Wawa Dam and Mt. Pamitinan
About
Metro Manila's nearest gorge escape! Wawa Dam is an old 1909 stone dam tucked into the Montalban Gorge beneath the giant limestone walls of Mt. Pamitinan, with cool river water spilling over it. Families come to dip and picnic by the river, while hikers start right here for the climb up Mt. Pamitinan and its jagged summit views. Peek into Pamitinan Cave, said to be a Katipunan hideout and the lair of the giant Bernardo Carpio! It all sits inside the Pamitinan Protected Landscape, so register, stick to marked trails and come on a dry, sunny day.
Dry until sunset (5:33 PM). Good time to go!
- Half dayTime to spend
- Dry season, roughly December to May; start hikes at dawn and skip it during or right after heavy rain.Best time to go
- About ₱20 per personValue · Great value
- Jeep, then a tricycleNo car needed
What to do here
- Picnic and dip by the old stone dam
- Hike Mt. Pamitinan for the summit view
- Peek into the historic Pamitinan Cave
- Photograph the limestone gorge walls
Know before you go
The area is rockslide-prone: stay on designated trails and authorized areas, and follow protected area staff and guides.
Skip it during or right after heavy rain. A deadly rockslide hit homes near the dam in August 2026 during nonstop rains.
The river has deep spots and rises fast in rain; swim only in calm, shallow water.
Summit rocks are sharp and exposed; wear gloves and shoes with grip, and never pose on narrow ledges.
Parking area about a 20-minute walk from the dam.
A creator reported a ₱20 entrance fee at Wawa Dam (February 2025). Hikes up Mt. Pamitinan go through registration with the protected area office and accredited guides; ask for the current guide rate when you register.
Pamitinan, with cool river water spilling over it.
Where it is
Pamitinan Protected Landscape, San Rafael, Rodriguez (Montalban), Rizal
No car neededFrom Cubao or Pasig, ride a jeepney or FX bound for Rodriguez (Montalban), get off at Eastwood, then take a tricycle to Wawa Dam. From the parking area it is about a 20-minute walk to the dam.
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FAQ
Is Wawa Dam open?
Yes. DENR reopened the Pamitinan Protected Landscape, which includes Wawa Dam, on September 19, 2026 after a safety assessment. Closures can happen again after heavy rain, so check the advisories before going.
Can I swim?
Yes, people swim in the river by the dam, but parts are deep. Stay in calm, shallow spots and get out when it rains.
Do I need a guide to hike Mt. Pamitinan?
Register with the protected area office and follow the instructions of authorized tour guides on the trails.