You may not find the province of Cotabato on the list of must-visit places in the Philippines, but that doesn’t mean it has nothing to offer. One of the newly discovered jewels in Mindanao lies in this province and is quickly drawing attention for all the right reasons.
Asik-Asik Falls, which literally translates to “water sprinkle,” is a new travel discovery in the southern part of the country. Boasting a scenic and picturesque view of its water curtain gushing out from its foliage-taped wall, the falls is unlike anything you’ve seen before.
Asik-Asik Falls: An Introduction
Asik-Asik Falls is nestled on the lower slope of Mount Ragang, also known as Mount Piapayungan or the Blue Mountain, an active stratovolcano located between Lanao del Sur and North Cotabato. Specifically situated in Sitio Dulao of Barangay Upper Dado, Alamada, North Cotabato, it has only recently come into the travel spotlight, attracting local and international visitors eager to witness its glorious wonders.
The discovery of this natural marvel sparked the imagination of locals, leading to numerous tales and side stories. Some claim that its location was mistakenly identified by the military during clearing operations, while others suggest that they were already aware of the spot. The latter appears to be more accurate and probable.
The beauty of such grandeur is impossible to ignore, suggesting that the local people either kept it hidden or secret. The once peaceful town of Alamada in the highlands of North Cotabato is undoubtedly now a booming tourist destination, largely due to the majestic Asik-Asik Falls.
A waterfall unlike any other
The cold water of Asik-Asik originates from a spring surrounded by rocks, cascading through a 60-meter long wall adorned with foliage, mainly ferns and mosses. It is perfectly framed by trees and grasses, with the foliage-covered wall resembling a Green Water Curtain, standing about 140 meters high. The stream then flows into a shallow rocky natural pool below before merging with the Alamada River.
Reaching Asik-Asik Falls is a challenge, involving a bumpy path and a hike up 376 steps. However, once you reach the top, the long journey is well worth it. While it may be tiring, the panoramic and picturesque scenery is both rewarding and satisfying.
I highly recommend visiting the falls early in the morning, around 6:30AM. The atmosphere at this time is more enjoyable as it is less busy and crowded.
How to get to Lake Asik-Asik Falls
To reach Asik-Asik Falls, you have the option to commute or rent a car. If you choose to commute, you’ll need to take several public modes of transportation. Begin by traveling to Davao City Overland Transport Terminal (DCOTT) from Davao City. From there, purchase a bus ticket bound for Midsayap, North Cotabato. The fare is approximately P240 for a 3 to 4-hour journey.
Upon arriving in Midsayap, you can either take a habal-habal or a jeepney bound for Alamada. It’s advisable to start your journey early in the morning, especially if you plan to make it a day trip.
Another option is to rent a vehicle, which can provide a faster and more comfortable journey to Asik-Asik Falls. Renting a car eliminates the need to switch between bus, motorcycle, and jeepney. Your travel experience will be smoother and more convenient.
If you choose to rent a car, start by selecting the type of vehicle that best suits your needs. For solo or small group travel, Car Rental Davao offers sedan units such as the Toyota Vios, Nissan Almera, or Hyundai Accent. For larger groups or families, SUVs and vans, including the Ford Everest Titanium, are available for rent.
Reserving a unit is easy and can be done online, via phone call, or email.
Book a Car page: https://www.carrentaldavao.com/book-car
Mobile number: +63906-059-1323
Email Address: sales@carrentaldavao.com
If you’re a tourist or visitor from another city or country, we can arrange an airport car rental for you and have the vehicle delivered to Davao airport. If you’re already in the city, we can drop off the vehicle at your preferred location at any scheduled time.
Renting a car can reduce your travel time to less than 3 hours. If you plan to stay longer in Midsayap, North Cotabato, we also offer special car rental packages. Contact us directly to discuss these options.
What to do at Asik-Asik Falls
1. Trekking down the 376 steps to Asik-Asik Falls
A tiring activity, yes, but making this effort will allow you to truly appreciate the beauty of Asik-Asik Falls. Just be sure to prepare your body by doing a proper warm-up before your trip.
2. Swimming
How can you visit a waterfall without taking a dip in its rushing waters? Make sure to bring your swimwear and be tempted to swim in the magnificent pool at the base of the falls.
3. Set-up your hammock in a spot and relax
If you’re tired from trekking to Asik-Asik Falls and need a break to admire its beauty, consider setting up your hammock in a spot of your choice. You can relax and listen to the soothing sounds of the rushing waters as they flow down to the Alamada River. How relaxing is that?
4. Take pictures all you want
Take nothing but memories of your visit to Asik-Asik Falls, immortalized through photographs. No one can stop you from capturing thousands of pictures of the waterfall’s beauty. I mean, who wouldn’t want to photograph the scenic and picturesque view of Asik-Asik Falls the moment they witness it?
Where to stay in Midsayap
It is ideal for spending a night in either Libungan or Midsayap if you decide to visit Asik-Asik Falls in the early morning. Now, below is the list of affordable hotels for you.
White Hut Resort
National Highway Poblacion 08 BPH, Midsayap, Philippines
Budget: Fanned room with its toilet and bath rate starts at P300, good for two. Meanwhile, the air-conditioned room starts at P500, good for two.
Contact No.: 09306869657
Email: whithutinnresortbarabat@yahoo.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WhiteHutInn.Resort/
Asia Novo Boutique Hotel
Poblacion 6, Midsayap, North Cotabato, Philippines
Budget: Deluxe room rate starts at P1000 for one night, suitable for two persons.
Telephone No.: (02) 8922 5384
Mobile No.: 0977 885 8000
Website: http://www.meacohotel.com/
Ybelles Inn & Resto
Burgos Street Poblacion 5 Midsayap, North Cotabato 9410, Philippines
Budget: Room rates start at P800 for one night, suitable for two persons.
Contact No.:(06422) 97520
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Ybelles-inn-and-Grill-7632923437