Tukal Tukal Falls of Camp Kainomayan in Botolan Zambales

"Yours to Discover" is a slogan currently being used by Camp Kainomayan and the local Tourism Department of Botolan in Zambales, Philippines. It focuses on eco-tourism highlighting Tukal Tukal Falls (Hagdan Hagdanan Falls) and Mt. Pinatubo Crater Lake between the mountain ranges of Zambales, Pampanga, and Tarlac in Central Luzon. Enticed by the viral pictures of Tukal Tukal Falls circling the internet, I joined a group of blogger friends headed by Fredi-Rex to and explore the newly discovered waterfalls of Zambales.

The Tukal Tukal Falls (Hagdan Hagdanan Falls)

Trek to Tukal Tukal Falls

From Camp Kainomayan, reaching the waterfalls was somehow a cinch; a combination of forty-five minute 4x4 ride and an hour trekking. From the Kainomayan Campsite in Barangay San Juan Botolan, Zambales we started our journey to the magnificent waterfalls.

Jump shot at Kainomayan Camp

First, we had to cross the northern part of the lahar laden Bucao River. It was a short dusty ride and became bumpy as we reached the rough road used by trucks for the construction of Capas Botolan Road connecting Tarlac and Zambales. In a short while, we reached the portion of the ongoing road construction. We enjoyed the smooth ride until we turned right to another rough road. This led us to the drop off point of Tukal Tukal Falls.

Our hummer ride! 

From the drop off point was an ankle-deep river crossing. Slowly we climbed uphill while making short stops for our photography. Embraced by the panoramic view of magnificent mountains around us (Mt. Bunglo, Mt. Lanitoc, and Mt. Mangkirat), we couldn't resist taking groupie and selfie photos with a nice backdrop.

Tiyo Paeng, our guide carrying life vest

While standing on a ridge for photography, I heard a roaring sound of rushing water down below sparking my curiosity. I always stick with the guides whenever I visit a new place. I had the chance to ask Tiyo Paeng if there's also a waterfall down there. He said it's the "Bubey Impiyerno" - a waterfall not suggested for tourist because of its depth and unsafe features. After much convincing, he eventually agreed to take us to have a look.

Should you try to litter? haha!

At 09:30 AM we finally reached the hidden gem of Mt. Mangkilat - the Tukal Tukal Falls.

Ops! I missed the frame but see how clear the water is?

Going back to the campsite at 1:00 PM, we stopped at Bucao River as a side trip to take pictures. We arrived at the campsite at 2:17 PM to wash up. By 3:00 PM we were already in the rented van returning home.

Tukal Tukal Falls Itinerary

05:00 AM - Meet up at Chowking near Victory Liner Terminal in Olongapo City
05:25 AM - Travel to Botolan Zambales
06:40 AM - Arrive at Botolan Municipal Hall (Photo shoot)
06:45 AM - Travel to Camp Kainomayan
07:00 AM - Arrive at Camp Kainomayan (Registration/Photo shoot)
07:30 AM - Travel to Tukal Tukal Falls by Hummer SUV to jump off point
08:12 AM - Start of Trek

09:30 AM - Arrive at Tukal Tukal Falls (trekking time depends on pace)

11:52 AM - Trekking back to the campsite with Bubey Impiyerno Falls
12:30 PM - Explore Bubey Impiyerno
01:00 PM - trek back to jump off point
01:20 PM - Arrive at the jump-off point
01:22 PM - Travel by SUV to Kainomayan Camp
01:45 PM - Stop at Bucao River for a Photo Shoot
01:55 PM - Travel by SUV to Camp Kainomayan
02:17 PM - Arrive at Camp Kainomayan for wash up.
03:00 PM - Travel by van back to Olongapo City.
05:00 PM - Arrive at Chowking Victory Liner.

A teaser pic of Bibig Impiyerno Falls from above

Camp Kainomayan and Tukal Tukal Falls Contact Persons:

1. Mr. Quintin of Botolan Tourism Department - 09778541474 / 09394428340
2. Nelson Angeles - 09489823913

Tukal Tukal Falls Map

Blog Topics:

• Tukal Tukal Falls Day Hike
• Yours to Discover Slogan of Botolan
• Mt. Mangkilat, Mt. Bunglo, and Mt. Lanitoc
• Capas Zambales Road Connector
• Camp Kainomayan