Shooting the Rapids

Pagsanjan  is dubbed as the tourist capital of Laguna due to its natural wonders and scenic spots. The most famous attraction of the province is its awesome waterfalls. Although the waterfalls is located at the town of Cavinti, it is popularly known as Pagsanjan Falls mainly because the boatride to the falls starts from Pagsanjan, passes through Lumban and then to Cavinti.

Shooting the rapids is an experience where you ride a boat and the boatmen will steer it against the rapids going to the waterfalls. It takes around 1 hour to reach the waterfalls but going back is much faster at around 45 minutes because the boat is no longer moving against the rapids. During summer,  it is advisable to wear your rashguard and bring hat or umbrella as it gets very hot.

Starting from still waters, the ride eventually becomes rough. The boat will pass between rocks and boulders but the skilled boatmen are able to steer the boat safely. The boat/banca has two boatmen - a navigator and a pilot. The navigator expertly paddles the boat, does the maneuvering and lifting of the boat upstream against the rapids.

On the way to the main waterfalls, you will see lush trees , vines, ferns, wild orchids. When it's rainy season, you will be able to see several smaller falls. There are two to three stops for some picture taking session. The boatmen can also take your photos.

At the end of the river, you will hear the roaring sound of the majestic waterfalls . Upon getting off  the banca, the glorious sight of the waterfalls is surreal. A bamboo raft  which can carry 10 people will take you through the cascading waters into a hidden cave. The thunderous waterfalls is like you're experiencing a category 5 typhoon.

After your water adventure, drop by Aling Taleng's halo halo to sample their menu.

The experience is memorable. Shooting the rapids is truly a thrilling adventure.

Tips:
1-Pagsanjan can be reached via bus or private car. Bus station can be found along Buendia corner Taft Avenue . Sta Cruz bound buses cost P140 one way. Stops at Sta Cruz terminal and get a jeepney bound for Pagsanjan for P10. Via private car, take Calamba exit, pass Pansol, Calamba, Bay , then to Pagsanjan. Travelling time is 2-3 hours depending on the traffic. Note that the public buses stop to take on passengers along Laguna.

2- Go to the Tourism Office for assistance. Beware of people who will offer you tour and paying more. There is a standard fee of Php1250 (rate as of May 2015)
3- With the skill and hard labor of the boatmen, one can be generous; tip of Php500 per boat is alright.
4-Bring bottled water, plastic bags, sunblock, extra clothes, water proof camera; wear beachshoe
5- Do not be a litterbug; respect the environment
6-Sample the local food; get halo halo from Aling Taleng after your boatride
7- There's another way of getting to the waterfalls-  rapelling and hiking  via Cavinti which is cheaper but no shooting the rapids. I like the one with the boat ride.
8- DOT accredited landing point is Casa Bianca. Contact for Tatay Dolan at 0917 4029656. He's a retired boatman.