Lubong-Nangoloan Falls / Anghalo Falls

Description

Lubong-Nangoloan Falls, more commonly called Anghalo Falls, is a hidden natural escape tucked away in the town of San Felipe, Zambales, Philippines. It’s one of those places where time seems to slow down, and I mean that in the best possible way. You’ll hear nothing but the rushing water, the rustling leaves, and maybe your own laughter echoing off the cliff walls. It’s a raw, uncommercialized tourist attraction—still simple, still local, still authentic. You don’t see souvenir stalls or blaring speakers here, just the deep green of the jungle and the cool mist rising from the falls.

The main waterfall of Lubong-Nangoloan Falls is impressively layered, cascading down different levels before collecting in a clear, cold pool below. It’s not one of those massive waterfalls like you’d find in the north, but it has this charm—like it was built for quiet swimming, relaxed picnics, and taking a much-needed breather from busy city life. On sunny mornings, when the water glistens under the trees, it’s downright magical. It’s perfect for anyone looking to reconnect with nature without crowds or noise. Families, groups of friends, and solo travelers all find something deeply peaceful about this spot.

There are actually two main levels here: the first level of Anghalo Falls is wide and powerful, where most people start their visit, and the second level is smaller but offers a peaceful, private vibe. Some call it a “natural playground” because, let’s be honest, that’s what it feels like—there are pools for swimming, boulders to sit on, and shallow spots perfect for kids. Though, it’s worth noting that the hike can be a little rough around the edges—trail’s uneven and can get slippery after a rainy day. But that’s part of the fun, right? A bit of dirt, a bit of sweat, and then—bam—a stunning waterfall reward at the end.

Local residents take great pride in this site. You’ll often find friendly guides ready to walk (or even take you via a classic carabao ride!) along the scenic dirt road that leads toward the falls. It’s not every day you get to sit atop a carabao on the way to a waterfall, so if you’re aiming for something a bit out of the ordinary, go for it. It’s one of those charming local experiences that makes the whole trip feel authentic. And seriously, the sight of green fields, glimpses of the mountains, and that final approach—the white water peeking through the thick canopy—is like something straight out of a travel magazine, only more real.

While this spot remains relatively under the radar, its growing popularity means small improvements have started cropping up around it—rest areas, local snack stalls, and some basic facilities. Still, don’t expect a resort-level setup. The beauty of Lubong-Nangoloan Falls lies in how unrefined it is. It’s not spotless perfection; it’s rugged, heartfelt nature.

Key Features

• Two-level waterfall system where visitors can enjoy both powerful cascades and gentler pools
• Clear, refreshing water ideal for swimming, especially during warm summer months
• Option to experience a traditional carabao ride along the trail leading to the site
• Popular spot for nature photography, picnicking, and short hikes
• Rich biodiversity around the area—look closely and you’ll spot native plants and birds
• Local guides available for river trekking or helping visitors find safe swim areas
• Accessible via a scenic rural road surrounded by rice fields and forested hills
• Family-friendly, though not wheelchair accessible due to the natural terrain

Visitors often describe the area as peaceful and clean, though a few mention that the trail can be tricky during wet months. Still, with a pair of decent shoes and a willingness to get a little muddy, the reward at the end is totally worth the effort. You can even spot local families spending entire afternoons here sharing food, playing in the water, laughing—it’s that kind of place where people can feel human again, away from deadlines and screens.

Best Time to Visit

Timing makes a huge difference here. If you’re aiming for full, cascading water and vibrant surroundings, the best time to visit Lubong-Nangoloan Falls in San Felipe is during the rainy season—around July to November. The water really comes alive, flowing strong down every level. But be warned: the trail can get a bit slippery, and the river crossings may feel more challenging. Bring non-slip shoes and take it slow.

If you prefer an easier walk and calmer swimming conditions, December through early summer (around April) is your go-to period. The trail dries up, the sun’s out, and you can picnic for hours without worrying about sudden rain. That said, during the hotter summer months, water flow lessens and some smaller pools dry up slightly—but the main falls stay crisp and swimmable. Personally, I think early December is the sweet spot: just after the rains but before the summer crowd arrives. You get that lush, green scenery and still have plenty of safe space to stretch out and relax.

Anghalo Falls is also ideal for day trips. Most visitors come during the morning, swim for a few hours, enjoy lunch by the water, and head back before sunset. The lighting around 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. is beautiful for photos, so if you want those Instagram-worthy shots, that’s your window.

How to Get There

Reaching Lubong-Nangoloan Falls is part of the adventure. From the town proper of San Felipe, you can hire a tricycle or schedule a ride from the San Felipe Public Market area. It usually takes about 15 minutes by tricycle to reach the jump-off point, depending on road conditions. The ride passes by rural communities and rice fields—it’s simple but scenic in that peaceful provincial way. If you’re driving from Manila, expect around a four to five-hour trip, depending on traffic. The roads are mostly paved, though the last few kilometers heading to the site turn into dirt roads. Nothing extreme, but it’ll definitely dust up your shoes a bit.

From the jump-off area, visitors can choose between walking and riding on a carabao for roughly 10–15 minutes along the trail. Now, here’s a fun bit of trivia: the carabao ride isn’t just for show. Locals still use these hardy animals as their main means of transport for hauling goods along the same route. So when you hop on, it’s not a gimmick—it’s part of the daily rhythm of life here. The walk itself is doable for most ages, though some may find it steep in spots. There’s one small river crossing, so bring sandals or waterproof footwear. Kids usually love this part; they treat it like a mini adventure trek.

Once you reach the main site entrance, there’s usually a small entrance fee collected by the local community. It helps fund maintenance and cleanliness projects in the area. It’s always good to keep small bills ready for entrance and guide fees. And don’t be shy about chatting with your guide—many share charming stories about the falls’ legends and local folklore. One even told me that the word “Anghalo” roughly connects to “mix” or “blend,” describing how the falling water mixes with the air and sunlight to create that dreamy spray.

Tips for Visiting

Here are some practical notes and honest advice drawn from experience (and maybe a few muddy shoes):

• Make sure to wear proper trekking sandals or shoes. The trail can get slippery, especially after the rain.
• Carry water and light snacks, but don’t leave any trash behind. Locals really care about keeping the site clean.
• Start your trip early in the day to avoid the crowd and fully enjoy the cool morning air.
• For those bringing kids, keep close watch—some pools get deep near the center, even if they look shallow from the side.
• Don’t forget sunblock during summer months and a poncho or waterproof bag during rainy season.
• Try the carabao ride for a unique cultural experience—and hey, it also saves energy for your swim later.
• Bring cash. There are no ATMs or mobile signal in certain parts of the area.
• Hire a local guide if you’re unsure of the path or want to explore beyond the main levels.

One last thing: respect the space. Lubong-Nangoloan Falls isn’t some polished resort, but that’s exactly why it’s special. Its beauty lies in the raw scenes of life and nature coming together—the families eating grilled fish by the water, kids trying to skip stones, dogs trailing behind their owners on the walk back. It’s an experience that reminds you why simple days outdoors are sometimes the best kind of luxury. When you leave, you’ll likely feel that mix of exhaustion and quiet joy that comes from real adventure—the kind that doesn’t need a filter to be beautiful.

So if you ever find yourself longing for an easy, close-to-nature escape not too far from Liwliwa Beach or the main town of San Felipe, Lubong-Nangoloan Falls—or Anghalo Falls as locals proudly call it—might be just the kind of wonder you’ve been looking for. Raw, refreshing, and utterly unforgettable.