Happening a picturesque 5 km journey alongside a winding mountain highway led us to the enchanting Tenogtog Waterfalls, tucked in barangay Mapawoy, throughout the charming municipality of Mayoyao, within the scenic province of Ifugao. Our information for the Mayoyao rice terraces trek, Leandro Elahe, enlightened us that “Tenogtog” within the native dialect means “chopped,” reminiscent of a time when early Mayoyao hunters would collect at this very spot to organize and distribute their recreation amongst comrades.
Brief Hike, Large Rewards
Just like the trail to A’pfaw Mahencha Falls, the path to Tenogtog Waterfalls boasts well-developed cemented stairs, adorned with lush foliage alongside the way in which. But, the ascent right here is transient, requiring solely a leisurely 15–20-minute stroll to succeed in the cascades.
3-Stage Delight: Tenogtog Waterfalls
Tenogtog Waterfalls unveils itself in three distinct tiers, every with its personal serene basin. The preliminary stage presents an imposing twin cascade, gracefully descending right into a petite pool, framed by the verdant embrace of the encompassing forest—a sight worthy of any postcard.
A staircase beckons to the second tier, the place an enthralling smaller waterfall awaits, nestled inside a wider basin, its crystalline waters engaging guests for a refreshing dip. Picnic cottages dot the realm, adorned with cogon roofing, seamlessly mixing with the pure ambiance.
A fruit-laden tree gives sustenance for a wide range of avian guests, together with the melodious warbling white eye and chic tits, including to the attract of the scene.
The jaw-dropping portion awaits on the third tier, boasting the tallest cascade of all. Right here, the falls reveal a twin basin association, capturing the creativeness with its sheer grandeur. Photographs reveal a broader cascade throughout the wet season, whereas the broader basin serves because the prime swimming spot—providing a chilling but invigorating expertise akin to an icy plunge.
From Headhunting to Feasting: A Transformative Story
The third tier doubles as the first picnic space, boasting further cottages and restroom amenities. Right here, we indulged in espresso and snacks, enveloped by the tranquil embrace of nature. Our luncheon took the type of a festive boodle battle, that includes a luxurious unfold of rice, watercress, eggplants, grilled fish, and meat—a culinary celebration amidst pure splendor.
Lengthy earlier than the period of Mayoyao hunters, legend speaks of Apfayyan, the primary feminine headhunter, whose legacy echoes by means of the ages. Within the tumultuous period of tribal warfare, Tenogtog Waterfalls served as a battleground, the place adversaries would converge to settle their scores by means of grisly acts of beheading. Thus, alongside its moniker of “chopped,” Tenogtog additionally symbolizes the somber legacy of “beheading,” marking the location the place Apfayyan vanquished her foes.
In modern occasions, nevertheless, the one chopping to be discovered is within the culinary realm, as delectable meats are ready for communal feasts, epitomized by the jovial spirit of boodle fights. Tenogtog Waterfalls stands as a testomony to the harmonious union of nature and tradition, inviting all to indulge in its timeless magnificence and revel within the tranquility it bestows.
For extra data on Tenogtog Waterfalls and touring Mayoyao, please join with Mayoyao Tourism and Majestic Mayoyao Tourism
Ferdz Decena is an award-winning journey photographer, author and blogger. His works has discovered print in publications resembling Singapore Airways’s Silver Kris, Philippine Airways’ Mabuhay, Cebu Pacific’s Smile and Seair InFlight. He has additionally lent his experience to numerous organizations just like the Oceana Philippines, Lopez Group Basis, Save the Youngsters and World Imaginative and prescient, contributing high quality photos for his or her advertising and marketing supplies.