The Philippines is the perfect destination for travelers who love to chase waterfalls. There are numerous waterfalls scattered all over the country, but there’s none quite like the Kaparkan Falls in Tineg, Abra. From the photo below, you can see what makes it unique.
Discovered only in 2015, Kaparkan Falls is relatively a new tourist destination. Photos of it went viral online—sparking wanderlust in travelers. Continue reading for more information on the best time to visit, commute directions, and what to expect at Kaparkan Falls. We’ll also point out other tourist spots in Abra.
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Best Time to Visit Kaparkan Falls
Abra’s falls come alive during the rainy season which is sometime from August to September. The rest of the year it stays dry leaving the limestone terraces empty. Even if you want to visit during the dry season, you won’t be able to because the area is closed off.
Before going to Abra, make sure to plan your visit in advance with the local tourism office or a tour group. All travelers need to secure slots before they’re permitted to visit. This process was put in place to prevent overcrowding and to help maintain the beauty of Kaparkan Falls.
How to Get to Kaparkan Falls, Abra
From Metro Manila to Abra
You can take a Partas, Dominion, or Viron bus to Abra. Travel time from Metro Manila to Abra is approximately 8 hours. The bus fare is almost 800 PHP for a one-way ticket. To see bus schedules, click on the name of any bus operator mentioned.
From Baguio to Abra
There are direct trips by Partas bus from Baguio to Bangued, Abra. It usually takes 5 hours of land travel. A bus ticket shouldn’t cost you more than 400 PHP.
From Vigan to Abra
Unfortunately, there is no direct bus for this route. From Vigan, ride a bus going to Narvacan, Ilocos Sur. Alight at the highway intersection to Abra. Wait for a bus bound for Bangued, Abra. Although Vigan is less than 2 hours away from Abra, your commute might be longer due to the wait.
Bangued to Tineg
Once in Bangued, make your way to Fariñas Ilocos Empanada along Abra-Kalinga road. Registration and orientation will be held there. Travelers will board either a military truck or jeepney to get to Kaparkan Falls.
Brace yourself for a 3-hour ride from Bangued to Tineg. The first hour will be smooth traveling on paved roads but the rest of the way it’ll be a bumpy ride. According to Google reviews, it’s like “a roller coaster by land”. This is no exaggeration: the vehicle’s wheels need chains to get across the rough terrain (as pictured above)! For those who want to skip the ride, travelers can trek to the falls instead for a total of 8 hours.
Upon arriving at the jump-off, it’s a short 20-30 minute trek down to Kaparkan Falls.
What to Expect at Kaparkan Falls
As mentioned, Kaparkan Falls is regulated by the local government. The max carrying capacity of the falls is 100 people at a time so visitors are only allowed in batches. Three hours are allotted per batch so maximize your stay at this natural wonder! Keep in mind that you might have to wait for your turn if a group arrives before you.
You can further climb down the pools to explore the area more. The limestone steps are not slippery despite being wet but exercise caution anyway. Please be advised that there is no restroom in the area.
More Places to Visit in Abra
Many tourists travel to Abra for Kaparkan Falls, but there are a few more places that are worth a visit in this province. Include these spots in your itinerary to make the most out of your trip to Abra!
Piwek Rock Formations
Once again, a giant wheeled vehicle is required to conquer the rough roads to Piwek Rock Formations. Not only that, you’ll have to board a bamboo raft and climb some rocks to get to the actual site. Your hard work will be rewarded with a dip or an 11 meter cliff jump into the cold river. Take your pick!
Apao Rolling Hills
Witness the Apao Rolling Hills as green during the rainy season and brown during the dry season. You can opt to visit during sunrise for the sea of clouds or during sunset for the colorful sky.
Gabriela Cariño Silang Gallery of Fine Arts
A quick tricycle ride from Bangued will bring you to Gabriela Silang’s ex-headquarters during the Spanish colonial rule. The art gallery houses pieces from all over Europe and Asia. They even own a Picasso painting!
Where to Stay in Abra
Here are some accommodation options in Bangued, Abra.
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