Ang(h)alo Falls: A New Found Glory Worth Returning To

Vrksasana by the first level of Anghalo

With just a few hours from Manila, no doubt that Zambales is one of the sought-after alternative surfing spot to La Union or Siargao.When we say surfing in Zambales, the first thing that comes to mind is either Crystal Beach in San Narciso or Magic Left in San Antonio. During the recent years, however, tourists, foreigners and Filipinos alike, found their little surfing haven in San Felipe --- Liwliwa. Liwliwa has slowly making itself known to the surfing community in the Philippines. Though the waves here in Zambales, are beginner-friendly, they are seasonal. Don't fret yet. If the waves are too flat to surf, you can still swim in the friendly shores of Liwliwa, try paddle boarding and kayaking, OR it could be a perfect time to try something different. Grab some friends and go on a quick hike to Anghalo Falls! 

There weren't much narratives about this waterfall on the internet that's why we were so eager to go, before it gets commercialized. I first read about Anghalo Falls here in 2014. No pictures, just directions on how to go there, Curious-er and curious-er indeed. Finally, last summer we gave it a go. Just a heads up, not all locals are aware of this waterfall (or at least not aware what it is called) so make sure you really know where you're going.  Luckily for us, our Manong trike know about the waterfalls. Unfortunately, he refused to take us there. He said that the waterfall dries up during summer and that we should just go back on rainy season.

Second visit to Anghalo. This time with friends.

Fast forwarding to the rainy season and with all the thunderstorms that hit the province, its about time to pursue Anghalo once again. There are two trails to Anghalo, one is marked by a white flag on the way to the Groto, and the other one is by the stream along the road. We took the trail by the stream.   The trail by the white flag was more popular and according to the locals, its shorter, wider and easier.

We were not disappointed, well, almost. Having no idea that the falls was that popular already (at least to the locals), we confidently went on a saturday and much to our surprise, it was overcrowded. I did not even dare to take a picture of the falls. 

On out third attempt, we came on a weekday because, let's face it, it was quite a shame not to enjoy the scenery as it is. As soon as a heard the gushing waters, I was crossing my fingers and chanting to myself "I hope there weren't much people." I guess I chanted the phrase too much that we were the only ones there. Weee, unlimited photo ops! 

                                                                     

Here's how the first level looks like in real life, minus the long exposure.

In case you're wondering where Anghalo falls got its name, legend has it this three-leveled falls was formed when the giant Angalo (or Anghalo) stepped on it when he was searching for his wife, Aran. Perhaps this falls was one of the series of giant footprints scattered in the country  believed to have made by Angalo. 

The first level of Anghalo is one pretty dramatic waterfall with water gushing at one end and little streams lovely flowing over a boulder. It's pool was just right for its height. What surprised me though is that of all the waterfalls that I have seen, Anghalo has the warmest waters. Not even close to cold and I can't figure out why. Haha. Anyhow, the water's deep on both ends but shallow on the center. You can walk straight to the boulder. Like we did above. ↑↑↑

Second level of Anghalo Falls.

To reach the second level, you need to follow the trail found on the left side facing the waterfalls. It's narrow and a bit steep so be extra careful as is it just beside a cliff. Don't worry its just a short trail. Upon reaching the top of the first level, you need to do a short trek to the second waterfall. There's no definite trail here, just remember to stay on the sides. Trust your instincts, whatever would make the river trekking easier.

Although it doesn't show in the pictures, the second level is much higher than the first, has a stronger current and a narrower  but deeper pool. The water's less warm here, I must say. Haha. The second level is a diving spot. Climb the boulder on the left side facing the waterfall. Be cautious, though. The boulder's steep and slippery, I couldn't get high enough to dive. The locals said that there was a recent death here because of diving so be extra careful.

If you want to take a break from surfing or paddle boarding, or want to go on a simple weekend picnic with friends or family, or just tired of the usual swimming pool scenario, or just simple happen to be around the area, then I highly suggest you visit this beauty. Literally chill hike and voilà! 

We left a cairn for free spirited souls like ours, if its still there, hope you can add more. ☺
TIP BITS:

1. If you'll take the trail by the stream, don't forget to wear long sleeves to protect your skin from being scratched by the tall grasses and insect bites and be sure to have your own guide since this trail is a bit tricky. (Thank you Cousin Irma for guiding me and my friends. )

2. Two to three hours won't ever be enough to enjoy this beauty so better start exploring in the morning. :)

3. Swim/dive at your own risk. There are no life guards nor life vests for rent, no one to save you but yourself. 

4. Leave No Trace. The place is yet to be managed by the local tourist office so there are no entrance or environmental fees, no one to watch over the place and no one to take your garbage for you so please be responsible. ###