Tinago Falls, Waterfall in Lanao del Norte, Philippines
Tinago Falls is a waterfall in the northern part of Mindanao island that plunges down through multiple cascades into a rocky basin. The water drops steeply and creates a series of pools surrounded by rough stone walls.
In the 1990s the local government and residents of Iligan started conservation efforts to protect water quality through agroforestry practices. These early initiatives laid the groundwork for long-term care of the site.
Local folklore speaks of an enchantress who supposedly turned a hidden child into this waterfall after her request was refused by the child's royal parents. This legend remains woven into how people today understand and relate to the place.
To reach the falls, visitors must descend around 500 concrete steps, which takes time and physical effort. Once at the bottom, bamboo rafts and life jackets are available to rent for exploring the water pools.
A small cave at the base of the falls allows swimmers to enter and experience the roaring sound of cascading water from different angles. It is one of the few places where visitors can feel the spectacle from within.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
