Go nature tripping and river trekking in this off the beaten path in Bohol

For first-time travelers in Bohol, one would probably think of tarsier, Chocolate Hills, white sand beaches, and island-hopping. But if you are looking for a land-and-water adventure that is a bit challenging yet worthwhile, try exploring the humble town of Candijay in the eastern side of the province.

Candijay is around 92 kilometers from the capital Tagbilaran City, which is approximately a 2.5-hour drive.

While the town is a bit far from the tourist areas of Tagbilaran and Panglao Island, Candijay is an emerging tourist hotspot because of its scenic rice terraces and falls.

Cadapdapan Rice Terraces boasts its eye-catching vivid green rice paddies which turn into golden yellow during harvest season. It is irrigated by the waters of Cadapdapan River.

The Municipal Assessor's Office estimates the total rice terraces area in Barangay Cadapdapan at 193.28 hectares. Two variants of rice are being produced here: white rice and red rice.

From the outpost, a 15-minute walk would take you to the entrance of the terraces, and at this point, you're up for a mini hike to its view deck. The most challenging part of the trail is balancing on the aqueduct in between the rice paddies. Promise, the view at the top is so worth it!

Below the terraces lies the majestic 60-feet Can-umantad Falls, which is considered the tallest of its kind in Bohol. Tip: Take a short habal-habal ride from the terraces to the falls, as this would give you a visual treat to the mountainous scene of Candijay—and even a peek to the cascading waterfalls.

To get to the pool, you need to traverse the rocky trail and cross river beds. Don't worry, there are ropes to hold on to and the local tour guide will assist you.

Up close, the falls looks grandiose, and its crisp cold waters is therapeutic— perfect for a refreshing dip after a challenging trail. There are also cottages in the area where you can have a picnic while communing with nature.

According to Fred Janiola, municipal tourism officer,  Cadapdapan Rice Terraces and Can-Umantad Falls had 22,500 and 14,138 visitors from January to August this year, respectively. As the town establishes itself as an eco-tourism destination, Candijay has been welcoming Filipino and foreign tourists who are up for a worthy adventure.

Recently, the provincial government of Bohol lifted the COVID-19 vaccination card or certificate of COVID-19 vaccination requirement for asymptomatic travelers.

So what are you waiting for? Adto na ta sa Candijay, Bohol!

—MGP, GMA News