After breakfast and photoshoot in Panimahawa Ridge, we trek back to the base and then proceed to Cedar Trees and waterfalls named “Dila Falls”. The best thing about Kaplag Adventours is that they offer a lot of side trips. After a long journey from Panimahawa Ridge, I felt exhausted, hungry, sleepy, like I wanted to eat and sleep all at the same time.
But thinking of waterfalls with overly excited travel buddies beside you made me feel alive again and once more found myself wandering under the Cedar Trees. The path was mesmerizing and enchanting.
After a couple of minutes walking under the trees, I was thinking we will be taking the same path right down to waterfalls.I mean fine road, not steep and muddy trail. But I was wrong, it was a stupid thinking, expecting a plain road to waterfalls. The funny thing was, we brought our backpacks with us and one of my friends changed footwear, from hiking shoes to sandals. But we had no choice, it’s too far to go back and leave our things in the van.
The trail to waterfalls, at first it was bearable. And then comes a lot of going down with slippery paths. Until we reached the last portion going down. It scares me, oh I’m so weak. charing! But seriously, I know it’s difficult by just looking at it. Also eyeing someone who is struggling going down makes me wanna quit and just go back.
But I don’t want to go back alone, so I must be brave. It was my turn to go down. Really it was like doing wall climbing without a harness. I hold on to the roots of the huge tree and thankful to the guide who assisted me where to step next until I safely reached the ground.
The struggle was not over. We do some rock hopping and crossing on the stream to reach the waterfalls. I was battling against the strong current as I crossed over to the other side.
And at last! Majestic waterfalls above us. Why it was called “Dila Falls” I don’t know. I forgot to ask the locals and guide because I was startled by what I’ve just accomplished. Charot! I’m such a useless travel blogger hahaha. We enjoyed water massage. If you want to really enjoy swimming, there’s a large pool near the entrance. I prefer that one.
An aerial shot by Glen Lascuna. Check out also the video covering Panimahawa Ridge Tour, including Dila Falls, Lake Apo, and Monastery of Transfiguration.
https://www.facebook.com/glennlascuna/videos/10207331038673425/
HOW TO GET THERE (from Davao City)
Public Transportation (Budget DIY)
- Davao City → Malaybalay City
- Operator: Rural Transit Mindanao (RTMI)
- Terminal: Ecoland Bus Terminal
- Fare: ₱500–₱600
- Travel Time: ~5–6 hours
- Malaybalay City → Impalutao
- Ride a northbound bus (to CDO or Kibawe)
- Ask to be dropped off at Impalutao Forestry Station
- Fare: ₱50–₱70
- Travel Time: ~30 minutes
The Cedar Eco Park is just a few meters from the highway!
By Private Vehicle
- Route: Davao → Buda → Malaybalay → Impasugong → Impalutao
- Estimated travel time: 5.5–6.5 hours
