This blog provides an in-depth look at all the stunning attractions we explored in Sagada, accompanied by 72 photos to showcase our experiences. It serves as a helpful resource for anyone considering a visit to this beautiful destination in the future.
Sagada is a municipality in Mountain Province,Philippines recognized for its pleasant climate and rich cultural heritage. It is categorized as a fifth-class municipality and it is home to a variety of breathtaking attractions. Visitors can discover the intriguing hanging coffins, admire the breathtaking Banaue Rice Terraces and stroll through the remarkable mountain forests. Be sure to visit the picturesque Bomod-Ok waterfalls, the lust strawberry farms and the awe-inspiring sea of clouds. Additionally, the sunrises and sunsets in this region are exceptionally beautiful and the captivating caves adorned with shimmering stalactites are essential stops. These are just a few highlights of what awaits you in Sagada.This is ideal for adventure seekers looking to explore new destinations and natural attractions.
Sagada Adventure: My Travel Buddies Young and adorable friends on our trip, they made every moment of our adventure special.
Many folks brave the lengthy journey from Manila to Sagada, which takes about six hours by car, along with the extensive hikes to reach the stunning sights. However, everyone returns with thrilling and beautiful tales to tell. I was eager to have that experience myself. I had wanted to visit Sagada last year but I couldn’t go due to landslides, especially during the rainy season. This year, I finally had the opportunity to visit, as summer seemed like the ideal time to explore Sagada. There was an excitement as we selected the Sagada Adventures Travel and Tours as our itinerary trip package and three of us set off for Sagada.
The driver picked us up in a van at Seaside Moa at 8:00 PM, and the other four were picked up at SM North. This is a joiner tour, and the night journey started at 8:00 PM as planned. In total, we are seven. We then departed Manila at roughly 9:00 p.m. making a few stops for coffee and necessities en route. We spent the entire night sleeping on the van during the six-hour ride from Manila to Banaue. We arrived in Banaue around 5:30 AM.
Now, my journey begins. Join me as l share my Sagada adventure experience
When you go on the tour, you’ll get to see some amazing attractions. The van will take you to a drop-off point, and from there, a tour guide will lead you to your destination. Be prepared for some serious hiking, as the mountains are steep and rugged, making it impossible for vehicles to get closer. The only way to reach these stunning spots is by hiking.
Having a tourist guide is essential for trekking to the stunning attractions in Sagada. They are incredibly helpful and know the trails inside and out, ensuring that all trekkers stay on the right path. Since it’s a long hike, they’ll safely guide you to your destination and provide assistance with anything you might need along the way.
Note: Sumaguing cave is a physically hard activity that involves rappelling, climbing with a rope and rubber tires, crawling and navigating a treacherous cave.The cave is extremely slippery. Please ensure you are physically fit before attempting this activity. Make yourself comfy and light.
Day 1
The Banaue Welcome Arch
The Banaue Welcome Arch is a historical landmark in Banaue. Visitors frequently stop by to take pictures, just like we did. We spent thirty minutes taking pictures and enjoying some hot coffee here. The sun is ready to rise, illuminating our surroundings with a vivid orange and golden hue. Shops were available for purchasing souvenirs, along with a coffee shop for the newly arrived traveler.
Following our arrival at the Banaue welcome arch for photographs, we made our way to the Banaue rice terraces. There, we enjoyed our first breakfast at the Banaue Garden Snack House. Subsequently, we took pictures atop the terraces as the sun’s rays began to illuminate the landscape, instilling in us a sense of positivity and strength to embark on our first day of exploration.
Banaue View Point
Banaue View Point
We were welcomed by the stunning sunrise set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Banaue Rice Terraces view point.
Sagada is a destination for both challenging and breathtaking adventures, offering a harmonious balance between body, spirit, and the natural world.
Banaue Garden Snack House
The Garden Snack House offers freshly brewed coffee and a selection of breakfast options. This charming little restaurant is perched on the edge of the Banaue rice terraces, surrounded by cool, crisp air. As we sipped our coffee, we were treated to breathtaking views of the Banaue Rice Terraces right next to us, and the stunning sunrise felt like a wonderful blessing to start our day.
Banaue Rice Terraces
The Banaue Rice Terraces, a living cultural landscape of extraordinary beauty are found across several villages and are collectively referred to as the Banaue rice terraces. These terraces are located in the Cordillera region of Luzon Island, approximately 220 miles from Manila.
This remote area has been inhabited by the Ifugao people for centuries, and the terraces have gained popularity as a tourist destination. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, they exemplify the remarkable ingenuity of the ancient Ifugao civilization, having been carved into the mountains of Ifugao, Philippines, over 2,000 years ago. They are often referred to as the “Eighth Wonder of the World”
Lelang, my only friend in Banaue and a fellow Ilocana, is someone I’m really going to miss. I hail from Cagayan Valley and I speak Ilocano, so we can easily communicate.
Bay-Yo Rice Terraces Highest Viewpoint
After enjoying breakfast at the Banaue rice terraces, we made our way to the highest viewpoint in Bay-Yo Bontoc Mountain Province.
The view from up there was absolutely breathtaking; the expansive Bay-Yo rice terraces stretched out before us, a vibrant green that was truly stunning, and the cool breeze felt refreshing.
Since it was our first day of touring and we were pretty worn out from the journey from Manila to Sagada, our driver took us to our accommodation around 11 am. The afternoon was free, allowing us to grab lunch and be ready for the afternoon adventure to the Sumaguing cave. There were no hotels in Sagada,only guest houses, homestays, inns and dormitories.
The Sumaguing Cave
Sumaguing Cave has a depth of more than 500 feet, it is the deepest cave and the most challenging cave in the Philippines. Definitely, a must-see spot for tourists. Not only can you marvel at stunning stalactites, stalagmites and impressive rock formations but the adventure is perfect for thrill-seekers. You’ll get to squeeze through tight spaces and plunge into icy waters, all while being guided by ropes. Located in Sagada, Mountain Province, Philippines. Sumaguing Cave is famous for its extraordinary rock formations and crystal-clear pools, along with its narrow passageways.
Sumaguing Cave entrance
You can observe the entrance of the cave right from the beginning, it is relatively small but as you venture inside, you will descend further, reaching a depth of 500 feet. It’s advisable to wear gloves and kneepads. Don’t forget to safeguard your head!
Inside Sumaguing cave
Keep in mind that the cave connection adventure is quite physically demanding, so it’s best to be in good shape. Get ready for climbing, crawling, spelunking, and rappelling!
Day 2
Marlboro Hills
Marlboro Hills stands as the tallest peak in Sagada. We rose early at 3:30 AM to prepare for our 4 AM schedule, aiming to reach Marlboro Hills before dawn. The location promises a breathtaking 360-degree view of mountain ranges, along with a magnificent sea of clouds and a spectacular sunrise. However, upon our arrival, we were met with overcast skies and neither the clouds nor the sunrise made an appearance. It was cloudy. We waited briefly but it simply wasn’t the right day for a clear view of the clouds and sunrise.
In Marlboro Hills, we got here around 5 A.M. and it was still pretty dark. The two wonderful ladies, Rei and Gigi, decided to grab some hot coffee to warm up since it was chilly, with a strong breeze and morning dew falling all around.
Bumod-Ok Waterfalls
Bomod-ok Falls is a remarkable tourist destination in Sagada. To reach this waterfall, one must embark on a downward hike through the villages of Pide and Fidelisan surrounded by a breathtaking landscape that descends alongside the rice terraces. The effort to arrive at this location is well worth it, as the water is a stunning turquoise hue, complemented by the magnificent views of the surrounding cliffs and rivers. Located in the scenic town of Sagada in the Mountain Province, Bomod-ok Falls, also referred to as the “Big Falls” stands out as one of the most beautiful natural attractions in the Philippines.
Bumod-Ok Waterfalls
Bumod-Ok Waterfalls
Fedilisan Rice Terraces
Surrounded by amazing mountains and a winding river, the Fedilisan rice terraces create a beautiful scene. This large terrace area presents lovely views of river valleys, mountain ranges, and towering cliffs. As you head towards the Bumod-Ok Falls, the beautiful sights and cool, fresh air will energize you, making your hike even more fun. On your journey, you’ll walk through a village, a coffee arabica farm, banana plantations, lemon groves, and different vegetable gardens.
This intricate system of rice terraces nestled in the mountains highlights the incredible adaptability of human culture to evolving social and environmental circumstances. The vast terraces which look like enormous steps carved into the mountainside are called the Fedelisan rice terraces and were created using traditional farming techniques. The Ifugao community not only depended on these terraces for their livelihood but also found significant cultural value in them promoting collaboration among the locals.
Our trek to this awe-inspiring location took over an hour making it a fantastic spot for hiking and photography. Fedelisan provides breathtaking panoramic landscape.
Fedilisan Village
I grew up in a small community nestled among mountains and rivers. Hiking and exploring caves were part of my childhood in the countryside, so long hours of trekking are nothing new to me. Sagada always evokes a sense of home for me.
After our adventure at Bumod-Ok Falls, we were quite tired.
Church of Saint Mary the Virgin
Church of Saint Mary the Virgin is the primary Episcopal church located in Sagada, Mountain Province, Philippines.
While heading to Echo Valley, we came across the Cemetery of The Church of Saint Mary the Virgin.
During our journey to Echo Valley, we took a moment to stop for a few photographs, as the scenery along the way was exceptionally stunning.
Echo Valley Hanging Coffins
An intriguing look into ancient history showcased by its renowned hanging coffins.
Sagada is renowned for its distinctive hanging coffins, a traditional burial practice that continues to be observed. Elderly individuals often carve their own coffins from hollowed logs; however, if they are too weak or ill, their families will assume this responsibility. The deceased are placed within these coffins, which may require adjustments that can result in broken bones. Once the coffins are ready, they are transported to a cave for interment. This tradition has been an integral part of Sagada’s culture for more than 2,000 years, although not everyone qualifies for this burial method; typically, one must have been married and have grandchildren.
It’s not just the hanging coffins on the cliff; there are also more coffins inside the cave. These photos were taken from the closest vantage point, giving a more intimate view.
Echo Valley coffins inside the cave
Coffins inside the cave
In Sagada today, the community continues to honor the traditions and rituals passed down from their ancestors. However, the practice of hanging coffins on cliffs and placing them inside caves has been prohibited for health reasons. This ban is in place to prevent the spread of unpleasant odors from decomposing bodies, which could deter visitors. As a result, this marks the beginning of a shift towards more conventional burial practices, providing a more suitable resting place for the deceased.
Day 3
Haselma Road
Ace 23’s Lunch~Caliking Atok,Benguet
On our final day, we departed from Sagada at approximately 8:30 AM to travel to the La Trinidad Strawberry Farm. We made a brief stop at Haselma Road to enjoy lunch at Caliking Atong Benguet Ace 23’s Lunch Restaurant.
Philippine Highest Point
The highest point of Philippine Highway System with an elevation of 7,400 FT.
When we reached the highest point of the Philippine Highway System, I noticed vendors selling fruits and plants by the roadside. I was thrilled to spot some of my favorites, so I picked up a few fruits to take home along with some plants. They’ll be great souvenirs to remind me of my adventure in Sagada.
La Trinidad Strawberry Farm
La Trinidad Strawberry Farm situated in La Trinidad, Benguet, Philippines, focuses mainly on growing strawberries and other vegetables. It also opens its doors to tourists. The farm boasts a variety of strawberry types Sweet Charlie , King berry and Honeyoye being the crowd favorite. You’ll find several strawberry patches owned by different farmers throughout the area.
Thanks to Baguio’s high altitude, there’s an abundance of fresh strawberries and vegetables.
Visitors can pick their own strawberries for a fee of 700 pesos per kilo. After you pay, you’ll receive a small box to collect your berries, and a guide will show you where to pick. If you gather more than a kilo, you’ll need to pay for the extra. These strawberries are notably different from the ones you usually find in grocery stores.
After visiting the La Trinidad Strawberry Farm, we returned to Manila, arriving just after 10:00 P.M. This wraps up my Sagada adventure, but I look forward to returning soon to explore more stunning locations.
Note: Keep an eye on your footprint. Sagada attracts travelers looking to soak in its peaceful and natural surroundings. Even without a vehicle, you can easily navigate the area on foot, just remember to be conscious of your impact. You’ll come to value the importance of respecting the local environment, including the mountains, volcanoes, sunrises and sunsets, terraces, waterfalls, and caves. The caves and mountains hold sacred place for the local community, serving as burial sites for their ancestors. The waterfalls serve as a vital water source for both the locals and agricultural lands. For the tribal people, sunrises and sunsets are special, they have a stone calendar that offers a stunning view of the sunrise, and they often gather before dawn to connect and share their thoughts discussing problems. These are essential reminders to keep in mind when exploring the beautiful spots in Sagada.
Friendly reminder: Dress in lightweight layers close to your skin, such as shorts, pants, and a short-sleeve shirt during the summer months. Ultimately, the decision is yours, but it’s wise to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each choice. Hiking Pants or Shorts: Choose comfortable and breathable options that provide freedom of movement while also offering protection from brush and insects. Weather-Appropriate Top: Consider a lightweight, long-sleeve shirt for sun protection, or go for a short-sleeve shirt if the weather is warmer.
A simple piece of advice for young travelers: explore all the amazing tourist attractions in your own country before heading off to see places abroad. Start planning your adventures while you’re still young; you have plenty of time to enjoy and explore. The Philippines boasts its own unique beauty that you may not have discovered yet, and soon you’ll come to appreciate and love the charm of our very own, Pearl of the Orient Seas, Philippines..
Highly Recommended
I wish to express my gratitude to Sir Marlon, the owner of Sagada Adventure Travel and Tours, for the exceptional tour and adventure we had. I am thankful for the stunning locations you provided us. Additionally, I would like to extend my appreciation to our incredibly supportive tour guide, Ezra, and our patient driver. Thank you all.
Thank you for taking the time to read my blog!
