Casaroro Falls

CASARORO FALLS

Our Dumaguete tour was mostly a Plan B itinerary. We never planned to go to the famous Casaroro Falls in Valencia because based on my prior research it was a tough trail going to the main gush and i thought my sickly sister and my wife might not endure the long walk especially the trail includes clambering up to boulders that requires endurance. Due to unfavorable circumstance, our supposed-to-be destination (Forest Camp) was unavailable for visitors because a company rented the entire place for an exclusive party. I know, it was sad, you can't imagine my companion's faces clouded up with the situation.

For all of that, the Casaroro Adventure after we visited Kookoo's Nest, though spontaneous, turned out to be one of the best experiences I had so far. Putting aside the dilemma my sister and the other girls with us went through, everybody enjoyed the trek and the breathtaking view of the Casaroro Falls itself was stunning. With a height of more than 100 feet, Valencia's Casaroro Falls is the tallest in the Visayas region. Located in the town of Valencia, Negros Oriental it is easy to find the Casaroro Falls because it is one of the famous destinations Dumaguete or Negros Oriental boasts. As the province’s most photographed body of water (as per wikipedia) and with its lush, green, breathtaking terrain no doubt our circumstance brought us their.

Because 65% of Valencia’s geography is made up of hilly terrain, the climb uphill and down a steep gorge to Casaroro was actually a tricky feat before the 350-step concrete stairs was constructed in recent years. This staircase is the only access point to the falls. Throughout the trail, dense tropical foliage can be seen and if you’re lucky enough, you may catch sight of a bird or two from some rare breed.

Valencia is less than an hour drive from Dumaguete City downtown area. One may take the trike (which you find everywhere in the city) but this is not advisable of course because it extends the total travel time. A good way is to find a van rental if you are in a group – rates begin at $12 (or P600) – and hire an experienced guide once you get to Valencia. Guides are usually on standby from the point where you begin the trek. Better yet, join a guided and organized group tour especially when you are traveling alone. Many are available and you can ask your HOTEL or travel agency about the options. Still another option would be to take the public mode of transport. Commuters take a multi cab or jeep from Dumaguete City. Fare is less than P20 and the unloading point is in central Valencia. From there, you take another 30 minute ride to a certain spot alongside the mountain. Then the hike begins.