The Trail and the Adventure

![1000024657.jpg](https://files.peakd.com/file/peakd-hive/sonjamorz/23vhuBCuMeH3xNjEBQks1M7deKARK4hpX684iZdyaJSxoWuRqCCWcyXLh4tX3VsCF8Jak.jpg) The hike to Dao Falls was an adventure I’ll never forget. The path was narrow and stony with bamboo fences to keep me from falling off the path. It wasn’t an easy walk, but the thrill of crossing bamboo bridges and stepping through streams made it all worthwhile. I had to pause a few times to take breaths, but the surrounding scene was worth every pause. The sheer size of the rock walls and the foliage around me felt like walking into a secret world. ![1000024671.jpg](https://files.peakd.com/file/peakd-hive/sonjamorz/AKNJxAfUvf4bWe5gZjr8peCsBJuh1Jvqx7X8H5qUkpkcxePEf1GXFe8D3cNaZuK.jpg) ![1000024665.jpg](https://files.peakd.com/file/peakd-hive/sonjamorz/AJpkTRRASja6W4TSyJ5q4WwVRfQHVC65JR4yXAcvzVnQaKYt5prmejquAYpEF4e.jpg) The otherworldly rushing of the water in the distance encouraged me to come on. At times between the larger pools there were mini waterfalls and natural pools which enhanced the views of even the most difficult parts of the trek. Even though the trail was challenging at times, the sense of excitement pushed me forward. Each step brought me one step closer to where I knew I would reach an awesome goal. ![1000024673.jpg](https://files.peakd.com/file/peakd-hive/sonjamorz/AK56ALW7V9mUunPJgBirKMZrTDfZDA4PoBweGPFJ84ixNQDjJY5N4pjM1EjLmoH.jpg) ![1000024646.jpg](https://files.peakd.com/file/peakd-hive/sonjamorz/23u66w5Qzbwf5XQ8Boj6p9todCXtgWCj2pZXik5D8vH3af5hoym8qJnFi9Trj13fDH9on.jpg)

A Magical First Glimpse

By the time I got to the falls, I was stunned by their magnificence. Dao Falls is tall and majestic, with water gracefully tumbling into a clear, blue pool below. It felt like I had discovered a hidden paradise. The turquoise water was such a strong color, it nearly wasn't believable. I was unable to resist getting my feet wet, and it was the feel of utmost regeneration after the walk. The cool water was just the thing I wanted after my walk. I just sat there, letting the splash of the falls and the calm surroundings wash over me. It felt peaceful, almost like time had stopped. Sunlight on the water made it glitter and I was unable to resist the urge to enjoy the good fortune to be there. ![1000024653.jpg](https://files.peakd.com/file/peakd-hive/sonjamorz/Eoc6cmW4dBCb16TjnGp5k5scJhchPRohoCnaPAXKYB28BWs4N7RKSgVUy137HQMLjSA.jpg) ![1000024641.jpg](https://files.peakd.com/file/peakd-hive/sonjamorz/23wWTgnxg9SGHLFSYSQgv34VCyfrrpeq66v8ophCoqFB6ry5YDAuDFaxAni2AVyiQrraa.jpg) ![1000024664.jpg](https://files.peakd.com/file/peakd-hive/sonjamorz/AJkQsUSC5X1bjf527U2de2GAkDup4CXNdcSUtyQjf8UWaXbPDYs9ALurSHEBtkh.jpg)

Bringing a Photographer Friend

I was fortunate to have my friend and photographer travelling with me. He captured the beauty of Dao Falls in a way I couldn’t with just my eyes. Breathtaking scenery along every section of the trail, down to the fantastic cascade, was all captured in spectacular photographs. It was amazing to make use of somebody who was able to emphasize the local character of the site and, naturally, took some fantastic pictures of me having fun! Having my friend there made the experience even better. They pointed out angles and spots I wouldn’t have noticed on my own. We spent time taking photos at the base of the falls, on the trail, and even near the bamboo bridges. It was nice to find a person with the same passion for nature and for adventure. ![1000024670.jpg](https://files.peakd.com/file/peakd-hive/sonjamorz/AK51bfYaXhf2sAxFj8QFMdPZL4vRCcgaMXuBppPf8f4kToSLkh88Ht2zzVWen5b.jpg) ![1000024669.jpg](https://files.peakd.com/file/peakd-hive/sonjamorz/AKDhsKQsitB2iY3oEpbBx6Ntx8p2gr2Rv6YZWB7LcRJnfQddC2vCYnmva86N8oL.jpg)

Peaceful and Tranquil

When I got to the falls, I just stood by the pool for a while just soaking it all in. The cliffs surrounding the waterfall gave it the impression of being private—a unique location only for me. The sound of water crashing, along with the serenity of the scenery was a very soothing sound. There weren’t many people there, which made the moment feel even more personal. I loved how quiet it was. I also perceived the calls of birds living overhead and the movement of the leaves in the wind. It felt like I had stepped into a different world, far from the noise and chaos of daily life. Sitting there, I understood just how much this type of restful retreat it needed. ![1000024649.jpg](https://files.peakd.com/file/peakd-hive/sonjamorz/EoCj4rQrg3ojW18Ew7vjrZeaF6AnwU8qqQriqc5ZFuKDym1CXrW4wpc8fb7jm46Vn6m.jpg)

A Must-Visit in Samboan

If you’re ever in Samboan, don’t miss Dao Falls. It's not just the falls that count, it's what comes before and after them as well. The hike, the views and the friendly locals are all reasons to make the journey. It’s a place where nature shows off its best, and I’m so glad I got to see it. The way could be difficult but every step is a part of the adventure. As soon as you look at the falls, you will know it was well worth the effort. Alone or in the company of friends, you will not be able to forget the scenic beauty of Dao Falls after leaving the area. I can’t wait to visit again someday.

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