Jump to: About Kaparkan Falls | How to Get There | What to Expect | Suggested Itinerary | Travel Budget | Where to Stay | Travel Tips
About Kaparkan Falls
Kaparkan Falls, also known as Mulawin Falls, is a multi-level waterfall located in the highlands of Tineg, Abra. Its natural limestone terraces filled with turquoise water resemble the rice terraces of Banaue, making it one of the most picturesque hidden gems in the Cordillera Region. The falls are accessible only during the rainy season, which makes every visit a rare treat.
How to Get to Kaparkan Falls
- From Manila: Take a Partas or Viron bus to Bangued, Abra (approx. 8–9 hours)
- From Bangued: Register at the tourism office for a guided 4x4 trip to Tineg (only during the season)
- 4x4 Adventure: The off-road trip takes around 3 hours on rough terrain
- Note: DIY trips are not allowed. Book through DOT-accredited guides or groups.
What to Expect
- 🌊 Tiered limestone pools with cold, clear water perfect for photos and swimming
- 🚙 Off-road 4x4 ride through muddy and rocky trails — a part of the adventure
- 🌿 Dense forest surroundings and rich biodiversity in the area
- 📸 Great spot for nature photography — bring waterproof gear
- 🧭 Basic facilities only — bring food, water, and first-aid essentials
Suggested Itinerary
- Day 0 – 10:00 PM: Depart Manila via overnight bus to Bangued
- Day 1 – 6:00 AM: Arrive in Bangued, register at tourism office
- 7:00 AM: Depart via 4x4 to Kaparkan jump-off
- 10:00 AM: Explore and swim in Kaparkan Falls
- 2:00 PM: Return trip to Bangued
- Day 2 – Optional side trip in Abra or travel back to Manila
We met at our favorite meeting place, Jollibee - Greenfield Crossing. Of course, as always, HI and HELLOs are just normal. Estimated Time of Departure: 21:30. We had several stopovers by the highway, but had a few hours of sleep; as a result, a headache. Estimated Time of Arrival in Bangued: 0500. Our first stop was the "I Love Abra" signboard. On this spot, there's a grotto, an open theatre, and a wide view of the Municipality. The weather was cool, and the area was almost covered with fog.
After the signboard, we proceeded to Acosta Pancitan, a restaurant who serves their famous local dish, Pancit Miki na may laman. Sabi nga eh, kung walang laman yun, malamang aabutan lang kami ng bowl at kutsara, kami nalang bahala mag-isip ng laman. Their pancit miki is similar to Batangas lomi, however, they differ on the noodles. According to the tsismis again, they create and manufacture their own noodles. At ang mga spices ay kinuha pa ng mga babaeng lokal sa ikalimang bundok ng Siera Madre at ikinarga sa anim na puting birhen na mga kabayo - hahaha - syempre joke lang yun! Naisip ko lang bigla si Jang Jeum. In fairness, the consistency of the soup and the texture of the noodles are really good, the laman and the other ingredients are well cooked - so it was a YES for me. After the sumptuous breakfast, we proceeded to DPWH to register, secure the waiver and to make sakay on the military truck. Estimated Time of Departure - DPWH: 0727.
Entrance, Advantage of Joining a Tour Package: For the first hour, we traveled on the concrete road at a fast but friendly speed. It was still in the morning, so a few people were walking by the highway. Then, at 0837, the military truck stopped, and we were instructed to get off the truck. The driver and his friends put chains on each tire; this is the best way to fight against the slippery and muddy road to the waterfalls. After placing the last chain, we got on the truck, and the remarkable off-road travel started.
Honestly, I consider this road as the worst but the most remarkable off-road travel experience in my 19 years of existence. There were two typhoons outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility that day, thus affecting the weather conditions in Luzon. The photo above describes how deep the mud is. There was a part where we needed to get off the truck again because the first truck was stuck in the deep mud. We're already halfway to the falls, so we're worried that the trip will be canceled due to this scenario, but the drivers were talented in handling the wheels.
I chose to stand than sit on the bench because I was literally a "pain in the ass." While standing and holding onto the iron rails, I felt the pains in my arms, legs, and shoulders, but instead of focusing on the pain, I was laughing every time I heard the harmony of the screams, mixed with the high pitch and the head tones AAAHHHHH!!! That was music in my ears.
The off-road travel game is over. At 1133, we arrived at the jump-off, and the next part was a 15-20-minute walk on a downhill trail to the falls. The trails are surrounded by trees and grasses that provide a relaxing ambiance. The sound of the water falling is an indication that we're almost there, and upon arrival at the area, I got my camera, left my dry bag on the side, and started taking photos while the tourists were still a few.
This waterfall got the attention of many travelers because of its unique pool formation. As I mentioned earlier, according to the tsimis, the entire waterfalls has 200 pools or terraces on different levels. In the photo above, I was wearing Lamiran sandals, I can definitely walk fast or even run on the surface of the pool without slipping. This is because the white surface is covered with minerals with a rough texture, which I really love.
The entire area is surrounded by trees that provide shade, while the sound of the rushing water gives tranquility to the area. Not only that, the surrounding forest area is a sanctuary of birds and other animals. In the middle, there's a gigantic balete tree that gives an amazing backdrop while the unlimited fresh water falling from the top is cold and crystal clear - even the weather wasn't good. The pools or the terraces are irregular in shape creating a big picture of an art naturally curved by nature.
We had our lunch at the cottage by the falls when the rains started falling, but the other groups couldn't be stopped taking photos. As much as we want to stay, however, we need to be in Bangued before sunset. At 1445, we got on the truck and departed the jump-off. We headed back, passing on the same challenging road. I thought it would be the same experience, but I was wrong. The rain showers started, and the cold wind blew - as a result???? Ayun, sumakit ang rayuma ko sa lamig!!!
Sample Travel Budget
- Bus Fare (Manila – Bangued RT): ₱1,200
- 4x4 Tour Package: ₱1,500
- Registration & Environmental Fees: ₱200
- Meals & Water: ₱300
- Accommodation (optional): ₱800
- Total: ₱4,000 – ₱4,500
Where to Stay
- Most visitors stay in Bangued, the capital of Abra
- Recommended: Strutz Art Garden Resort, Abrassi Hotel
🏨 View Bangued hotels via Agoda
Travel Tips
- 📅 Travel only during the official Kaparkan Falls season (July–October)
- 👟 Wear non-slip sandals or hiking shoes
- 🎒 Pack light but bring dry bags, extra clothes, and water
- 📵 Expect limited to no mobile signal — coordinate ahead
- ♻️ Practice Leave No Trace principles and respect local guides
Final Thoughts
Kaparkan Falls is more than just a seasonal destination — it’s a nature-powered adventure that showcases Abra’s untouched beauty. Whether you're a nature lover, thrill-seeker, or photographer, this hidden wonder offers an unforgettable experience.
Also read: Tinuy-an Falls, Surigao del Sur Travel Guide
