The Philippines has a lot to offer to everyone looking for beautiful, scenic, and picturesque tourist destinations. Some of these destinations are internationally acclaimed, while others remain hidden from the eyes of most tourists.
One of the newly discovered tourist destinations can be found in the peaceful Davao Region, in Baganga, Davao Oriental — the Paogpogon Falls. It is truly a gem of Baganga, hidden from the flock of tourists through the years.
Recently, Paogpogon Falls got the attention of local tourists and somehow became a trending topic. They started to post on social media platforms raving about the beauty of the place, one that they believe should be known not just in the Philippines, but also around the world.
Paogpogon Falls is situated in the heart of the forest of Barangay Mikit, Baganga, Davao Oriental. It is surrounded by the famous Caraga River and lush vegetation with diverse endemic plants and animals. You cannot see a structure along the way, only the trail created by locals.
One of the most important aspects to remember when going to Paogpogon Falls is to hire a local guide. Since you are not familiar with the place, it is essential to have one so you will not get lost on your way.
Once you’re there, prepare yourself to be greeted by the towering waterfall that boasts its beautiful, crystal-clear water. As Paogpogon Falls remains unspoiled, the entire surrounding also remains clean as you expect it to be. You just can’t find any traces of abuse from the locals and foreign visitors. Hope it remains that way.
Since it’s fairly undiscovered, there are still no stores, cottages, or even signages available around the area. With that being said, be sure to bring your food and snacks and be a responsible tourist. Do not throw your garbage carelessly. Bring your trash with you, and clean as you go.
Once this pandemic is over and COVID-19 travel restrictions are lifted — and once you are fully vaccinated — make sure to add this to your list of new must-visit places.
How to get to Paogpogan Falls
To get there, you have two choices: either take public transportation or rent a private vehicle.
If you prefer to take public transportation, you must bring lots of patience because it really isn’t that easy, not even comfortable. From Davao City, you have to ride a bus bound to Baganga via Mati or Mangagoy. To be specific, the public utility bus routes are Davao to Baganga via Mati and Davao to Baganga via Mangagoy.
Another option you can take is by riding one of the public utility vans. Like the buses, they also take the same route. However, make sure to arrive at the Davao City Overland Transport Terminal early to secure a seat.
Suppose you secure a seat from a bus bound to Baganga, prepare yourself. Bring whatever you can to make this trip comfortable as possible — neck pillow, headset or earphones, and also snacks and bottled water because, remember, travel time is up to 6 to 7 hours. That long, I know.
Tiresome, right? Indeed. So skip the hassle of waiting long hours of transportation. Renting a car is the solution. Not only is it convenient to go there without plenty of stopovers, it is also relaxing and hassle-free.
Imagine travelling without a lot of co-passengers, isn’t that amazing? And best, you can cut your travel time from approximately 6 hours to 4 hours, or at times even less.
Given that we still have a pandemic, this is also a safer option as you will not be exposed to many people who are also en route to Davao Oriental.
Car Rental Davao has everything you are looking for in a car rental agency, from vans, sedans, to SUVs. Premium rental vehicles with cheap rental fees — that is what we guarantee. Plan your next travel goals with us by contacting us through our Booking Page, via call (+63906-059-1323) or email (sales@carrentaldavao.com).
Suppose you’re a tourist or visitor from the north. In that case, we can have an airport car rental arranged for you and have the unit delivered at Francisco Bangoy International Airport here in Davao. If you’re already here in the city, we can also drop off the unit exactly at your preferred location.
If you intend to stay in Baganga, Davao Oriental for a longer duration, we can also offer special car rental deals for you. Contact us directly, and we’ll arrange one for you.
Upon arrival at Barangay Mikit, Baganga, Davao Oriental, you have to trek the trail at an estimated time of 1 to 2 hours. The path is slippery and wet so make sure to wear your trekking shoes, trekking pants, and a piece of comfortable shirt.
It will not be an easy trek because you must cross the river to get to Paogpogon Falls. That is why days before going here, be sure to check the weather forecast to avoid accidents. No one is allowed to get to Paogpogon Falls when it is raining.
Though it’s challenging, a trip to Paopogon Falls really is something you should consider. It’s a journey full of thrill, fun, and fulfillment. Now that is really what we call an adventure worthy of sharing to the whole world.
How to Contact Municipality of Baganga, Davao Oriental Tourism Office
NENETTE L. ESTEVES
MUNICIPALITY OF BAGANGA
Municipal Tourism Officer
(63)9481535150
nenette.esteves@yahoo.com