Mountain trekking during the rainy season definitely poses a lot of dangers due to the muddy terrain, so, during these kinds of months, wherein water is on its abundant state around us, journeying towards a waterfall would be a smarter and much safer decision. Also, frequent raining produces a larger amount of water drop, which enhances the beauty of another nature’s masterpiece.
Way back June 14, 2014, we went to faraway Majayjay, Laguna to experience the famous Taytay Falls, which is also called the Imelda Falls. A lot of people are mistaken that they thought that Taytay Falls is located in Taytay, Rizal. Also, since it is located at Brgy. Gagalot, Majayjay, Laguna, people have started calling it the Majayjay Falls. Sometimes, it is also called the Imelda Falls, taken from the First Lady of the late Ferdinand Marcos named Imelda Marcos, as she financed the promotion of tourism in this place.
 |
| Location of Majayjay, Laguna |
Traveling to Majajay would consume an approximate travel time of 3-4 hours from Manila, passing by the towns of Santo Tomas, Alaminos, San Pablo, Nagcarlan, and Liliw.
Arriving at the Barangay Hall, we all registered (Registration fee is Php 20.00 per head for a day trip and Php 30.00 per head for an overnight stay) and proceeded a bit further.
 |
| Barangay Hall |
For those who will be bringing their own vehicles, the Parking Fee is Php 40.00.
 |
| Some rates that might be useful |
In the parking area, you could see some outlets selling food and souvenirs, as well as accommodations for a whole-day stay.
 |
| Parking Area |
Before entering the trail towards the falls, make sure that you have already dressed up for the waterfall dip because there are no dressing rooms near the falls.
 |
| Entrance towards the falls |
As you enter the said trail, which starts with downward concrete steps, you will experience walking initially on flat cemented slabs surrounded by plants, and as you enter the semi-rough trail, on your left side, you could now see a canal with super clear water flowing on it.
 |
| Cemented Slabs |
 |
| Semi-rough trail...check out the clear water! |
Along the trail, you could view small waterfall basins and people picnicking “koboy style”.
After a 15-20 minute walk, right in front of you would be the majestic Taytay Falls, and on the far right side is a grotto.
 |
| Enjoying the super cold waterfall.....brrrrrrr! |
 |
| The Grotto |
Do not immerse yourself immediately in the waters because it is very cold. Slowly dip yourself first so that your body to adjust to the sudden drop of temperature your body will be experiencing.
Taytay Falls is really worth the trip…a hidden nature masterpiece in an unpopular place in Laguna.
After
that refreshing undertaking, do drop by at the Costales Nature Farms for a healthy meal of organic food straight
from their farm.
 |
| Costales Nature Farms |
 |
| Sample Menu |
 |
| One of the dining areas |
 |
| Bon Appetit! |
The
place is a prime agrotourism destination that
conducts ecological and balanced farming techniques, which aims to promote a
sustainable agriculture, healthy lifestyle, and environmental biodiversity
through integrated organic farming.
 |
| Organic farm area |
 |
| Organic farm area |
 |
| Organic items on sale |
The farm was adjudged as the Most Outstanding Organic Farm of the Philippines
for the year 2012, recognized by President Benigno Simeon Aquino III. They
continue to create awareness about the ill-effects of chemical inputs in food
production, the importance of organic farming, inspiring small farmers to
become better agripreneurs, encouraging students to engage into organic
agriculture and patronizing organic produce for a healthy lifestyle.
A few minutes from Costales Nature Farms is the Saint Gregory the Great Parish Church.The
imposing Catholic church and prominent landmark was built in 1711. This
church is considered one of the biggest in the Philippines, The huge
church and convent built by the Franciscans has withstood strong
typhoons and earthquakes for many centuries. It is located in the heart
of the poblacion. It has attracted pilgrims, artists, historians and
architects for its impressive construction and design features.
 |
| Saint Gregory the Great Parish |
Explore Pinas!
