FEKUNG BULA: Budget Travel Guide + Everything Else You Need to Know

Fekung Bula is a B’laan term that means Bubble Falls. It’s the name of a multitiered waterfall tucked within the lush forests of Columbio. This hidden gem is celebrated for its serene and untouched natural beauty, surrounded by verdant forests and rugged terrain. The falls cascade gracefully over a series of rock formations, creating a stunning multi-tiered effect. It also has a cave. One of the few locations where you can find a waterfall within a cave.

Fekung Bula was our second destination when we once visited the town of Columbio. After kickstarting our adventure in the stunning Pangadilan Falls, we continued the fun in this less crowded hidden gem. The ride from Pangadilan Falls was no way less than exhilarating. From rugged uphills to steep downhills, Mohamad, my motorcycle driver navigated through them expertly, leaving no room for errors.

I’m not much of a daredevil but I like thrilling motorcycle rides. I recognize a good driver and my instinct always warns me of the bad ones. Mohamad is the kind of driver that puts all my worries to rest. No matter the terrain, I was confident we would be fine. I immediately recognized how he was protective of me and knew right then that he wouldn’t let anything bad happen despite the treacherous roads we were driving on.

Unlike the roads leading to Pangadilan Falls, the roads to Fekung Bula were less menacing. The challenging parts were crossing rocky but shallow streams. There were five of them that we needed to cross before reaching the entrance to Fekung Bula. I wouldn’t say I wasn’t relieved but I was glad that another dangerous ride was over.

The walk to Fekung Bula was not that challenging. It was mostly on flats. Slippery at times but not something I couldn’t manage. It took at least 10 minutes before Fekung Bula revealed itself. The way its water delicately flowed down every tier was so mesmerizing. I could only gasp in awe at how beautiful and enchanting this waterfall was. The lush greens surrounding it added a touch of magic to it, taking me to an enchanting world.

We were the only people there which was to my liking but I also wished more people got to see this beaut. I asked Mohamad if people even knew about Fekung Bula. He said this was a much more popular waterfall to the locals than Pangadilan but faded into the background when the latter gained social media fame. I looked around the empty native cottages and the abandoned canteen and had a glimpse of how lively and glorious this place once was.

I wasn’t all sad about it though. Fekung Bula is such a stunner and I’m sure it will find its way back to people’s hearts soon enough. I’m also glad that it gets to rest and heal in the absence of people admiring its allure. I was just grateful that I got to enjoy it and had it to myself. Sometimes, it only takes an uninterrupted time with nature to make this girl happy.

From Manila – Fly to General Santos City airport then make your way to the city proper. Once in the city, ride a bus to Marbel/Koronadal City (₱80 | 1Hr). From there, you can find vans going to Columbio (₱50 | 45 Minutes). Hop on one and upon reaching the town center, hire a motorcycle to go to Fekung Bula.

Note: Vans to Columbio from Marbel are kind of limited. If you missed the trip then you can ride a van to Datu Paglas, instead. Once there, you can hire a motorcycle driver to Fekung Bula or charter its services so you can visit all three spots in Columbio including Pangadilan Falls and La Palmera Ridge.

From Cotabato City – Ride a van or Husky bus to Tacurong (₱80 | 1 Hr). Once there, ride another van to Datu Paglas (₱30 | 30 Minutes). At the terminal, you can find motorcycles that you can charter to take you to all three spots in Columbio. You can also contact Mohamad at his number 0905 738 1064 ahead of time so he can pick you up. Just negotiate with him a fair enough price for his services.

The most ideal place to spend the night is La Palmera Ridge. For ₱1500, you’ll have an A-House and a gorgeous view of the sea of clouds in the morning. It also comes with a free breakfast for two people. However, if you find yourself in the area during unfavorable hours then you can find comfort in these accommodations.

There you have it, lovelies. I hope you find this post helpful and encourage you to discover more of the jewels in underrated places in Mindanao. If you have questions, just drop them in the comments. To keep tabs on my adventure, follow me on Facebook and Instagram. Until next time. Ciao!