Casaroro Falls: 335 Steps, the Fee, and the Climb Back Up

Casaroro Falls is in Valencia, in the hills west of Dumaguete. The drive took us about 25 minutes. The staircase is 335 steps, we spent about half an hour at the water, and the whole thing was about an hour and a half. I had a stomach bug that week. The climb back up is the part that got me.

I didn’t know much about it before we went, and I was underdressed for the river. I’d still do it again.

How do you get to Casaroro Falls?

From Dumaguete, plan on about 25 minutes by car or van. A trike takes longer. It’s a normal day trip. Traffic thins out as you climb into Valencia, and the drive is nice. Depending on the time of day you may see a thousand or so scooters lined up for the rooster fights. I’d still start early.

The map below is the one I used. If you’re coming from somewhere other than Dumaguete, the turn list starts in the city.

• From Dumaguete City Negros Oriental, Philippines
• Head west toward Babajuba for 43 m
• Turn right onto Babajuba for 160 m
• Turn left onto Jose Romero Road for 5.3 km
• Continue straight onto Luzuriaga St for 500 m
• Turn right onto Gomez St for 200 m
• Continue onto Taft St for 5.3 km until Casaroro Falls

Address: 76H4+C38, Taft St, Valencia, Negros Oriental, Philippines

Casaroro Falls Hike and Waterfall Details

You start at the top, at an open-air eatery with a view over Valencia. There’s a bathroom. Use it before you start down. There’s parking below the eatery for a bike, scooter, or car.

The hike took us about an hour and a half. The walk down was 25 to 30 minutes. We stayed at the falls about 30 minutes for photos.

How Difficult Is Casaroro Falls?

I would consider Casaroro Falls a beginner hike but as always, take precautions to be safe. While the initial climb down to the waterfall and even the river crossing are pretty simple, the hike back up the mountain can be very exhausting if you are not prepared for it. Stop and take frequent breaks. I highly recommend bringing a water bottle with you for the trip.

How Much Does Casaroro Falls Cost?

The entry fee for Casaroro Falls in Valencia, Negros was around 240 pesos ($4.26 USD) which included a guide. Keep in mind that this is the price for foreigners and may vary and fluctuate up to 500 pesos. The price to visit the falls without any guides though ranges from 50 pesos to 200 pesos. I’ve noticed that prices can fluctuate throughout the year as tourist season picks up and slows down. Keep this in mind and bring a little extra just in case.

The trail is clearly marked and can be easily done without a guide. However there are a few locations where you may need to cross water. If you are a beginner hiker, it may be worthwhile spending the extra couple of pesos to have an experienced local show you the way. Besides, you’d be helping the local Philippines economy!

You’ll also want to bring some cash for lunch afterwards. We very much needed to replenish those calories after the long trek!

How many steps is Casaroro Falls?

The locals I was hanging out with mentioned a “short walk,” but what awaited was 250m of total decline into the lush jungle, complete with captivating water crossings. Not only did I come wearing my “Hey Dudes” I didn’t think to bring my dry bag to put my electronics or wallet in. Make sure you bring something to make your journey easier!

The total number of steps at Casaroro Falls, not including the rest of the journey to the actual falls, adds up to 335! That’s quite a few steps!

Experiencing Casaroro Falls

The descent is steep. The plants along it are huge. There are small landings, some with benches, but the way down didn’t wear me out. At the bottom the guides took us farther up the river through knee-deep crossings.

In total, we had 3 water crossings. Make sure you bring the right shoes for Casaroro Falls! I recommend either water shoes, waterproof hiking boots, or water proof tennis shoes. Despite my less-than-ideal footwear, the guides formed a human rope, ensuring everyone crossed safely. The human chain was definitely necessary in order to get the entire party across and up the river with the way the water was moving that day.

Can I Swim At Casaroro Falls?

If you are exploring Casaroro Falls during the dry months your chances of swimming may be reduced as the natural water pools that usually exist may not be deep enough to swim. During the less dry months though, you can expect to find deep, cool pools of water to relax in and to enjoy on your way!

The Falls at Casaroro

The falls itself has a big boulder in front of it, which is where everyone stands for photos. Take the time. Then you have to climb back out, and that’s where it got hard for me. I was already low on energy.

I was dealing with some sort of stomach bug and couldn’t eat or sleep in the days prior. I actually had not planned on doing any physical activities that day but misunderstood the details of the journey! Those 335 steps really took a toll, urging occasional breaks. I caution you to take your time and hydrate if you are not used to such physical activity or low on energy. The steps are sturdy but steep!

Food at Casaroro Falls

Back at the top I sat down before I did anything else, then we ordered food. It was good, and the coconut helped. Bring cash for it. The view from the eatery looks out over the hills above Valencia.