General Nakar

A small town notable for its access to the Aliwagwag Waterfalls, a multi-tiered cascade set within a lush forest sanctuary. The falls offer a refreshing escape and excellent opportunities for swimming, trekking, and immersing in pristine natural scenery.

Things to do

• Aliwagwag Waterfalls Trek — Hike through lush forest to experience the multi-tiered cascade system with natural pools perfect for swimming and photography.
• Forest Bathing at Aliwagwag Sanctuary — Walk slowly through the old-growth forest surrounding the falls to experience shinrin-yoku and observe endemic flora and fauna.
• River Trekking and Cliff Jumping — Navigate upstream along Aliwagwag River with local guides, jumping into deep pools and exploring hidden cascades.
• Visit Magkukuwento Falls — Explore this nearby waterfall system accessible by a moderate trek from General Nakar town proper.
• Camping Near the Falls — Stay overnight in designated camping areas to experience the forest ecosystem at dawn and dusk with minimal light pollution.
• Bird Watching in Aliwagwag Forest — Join early morning birdwatching tours to spot endemic Mindanao species like the Philippine Eagle and various sunbirds.

Food to try

• Grilled Tilapia with Lemongrass — Fresh local tilapia from nearby rivers, grilled whole and seasoned with local lemongrass and salt, a staple riverside lunch.
• Calamansi Chicken Soup (Tinola) — A warming local version made with farm-fresh chicken, young papaya, and abundant local calamansi citrus juice.
• Bamboo Shoot Salad (Labong Recado) — Fresh bamboo shoots from the forest cooked with coconut milk, shrimp paste, and local chilies, reflecting the region's forest bounty.
• Grilled River Fish with Rice — Local catches from Aliwagwag River prepared simply with salt and grilled over charcoal, paired with coconut rice.
• Cassava Cake (Cassava Kakanin) — Sweet local delicacy made from freshly grated cassava, brown sugar, and coconut milk, often sold at the town market.

Local customs & good to know

• Hire Local Guides — Always use registered guides from General Nakar who know the forest trails, weather patterns, and can identify plants and wildlife safely.
• Respect Forest Sanctity — The Aliwagwag area holds cultural significance to local communities; take only photos, leave no trash, and follow posted conservation guidelines.
• Visit During Dry Season — Plan visits from April to October when river levels are safer for swimming and trekking; ask locals about recent weather conditions.
• Learn Basic Cebuano Phrases — Many residents speak Cebuano rather than Tagalog; learning greetings and pleasantries like 'Maayong buntag' (good morning) shows respect.

Nearby

• Bucas Grande Island — 45 km
• Siargao Island — 50 km
• Prosperity Beach — 60 km
• Lake Mainit — 65 km