Plan your visit
Plan your visit
Pagsanjan Falls is located 100 kilometers southeast of Metro Manila. The drive takes 2.5 to 3 hours before boarding the traditional canoe.
Getting there
Most visitors take a guided van tour or public bus from Manila.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tour: Book a guided day trip from Manila that provides round-trip, air-conditioned van transport and hotel pick-up. | 2.5 to 3 hours each way | $60 - $130+ | Tours often handle all permits and fees, and may bundle the trip with Hidden Valley Springs or Tagaytay. |
| Bus: Take a bus from Buendia, LRT Taft, or Cubao bound for Santa Cruz, Laguna, then transfer to a jeepney heading to Pagsanjan. | 3 to 4 hours | 300 PHP | Alight at the Pagsanjan town plaza and take a short tricycle ride to one of the authorized boat stations. |
| Boat: Traditional dugout canoe (banca) guided by two skilled local boatmen upstream to the falls. | 1 hour upstream, 45 mins downstream | 1,250 PHP | Rates are regulated by the local tourism office. Two to three passengers per boat. |
When to go
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QuietModerateBusyPeak
The best time to visit is during the dry season from November to May. The river currents are safer for the canoes.
Typhoon season runs from July to October. Heavy rains can make the rapids dangerous, occasionally forcing local authorities to halt operations.
What to bring
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Keep your electronic devices secured in waterproof bags.
You will get wet during the rapids.
How the day runs
A typical day trip timeline from Manila.
A standard schedule for an organized tour from Metro Manila.
- Depart Manila
Board an air-conditioned van for the 100-kilometer drive.
- Arrive in Pagsanjan
Register at the local tourism office and receive safety gear.
- Board the canoe
Begin the 1-hour upstream paddle through the gorge.
- Explore the falls
Swim in the plunge pool or take the bamboo raft to Devil's Cave.
- Shoot the rapids
Ride the canoe downstream through 14 river rapids.
- Lunch
Enjoy a local meal by the river before returning to Manila.
What to bring
Pack quick-dry clothing, swimwear, and strapped sports sandals with good grip. Bring a waterproof dry bag for your electronics and wallet. See our What to Wear guide.
Life vests and safety helmets are strictly mandatory. Do not stand up in the canoe or swim outside designated safe zones without permission.
Easiest way to do it
Amazing Pagsanjan Falls with Authentic filipino lunch Plus Transfers frm manila*
6 h to 9 h 4.8 (46)
- Lunch
- All Fees and Taxes
- Air-conditioned vehicle
From$150per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
How deep is the gorge?
The Pagsanjan Gorge reaches up to 300 feet deep. It features towering cliffs and lush tropical vegetation.
Can you swim at the falls?
Yes. Visitors can swim in the cold plunge pool. Keeping your life jacket on is highly recommended.
Are there changing rooms available?
Yes. The authorized boat stations in Pagsanjan town have basic shower and changing facilities for visitors.