Balay Anito Falls
Santol, La Union · Ilocos Region
Also known as Anito Falls.
- Swimming
- Hiking
- Adventure
- Guided
A cliff-framed plunge pool in the Santol highlands, reached by a steep root-and-rope descent.
Balay Anito Falls drops into a deep natural basin known locally as a ban-aw, which is roughly 20 metres deep. The rock walls around the pool are steep, and the final descent uses exposed tree roots and ropes. The name means house of unseen friends, a reference to the anitos associated with the site. It is one of the pioneering tourism sites in Santol and pairs well with nearby Simminublan Falls.
Key facts
- Type
- PlungeWhat this means
- Difficulty
- ChallengingHow we rate this
- Opening hours
- 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM dailyHours are indicative. Confirm locally before travelling.
- Entrance fee
- No entrance feeNo fixed entrance fee is published. The barangay usually arranges a local guide, and guide, parking or transport fees are paid separately.Fees can change without notice. Confirm locally before travelling.
- Best season
- August to March for steadier flow and safer footing
- Barangay
- Lettac Sur
- Coordinates
- 16.7382, 120.4493
How to get to Balay Anito Falls
From San Fernando or San Juan, take a bus or jeepney to Santol town proper, then a tricycle to Barangay Lettac Sur. Register at the barangay and arrange a local guide for the steep descent to the falls.
Facilities on site
- Guide service
- Parking
Accessibility & fitness
A steep descent with ropes and exposed roots. Not suitable for young children, older visitors or anyone uncomfortable with heights.
Location map
Coordinates are approximate. Use them as a starting point and follow local signage on arrival.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Balay Anito Falls located?
Balay Anito Falls is in Santol, La Union, within Ilocos Region. Its coordinates are 16.7382, 120.4493.
How do I get to Balay Anito Falls?
From San Fernando or San Juan, take a bus or jeepney to Santol town proper, then a tricycle to Barangay Lettac Sur. Register at the barangay and arrange a local guide for the steep descent to the falls.
How much is the entrance fee at Balay Anito Falls?
Balay Anito Falls has no entrance fee. No fixed entrance fee is published. The barangay usually arranges a local guide, and guide, parking or transport fees are paid separately. Fees can change without notice, so confirm the current rate locally before travelling.
How difficult is the trek to Balay Anito Falls?
Balay Anito Falls is rated challenging on our scale. A steep descent with ropes and exposed roots. Not suitable for young children, older visitors or anyone uncomfortable with heights. See our difficulty guide for the criteria.
What type of waterfall is Balay Anito Falls?
We describe Balay Anito Falls as a plunge waterfall. Water drops almost vertically from a ledge, with little contact between the falling water and the rock. These are the classic free-falling falls, often ending in a deep pool. Type describes the shape of the drop, not how hard the fall is to reach.
Waterfalls nearby
Other falls close to this location, sorted by straight-line distance.
