On the way to the Chocolate Hills, we stopped by the Antequera town to see another of nature’s beauty, the Mag-Aso Falls. There are buses and bicycles that could take you to Mag-Aso Falls but our tourism package came with a van and a guide who brought us to the place. As our van parked in a clearing, we had to climb down steep concrete steps to get to the small pond that beholds the magnificent falls which extend to a stream. The picture was that of a paradise – water flowing through the twin falls that were held by a cool green basin-like pool surrounded by trees, wild plants and other greens. Sounds of birds and of nature bring a touch of exotic feel to the place. One can simply sit there, enjoy the cool waters and the serene environment. It was as if we were brought in a magical world untouched by commercialism and technology.

The misty or smoky ambience explains why the falls was named Mag-Aso, which in the Visayan language meant smoking. Although large boulders are aplenty, they were a bit slippery and are not even. There are certain spots in the pond that was deep and one had to be extra careful when taking a dip. My friend almost had a fatal accident while swimming because of the strong current. Our guide warned us that there were superstitious beliefs attributed to the falls. I think it was a way for the locals to prevent abuse of natural resources but some truly believed in them. Mag-Aso is a trekker’s shangri-la. A nature lover would probably want to spend a day in this amazing beauty. For travelers touring Bohol, Mag-Aso falls should be part of the itinerary. There was no entrance fee asked from us when we went there but the local in-charge of the place might ask for a little amount for the use of the cottages.