Nagkalit-kalit Falls
A series of waterfalls reached by a jungle trek with river crossings, offering a refreshing dip in a lush setting.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat & crowds
Nagkalit-kalit Falls
Best Time
Beat the heat & crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A series of waterfalls reached by a jungle trek with river crossings, offering a refreshing dip in a lush setting.
"The trek is adventurous, but be prepared for potential fee surprises and ensure clarity on costs."
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Avoid flip-flops! You'll cross rivers multiple times; waterproof hiking shoes or sturdy sandals are best.
💰 Clarify All Fees Upfront
Be clear about the total cost including entrance and guide fees to avoid unexpected charges.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Main Waterfall
First waterfall accessible via trek
A refreshing cascade offering a welcome respite from the jungle trek, perfect for a cooling swim.
River Crossings
En route to the falls
An adventurous part of the journey, requiring careful footing across multiple streams.
Jungle Trek
Path to the falls
Immerse yourself in the lush tropical environment on this moderately challenging hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Trek to Nagkalit-kalit Falls
Understanding Fees and Guides
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Avoid flip-flops! You'll cross rivers multiple times; waterproof hiking shoes or sturdy sandals are best.
💰 Clarify All Fees Upfront
Be clear about the total cost including entrance and guide fees to avoid unexpected charges.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated during the trek. Some visitors suggest bringing your own snacks as options are limited.
🚶♀️ Consider Going Solo
Some travelers found the trek manageable without a guide if comfortable navigating.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Avoid flip-flops! You'll cross rivers multiple times; waterproof hiking shoes or sturdy sandals are best.
💰 Clarify All Fees Upfront
Be clear about the total cost including entrance and guide fees to avoid unexpected charges.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated during the trek. Some visitors suggest bringing your own snacks as options are limited.
🚶♀️ Consider Going Solo
Some travelers found the trek manageable without a guide if comfortable navigating.
📸 Capture the Journey
The trek itself offers beautiful jungle scenery, so have your camera ready!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Nagkalit-kalit Falls offers a refreshing jungle trek and a chance to swim, but visitors should be prepared for potential fee discrepancies and the adventurous river crossings. While the falls themselves are pleasant, the overall experience can be impacted by the clarity of pricing and the insistence on guides. Many find the trek enjoyable, but some feel the cost is high for what is offered.
"yes the locals will ask for $$ please be mindful that this is their source of income. they are extremely friendly. my tour guide offered to carry my backpack. and she stayed with us at the waterfall for a little over and hour while i got to enjoy my time swimming in the water. although the waterfall wasn’t at its peak, it was still beautiful!"
Julia
"Nice experience but the entrance fee is 420 pesos which is very expensive compared to the average prices of the Philippines. There is 30 minutes walk to reach the waterfall going through rivers with strong current so avoid flip flop (as I did, terrible). Few people reached the place without the guide in front of me so I didn't catch if the fee was a scam or not, it's something that you can miss."
Gianluca Leone
"Absolutely worst experience! Do not recommend.
We started the tour at the “Irish store”. They said the price was 420 pesos per person including all entrance fees, 2 waterfalls, and a guide. We were aware that usual fee was 300 pesos per person, but didn’t mind the extra bit to support locals.
However, as we progressed it only got worst! They provided us a “guide”, a girl who at every stop was just asking for extra money. At first stop (after around 15-20 min walk), she said there is a private land and we will need to pay additional 50 pesos per person. We refused saying we already paid and were happy to go back and cancel the tour. She then chose to pay for us and progressed. In addition, we observed other guides paying for their group, rather than tourists themselves.
When we arrived at the first waterfall we swam and it was an ok experience. Quite a small waterfall, but ok for a swim. When we completed, we said if we can progress to the next waterfall and she said that will be additional 100 pesos per person! We refused paying extra and returned back to the parking.
Along the way there and back the guide didn’t talk to us, or even ask our names. She was well ahead, not even suggesting any more tricky walking areas. Overall, no talk at all, even after our attempt to make a small talk. The walk was around 30-40 minutes one way and was through the farm at first, followed by the forest. It was not a difficult walk and we met some tourist walking to the waterfall by themselves. So it’s doable if you’re comfortable navigating forest. We’re not sure how further is the second waterfall, as our guide wouldn’t take us without an additional pay!
On our way back, she eventually just left us, with a buffalo with a baby blocking our way at one point.
0/10, absolutely avoid! Or at least go to a different stall. There are at least 5 of them in the same location."
Greta Pileckaitė
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Nagkalit-kalit Falls is typically visited as a stop on the way to Nacpan Beach. You can hire a tricycle or rent a scooter from El Nido town. The journey involves a trek through dense jungle and river crossings. 
Some visitors have successfully navigated the trek without a guide, reporting it as doable if you're comfortable with forest navigation. However, many tour operators insist on guides.
The trek to the falls takes about 30-45 minutes one way, involving crossing 9 to 10 rivers.
Nagkalit-kalit Falls is usually an inland tour stop, often combined with visits to Nacpan Beach, rather than a typical island hopping tour.
You can reach the trailhead by tricycle or scooter from El Nido town. Some tours start from a place called the 'Irish store'.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entrance fees can vary. Some travelers reported paying around 420 pesos per person, while others found deals closer to 370 pesos. It's crucial to clarify the total cost upfront. +1
Some visitors have encountered requests for additional payments for private land access or a second waterfall, even after paying an initial fee. Be firm about clarifying all costs beforehand.
While some visitors managed without one, many tour operators insist on hiring a guide. Ensure the guide fee is included in your initial payment. +1
Ideally, the fee should cover entrance to the falls and a guide. Confirm this with the vendor before you pay.
It's worth trying to negotiate, especially if you find the initial price high compared to other attractions. Some travelers have found discounted rates.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The trek is about 30-45 minutes and involves crossing 9-10 rivers. The path can be slippery, so sturdy footwear is essential.
Yes, swimming is a popular activity at the falls. The water is refreshing, offering a great way to cool down after the trek. +1
Some families have visited with young children, but the trek involves river crossings and can be challenging. Assess your child's stamina and comfort level.
Bring sturdy, water-friendly shoes, swimwear, a towel, water, and snacks. A waterproof bag for your electronics is also a good idea.
Visiting in the late afternoon or on weekdays can help you avoid the biggest crowds. Some travelers enjoyed having the falls to themselves.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the lush jungle scenery during the trek, the river crossings, and of course, the waterfall itself. The surrounding limestone cliffs add to the dramatic landscape.
It's advisable to use a waterproof case or bag for your electronics, as you'll be crossing rivers and the path can be wet.
Late afternoon can offer softer light, but midday can also be good for capturing the vibrant green of the jungle and the clear water.
The main waterfall area provides the most obvious photo opportunities. The trek itself offers scenic shots of the jungle and river.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local rules and respect the natural environment and other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be prepared for potential extra fees, and clarify all costs with your guide or tour operator upfront to avoid surprises. Bringing plenty of water and snacks is also recommended, as options at the falls are limited. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to minimize crowds and allow your children to enjoy the experience more comfortably.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider visiting independently via scooter rental if you're comfortable driving, which can be more economical than hiring a private tricycle. Pack your own water and snacks to avoid purchasing them at inflated prices. Visiting on a weekday and in the late afternoon can also help you avoid peak crowds and potentially secure better rates.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Trek: An Adventure in Itself
While many tour operators insist on hiring a local guide, some adventurous travelers have successfully completed the trek independently. If you choose to go without a guide, ensure you are comfortable with basic navigation and prepared for the river crossings. Be aware that some guides may try to upsell additional fees for access to other parts of the falls or private areas, so it's crucial to clarify all costs upfront.
The trek offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and experience a different side of El Nido beyond its famous beaches. The sounds of the jungle and the refreshing river crossings make it a memorable adventure for those seeking a bit more activity on their trip.
Understanding the Fees and Local Economy
It's important to remember that these fees contribute to the livelihood of the local community. While advocating for fair pricing is understandable, approaching the interaction with respect for the locals' income source can lead to a more positive experience. Some visitors found their guides to be friendly and helpful, even offering to carry backpacks.
If you encounter pushy sales tactics or feel uncomfortable with the pricing, it's sometimes possible to explore options with different vendors at the starting point. However, always prioritize clarity and confirm all costs before committing to a tour or guide.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit