A Guide to Visiting Asik-Asik Falls in Alamada, North Cotabato
Asik-Asik Falls is a stunning waterfall in Sitio Dulao of Barangay Upper Dado in Alamada, North Cotabato. Nestled in the lower slope of Mount Ragang, also known as Mount Piapayungan or Blue Mountain, Asik-Asik Falls is an active stratovolcano in the boundary of Lanao del Sur and North Cotabato. The falls is a natural wonder that has become a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
Asik-asik is a Hiligaynon term that literally translates to “to sprinkle.” And indeed, Asik-Asik Waterfalls in Alamada, Northern Cotabato, has been sprinkling its magical waters well enough to be known as “Northern Cotabato’s Pride.”
Like most natural formations in the Philippines, Asik-Asik waterfalls is believed to be the house of local enchanted beings… but this is no longer a myth. When you get there, you’ll be literally enchanted!
Asik-Asik is like the setting of a fictional movie (picture the secret facility hidden in the jungle in Disney’s The Incredibles. That’s the closest comparison). Its cliffs are covered with thick, green vegetation, and its magical ‘curtain-like’ falls look like they are falling from the skies. Like running tap water, the water is cold but refreshing and crystal clear. The place is also very secluded: it’s in the middle of a forest!
Interesting Fact
Asik-Asik waterfalls were discovered in 2012. Of course, being a very new attraction, getting to Asik-Asik waterfalls won’t be too easy like most destinations. Getting to Alamada won’t be a problem (the shortest public road route is via a jeepney from Midsayap.
This would take only 45 minutes at most), but getting to Asik-Asik might be. As mentioned earlier, it’s secluded, and total travel/walking time may reach up to an hour. But all of this would be worth it once you reach the waterfalls.
Location of Asik-Asik Falls
Asik-Asik Falls, also known as Dulao Falls, is a natural wonder located in the remote barangay of Upper Dado in Alamada, North Cotabato, on the island of Mindanao in the Philippines. The falls is situated at the lower slope of Mount Ragang, also known as Mount Piapayungan or Blue Mountain, an active strato-volcano that sits on the boundary of Lanao del Sur and North Cotabato.
To reach the falls, visitors must first travel to Alamada, which is approximately 197 kilometers away from Davao City and can be reached by bus or private vehicle. From Alamada, visitors must then travel to Sitio Dulao, where the falls is located. The journey to the falls from the town proper takes approximately an hour and a half and involves a bumpy ride on a habal-habal or motorcycle.
The falls itself is hidden in a lush forest, and visitors must trek for about 30 minutes to reach it. The trek involves crossing a river and navigating through rocky terrain, so visitors are advised to wear appropriate footwear and bring drinking water.
Despite its remote location, Asik-Asik Falls has become a popular tourist destination in recent years, attracting both local and foreign visitors. Its unique and unspoiled beauty has earned it the nickname “the waterfall of mystery.”
Getting There
Getting to Asik-Asik Falls is not easy, but it is worth the effort.
The nearest airport is Cotabato City Airport. From there, travelers can take a van or a bus to Midsayap in North Cotabato. Travel time is approximately one and a half hours, and the fare is around P60.
Alternatively, travelers can fly to Davao City and then take a bus or a van to Midsayap. Depending on the traffic, the bus or van ride takes around three to four hours. The most popular bus terminal in Davao City is the Ecoland Bus Terminal, accessible via taxi or jeepney. There are also several malls in Davao City, such as G-Mall and SM Davao, where travelers can take a van or a bus to Midsayap.
From Midsayap, travelers can take a jeepney or a tricycle to Barangay Upper Dado. The jeepney ride takes around 45 minutes, and the tricycle ride takes around 30 minutes. Once in Barangay Upper Dado, travelers can hire a habal-habal or a motorcycle driver to take them to the jump-off point of Asik-Asik Falls. The motorcycle ride takes around 30 minutes, and the fare is around P100 per person.
It is important to note that the road to Asik-Asik Falls is not yet fully developed, and travelers may encounter rough and bumpy roads. It is also advisable to bring enough cash, as there are no ATMs or banks in Barangay Upper Dado.
The Journey
The journey to Asik-Asik Falls is an adventure in itself. Travelers can take a habal-habal (motorcycle) or tricycle ride from the town of Alamada to the jump-off point, about 30 minutes away. The road leading to the falls is unpaved and bumpy, so travelers should be prepared for a rough ride.
Once at the jump-off point, travelers must trek for about 30 minutes to reach the falls. The trail is well-maintained and relatively easy, with a few steep sections. Along the way, travelers will be treated to stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lush vegetation.
The Scenery
Asik-Asik Falls is a natural wonder that is truly breathtaking to behold. The waterfall is located in a ravine surrounded by lush vegetation, ferns, and moss. The scenery is best enjoyed early in the morning when the sun is still low in the sky, and the light filters through the trees, creating a magical atmosphere.
The waterfall itself is a sight to behold, with water cascading down a 60-meter-high rock wall, creating a curtain of water that spans 140 meters wide. The water flows into a rocky pool at the base of the falls, and visitors can take a refreshing swim in the cool water.
The vegetation surrounding the falls is incredibly diverse, with a variety of ferns and mosses covering the rocks and trees. The Blue Mountain, also known as Mount Piapayungan, provides a stunning backdrop to the falls, adding to the scenic view.
One of the unique features of Asik-Asik Falls is that the water flows from an underground river, which adds to the mystery and allure of the falls. The water is crystal clear and cool, making it perfect for a refreshing swim on a hot day.
The scenery at Asik-Asik Falls is truly awe-inspiring, and it is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Facilities and Amenities
Asik-Asik Falls is a natural attraction that offers minimal facilities and amenities to visitors. However, a few basic infrastructures have been put in place to improve visitors’ experience.
Visitors can access the falls through a concrete bridge that leads to a set of stairsteps that provide access to the viewing area. The stairsteps are well-maintained and secure, making it safe for visitors to climb up and down.
There is a PHP 50 entrance fee to access the falls; visitors can park their vehicles for free in the designated parking area. However, visitors are advised to be cautious of their belongings and not leave valuables in their cars.
Asik-Asik Falls is located in a remote area but there are few stores or food stalls nearby. Visitors are advised to bring their own food and drinks. One of the restaurants at the jump-off point has restrooms or changing rooms available for a fee.
Visitors to Asik-Asik Falls should be prepared for a rustic and natural experience and should not expect any luxurious facilities or amenities. Nonetheless, the falls’ natural beauty and serene surroundings make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
Travel Tips and Recommendations
Asik-Asik Falls is a popular tourist destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. If you plan to visit this stunning waterfall, here are some travel tips and recommendations to help you make the most of your trip.
Entrance Fees and other expenses
Asik-Asik Falls is located in North Cotabato, Mindanao. To get there, you’ll need to take a plane to Cotabato City and then ride a van or bus to Midsayap. From Midsayap, you can hire a habal-habal or motorcycle driver to take you to the falls. The total cost of transportation can range from P1,500 to P2,000 depending on your mode of transportation and bargaining skills.
Entrance Fees:
- From Alamada – 40.00
- From North Cotabato – 50.00
- From Other Provinces -70.00
The parking fee is Php 25 per vehicle.
Guide
It is highly recommended to hire a local guide to take you to Asik-Asik Falls. The trail to the falls is not well-marked, and the guide can help you navigate through the rocky terrain safely. The guide can also provide you with interesting facts and stories about the falls, making your trip more insightful and enjoyable. The standard rate for a guide is around P500.
Early Morning
If you want to avoid the crowd and enjoy the falls in peace, it is best to visit Asik-Asik Falls early in the morning. The falls open at 6:00 AM, and the first rays of the sun make the waterfall even more magical. You can also take advantage of the cooler temperature and capture stunning photos without the crowd in the background.
Swimming
Swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Asik-Asik Falls is a refreshing and rejuvenating experience. However, it is important to take extra precautions and follow safety guidelines to avoid accidents and injuries. The water can be deep in some areas, and the rocks can be slippery, so it is best to wear appropriate footwear and swim with caution.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the entrance fee for Asik-Asik Falls?
The entrance fee for Asik-Asik Falls is P50.00.
Where is the location of Asik-Asik Falls?
Asik-Asik Falls is located in Sitio Dulao, Barangay Upper Dado, Alamada, North Cotabato, Philippines.
What province is Asik-Asik Falls located in?
Asik-Asik Falls is located in the province of North Cotabato in the Philippines.
How do you get to Asik-Asik Falls?
To get to Asik-Asik Falls, visitors can take a flight to Cotabato City or Davao City, then take a bus or van to Midsayap. From Midsayap, visitors can take a van or jeep to Alamada town proper, and then charter a habal-habal or motorcycle to the falls. Alternatively, visitors can also hire a private vehicle or join a tour group.
What is the history of Asik-Asik Falls?
Asik-Asik Falls was discovered in 2010 by a local farmer named Jun Santiago. The falls gained popularity among locals and tourists due to its unique and picturesque curtain-like appearance, as well as its crystal-clear waters.
How many steps are there to reach Asik-Asik Falls?
The number of steps to reach Asik-Asik Falls varies depending on the source. Some sources mention 1,500 steps (source: Youtube), while others mention 1,230 total estimated steps or 835 concrete + steel stairsteps and 395 steps from pavilion to concrete path/stairs.
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