterpieces. I usually post poems, food reviews and origami tutorials but this time, I will come out of my niche and share the following undiscovered gems I had once a chance to unearth- the Aranas Beach, Aguinid Falls and Dau Falls.

SAMBOAN. The municipality caters different wonders of nature.

The precious and spectacular beach and falls are to be found in the municipality of Samboan in Southern Cebu. Samboan, approximately 148 kilometers from Central Cebu, caters pristine waters and other forms of nature. The locals also call Samboan as “Sinamboang” so when you go there, don’t be confused for both terms refer to the same place. Aside from the stunning attractions, the people are also very hospitable and welcoming towards tourists. If you crave for adventure, this is the ideal place for you!

Let us now start our escapade!

HOW TO GET THERE

For commuters, worry not, here is a quick guide to tell you where to find the magnificent forms of nature in Samboan:

First, you need to go to the Cebu South Bus Terminal which is approximately 550 meters from the Elizabeth Mall (E-Mall). Ride any jeepney or form of transportation, just make sure that it takes you to N. Bacalso Avenue, Cebu City.

Second, when you get there, find the line for Bato via Oslob Bus. There are lots of people travelling to South, so be sure to wake up early! Make sure you sit at the bus seat you desire and where you are comfortable because the travel will be for about 4 hours. Just sit back, relax and wait for the bus to take you to the Port.Afterwards, a tricycle will take you to Aranas Beach.

ARANAS BEACH

ARANAS BEACH. Southern Cebu offers the finest white sand beaches.

Upon arriving at Samboan port,you may take a rest first at the Aranas Beach which can be reached via tricycle. The white sand of the beach is so fine, I even remember walking with my bare foot and feeling the grains of the sand. The sea breeze incorporated with the breath-taking view totally makes the experience worthwhile. Quick Tip # 1: You may take your lunch at the cottages near the beach and enjoy the picture perfect seascape.

HUT. There are huts and cottages provided to give you a place of home away from home.

HOME. A closer look at the cottage where we slept and ate our meals

If you want to stay overnight and decide to have a 2 day vacation at Samboan just like what we did, you may setup tents where you could sleep and secure your belongings. There is no form of electricity in the “Kubo” or “Hut” so it was kind of dim but luckily, we brought our own portable lamp.

Setting up of tents to provide additional place of rest and comfort.

Sleeping away from the city is a very unforgettable experience because the stars were so bright due to the lack of presence of light pollution. Quick tip #2: Include a blanket or any sort of covering that would provide you warmth while sleeping near the beach since it gets really chilly in the early morning. Trust me, waking up with the sun greeting you by the seaside and the glorious view of the beach is a truly a must try experience!

Next stop: Aguinid Falls!

AGUINID FALLS

HORSE BACK RIDING. We met a horse on our way to Aguinid Falls.

The Aguinid Falls can be reached for about 15-20 minutes of riding the tricycle from the Aranas Beach. There is a signage provided that would help you navigate the place. Ask the locals for the direction and they’ll be more than happy to direct you. It is quite a long walk but through this, you may be able to appreciate the allure and scenic view of Samboan’s nature. Tall coconut trees, luscious banana trees, and other varieties of plants greet you along the way. I must say, the vegetation of Samboan is very rich and ravishing.

AGUINID FALLS. The rush of cold water and its breath taking view takes all the stress away.

The Aguinid Falls is one of a kind and totally breathtaking. The vibrant greenery compliments the falls in a very delightful way. There are distinctively shaped rock formations on the way to the top. The falls is composed of 8 levels but the higher levels such as levels 6, 7, and 8 are for the people who are experts and to those who seek for extreme adventures. There is a waiver to be signed before you can come up to the said higher levels. For a beginner like me, I was just able to go up until the 5th level. Remember, safety first!

Safety is the main concern that’s why a short briefing before the tour will be conducted by the travel guides to ensure the safety of the tourists. The belongings like snacks and water are to be left in the cottage. Worry not; there is a trustworthy person that will be paid to secure the things. Quick Tip #3 : Remember the Aranas Beach? You can leave some of your huge belongings like blankets, used food containers, and other possessions there if you have connections there just like us, we know someone trustworthy who can guard our belongings while we were away.

FIRST LEVEL.The Aguinid Falls is composed of 8 levels with the first level being the shallowest.

GOING TO FOURTH LEVEL. Hold on to ropes very tightly on the way up against the rushing water.

For level 2 to 4, there is a rope provided that will help you make your way up. Be sure to step on the holes of the rocks that were intended so than you can put your feet on. The water rushes through you really fast and strong so be sure to hold on tight!For the third, fourth, and fifth level, the view is definitely magnificent! Also, you may be able to jump from the fourth level since the water is not too deep and not too shallow.

If you enjoyed and was stunned by the wonderful view brought by the Aguinid falls, well, keep on reading because there is still a similarly beautiful wonder of nature below!

DAU FALLS

The Dau Falls also known as "Dao Falls" is the most popular and most visited by the tourists. We were able to visit the falls on our Second Day of escapade. It can be reached through riding the tricycle. Crops of different varieties and flowers abloom are along the way. The hills and mountains that can be seen in the area are very scenic and picturesque. Upon arriving, one should register and fill up the necessary forms. Don’t worry; there will also be a tour guide that will assist you.

TRICYCLE RIDE. Crops of different varieties greet you along the way to the Dau Falls.

To reach the falls, you need to walk for about 25-30 minutes after registration. Quick tip #4: Be sure to bring lots of water to keep you hydrated while walking under the heat of the blazing sun. You may also ask the tour guide to help you in carrying some of your belongings.

There is also a hanging bridge and below that, you can see a rushing flow of river. The sounds are so relaxing and I just want to spend much time here. This is one of my favorite parts of my travel because the feeling is one of a kind and cannot be experienced in the busy city.

HANGING BRIDGE. The bridge provides an exciting and one of a kind experience to visiting tourists.

Along the way, a “tubod” can be found. A "tubod" is a Cebuano term which describes a body of water that leaks within the cracks of rock formations. The water is so clear and pristine. If you’re thinking that it is dirty and not drinkable, then you’re wrong. You heard it right! I for one tasted and drank from it. So refreshing! If you a want a refill, you may grab your containers and fill them with the water coming out of the “tubod”.

TUBOD. A body of water which seeps through cracks in rock formations.

PICTURESQUE. There are rock formations and gushing waters on the way to Dau Falls that are undeniably pleasing and astonishing.

The huge boulders make the people appear so small.

My friend standing on top of a huge boulder looking so tiny in comparison to the sizes of rocks surrounding him.

DAU FALLS. The pride and protected treasure of Samboan.

The view is astounding! When we arrive, the place is not packed and crowded so we were able to enjoy the place. While swimming, it is not allowed to swim near the rushing flow of the water at the mouth of the falls because the current is so strong and is very dangerous that might pull you down.

The water is so deep. On your first step, expect the water to be about 3 meters deep. So please take precaution.

The greenery of vegetation compliments the blue skies and the pristine waters.

Just like the previous falls, the water is ice cold and it will surely refresh you. Stress free! The falls is one of a kind. Now I know why tourists take time to visit here even if travel is so long. It will surely make you forget about all your problems and just be in the moment.

What makes the Dau Falls quite different from the rest is that: the rock formations are very distinctive and one of a kind. Before you reach and try to see its beauty, you need to go through trekking and a whole lot of walking. The locals said that before, there was no way for them to reach the place, and only bamboos pave them way but that causes a lot of struggle. However, in the present, there are already wood, and concrete nearby provided which serve as a road for tourists to easily visit the place. The experience from Dau Falls is one that I will remember for the rest of my life.

BONUS:

COSINA ORGANICA. A place to relax and drink your favorite coconut juice.

You may also like to visit other places nearby such as the Cosina Organica found in Alegria on your way home .The place caters delightful organic treats including the refreshing buko juice or coconut juice. The juice will surely refresh you plus the view of the beach is astounding!

WHAT MAKES SAMBOAN DIFFERENT FROM THE REST?

The falls in Samboan are situated in a way that they are so close to one another. The people are very hospitable and the tourist guides are doing it voluntarily to promote the wonders of the place. Finally, since it is not yet well developed, compared to other falls found in Southern Cebu, the falls here are not so packed and crowded.

BUDGET:

If you’re planning to have an escapade at Samboan, here is the suggested budget:

175 php- Bato via Oslob Bus Fare
120 php-Tricycle from Port to Aranas Beach (good for 6-7 people)
300 php- Food and drinks for the boodle fight
400 php- Registration for the Falls and Tour Guide
110 php- Tricycle for the 2 Falls back and forth (good for 6-7 people)
175 php- Bus fare going to Cebu
Total: 1,280 php

Prices may vary so make sure to bring extra money just in case!

DO’S AND DON’TS:

As responsible travelers, while enjoying the scenic view of the place we sought to discover, we should always keep in mind some important reminders. Here are 3 “don’ts” to bear in mind:

1. As much as possible, don’t bring unnecessary things. Avoid packing up large ones to avoid the hassle.
2. Don’t throw your garbage anywhere. If possible, bring small garbage bags and ask the locals where to dispose your trashes.
3. Don’t go far away from your team. Stick to them as much as possible. Always remind them where you’re going to keep in touch or if possible, always have someone go with you.

After keeping in mind the don’ts, here are also 3 “do’s” that can help you achieve a stress free and enjoyable trip to Samboan:

1. Bring your personal medicines with you and other necessities such as snacks and water because the travel will be so long and if you are like me who gets dizzy easily, keep the medicines at compartments where they are accessible.
2. Buy materials and equipments for trekking ahead, they are quite expensive to buy there so make it a habit to plan and buy the necessary things ahead.
3. Relax and unwind, throw all your worries away and enjoy the adventure!

FINAL THOUGHTS

I salute the tour guides and other locals behind the preservation of this wonderful work of nature. We should keep in mind that as responsible tourists, we should follow the rules to maintain the place.

What is my favorite part of the trip? Well, I find the trekking the most enjoyable. Getting to the falls require a lot of effort and it will surely test your ability. Just as other beautiful things in life, you need to take a risk and give your best to have it. It was all worth it, the falls of Samboan were really stunning and magnificent.

Will I come back to Samboan? Definitely! How about you? Have you tried visiting the place? Or are you planning to? If so, feel free to share your thoughts below! I hope you had fun reading this!

“Maayong pagbyahe!” ( Have a good travel!) and happy steeming!

Your travel buddy,
@brokemancode