If you’re planning your next trip, consider visiting Palawan. It’s often called the Philippines’ last frontier, and it’s not hard to see why. Besides famous beaches and magnificent limestone cliffs, Palawan has many hidden gems waiting to be found. One special spot is Manlalangit Falls in San Vicente. If you’re after an adventure away from the busy tourist areas, Manlalangit Falls is a must-visit. It lets you connect deeply with nature, making for an unforgettable experience.
What Makes Manlalangit Falls Special?
Manlalangit Falls is not your ordinary tourist attraction. It’s a beautiful series of cascading waterfalls set in the rich rainforest of San Vicente. The name “Manlalangit” translates to “touching the sky”, which gives you a hint about the stunning views you will see in this enchanting location. The trek to the falls is a part of the fun and adventure. You’ll walk through beautiful landscapes and cross cool, refreshing streams along the way. The water is clear and chill, perfect for swimming after your hike. One of the remarkable things about Manlalangit Falls is its peace and quiet. Unlike the commercialized tourist spots, this place allows for an intimate experience with nature. You’ll likely find that you have this slice of paradise almost all to yourself.
A glimpse of the serene Manlalangit Falls. You can have this paradise all to yourself!
Getting There: Your Journey to Paradise
To reach Manlalangit Falls, you need to plan, but every effort will pay off. Here’s how you can get there:
- From Puerto Princesa: Take a bus or van to San Vicente. The bus trip takes about 5-6 hours and costs around PHP 400-600 (USD 7-11). Vans are quicker, taking around 4-5 hours, with fares of about PHP 500-700 (USD 9-13). Popular bus options include Cherry Bus and RoRo Bus. You can find vans at the terminal as well.
- From El Nido: If you start from El Nido, you can catch a bus or van to San Vicente too. This ride is shorter, taking roughly 3-4 hours. Cost-wise, expect to pay around PHP 400-700 (USD 7-13), depending on your transportation choice.
- In San Vicente: Once in San Vicente, you’ll need to hire a tricycle or motorcycle taxi (or habal-habal) to take you to the jump-off point for the falls. Just let the driver know you’re headed to Manlalangit Falls. A tricycle ride to the Barangay area where the trail begins will cost you roughly PHP 200-300 (USD 4-6).
- The Trek: After the drop-off, you’ll walk to the falls. The trek lasts about 30-45 minutes, depending on your pace. You’ll be required to hire a guide for this walk. It is generally an easy trek, but the path can be slippery, especially after rain. Local guides know the area well and can share interesting facts about local plants and animals. The guide fee is around PHP 500 (USD 9).
Tip: It’s wise to start your journey early in the morning. This will help you escape the heat and give you ample time to explore and enjoy the falls.
What to Expect: The Manlalangit Falls Experience
The walk to the falls is a beautiful trip in itself. You will be surrounded by vibrant greenery, hear the charming sounds of the rainforest, and cool off in the nearby streams. Be ready to get your feet wet! Upon arriving at the falls, you will encounter a series of stunning waterfalls, each unique in its beauty. The clear waters are inviting, so don’t hesitate to take a dip. There are several pools where you can swim and unwind. Just be careful of slippery rocks and strong currents.
Important Consideration: There are no facilities like restrooms or changing rooms at the falls. Thus, come prepared and understand that you might have to rough it a bit! Remember to carry back all your trash when you leave.
What to Bring: Packing for Your Adventure
To maximize your experience at Manlalangit Falls, here is a list of must-have items:
- Comfortable Hiking Shoes: The trail can get slippery, so having sturdy shoes with good grip is a must.
- Swimsuit: Pack your swimsuit to enjoy the refreshing waters.
- Quick-Drying Towel: You’ll need a lightweight, quick-drying towel to dry off after swimming.
- Water: Stay hydrated during your hike. Bringing at least 1 liter of water is essential.
- Snacks: Pack snacks to keep your energy levels up during the trek.
- Insect Repellent: Don’t forget repellent to ward off mosquitoes and other insects prevalent in the rainforest.
- Sunscreen: Protect your skin from the sun, even on cloudy days.
- Waterproof Bag: Use a waterproof bag to shield your valuables from water damage.
- Camera: Capture the beauty of the falls with a camera or your phone.
- Cash: Bring enough cash for transportation, guide fees, and any snacks or drinks you might want to buy along the way. Credit cards are not commonly accepted in the area.
- Trash Bag: Responsible travelers carry a trash bag to pack out what they pack in.
Where to Stay: Accommodation Options in San Vicente
San Vicente has a variety of places for you to stay, catering to different budgets and tastes. Here are some options:
- Club Agutaya Resort: For a more luxurious experience, consider staying at Club Agutaya Resort. It offers comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant. Expect to pay about PHP 4,000-8,000 (USD 70-140) per night.
- Turublien Long Beach Inn & Beach Bar: This beachfront spot offers various accommodations depending on your budget. Prices typically range from PHP 1,500 – 4,000 (USD 26 – 70) per night.
- Guest Houses and Homestays: For a budget option, look for guest houses and homestays available in San Vicente town proper. Rooms can be as low as PHP 500-1,500 (USD 9-26) per night, and local transport is available for your travel needs.
Tip: Booking your accommodation ahead of time is always a good idea, especially during peak travel seasons.
Other Things to Do in San Vicente
Besides the incredible Manlalangit Falls, San Vicente has much more to share.
- Long Beach: San Vicente boasts the longest beach in the Philippines, stretching over 14 kilometers. This beautiful beach is perfect for relaxation, swimming, and soaking up the sun while taking in the stunning views.
- German Island: Embrace the beauty of island hopping! German Island, also known as Imuruan Island, is a hidden gem found in Port Barton.
- Binga Beach and Secret Paradise Resort: Binga Beach offers pristine sand and crystal-clear waters, perfect for relaxation or water activities. Secret Paradise Resort provides luxurious accommodations, spa services, and gourmet dining along with stunning sunset views.
Responsible Tourism: Protecting our Natural Treasures
When exploring Manlalangit Falls or any natural attraction, it’s important to practice responsible tourism. Here are a few easy tips to help protect the environment:
- Pack out all your trash: Always carry out everything you brought in.
- Avoid using single-use plastics: Bring your own reusable water bottle and shopping bag to minimize waste.
- Respect the local culture: Be sensitive to local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before photographing people.
- Support local businesses: Eat at local restaurants and purchase souvenirs from local vendors to support the community.
- Stay on marked trails: Avoid wandering off into the forest, as this can harm the delicate ecosystem.
- Minimize your impact: Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid disturbing the natural environment.
Following these simple guidelines helps ensure that Manlalangit Falls remains a pristine and beautiful destination for future travelers.
Estimated Budget:
Your budget will depend on how long you stay and your lifestyle choices! Here’s a low-end budget estimate for your Manlalangit adventure:
- Transportation to San Vicente (Roundtrip): PHP 800 – 1,400 (USD 14 – 25)
- Tricycle/Motorcycle Taxi: PHP 400 – 600 (USD 7 – 11)
- Guide Fee: PHP 500 (USD 9)
- Food and Drinks: PHP 500 – 1,000 (USD 9 – 18) (per day)
- TOTAL: PHP 2,200 – 3,500 (USD 40 – 63)
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Pack your bags and make your way to Manlalangit Falls. Embrace the beauty of nature, meet new friends, and enjoy unique experiences. Exciting journeys await! Book your trip now!
