THE ROAD TO T'DAAN KINI FALLS

As part of our Eco Cultural experience in Lake Sebu, the municipal tourism included T’daan Kini Falls in our 3-day itinerary.  The falls can be reached by rented van or habal-habal (motorcycle) for about 10 to 15 minutes and another 40 minutes walking from Sitio Talubek to reach the area. 

The journey was challenging since the uphill and downhill walk was quite tough. We passed through a small bridge and another hike to the hills. The place was covered with vast trees and planted crops. Inhaling the fresh cool air was one of the best experiences in this expedition.

I overheard a group of voices blending with the splash of water nearby. Finally we were almost at the T’daan Kini Falls. A group of tourist from Luzon were also heading to the falls as part of their itinerary. My eagerness was on its height upon seeing a group of tourist enjoying the fresh water of the falls. Since we have a limited time, I was satisfied by dipping my feet on the running water of the falls. 

Souvenirs were also available in the area made by a family of T’boli. They were making handmade slippers souvenirs with “Lake Sebu” words printed on it.  This livelihood was introduced by the municipal government to help the community in earning income from tourism of their booming province.

After visiting the falls, we headed back to our service van. While on our way, we came across a little girl carrying a “Paco” or a young fern plant. “Paco” is famous to most Filipinos as a prepared dish like paco salad, sautéd, and other dishes. This plant is abundant in this area because the place is covered with many trees.

As part of our tour we dropped by at one of the famous wood carver in Lake Sebu. He was making one of the finest souvenirs like guitar, pencil holder with fish, and many more. During our visit he was supervising his relatives as they carved woods. He foresees the next generation to take part in continuing his legacy so that the tradition of their family of T’boli will not fade. The idea of using  eco-friendly materials in making their products made the souvenirs extra special and unique. The paint they used to enhance every product came from the trees in the jungle which specially produced inks that they needed. 

How to get there?

By Air

1 hour and forty five (45) minutes flight using Manila-General Santos-Manila direct flight or Fifty five (55) minutes flight using Cebu-GeneralSantos-Cebu Route with connecting flights from key cities when you are in the Visayas. 

By Land - Bus Ride

From Davao City Overland Transport Terminal, ride a bus going to Gensan (There are 2 bus companies plying to Gensan, Holiday Bus and Yellow Bus Line). A 3-hour ride for 1-stop Digos regular aircon and less than 3 hours for executive class bus.

Another 2-hour ride by bus from General Santos to Surallah, South Cotabato which is the jump off point to Lake Sebu. 

Land - Jeepney/Van

One (1) hour ride by jeepney/van from Surallah to Poblacion Lake Sebu.

Fare:

Executive Class | Davao – Gensan – P300.00

Regular Aircon | Davao – Gensan – P190.00

Regular Bus | Gensan - Marbel - P80.00

Regular Bus | Marbel - Surallah - P30.00

Van | Surallah - Lake Sebu - P50.00

If you need a tour guide in visiting Lake Sebu, kindly contact Roy Ungkal, accredited by Municipal Tourism of lake Sebu.

Cellphone no. 09066931745