The Majestic Mimbalot Falls | Hidden Gems in Iligan City Part 3

Hey there, wholesome reader!

Down to the last post of my Iligan Travel Series, let me share to you my experience at Mimbalot Falls in Iligan City and our attempt to see the Philippines' highest waterfall, the Maria Cristina Falls.

As you have read in the first part of this travel series, Iligan City is named as the City of Waterfalls as it has more than 20 known falls. In addition, the city has its so-called Tourism Triangle, which includes the three main tourist destinations found in Iligan – Tinago Falls, Maria Cristina Falls, and Mimbalot Falls. The locations of these three falls literally form a triangle in the barangays of Buru-un and Ditucalan, hence the name Tourism Triangle.

After enjoying Tinago Falls, we went straight to Mimbalot Falls, which was just 10-15 minutes away. The attraction has no entrance fee, but tourists are encouraged to give a donation of any amount for its maintenance.

Unlike Tinago Falls, Mimbalot Falls is just a few steps from the entrance. As soon as you pass through the entrance, you’ll already hear the therapeutic sound of the water and see the majestic view of the falls.

There were tables for rent, but we didn’t need to pay for one. Why? Here's a tip: walk towards the falls and look for the cemented tables and circular ledges. These are rent-free since they were built by the LGU, according to my tour guide for the day, a.k.a. my boyfriend 😁

We found the perfect spot and ate our lunch. By the way, on our way to the falls, we made a short stop to buy food since there were no vendors in sight at the falls (at least at the time we visited). So, make sure to bring some food if you're planning to stay longer.

The swimming area of the falls is more limited compared to Tinago's. This is because Mimbalot Falls is mainly composed of rocks, both big and small, where the water flows. Swimming was difficult because of this.

However, at the lower levels of the falls, people can take a dip and swim. There were also tables for rent at the lowest part of the falls, which looked unique. People could sit there with their feet submerged in the water.

Next to the falls is a resort called Iligan Paradise Resort and Eco-Park. The entrance fee to the resort is 50.00 PHP (1.00 USD).

The resort mainly features natural swimming pools, with water continuously flowing from the top source, which I believe is from the falls, down to the resort. It was incredibly relaxing to swim here, as the water is cold.

I noticed that many large groups, including families and friends, enjoyed the natural pools. There were plenty of tables to accommodate a large number of guests at the resort. These tables can be rented for the whole day.

Next on our agenda was visiting one of Mindanao's prides – the Maria Cristina Falls. Since last year, 2023, the attraction has been closed to the public due to the dangers along the route to the falls. Landslides are common in the area, especially during heavy rains.

Despite knowing this beforehand, we still attempted to see the highest falls in the country. Unfortunately, we failed. Upon arriving at the entrance, we were informed that the falls were still closed to the public for the same reason. Though a bit disappointed, we expected this outcome. At least we tried.

I hope that someday I'll get to see the beauty of Maria Cristina Falls. For now, I have to wrap up my Iligan Travel Series. I truly enjoyed the natural attractions this city has to offer. I’m sure there are many more waterfalls and scenic spots to explore here. I’m also grateful to my boyfriend for taking me to such beautiful places. 💞

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Thank you for reading my post up to this point. I hope you have a great time ahead!

I'll take delight in writing for you again soon.

Love,
Sam ♡