Tinago Falls

Tinago Falls is located in Iligan City and Linamon town and is an example of an outdoor attraction that was particularly difficult to access in the past. Access in the form of rural roads have improved a bit and this has translated into more visitors who enjoy the pristine waters of the falls. The following photos were taken back in July 2010 during one of our research trips to the Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT). Our hosts took us to the falls after our workshops and meetings were completed.

Tarp sign featuring a photo of the falls covering the old sign. There is also a photo of the mayor of Linamon  on the tarp. The falls is more accessible from the Linamon side as the town constructed facilities to provide a safer access to the falls.

Tinago translates to "hidden" and one has to descend towards the location of the  falls. Fortunately, the management already constructed these stairs with concrete steps and guiderails. There are also people who accompany you to the falls who will help you get back up (it is a difficult climb for many considering the number of steps and the steep slope)

One will be greeted by a splendid view of Tinago Falls upon reaching the bottom of the stairs

The stream flowing from the falls is cool and crystal clear

The alternate route to Tinago Falls from Iligan City also had steps but is reportedly more treacherous (e.g., slippery and without guiderails) due to years of poor maintenance.

View upstream of the previous photo shows a lot of greenery indicating the forest area is still well-preserved. On the left are a few cottages for excursionists

Fees charged for various activities and amenities at the falls. The facilities are mostly on the Linamon side of the area. There are no such facilities on the Iligan side.

We enjoyed taking photos of the area including the rocks along the stream.

Our group posing in front of Tinago Falls
[Seated L-R: Me, Karl Vergel and Ric Sigua; Standing L-R: Sean Palmiano, Noriel Tiglao and Alorna Abao]
Noriel and Alorna are from Iligan City

Posing before the ascent

Our group ascending the stairs with our local "escorts"

At some point, you just give up because of loss of breath. I was able to reach the top without being carried but I could hear my heart thumping after the climbing effort.

It's indeed more fun in the Philippines!