Majestic Asik-asik Falls

TLC sings "Don't go chasing waterfalls, please stick to the rivers and the lakes that you're used to." But how can I repel, if one of the best water falls in the Philippines is an hour away from my hometown?  

A lesser-known aquatic gem that will easily render anyone speechless, is now one of the most visited places in Mindanao. This very enchanting spot is located at Barangay Upper Dado Alamada in the highland of North Cotabato. It is nested in the lower slope of Mount Ragang, an active strato-volcano that sits in the boundary of Lanao del Sur and North Cotabato.  

Asik-asik Falls or Dulao Falls for the locals is considered one of the most unique waterfalls in the country, as water here seems to gush from the wide moss-covered rocky wall behind it. You won’t see a river or a stream above the green curtain of cascading water. Its real source is a rocky spring, from which water flows in delicate curtains down the rocks. You'll definitely love to decompress! 

How to get there? 

There is no easy way of going to Asik-Asik Falls. You really need to ride and endure the bumpy habal-habal or motorbike ride for more than half an hour, unless you have the van type or pickup truck available with you. Hugots might be heard all over the trek going up and down as you will be needing to conquer 500 plus (lost in count) broad stone steps trail before rewarded with the jaw dropping work of nature.   

The struggle is real.

Resting place.

Travel expenses may vary from point of origin. Local like me normally start the trip from Libungan Terminal/Market where Alamada is next to this city. Visitors normally starts their journey from Midsayap Terminal.  

Aside from the motorbike, you have option to ride jeepneys that travels from Midsayap to Upper Dado and the first trip begins at 10AM. Jeepney fare is at P70 per person (2.5 hours). Upon reaching Upper Dado, you will need to transfer to habal-habal and pay P75 (30 minutes ride). 

If you choose to hire a motorbike from Libungan or Midsayap, it is ideal to have only one passenger per motorbike due to the condition of the road. Please be guided that the drivers will escort you directly to Asik-asik falls Jump Off Point. Price range from P700 to P1000+ per ride depending on your negotiation skills. If you know how to speak Bisaya, it would be an advantage for you to get the lower price. 🙂 Moreover, you'll forget the price and stressful experience upon reaching the enchanting beauty of Asik-asik Falls.

While in the area, please do check and see the stunning beauty of Dahlia flowers. You'll be mesmerized of its leafy colorful stems. 

.

Things to Remember 

 1. You need to buy water and food along with you as the entire trek will let you feel weak, tired and hungry. You can buy food at the terminal or Jump Off Point. You have to buy and taste the famous Pastil!

2. The best time to go is in the early morning, before the crowd increase in number.  

3. Make sure to bring extra shirt and towels.  

4. Visitors usually spend the night in Midsayap since it has a lot of accommodation to offer.  

Did you like this article? Follow me on Instagram for more Mindanao travel updates!