Tucked away in the lush interior of Santa Monica municipality (formerly Sapao), Taktak Falls is a 15-meter (49-50 foot) jungle waterfall that offers a refreshing escape from Siargao's coastal attractions. While tourists flock to the surf beaches of General Luna and Cloud 9, locals and adventurous travelers make the journey to this impressive cascade surrounded by tropical forest. The falls have been developed for tourism with concrete access roads and pathways, making it relatively accessible - though visitors should be prepared for extremely slippery conditions. This guide covers everything you need to know to visit Taktak Falls, including access logistics, entrance fees, safety considerations, and how to reach it from Del Carmen.
Image courtesy of Juraj & Nika
Quick Facts
- Location: Santa Monica municipality (formerly Sapao), Surigao del Norte, Siargao
- Distance from Mariden Resort (Del Carmen): 40-60 minutes by motorcycle
- Distance from General Luna: 60-90 minutes
- Waterfall Height: 15 meters (approximately 49-50 feet)
- Entrance Fee: ₱50 per person + ₱20 parking (as of 2025)
- Trail Difficulty: Short walk (few minutes, 150-500 meters) - BUT extremely slippery concrete
- Swimming: Yes - natural pool at the base of the falls
- Best Time to Visit: Dry season (March-October), early morning or late afternoon
- What to Bring: Swimwear, sturdy water shoes (essential!), towel, water, cash
What is Taktak Falls?
Taktak Falls is a single-tier waterfall cascading approximately 15 meters (49-50 feet) into a natural swimming pool surrounded by dense tropical vegetation. The name "Taktak" comes from the Cebuano/Visayan word meaning "to drop," "to detach," or "to drip" - perfectly describing the action of the falling water.
Taktak Falls has been developed for tourism with concrete access roads extending almost to the base and concrete pathways lining the falls area. The pool sections are partially man-made, and basic facilities including a local market/bar are available on-site. While developed, it remains a scenic jungle destination away from the coastal crowds.
Why Taktak Falls Stands Out
- Impressive Height: At 15 meters (49-50 feet), it's one of Siargao's taller waterfalls
- Jungle Setting: Dense tropical forest surroundings create an immersive nature experience
- Accessible: Concrete road extends almost to the base - short walk from parking
- Natural Swimming Pool: Cool, clear water perfect for swimming after a hot day exploring Siargao
- Less Crowded Than Beaches: Escape the coastal tourist areas for inland adventure
Image courtesy of Kadang Pinas Tours
How to Get There from Del Carmen
Taktak Falls is located in Santa Monica municipality (formerly Sapao), approximately 40-60 minutes by motorcycle from Del Carmen resorts.
Motorcycle Route (Recommended)
From Mariden Resort, Del Carmen:
- Head north on the main road toward Pilar/San Isidro
- Continue past Del Carmen town center heading toward Santa Monica municipality
- Look for signage indicating "Taktak Falls" or ask locals for "Taktak Falls sa Santa Monica"
- Follow the road inland toward the falls (concrete road extends almost to the base)
- Park at the designated parking area (₱20 parking fee)
- Walk the short path (150-500 meters, few minutes) to the falls - concrete but EXTREMELY SLIPPERY
Total Travel Time: 40-60 minutes riding from Del Carmen center
Road Condition: Mostly paved; concrete access road to falls can be very slippery even when dry due to moss
⚠️ SAFETY FIRST: Watch for Slippery Surfaces
CRITICAL WARNING: The concrete steps and pathways are covered with moss and are extremely slippery even when dry. Multiple visitors report slipping accidents. Wear sturdy water shoes with excellent grip, hold onto railings where available, and walk slowly and deliberately.
Best Time to Visit
Seasonal Considerations
Dry Season (March-October):
- ✅ Easier trail conditions (less mud)
- ✅ Clearer water in the pool
- ✅ Lower water flow (safer swimming)
- ✅ Better weather for the hike
Wet Season (November-February):
- ⚠️ Muddy, slippery trails
- ⚠️ Higher water flow (more dramatic falls, but stronger currents)
- ⚠️ Possible flash flooding risk after heavy rain
- ✅ More lush, green scenery
Recommendation: Visit during dry season (April-September) for the safest, most comfortable experience.
Time of Day
Early Morning (7AM-9AM):
- ✅ Coolest temperatures for the hike
- ✅ Almost guaranteed solitude
- ✅ Best light filtering through jungle canopy
Late Afternoon (3PM-5PM):
- ✅ Refreshing swim after a hot day
- ✅ Fewer visitors than midday
- ⚠️ Allow time to return before dark (no trail lighting)
Image courtesy of Roxy Roco
What to Bring
Essentials
- ☑️ STURDY WATER SHOES - ESSENTIAL for extremely slippery concrete paths (shoes with good grip)
- ☑️ Swimwear - wear under clothes for easy changing
- ☑️ Towel - quick-dry recommended
- ☑️ Water - stay hydrated (local market on-site sells drinks)
- ☑️ Cash (₱100-200) - ₱50 entrance + ₱20 parking + snacks
- ☑️ Waterproof bag - protect phone, wallet, keys
- ☑️ Insect repellent - jungle environment has mosquitoes
Optional But Recommended
- 📷 Camera/phone - capture the serene waterfall (use waterproof case)
- 🧢 Hat/cap - for the ride there (trail is shaded)
- 🍫 Snacks - energy for the hike back
- 🩹 Small first aid kit - bandages for minor scrapes
Tips for the Best Experience
🏊 Swim Safely
- Test the depth before jumping or diving
- The pool has both natural and partially man-made sections
- Watch for slippery concrete and rocks around the pool
- Don't swim alone - bring a friend
- Avoid swimming if water is brown/murky after heavy rain (flash flood risk)
- No lifeguards on duty - swim at your own risk
🗺️ Combine with Other Attractions
Make it a full interior Siargao day:
- Morning: Taktak Falls in Santa Monica (swim and explore)
- Midday: Explore Santa Monica town or nearby areas
- Lunch: Local eatery in Santa Monica or return to Del Carmen
- Afternoon: Visit Del Carmen attractions (Mangrove Boardwalk, Alegria Beach)
Image courtesy of The Bliss Siargao
Interior Siargao: Beyond the Beaches
Taktak Falls offers a glimpse of Siargao's jungle interior, away from the coastal tourist zones. Here's what makes interior attractions like Taktak Falls special:
Community-Based Tourism
- Local Ownership: Entrance fees support Santa Monica community
- Accessible Development: Concrete access makes the falls reachable for more visitors
- Local Businesses: On-site market/bar provides income for local families
- Community Resource: Managed by Santa Monica residents rather than external corporations
Why Del Carmen is Your Strategic Base
Staying in Del Carmen allows you to explore both coastal and interior attractions:
- 40-60 minutes to Taktak Falls — Day trip to Santa Monica's jungle waterfall
- 5 minutes from airport — Minimize transfer time
- Access to both coasts — East (Magpupungko, Pacifico) and west (Sugba, Sohoton)
- Central location — Explore northern municipalities (Santa Monica, San Isidro, Pilar)
- Lower costs — Del Carmen is 30-50% cheaper than GL for accommodation
📍 Your Central Siargao Base Camp
Mariden Resort in Del Carmen is well-positioned for exploring Siargao's interior and coastal attractions.
- 40-60 minutes to Taktak Falls — Day trip to Santa Monica's 15-meter jungle waterfall
- 5 minutes from Siargao Airport — Arrive and explore efficiently
- Local knowledge — We'll provide directions and route guidance for interior adventures
- Comfort after adventure — Cool pool, hot shower, fast WiFi, and comfortable beds after jungle trekking
- Affordable rates — Enjoy boutique comfort at budget-friendly prices
Frequently Asked Questions
The entrance fee is ₱50 per person plus ₱20 for parking (as of 2025). You may also want to budget for snacks/drinks from the on-site market. Total cost per person: ₱70-150 including refreshments.
The walk is short (150-500 meters, only a few minutes) since the concrete road extends almost to the base. However, the concrete pathways are extremely slippery with moss growth, which creates a significant safety hazard. Wear sturdy water shoes with excellent grip, walk carefully, and supervise children closely. The slipperiness, not the length or terrain, is the main challenge.
Yes, there's a pool at the base of the falls suitable for swimming. The water is cool and generally clear during dry season. The pool has both natural and partially man-made sections. Depth varies, so test before jumping. Avoid swimming after heavy rains when water may be murky or currents stronger. No lifeguards on duty - swim at your own risk.
The site is accessible and developed, so solo visits are generally safe. However, the extremely slippery concrete paths pose a real injury risk, especially if you fall alone. Solo travelers should inform someone of their plans, wear appropriate footwear, bring a charged phone, and visit during daylight hours. Take extra caution on the slippery surfaces.
The dry season (March-October) offers the best conditions - clearer water, safer paths (though still slippery), and better swimming. The wet season (November-February) brings higher water flow (more dramatic falls) but wetter, even more slippery conditions. April-September is ideal for first-time visitors.
Taktak Falls is the main waterfall attraction in Santa Monica. It's about 40-60 minutes from Del Carmen. For other water-based attractions in the Del Carmen area, consider Sugba Lagoon (15 minutes from Del Carmen), Maasin River (20 minutes), or the Mangrove Boardwalk (10 minutes). Northern Siargao has more coastal attractions than jungle waterfalls.
Related Guides
Santa Monica Area:
- Alegria Beach Guide - Combine with Taktak Falls for a full Santa Monica day
Del Carmen Attractions:
- Maasin Coconut Plantation and River - Water-based adventure and photography
- Del Carmen Mangrove Boardwalk - Nature walk near the port
- Sugba Lagoon - Premium boat tour experience
- Magpupungko Rock Pools - East coast tidal pools
Planning Your Trip:
- Sample Itineraries - Day-by-day trip plans
- Budget Guide - Complete cost breakdowns
- Best Time to Visit - Weather and seasonal planning
- Transportation Guide - Getting around the island
- Del Carmen vs General Luna - Why staying north gives you access to hidden gems
- Siargao Airport Guide - Arrive and explore Del Carmen immediately