What are the most beautiful waterfalls you ever visited? Do you ever wish to see the Niagara Falls but you can’t afford it because airfare to New York is too expensive? Don’t worry there is a majestic Tinuy-An Falls of Bislig, a Philippine version of it. Tinuy- An falls stands proud as the Province crown jewel. Situated in Barangay Burboanan approximately 18 kilometers from the city proper of Bislig, Surigao Del Sur. Tinuy-An falls is a three-tiered waterfall with the highest cascade towering 55 meters. Access to the other tiers is through man-made stairs and walkway leading up the falls. The most impressive tier of the waterfall is the bottom level. It does give you the feel of why it’s known for being the Philippines Niagara Falls.
Tinuy-An falls is a white water curtain that flows in three levels and is said to be the widest waterfall in the Philippines. It is one of the best waterfalls in the entire Philippines because of its majestic and unique natural formation. Every morning, the area is blessed with a sprinkle of a rainbow that appears between 9 a.m to 11 a.m.The rainbow is a result of the reflection of the sunlight through the mist which makes Tinuy-An falls worth a visit. Aside from this, the whole area is teeming with lush vegetation and tall trees that makes the waterfalls more appealing.
Going to the falls is not easy. It took 45 minutes habal-habal ride from Bislig City proper to get to these waterfalls. Those who are already in their senior moments, no need to worry about trekking as Tinuy-An falls is just a few walks away from the road. Despite the long journey to this fall, its imposing beauty continues to attract tourists to visit this amazing natural gem. A long journey indeed, but a truly worthy one. It’s no wonder why Tinuy-An falls is the main tourist destination of Surigao del Sur.
To enjoy more, go to the 2nd tier of the falls to experience the water flowing to your body that makes you like having a massage. You can also go near the falls through a bamboo raft to get closer to the wall of the falls where the water drops(for a fee). The loud sound and the refreshing mist from the waterfalls is astonishingly relaxing.
Basic Information, tips, and reminders;
>Be there as early as possible to have ample time to explore the place. Avoid going there on a holiday or weekdays to avoid the huge number of tourists.
>Tinuy-An falls is open 24hrs.
>Hire the habal-habal (single motor)for a round trip going back to Bislig.
>Picnic tables are on a first come first serve basis
>If you wish to explore the upper waterfalls, you may get a guide.
>Always practice “LEAVE NO TRACE” principle
>Bring a waterproof case for your phone or gadgets
>Entrance Fee is P100.00 each.
How to get to Tinuy-An Falls?
Fly to Butuan Airport
If you’re coming from Manila going to Surigao Del Sur, the cheapest flight will be through Butuan or Bancasi Airport. As always take the earliest flight to Butuan and the last flight back to Manila.
Van to Mangagoy
From the airport, you can take a van going to Mangagoy, Bislig. Travel time takes around 5-6 hours ride. There are instances that the van leaves even if it’s not full.
Motorcycle or Habal-habal ride
Upon arrival in Mangagoy, Bislig, you can hire a habal-habal going to Tinuy-an Falls and back to Mangagoy. Travel time is around 45 minutes and it is a rough road so get your butts ready.