Alright, let’s get real here. If you haven’t yet stepped foot in Majayjay, Laguna, then what are you even doing with your weekends? This charming little town is sneaky awesome – not the in-your-face, flashy kind of place, but more like that chill, outdoorsy friend who surprises you with a bonfire by the river, a cup of native coffee, and a secret trail to a waterfall.
I’ve been there. I fell in love with the vibe – lush, raw, and refreshingly unbothered by modern chaos. So here’s my top 10 list of places you absolutely cannot skip if you find yourself (finally!) in Majayjay. Let’s gooo!
1. Taytay Falls (a.k.a. Imelda Falls)
If cold water therapy was a religion, Taytay Falls would be the holy temple. No exaggeration, the water here is so icy it slaps your soul. Hidden in the bosom of the Sierra Madre, this two-tiered waterfall is surrounded by dense forest and that unmistakable scent of moss and mist.
Pro tip: Go early, preferably on a weekday. Camp overnight if you can – just bring a hoodie or three. You’ll thank me later.
2. Majayjay Church (St. Gregory the Great Parish Church)
Y’all, this one is over 300 years old. Let that sink in. The stones here have seen Spanish friars, Filipino revolutionaries, and probably a couple of TikTokers doing dance covers too. But seriously, this church is majestic and gives that quiet, reverent energy even if you’re not religious.
IG-worthy spot: The old bell tower and moss-covered walls are straight out of a period film.
3. Dalitiwan River
Okay, picture this: crystal-clear water, smooth river rocks, and the chillest picnic vibes with karaoke in the background. That’s Dalitiwan. It’s the kind of place where your titos crack open a cold one while your little cousins are jumping off boulders. Peak Pinoy weekend energy.
Local tip: Rent a kubo, grill some liempo, and let time slow down.
4. Botocan Falls
This one’s a little more lowkey, but that’s the charm. It’s less commercial, more rugged. Think: a natural wonder just doing its thing without trying too hard to impress. Sometimes the falls aren’t super strong depending on the season, but the view? Still a whole mood.
Adventure alert: The trail can get muddy, so wear decent shoes, not your Sunday best.
5. Barangay San Isidro Cold Spring
Ever swam in water that makes your teeth chatter in tropical weather? Welcome to San Isidro Cold Spring. The water is clear enough to see your toenails (which is either nice or terrifying depending on how you feel about feet).
Why it’s cool: It’s not super touristy, so you often get to vibe with locals, eat pancit in between dips, and just enjoy the day without any fancy-schmancy stuff.
6. Liliw-Majayjay Road Scenic Drive
Not a “spot” exactly, but trust me, this drive is a whole experience. Think rolling hills, rice terraces, misty mornings, and the occasional carabao just minding its business. If you’re into motorbikes or photography, this stretch is GOLD.
Drive slow. Windows down. OPM music up. Breathe in that fresh mountain air.
7. Mount Banahaw Foothills
Okay, I’m not saying hike the whole thing (unless you’re spiritually ready), but even just exploring the foothills around Majayjay is enough to reset your brain. Locals say Banahaw is a mystical mountain – and honestly, it feels like it. Calm, grand, ancient.
Soul searcher’s note: Bring a journal. Seriously. Just sit and write.
8. Majayjay Eco-Park
For the eco-curious and families with kiddos, this park is a relaxing spot to commune with nature without doing an extreme trek. There’s a river, picnic huts, and even mini trails to explore.
Vibe check: Think field trip nostalgia, but in a grown-up, peaceful kinda way.
9. Bukal Falls (Borderline Liliw-Majayjay)
Technically closer to Liliw but still accessible from Majayjay, Bukal Falls is like that friend who always looks good in photos. Turquoise water, jungle backdrop, and a hint of magic. It’s that hidden gem influencers love to gatekeep.
Heads up: The hike is a bit more involved, but not brutal. Reward at the end is chef’s kiss.
10. Local Cafes and Native Eateries
Okay listen – after all that hiking, swimming, and soul-searching, you need to eat. And not just any food. I’m talking about lugaw with a raw egg cooked just right, or turon with jackfruit, and of course, barako coffee that’ll punch you awake.
Try this: There’s a little cafe along the main road (locals will point you there) with banana muffins that taste like Grandma’s hugs.
So… Why Majayjay?
It’s not like Manila. It’s not like Tagaytay. Heck, it’s not even like Baguio. Majayjay is Majayjay. Unpretentious, lush, quietly spectacular. It’s for people who want to feel alive again, not just exist while scrolling endlessly on their phones.
My Challenge for You:
Unplug. For just one weekend. Pack a small bag, bring a real book, and GO. Let the waterfalls freeze your worries, let the mountain mist wash your mind clean, and let the people remind you what warmth feels like – even if the water’s freezing.
Final Thoughts (A.K.A. “That emotional part at the end”)
You know how some places just stick with you? Like a dream that feels too real or a song that randomly plays when you need it most? Majayjay did that to me. And I hope it does that for you too.
So when your boss is yelling, your feed is toxic, and everything feels meh… just remember: There’s a tiny town in Laguna where the waterfalls never run out, and neither does the magic.
Let me know if you’d like this turned into a PDF travel guide, or want a version in Tagalog too!
FAQs:
1. How do I get to Majayjay, Laguna?
Majayjay is about 2.5 to 3 hours from Manila via private vehicle. You can drive through SLEX and exit at Calamba, then head towards Los Baños and Liliw. Public transport is also available—ride a bus to Sta. Cruz, then a jeep or tricycle to Majayjay.
2. Is Taytay Falls open to the public?
Yes! Taytay Falls (also known as Imelda Falls) is open to the public year-round, but operating hours and regulations may vary depending on local guidelines. There’s usually a small entrance fee and optional camping fees for overnight stays.
3. What is the best time to visit Majayjay?
The best time to visit is during the dry season from November to May. The waterfalls are clearest, the trails are easier to navigate, and you avoid the risks of heavy rains and slippery paths.
