Wawa Dam and Karugo Falls day tour

Wawa dam is between Mt. Pamitinan and Mt. Binacayan. It used to be the only source of water for Manila until Angat Dam was built. Now, its an abandoned reservoir visit by tourist, mostly for picnic and hiking.

I have been to Wawa many times before when we climb Mt. Binacayan, Mt. Hapunang Banoi and explore Pamitinan Cave. Our destination was in Karugo falls near Wawa Dam and require to cross the Wawa river. There are UV express van in Cubao going to Rodriguez (formerly Montalban). Tell the driver to drop you off to Luvers, then ride a tricycle or jeepney going to Sitio Wawa registration area. The dam is 5 minutes walk from registration area.

After we crossed the wawa river, we walked through the Mahogany Campsite where the famous “hamok” festival was held. It was dry season, so when we reach the Karugo Falls, the water level is low.

One of the locals advised us to go up higher as there is a small falls nearby. We did not hire a tour guide, we just followed the trail to reach the small falls. When we reach the falls, we found a group of cyclist. The old man sitting on one of the cottage allowed us to use it so we started to prepare our lunch.

If you forgot to bring your own food or packed lunch, that’s fine as there are karinderya and sari-sari store in Wawa where you can buy your supplies. The stores sells fruits, vegetables, fish and meats for very affordable prices. My buddies had their camping stove and cookset so we’ve bought 1kg of rice, instant noodles and luncheon meat. We’ve used the water from the stream our “sinaing” and noodles.

There are many different outdoor activities you can do near Wawa. You can do caving, swimming, trekking, rock climbing, picnic and camping. I’ve uploaded our day tour in my Youtube channel with few aerial footage of Wawa river and Karugo falls. Please click the link below: