I invited Trisha, who was also itching for another escapade after our Mt. Apo last year to tag along for a waterfall adventure with some younger guys I knew from high school. They were also mountaineers from some other group, and we joined together to visit a place we've never been to.
Kipilas falls in Kitaotao, Buda is easily located after a P100 bus ride from Davao City. The trek from Kitaotao-Buda Gym, your landmark just along the highway, to Kipilas campsite is about an hour or two within a residential area with an open basketball court and playground.
We negotiated a local kid to bring us to the waterfalls the next day for P50 tip. It wasn't so far but the trail was surprisingly dangerous that time, because of the slightly bad weather. We descended a slippery 70-80degree track holding on to roots and rocks, fearing you might fall over your fellow down to the serious ground, then we finally went out from the side of the falls which had a very strong current that we all got wet.
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| Look at that angry falls! |
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| Group picture |
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That same day, when we were deciding to depart, the company considered to take a turn to Epol in Marilog District for another waterfalls adventure trip. I have been there once. (Epol) We wanted Trisha and some others to see, so we took a hitch ride going there. It was mine and Trisha's first time to hitch. Then I thought that the best things in life are really free. Happiness!!! ☺
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| While waiting for a hitch |
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| Some local farmers |
The water current almost took me when I slid off a rock while trekking the river from Epol falls. Trisha grabbed me and I felt ashamed with the rest of them. She was a good ally. We camped at one of Berto's hut and slept early. It was this night I took my first night sky photo!
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| Starlight express♫ starlight express♪♪ |
From Epol, we still caught a hitch all the way to NCCC Mall, Matina, Davao City. He was a good man like a father who understands and supports his children's quests. I love the Buda road because of this. That there are still kind people around living, and Buda is one friendly road that respects travelers who cross it.
