Naga Series : Rappelling at Nalalata Falls

After a belly-busting buffet breakfast at The Avenue Plaza Hotel in Naga, we traveled 1.5 hours on a private jeep to Bula in Camarines Sur to try rappelling. Being acrophobic, I was not exactly keen on putting on a harness and be suspended from a high place but, as I just had a good breakfast, the day was instantly awesome. I was also excited for the hike going to the falls. The vibrant greenery of the Bicol region impresses me and I feel instantly refreshed whenever I'm around nature. 
Nalalata Falls
A short and easy 15 minute hike took  us to a basin of Nalalata Falls, a clear inviting shade of turquoise.  I wanted to wade in the water right away.  It's a beautiful place for a picnic and a swim, albeit the lack of amenities which I actually prefer. For me, nature is best enjoyed as is or if developments must be done, there should be minimal impact to the environment. 
Bamboo bridge connecting a small river to the picnic area
After Sir Jojo Villareal of Kaddlagan Outdoors gave us a quick orientation on gears and various rappelling positions, the rest of his team assisted us in putting on our gears. Once we're fully equipped, we set off for another 10 minute hike towards the top of the falls. 
Some of the short tricky sections towards the rappelling area
Our jump-off is at 50 feet high and I tried my best to ignore the feeling of dread that always comes to me whenever I'm too far off the ground. I know it's quite ironic that I have a fear of heights given my penchant for hiking mountain trails but over the years of exposing myself to different peaks, I've learn to embrace this phobia rather than stay away from the views I love so much. :)

We took turns going down from the falls. It felt nerve wrecking at the start, facing the waterfalls as you go down but then you get the hang of it and enjoy the rest of the way which only takes about 10 minutes or maybe even less. I didn't have to wait that long for my turn. There were other positions that were more challenging than the usual, such as the Australian which involves facing the water.  
Sir Bong of NagaX doing it Australian style
Here's a video of blogger friend, Darwin (TrackingTreasure). 



All geared up. Group shot from Kara of Travel Up
L-R : With fellow bloggers, Estan (Langyaw.com), Me, Kara (Traveling-Up.com), Chino (JuanderfulPinoy.com) & Darwin (TrackingTreasure.net)


After rappelling, I enjoyed a cool dip at the base of the falls while my other companions rappelled two more times trying out other rappelling techniques. 
Nalalata Falls
Brgy. Lubgan, Bula, Camarines Sur
To book this adventure, get in touch with Kaddlagan Outdoor Shop & Services, a Naga-based outdoor company. You can join a group if you're going solo. Rates vary per number of people in a group. They also organize other waterfalls and hiking adventures  (try Mt. Isarog). 

How to get to Naga City : 
There are several bus companies traveling to Naga from Araneta Bus Terminal (map here) in Cubao, Quezon City (Fare is around 750 Pesos above, depending on bus line/seat type). There are morning and evening schedules, usually at 8-9:30AM and then 4PM-9:30PM. Travel time is 8-10 hours.  I took the 8:30 PM Philtranco bus from Pasay (Fare is aroun 850 Pesos) Contact Number : +(63) 2 851-8078/79. A faster option is to take a plane from Manila via Philippine Airlines or Cebu Pacific.

Tips :
What to wear - expect to get wet. Wear durable clothing -  one that won't slip off of you easily. :P As for footwear, although you can just wear rubber slippers, it is more advisable to wear something with straps so it won't get carried off by the water's current easily. I wore  Keen Venice H2 sandals which is highly recommended for this type of adventure. (Available in R.O.X.) It has excellent traction and has toe protector to prevent stubbed toes (eeks!). 

What to bring - plastic or dry bag for wet clothes, clothes for changing, trash bags, snacks and water

This trip was a collaboration with Naga Tourism. Thank you sir Alec, Bong, Wyne, Rustom & Paolo.


Related Posts :

Do check out Kara's account of our adventure on her blog - Rappelling Down a Waterfall in CamSur





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