Where are Basakal Falls?

Basakal Falls are in the Municipality of Daguioman, Abra. Daguioman is one of the undiscovered “Hidden Paradises” of the Philippines, tucked away in the eastern part of Abra. Daguioman has been isolated for many years until recently, when the roads and bridges were built and improved, therefore making access to the Province easier.
It is however, still a long, arduous journey despite being only 60 km from the capital of Bangued.
Daguioman is still off the radar of main stream tourism for the moment. Its hidden secrets, such as Basakal Falls are slowly leaking out onto social media, and just recently GMA News TV visited to record this hidden part of Abra for its upcoming travel show hosted by Drew Arellano, “Biyahe Ni Drew”.

Coordinates for Basakal Falls

17°28′13.25″N 120°57′05.8″E

The Way to Basakal Falls

The hike to Basakal Falls is not a long one, only taking an hour, but the scenery that we pass through is absolutely astounding. It’s not called “A Hidden Paradise” for nothing.
Leaving Brgy Ableg, first we cross rice fields, winding our way along the narrow paths that separate each paddy. If you are early, you may catch the sight of some villagers making their way out to tend to their fields and crops.

There are two trails that lead to Basakal Falls. The first is over a couple of hanging bridges, hiking up narrow paths along the mountainside, following the irrigation channel and then climbing down the steep path to Basakal Falls. The second trail is hiking upriver, with some bouldering and river crossings to a point where a bamboo raft will carry you the rest of the way (depending upon the season and how safe the river is).

Along the way you will pass by a two-tiered waterfall called Labo Falls, on the otherside of the river. It is possible to make a detour to explore these Falls and if you are able to climb up to the second level.

Whichever way you choose to go to Basakal Falls, then I advise to return by the other route.

Basakal Falls 

This is not a gentle kind of waterfall. Its stream is mighty. Boulders stick out of the water at the entrance to its pool, somehow slowing down the current on its way out to the river.
One side of the big open dome-like enclosure most of the time is wet from the splash of the falling water. Its water is refreshingly cold.
Basakal falls is both beautiful and brutal.

Attention

At the time of writing this blog post (November 2018) the Bucloc River crossing from the Municipality of Bucloc to the Municipality of Daguioman is only passable by 4×4 vehicles across the river, as the temporary bridge was washed away.
Motorbikes, cycles and pedestrians may use the Hanging Bridge to cross the Bucloc River.

Update 2021

The bridge at Bucloc has been rebuilt and can take all kinds of traffic heading to Daguioman

Take care whichever way you choose to cross the river.

PIN to Read Later