Sungkilaw falls is an awesome falls that lies beneath the mountains of Diwan, Dipolog City. It boasts a spring on the east part that flows to a very rapid fall down to a river.

The “Habal-habal” ride is worth it. We would definitely come back here again to take a dip the cold spring or just hang out with friends.

Tourism hut and entrance
There is NO ENTRANCE FEE to the falls and spring. You will be asked to log your name in the Tourism guest book.



The path to the mountain is well paved and is well maintained.


You will walk across well paved steps 100 meters to reach a Y-trail. The left trail will get you to the view deck of Sungkilaw falls around 30 meters away. The right trail will lead you to the “Mineral” well and River/Spring where you can take a dip in the cold water.


The Sungkilaw Falls
Amazing! One of the best water falls in the Philippines.


Salt/Mineral concentrated water well
It is very unusual to have salt water well on top of a mountain. This is believed by the locals to have medicinal effect due to its mineral concentration. I tried to sip some water and IT IS VERY SALTY.


The Sungkilaw Spring

The water is very cold and there is a current going to the waterfall. This area has very big rocks and the water is very clear and drinkable. This is the main swimming area for tourists.



How to get to Sungkilaw Falls
Rating: Expect very rocky road.

1. Ride a tricycle from your hotel/house in Dipolog to Satellite Market bus terminal, Dipolog City for 7.00 Php. This will take 10 minutes if your hotel is located near the central barangay.

2. From the terminal, ride a bus/jeep/truck bound or that will pass “Diwan” or “Cogon” Dipolog City. “Pagadian City” bound buses also travel via this route. RURAL Co. Bus fare to the Sungkilaw intersection as of 7/21/2010 is 25Php. Ask the conductor to drop you in the intersection going to “Sungkilaw Falls”. There is a sign “SUNGKILAW FALLS => 14 KM” and you cannot miss this. Distance is 37 KM and travel time is 42 minutes.

Barangay route to note is Central barangay > Galas > Olingan > Punta > Diwan.

3. From the Diwan highway “Sungkilaw” intersection, you will note a number of motorcycles parked near the waiting shed. Ask around for a “Habal-habal” or “Motorcycle for rent” to Sungkilaw falls.

This will cost you 100Php/ride/head. A round trip will cost you 200.00Php. If you are a local traveling in a group, you can bargain with your charm. Good luck.

The route will be Diwan highway > Pamansalan > Sitio Virginia.

I DO NOT RECOMMEND Cars/Multicab/SUV to travel the road of Sitio Virginia going to the falls. It is very rocky and malformed. The engine of low cars will be easily snagged. Leave your cars. YOU ARE WARNED! 4X4 pickups or mini Jeeps or ATVs is advised to take this road.


Insider tip:
a. There is no mobile phone signal up the mountain trail and in the Sungkilaw Falls area.
b. There are no written rule/fares for the Habal-habal drivers. If 100Php/ride/head is raised (Some will ask 150!), Learn to bargain!
c. Ask for Ruel Saldariega (0928-228-3397), a Diwan Local who strictly imposes a 100php/head/ride to the falls. You can text Sir Ruel for reservation on your trip.
d. Bring food and water and DO NOT LITTER. Please consider the environment. No cold soft drinks after Pamansalan.
e. Water in the Sungkilaw Spring is drinkable and cold. :)

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