Casaroro Falls - The Enchanting Waterfalls of Valencia, Negros Oriental

As someone who loves waterfalls, I was fortunate to travel to Casaroro Falls in Valencia, Negros Oriental, together with my parents. This trip was possible because I invited my parents to witness my graduation from my culinary studies in Dumaguete (which will be a different story I will share in the future). It would have been a bummer not to if I didn't give my parents and myself a treat by experiencing Mother Nature.

Casaroro Falls is located in Valencia, 13.4 kilometers from Dumaguete city. For us to get there, I rented a van with a driver. It was easier this way since there were other tourist spots we explored later that day. It was also unfamiliar territory for us so it was best to have a tour guide at the same time.

The road going to the falls was straightforward. Once we arrived at Valencia Public Plaza, it was an uphill route with a few curves.

We left early in the morning around 7:00 am from the city. First, we went to the nearest Jollibee to grab breakfast. Then it was a 30-minute drive to our destination.

We arrived in front of a 4-story building that serves as their reception area and restaurant as well. They have a spacious parking lot. It was a weekend but there were no other cars or vans at that time though there were a few motorcycles parked already. At the reception, I inquired about the entrance fee and was pleasantly surprised to find it was just less than a dollar for one person. That already includes the environmental fee. However, they do require all adventurers, local and foreign alike to have a guide/a person assist us in getting to the waterfalls. One guide for every 1-3 persons. This was for our safety. The guide fee was P250 (approximately $4.30) for every group of 1-3 persons.

I also asked the receptionist whether there were already a lot of tourists at the site but she said we were the second group. I was ecstatic. It meant peace and quiet as we ventured into the deep crevices of this mountainside. Not only that, I would be able to take photos without the nuisance of photo bombers.

The first part of the trail leading to the waterfalls was cemented so it was just like a walk in the park but filled with lush vegetation and all sorts of trees and plants. We heard far-away birds sing to us loud and clear as their echoes were brought to us by the silence of the trees. So there was no rush in reaching our destination, there was only amazement and peace as we tread slowly on this quiet path.

Big boulders and rocks lined up along the bank of the small stream leading to the waterfalls. Every turn we made was a picturesque view of the hidden beauty leading up to the falls. There was even a small bamboo bridge we passed by, study enough to safely reach the other side. There were areas where we would thread along the stream where the water was ankle-deep so I recommend wearing appropriate footwear. We were wearing slippers but we still had to be careful as the rocks were slippery.

After 20 minutes of our peaceful stroll, we were greeted by the loud gushing of water rapids along boulders that seemed to obstruct our pathway to the waterfalls. My heart raced as I caught sight of Casaroro Falls just a few meters ahead. Its grandeur and beauty left me in awe. I was captivated by its mysterious yet very light energy.

Our guide showed us where to navigate between the boulders as we walked toward the pool of water. By the end of it was a gigantic boulder where one could sit or stand. The waterfall, standing at 100 feet tall, was narrow but its powerful water drop was felt as we stood at the edge of its pool.

What made this waterfall truly breathtaking was the surrounding walls filled with moss, ferns, and a variety of plants, its color contrasts that of the pool of water and the huge boulders framing it.

We settled right in and my parents were immediately taking photos and videos for their keepsake. I was grateful for the perfect weather we had that day and for the Universe orchestrating such a tranquil and peaceful visit without any nuisance from other people.

It was time for a dip in its refreshing waters. We decided to swim in the shallow part of the river just right before the waterfall basin. My parents were enjoying the cold water however it took me a while to acclimate to the water's temperature. After a few deep breaths and submerging in the water, I finally got to take it all in - the serenity, the peace, the joy of savoring Mother Nature's gift with my parents.

Before we left, my dad asked me to record him doing 50 push-ups in front of the waterfalls.

When we had enough, we simply said our thanks to Mother Nature and bid goodbye. We no longer changed our clothes and retraced our steps the same serene path under the shade of the trees. My parents took their time chatting and enjoying the view for the second time around.

They were amazed by this group of bamboo trees that was about 3 stories high.

P.s. We started and ended the trek through this stairs made of 335 steps!

It was a workout! However, it was totally worth it. I won't forget this enchanting waterfall and I would recommend it to you if you visit Dumaguete. It's a side trip you should take.