Batangas proudly boasts several tourist attractions, ranging from heritage structures, unique local cuisine, as well as awesome natural wonders such as mountains, islands, and waterfalls, all of which could easily whet a traveler’s appetite outside the bustling rigors of the urban jungle.
My friends and I embarked on a trip towards the Municipality of Laurel in order to experience two of their famous waterfalls, namely the Ambon-Ambon Falls and the Malagaslas Falls.
Overshadowed by more popular towns as far as the tourism industry is concerned such as Lipa, Nasugbu, Calatagan, and Laiya, Laurel is a third-class municipality in Batangas.
We rode a Tanauan-bound bus and alighted at the Tanauan bus terminal. We then took a tricycle going to the Tanauan Market where a jeepney terminal was located. We rode a Laurel-bound jeep and alight at the Laurel Market, then hopped on a tricycle anew proceeding towards Sitio Salipit, which is the jump-off point towards the target destination.
After crossing a very sturdy hanging bridge, we trudged further, passing through rice fields and trekking on streams.
Due to this type of terrain, it would be advisable for visitors to wear either trekking sandals or hydro-hiking shoes for safety. The use of trekking poles provides more stability on the trail and greatly lessens knee stress.
We arrived at an area with several benches and cottages which serve as resting places for visitors.
At this juncture of the trail, one could now enjoy the Malagaslas Falls, but since the Ambon-Ambon Falls was a bit farther ahead, we decided to visit there first and work our way back to Malagaslas Falls.
Crossing a short stream and passing between two large rocks, the Ambon-Ambon Falls finally revealed its grandeur.
Going back towards the Malagaslas Falls area, which is a ladder of small falls, visitors would then be treated to an instant back massage. You can freely choose which part of the “ladder” to refresh yourself and enjoy the not-so-cold water.
While Laurel, Batangas might not be the first spot that comes to mind when thinking of tourist destinations, it does offer one of the most delightful waterfalls we have ever experienced.
Explore Pinas!