Introduction

For the longest time, Kaparkan Falls in Abra had been sitting on my bucket list under #Project82. Project 82 is my personal mission to visit all 82 provinces in the Philippines, exploring one destination at a time and documenting the stories that come with each journey. Abra has always felt like one of those places that requires intention and effort to reach, which made finally visiting it even more fulfilling.

Before I share the full story, I would love for you to check out my YouTube channel where I post my actual travel adventures. You will see the real bumpy rides, candid moments, and everything in between. Thank you, as always, for your continued support because it truly keeps LakwatsaNiSay going.

The Plan: Semi-DIY, Full Adventure

I invited Verna to join me on this semi-DIY trip, and she happily agreed. She also brought along a friend who wanted a refreshing weekend escape. We did not book a full tour package, so everything required coordination and flexibility, which made the experience feel more personal and adventurous.

We traveled to Abra via Partas Bus. The journey from Manila to Bangued typically takes around eight to ten hours depending on traffic and stopovers. Although it is a long ride, provincial bus trips always carry a certain charm. Watching the scenery gradually shift from city skylines to mountain landscapes creates a slow transition into travel mode and builds anticipation for what lies ahead.

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Arrival in Bangued

When we arrived at the Bangued bus terminal, we rode a tricycle to the designated meetup point for visitors heading to Kaparkan Falls. From there, we transferred to a military truck because the road leading to the falls is extremely rough and uneven. Regular vehicles are not suitable for that terrain.

The ride was intense and physically demanding. The trail was muddy, rocky, and relentlessly bumpy, and every turn felt unpredictable. We were seated near the back of the truck, which made the experience even more thrilling as we held on tightly during the thirty to forty-five minute journey. Despite the discomfort, the shared laughter and adrenaline made it a memorable part of the trip.

First Glimpse of Kaparkan Falls

When we finally arrived at Kaparkan Falls, the view immediately made the long journey worthwhile. Unlike the typical vertical waterfalls most people imagine, Kaparkan flows gently over wide limestone terraces, creating layered turquoise pools at every level. The formation resembles a natural staircase sculpted by water over time.

The cool mountain air and the steady sound of cascading water created a calming atmosphere that quickly eased the fatigue from the ride. We spent several hours there swimming, exploring different levels of the terraces, and taking photos. The surroundings felt raw and peaceful, allowing us to fully appreciate the beauty of Abra’s landscape.

Back to Bangued and a Taste of Local Flavor

After enjoying the falls, we made our way back to Bangued with another round of the adventurous truck ride. Once we returned to town, we decided to try their well-known local pancit before heading home. While the flavor did not particularly stand out to me, I still valued the experience because tasting local dishes adds depth to any trip.

Before leaving, we also stopped by the I <3 Abra signage located at Victoria (Casamata) National Park. The landmark reminded me of the famous “I <3 LA” tourist sign in Los Angeles, United States, making it a fun spot for photos and a memorable way to cap off our visit. Exploring new food and iconic local spots, even when they surprise you in unexpected ways, becomes part of the overall memory of the place.

Final Thoughts

Kaparkan Falls requires patience, preparation, and a willingness to embrace physical adventure. The journey to reach it is demanding, yet the reward is a breathtaking natural wonder that feels untouched and authentic. For me, this trip represented more than simply visiting a waterfall. It marked another meaningful step toward completing Project 82 and continuing my journey across every province in the Philippines.

Abra 2023 will always hold a special place in my travel story as another province explored and another dream brought closer to completion.