In short
- Wear quick-dry clothing, swimwear, or a rash guard.
- Use water shoes or strapped sports sandals for good grip.
- Bring a dry bag to protect your electronics and wallet.
In this article
The boat ride through the Pagsanjan Gorge takes about two hours round trip and crosses 14 river rapids. Water splashes into the dugout canoe constantly. If you take the bamboo raft into the Devil's Cave, you go directly under the main waterfall. Proper attire protects your belongings and keeps you comfortable.
What is the best outfit for the Pagsanjan boat ride?
Choose swimwear, a rash guard, or quick-dry athletic clothing.
Do not wear heavy cotton like denim, which stays wet and feels heavy. You must wear a mandatory life vest and safety helmet over your clothes for the entire trip. A rash guard provides sun protection and dries fast. Bring a secure hat and apply sunscreen, as parts of the river have direct sun exposure.
What shoes should I wear to Pagsanjan Falls?
Wear water shoes or strapped sports sandals with strong grip.
Avoid flip-flops, as they easily fall off in the strong river currents. The rocks around the plunge pool and boat stations are often slippery. Enclosed water shoes protect your feet while getting in and out of the dugout canoe.
How do I protect my phone and camera?
Store all electronics and valuables in a waterproof dry bag.
Electronic devices will get wet during the rapids. Local rules require you to secure your items. If you want to take photos, use an action camera like a GoPro with a floating mount, or bring a specialized waterproof pouch for your phone.
What else should I pack for the trip?
Bring a change of dry clothes, a microfiber towel, bottled water, and small cash.
Leave your dry clothes and towel in your vehicle or a rented locker at the boat station. You will need small cash denominations to tip your two boatmen. Tipping is expected for their hard work pulling the canoe upstream.
Are there mandatory safety items to wear?
Yes, you must wear a life vest and a safety helmet at all times on the boat.
These safety items are included in the 1,250 PHP official boat fee. Safety rules strictly prohibit removing your life vest or helmet during the upstream paddle, the 14 downstream rapids, or while riding the bamboo raft into the Devil's Cave.
Questions travellers ask
Can I wear flip-flops on the boat ride?
No, you should wear water shoes or strapped sports sandals. Flip-flops slip off easily in the water and do not provide enough grip on wet rocks.
Will I get completely wet at Pagsanjan Falls?
Yes. The canoe navigates 14 river rapids, causing constant splashing. Taking the bamboo raft into the Devil's Cave places you directly under the waterfall's 120-meter heavy water curtain.
Where do I put my dry clothes?
Leave your dry clothes and microfiber towel in your tour vehicle or a locker at the jump-off point. Do not bring them on the canoe, as they will likely get soaked.
