The Campawan Falls of Davao Oriental - Mindanao
No wonder that Davao Oriental earned the namesake “Wonders of Paradise” in the provinces of Davao Region, Philippines. From abundant landscapes, white-sand beaches, and beautiful Islets that marked Davao Oriental in Tourism heaven in years to come.
Aliwagwag falls in Cateel marked the highest waterfalls in the Philippines while another water nature reserve from the first-class municipality of Bangaga is known to be the widest and best curtain falls in Davao Region.
Campawan Curtain falls is located in Brgy. Campawan, Baganga has in common with Tinuy-An Falls in Bislig City, Surigao Del Sur when it looks in the form. On the other hand, trekking is quite different in terms of road accessibility and development.
The Government and Tourism Agencies urge to improve local routes from downtown to the waterfalls in able to encourage more tourists from outside Provinces. Local people get to waterfalls as their picnic heaven on most occasions and yet hidden to the outside world. Much potential that these waterfalls once developed will produce more livelihood and opportunities for nearby communities.
The municipality of Banganga is 223 kilometers (6 hours travel) away from Davao City. Going here is not easy but will get assured you can experience adventures with immense fun. This will definitely enjoy your trip from your side trip to the beautiful scenery on the way; how much more when you reach these magnificent waterfalls.
From downtown Baganga, for eleven (11) kilometers rough ride, hire a single motorcycle (habal-habal) to take you on the waterfalls and they are willing to wait for your return but should pay for their parking fee.
To get there, you will be speechless in inexplicable scenery that feels like you are in the dimension of the other world as seen in the glimpse of nature. Campawan Curtain waterfalls have a pleasing appearance yet make you fall in love with the unspoiled and inartificial scenery.
The most enjoyable and precious part of visiting waterfalls is enclosing to the midst, swim, and showering beneath the falling waters. Getting closer to the waterfalls is easy, it has a platonic threshold; no need to use a bamboo raft to get closer to it compared to Tinuy-an Waterfalls.
Even rented cottages are visible but they still preserve the natural scenery of waterfalls. Cottage rental is for P150 pesos but no entrance fee will be collected which is very rare to experience.
The rising tourism industry on the east coast of Davao Oriental is not surprising because the province is blessed with unique spots, hospitality, and unique cultures.
It may only be necessary for an equal opportunity when it comes to infrastructure development especially on community roads that could be more beneficial to local communities. Environmental issues should also address by the local communities and government agencies to protect the natural environment to make it even worthwhile.
HOW TO GET THERE:
If you’re from Manila or Cebu, the closest airport is Davao City and Butuan City. There are two (2) routes can go through. Get your guide below;
FROM DAVAO CITY (Via Compostela Valley)
If Aliwagwag waterfalls are included in your itinerary, then, this route is exactly right for you. You can first visit Aliwagwag Falls then after, the Campawan Curtain Waterfalls.
- Bus stop at the front of Jose Maria College (beside airport Exit) or you may proceed to Ecoland Bus Terminal
- Cath up BUS or VAN bound for Cateel or Boston via Compostela signage.
- Stop at Compostela-Cateel intersection then, catch up available Public vehicles to Baganga
FROM DAVAO CITY (Via Mati City)
- Bus stop at the front of Jose Maria College (beside airport Exit).
- Cath up BUS (Bachelor Express) or VAN bound for Cateel or Boston with via Mati City (More Accessible). Bus normally stopover in Mati City for a break
FROM BUTUAN CITY
There is no direct Bus to take you to Baganga but you may use 305 kilometers of Butuan - Bislig - Cateel Road for Private Vehicle. The road is fully concreted and passable to all vehicles
For commuters, you can catch up BUS or VAN from Butuan bound to Davao city at Butuan City Terminal (usually leaving every 45 minutes). Then, get off to Tagum City Bus Terminal. Transfer Bus (Bachelor Express) or Van bound for Cateel or Boston. Again, you two routes of choices
- For via Compostela, stop at Compostela-Cateel intersection then, catch up available Public vehicles to Baganga
- For via Mati City, you will get directly at Baganga Public Market
At Baganga
- Stop at Baganga Public market then, hire a single motorcycle to take you to the Waterfalls (Price may vary depending on how you bargain, P500 for normal roundtrip)
