Charmaine AchaContributed by Chill and Travel
I couldn’t quite remember the total number of jumps we did. Maybe 7? 8? I don’t know. All I can ever remember is that it’s nerve-wracking but super fun. Mixed emotions actually. I was not in my best physical condition when we did this canyoneering adventure in Badian, Cebu. I only had 1 hour of sleep because my body clock wasn’t used to waking up early. It’s used to staying up late and waking up late.
So much with the rationalisation of my FAILURE. Yes, I failed to do the last and highest jump – a staggering 28-feet cliff is no joke! According to my friends who were brave enough to do it, it’s like your survival instincts would kick in but your brain cannot process it quick enough, and the next thing you know, your body already succumbed to the gravitational pull, but your soul is left behind.
“Mura ug mahabilin imong kalag!” in Cebuano.
It’s really one hell of an adventure. Because we’re having so much fun, we didn’t notice the hours that passed. We started at 8:00 AM and we finished at around 2:00 PM. The trip normally lasts for approximately 4 hours but ours was 6 hours because we were a huge group of 17 people. I didn’t even feel the real hunger until our lunch was served at Kawasan Falls, the endpoint of the whole journey.
Also read: My South Cebu Trip: 4 Days of Great Adventure with My Barkada
Important things to note
1. Starting point
Meeting Place at La Playa Beach Resort
Be on time. Land trip from Cebu City to Badian is approximately 3 hours. Meet up place would most likely be in Sto. Tomas de Villanueva Church or in La Playa Beach Resort.
2. Ideal group size
If you’re a big group, say 15 or 20, it’s recommended that you divide yourselves into smaller groups (4-6 people) so it’s easier for you to count your members and watch over each other.
3. What to wear
Wear quick dry clothes and trekking shoes or aqua shoes. I would suggest you wear trekking shoes more than aqua shoes because I lost my left aqua shoe due to the strong rapids. Make sure your footwear is comfortable and good for long hours of slippery trek.
4. Safety gear
Always wear the safety gear. Helmets and life vests are a must. Don’t attempt to remove them during the trip. I tell you, the trail is slippery. I slipped and fell once, and if you’re that clumsy, you might get more than that.
5. Physical preparation
Have enough sleep a night prior to the activity. You need the stamina to survive the long hours of trek. Take it from me!
6. Be brave
I’m certain you would want to back out when you approach the first jump. I totally understand – it’s 18-feet high! Just think of the money you spent for this trip only for you to quit. Winners don’t quit! You have no other option but to let go and conquer your fears. I did it and there’s no reason for you not to! The only jump you’d have the option not to do is the last 28-feet jump, which I mentioned earlier. Be brave and do it! Don’t be like me.
Also read: 15 Thrilling Outdoor Adventures to Conquer in Cebu
Watch the 2 videos below to see the real action:
Video edit by Reuben
Video edit by JM
I think this sums up everything! If you’re done with canyoneering, why don’t you strike off some other challenges in this Philippine Bucket List?
This canyoneering adventure wouldn’t be possible without Highland Adventures, our official canyoneering tour guide. They have the best gears and guides to keep you safe all throughout the whole activity.
I would also like to thank TripZilla Magazine, especially to Dina, for encouraging me to write this article: 20 Reasons Why Travelling to the Philippines is a Total Waste of Time. It became so trending, I felt like an instant celebrity in the Philippines! Haha! Kidding aside, this article paved the way for me, my sister Jackie and my friends to get a discounted canyoneering tour by Highland Adventures, courtesy of Mr. Mike Muñoz. How cool is that!?
