Pagsanjan Gorge National Park National Park

Admission: Entrance typically free for park grounds; activity fees for canoeing or guided tours may apply-check local Pagsanjan operators

Pagsanjan Gorge National Park is a protected area in Laguna province on the island of Luzon in the Philippines, centered on a steep river gorge and its principal waterfall. The park is best known for the water-carved gorge and the waterfall reached via river boat.

The highlight is the downstream-to-upstream boat journey through the gorge on traditional outrigger or dugout boats, a route locally called “shooting the rapids.” The trip takes visitors between steep rock walls and through a sequence of rapids to the waterfall, which is the central viewing and swimming spot for most visitors.

The area has been managed as a protected landscape to conserve the gorge and waterfall and to regulate tourism in the river corridor. Local boat operators developed the upstream boat route as a tourist service and it remains the primary visitor experience.

The park lies near the town of Pagsanjan in Laguna province, Luzon. Access is typically from Pagsanjan town and nearby communities that serve as launch points for the boat trips.

• Boat trips: Boat trips known as “shooting the rapids” are the primary way most visitors experience the site and involve small dugout boats manned by two boatmen handling upstream rapids.
• Safety and access: Operations are weather-dependent and can be suspended during heavy rains or high river conditions for safety, so schedules vary seasonally.

What to See#

• Pagsanjan Falls (Magdapio Falls): The main waterfall reached by boat through the gorge, commonly called Pagsanjan Falls and also known locally as Magdapio Falls; it is the principal attraction inside the protected area.
• The Gorge: A narrow river canyon carved by the Bumbungan River with steep rock walls and rapids that boats navigate on the upstream route to the falls.

Pagsanjan Gorge National Park is in Laguna province, Luzon. The town of Pagsanjan is about a 2-3 hour drive southeast of Manila depending on traffic. Many visitors book boat trips from Pagsanjan town; local operators handle launch logistics and river permits.

• Morning trips into the gorge offer calmer waters and better light for photography
• If taking a boat (bungto) upstream, use a licensed operator from Pagsanjan town and confirm lifejacket availability
• Wear quick-drying clothing and secure footwear with grip - river rocks are slippery