"JUMP" Canyoneering Downstream Challenge - Alegria Cebu

 

Canyoneering or Canyoning to most parts of the world came into the spotlight when Pinoy Adventures and Biyahe ni Drew, a local travel shows in the Philippines, featured the activity. Since then, there was a huge increase of tourists (both local and int’l) flocking to see what Alegria/Badian is cooking. You have two options to do the activity: downstream and upstream.

Last December 1, 2015 one of my colleague at the office was talking about planning to do canyoneering over the weekend and my ear rang and automatically volunteered myself and shouted "Count me in". 

We've got a package tour for the said adventure inclusive with Van (back and fort transportation), Lunch, safe gears & tour guide. 

As for our team, we did the downstream canyoneering that starts at Canlaob, Alegria. The jump-off point. The tour started with a quick safety briefing, then a short walk to Canlaob river where you’ll be jumping off the first waterfall, entering the Kanlaob canyon. 

"Never miss an opportunity to JUMP as this is what you paid for".

Try to wear rubber shoes as the river floor is full of rocks. They can provide you if you don't have one. Don't forget to look up as the activity doesn't only offer an adrenaline kicking stunts but also a magnificent view of the canyon formation and the forest. Don't forget to bring your waterproof cameras. 

Tiring yet still Fantastic - is how I can describe this serene attraction. It's the place perfect for soul-searching (at night) since it is situated in the bosom of the forest. 

The activity runs in an average of 4 hour depending on your phase. If jumping a 15 foot waterfall doesn’t bother you, then Alegria-Badian downstream canyoneering would be like a walk in the park. For those looking for a higher jump-off point, there’s the 30 foot drop. The plunge is optional though so for those afraid of plummeting down a quarter-hundred foot high fall should not be discouraged from doing this canyoneering route. I did jump for three time and I still want to do it all over again :)

~ Pose like a boss ~

Ending this blog with Tips and an expense estimate which we hope would be very helpful to aspiring adventure enthusiasts like you. Enjoy!

What to bring

• Rash guard and leggings or wet suit (be sure to cover your legs and arms, as the 45-minute trek back has a lot of prickly plants)
• Waterproof camera
• Shoes/sandals for mountaineering (or strong-soled aqua shoes)
• Money for tips, souvenirs and snacks

Tips:

• Listen to the guide. You will be required to wear a helmet and life jacket, but another important safety tool is your guide. Follow his instructions. He’ll be guiding you on how and when and where to make jumps from the falls.
• Don’t walk carelessly. This goes without saying, but the rocks are slippery. The fast-moving water prevents algae from clinging to the rocks, but don’t be a hero. Grab a buddy’s hand if you’re not so sure.
• Start out early. This way you can beat some the midday/early afternoon heat. Besides, this is a multi-hour excursion. You don’t want to feel rushed by the setting sun, especially when you’re trying to watch your footing.
• Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. It’s easy to get dehydrated when you’re busy jumping off waterfalls and pushing past the current. Remind yourself to take a swig every once in a while.
• Work together. The group is there to help one another. Be sure to offer and accept a lending hand.
• Love the land. Caretakers of the falls are responsible for keeping the falls clean, so try to make their job easier. Nobody wants to see your plastic bottle swimming next to them!

Expenses:

Tour Package: P1,200 (10 packs)
Tour Package Inclusions:

• Lunch after the canyoneering 
• 2 Tour guides
• Fee for drop-off ride to Kanlaob, Alegria
• Entrance fees
• Canyoneering gear (dry bag, vest, and helmet)

PS: photo credits to Rutchel Baguiro