This tourist destination located in the town of Maco in Davao de Oro is used to be known as Mainit Sulfuric Hot Spring.
When the pandemic forced it to shut down, it seemed like everyone has forgotten that it even existed.
When it re-opened recently, it came with a new name–Bilawa Hot Waterfalls.
Still, it was the same hot waterfalls people know it for.
It was understandable why the original name was called as such because it is mainit (Filipino word for “hot”) and the water contains some sulfur. It may be a hot spring but the overflowing hot sulfuric water goes down from the upper portion and then forms a river below. Thus, the new name is more apt. In fact, bilawa is a Mansaka word for “waterfall.”
The upper portion is teeming with trees. But what is amazing is that there’s steam coming out from nowhere, giving you the idea that it is very hot. The heated water flows and cascades over a rocky side of the mountain, whose surface is being deposited with minerals. The result: awesome yellow stalactites.
The first time you put your feet into the ankle-deep water, it feels warm but a few minutes later your body will get to acclimatize to it. By then, you get to enjoy taking a dip in some of its natural pools.
According to Christine T. Dompor, provincial tourism officer of Davao de Oro, the sulfuric water from the hot waterfall has some therapeutic benefits. “If you go under the cascades, you get to feel the soothing warm water and it gives you a feeling of being massaged,” she said.
Prescilla Decena, administrative officer of the provincial tourism office, said the natural health benefits you get from the relaxing warm shower include improved blood circulation, stress reduction, body detoxification, relieved muscle pain, and boosted immune system.
From Davao City to Tagum City, the travel time is about 2 hours. At the bus terminal, look for a jeepney bound to Masara. Inform the driver you will get down at Mainit Hot Spring. It is an uphill walk from the main road.
Another alternative is to take a bus from Davao City and get down at Mawab. Then, look for a habal-habal (motor-for-rent) and ask if he could bring you to barangay Mainit (the road is rough so it will be a dusty trip).
However, if you drive your own car, you can go directly from Davao City to barangay Mainit. Be sure to leave early from Davao City. The place is open from 6 am and closes at 5 pm. Most locals go to the place to relax. During weekends, it is fully-packed. So, if you want to really enjoy your stay, visit the place on weekdays.
