Visiting Tukuran Falls in San Teodoro, Oriental Mindoro, Philippines

During our recent visit to Oriental Mindoro as part of TPB’s Travel Influencer Program, one of the places we explored is the Tukuran Falls in the town of San Teodoro. Located about a kilometer south of San Teodoro, this secluded paradise brimming with beautiful turquoise-toned waterfalls was a much-needed under-the-radar adventure we immensely enjoyed.

About Tukuran Falls

Tukuran Falls is best known for its gentle, crystal clear waterfalls. Going here is an adventure itself, which you can do so by walking or by riding a carabao. Though the trek can be a bit challenging, it’s actually a refreshing trek. Apart from seeing the lovely waterfalls itself, what made this trip memorable were the nice weather, scenic view, and delicious snacks!

To explore the falls, you’ll have to cross rivers about 5-6 times to get to the destination. While trekking, you’ll see beautiful views of tall coconut trees and lush greens, as if you’re in an enchanting forest. Tour guides are mandatory, who will guide you along with the carabao during the trip.

There’s a picnic area where you can eat lunch. The best food to eat here are seafood dishes, particularly grilled fish and tomato salsa. If you are not planning to eat lunch in the area, you can buy water and snacks at the jump-off area. The whole experience can be enjoyed in three hours, and it’s best to go here in the morning.

The Carabao Cart Ride

Another way to go to Tukuran Falls, aside from trekking or by riding a motorbike, is via a carabao cart ride. It’s a fun way to explore the trail and cross the rivers to reach the falls as the carabao sure knows how to cross the streams!

Water buffalos or locally known as carabaos also like to take a dip in the river too. The carabao ride costs P500 roundtrip, to and from the falls. The carabao cart can carry up to 5 pax.

How to get there

From Puerto Galera, take a jeep headed to Calapan and get off at Calsapa Road in San Teodoro. From there, take a tricycle and ask the driver to take you to the trailhead going to Tukuran Falls. You may also rent a motorbike going to the trailhead.

Fees

There are several Tukuran Tour packages ranging from P5,000 to P6,000 for a minimum of 1 to 2 persons which include the following:

• Roundtrip transfers
• Entrance fee
• Carabao cart ride
• Environmental fee
• Lunch

But if you plan to tour at your own pace, here’s an estimated cost:

• Carabao cart ride (approximately P500 max 5 passengers)
• Environmental fee (P50)
• Jeepney ride (P70)
• Entrance fee (P50)
• Parking fee
• Tour guide fee (P100)

Note: Prices are only estimates and may change without prior notice.

Puerto Galera Travel Requirements

Planning to go to Puerto Galera soon? Take note of their travel requirements:

Vaccination card or Negative COVID-19 results

• Travelers must be fully vaccinated on the day of travel (fully-vaccinated = two weeks after the second dose). You may also present your negative COVID-19 results, valid 24 hours upon release of results.

Hotel booking confirmation

• Your accommodation should be DOT-accredited and with a duly-issued business permit.

Puerto Galera Tourist Registration

• Register via their Online Tourist Registration here.

S-Pass Registration

Generate a Travel Coordination Permit and upload the following documents at S-Pass website:

• Valid ID
• Full vaccination card or negative Covid-19 results
• Hotel booking confirmation
• Traze App (make sure to download this app prior to your trip!)

Rediscover Puerto Galera and enjoy their natural attractions, support local businesses, and promote sustainable tourism! Have you been to Puerto Galera before? What other tourist attractions can you recommend? Share it with us below!

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Also read: Carabao Island Travel Guide: Romblon’s ‘Hidden Gem’ No More