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Montpellier Waterfall is one of the most amazing waterfalls I’ve ever seen, and the fact that it remains so hidden despite its sheer size and beauty adds to the unique vibe of the unforgettable location in South Cebu, Philippines.
In a dense jungle forest, after hiking along a short palm-coated path past local settlements, grazing farm animals and some of the happiest kids you’ll ever meet, lies the dazzling emerald pool and massive yet gentle waterfall of Montpellier Falls. This experience will certainly be a memorable one and is something that simply must be on your Cebu travel itinerary.
This guide details how you can find the secret falls and what to expect during your journey, including how to get there, what to bring and what to expect.
- Country: Philippines
- Population: 2.2 million
- Language: Filipino
- Currency: Philippine peso. £1/$1 = 66/55 PHP
- SIM cards: You can pick up SIM cards from many small stalls and shops in the Philippines. I got a 30 day Smart SIM for 500 PHP with 8GB of data when I arrived which was reliable and affordable. Alternatively, get an eSIM online here: Philippines eSIM Data Plans
- Visa info: Most countries can get a 30 day visa on arrival for the Philippines at any international border. Find out your country’s visa information here.
Where is Montpellier Falls
Check out the location on the interactive map below.
Where to stay in Cebu
The town of Moalboal is the ideal base for adventures in South Cebu.
Moalboal is the most popular place to stay as there is an abundance of accommodation, food and transport options in town to go along with the cool vibe. It is also the scuba-diving capital of the island, so there are many things to do during your stay here.
Browse the best budget accommodation options in Moalboal on Booking.com here.
How to get there
You can rent a scooter for around 400 pesos in Moalboal to get to the falls which is the most popular and adventurous way to explore South Cebu. Alternatively, travel in style and rent a car for your time on the island with RentalCars.com
The 35km drive from Moalboal is mostly along the main coastal road before ascending into the hills. The exact location of the discrete car park is here.
Entrance fee
Montpellier Waterfall is completely free to visit!
How long to allow
Allow at least an hour for the return trip, but this largely depends on how long you spend at the waterfall. The hike takes around 15-20 minutes one way.
What to expect at Montpellier Falls
Once you’ve made your way to the parking area on a bend in the road here, you’ll begin hiking down through the forest along an easy path, soon passing some small settlements and very friendly local people. In total the hike is about 15 minutes one-way and not very strenuous at all.
During the hike the palm-covered path opens up to reveal great panoramic views over the region before arriving at the falls.
After around 15 minutes you’ll arrive at the main event which is an impressive single-flow waterfall that trickles down a tall rock face before dropping to a magical pool below.
The jungle scene at the base of the falls is like something straight out of a movie, where the tropical aqua-blue of the water and lush greens of the surrounding fauna combine to make it truly special.
For me, what made it even more special was the fact that there was not another tourist in sight. You’ll likely only have to share it with a handful of local kids who’ll be super excited to see some strangers at their secret waterfall and bathing pool.
My experience at Montpellier Falls
After eventually finding the right lay-by to park at and hiking down, I can safely say this was one of the most unexpectedly amazing short adventures I’ve been on. The drive from Moalboal is certainly worth it and you can easily tie it in with a visit to Kawasan Falls as well.
There was nobody there apart from a group of kids playing in the pools which just made it such an awesome place compared to Kawasan. I took some photos on the drone which the boys loved to watch, before leaving for Cambais Falls after maybe about 15 minutes spent here in total.
The local villagers will greet you with a smile as you pass through their homes and the local kids will be so stoked to see you. Wholesome stuff!
Packing essentials
- Dry bag: Dry bags are great for water-based activities to keep everything safe and, you guessed it, dry.
- GoPro: Capture the surroundings in stabilised high quality with a trusty waterproof GoPro, perfect for wet adventures.
Water: Make sure you pack a reusable water bottle and plenty of water as it will likely be a sweaty day.
- Travel towel: Having a compact and fast-drying travel towel is essential for obvious reasons!
- Drone: The Philippines is somewhere that deserves to be seen from above. With the pocket-sized Mavic Mini 3 you’ll be amazed at the quality of shots you get.
- Portable charger: Charge you tech on the move with a long lasting, high speed portable charger.
Thinking of visiting Southeast Asia soon? Don’t miss these essential guides to help planning your trip:
Best tours in Cebu
Thank you for reading this travel guide – I hope you found it helpful! Feel free to leave a comment below if you have any questions and I’ll get back to you as soon as possible 
Happy travelling!
HELPFUL RESOURCES FOR PLANNING YOUR TRIP
Accommodation: Booking.com, Hostelworld
Tours: GetYourGuide, Viator, Klook, TripAdvisor
Transport: 12Go, Omio, Trip.com, Rome2Rio
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