“Sometimes the best angle is the one nobody dares to take.”
Chasing a New Perspective
Perhaps Cateel’s famed Aliwagwag Falls needs no further introduction. It’s mighty, multi-tiered, and undeniably mesmerizing. But if you’ve seen one photo of Aliwagwag, chances are you’ve seen most of them—from the bridge, from the side, and from that same scenic ledge.
Aliwagwag Falls from the side of the bridge
That’s precisely what intrigued me. Why were all the photos taken from the same few vantage points? With its sprawling width, dramatic catch basins, and boulders the size of small homes, surely this waterfall has more to reveal.
So this trip had one mission: to experience Aliwagwag from below—under the bridge, upstream, closer, rawer.
Getting Under the Bridge
You won’t get the kind of shots I wanted from the boulders crowded with other visitors. I noticed two locals descending beneath the bridge, so I followed. With permission from the park management, I carefully made my way under and began my exploration from the right-hand side of the falls—the shallower side.
“Kaya nimo?” (“Can you do it?”) the park guard asked.
“Well, I came this far. I didn’t come for just another postcard photo,” I replied.
“Take care,” he said with a smile. And so, I went in.
Aliwagwag, Closer Than Ever
What I saw—and photographed—from below the bridge was something different. No tourist clutter, no forced frames. Just cascading water, polished boulders, mist rising in layers, and the rhythmic thundering of the falls.
Here’s a glimpse of Aliwagwag from down under:
Travel Notes & Recommendations
✔️ Why Visit?
Aliwagwag Falls is well-maintained, accessible, and staffed with friendly attendants. The main viewing platforms are worth a visit—but for a new perspective and an immersive experience, try an early morning or late afternoon shoot when the light is softer.
⚠️ Caution for Adventurers
Thinking of doing what I did? Read this first.
- Yes, it’s slippery under the bridge. Use extreme caution.
- The water pool below the bridge is deeper than it looks.
- The upstream area to the right (when facing the falls) has soft silt and sand. It’s deceptively shallow-looking, but in places, it sinks to hip-level depth.
- There is no established trail. You are on your own in an unstable environment.
So if you’re going off-track, do it prepared and respectfully. Not everything worth seeing should be risked recklessly.
Filed under: Mindful Frames | Tips & How-Tos — for those who see differently, shoot deliberately, and walk with thoughtful courage.
