4 Days North Luzon Tour: Banaue, Sagada & Baguio

On this day, your tour begins with a private pickup from your Manila hotel or the airport. Afterwards, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive north through the Philippine countryside. It is about 350km, 9-10 hours’ drive. Upon arrival, you will check into your hostel in Banaue town. Have a good rest tonight.

Banaue Rice Terraces - The "Eighth Wonder of the World"

Located in the Cordillera mountains, Banaue Rice Terraces are a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. Carved into the mountainsides by the indigenous Ifugao people over 2,000 years ago, these remarkable stone and mud walls stretch from the valley floor to altitudes of 1,500 meters.

Over the following 2 days, you will have chance to trek through breathtaking landscapes and immersing yourself in the local culture. Key highlights include:

• Batad Terraces: Famous for its stunning amphitheater-like shape, this pristine area is accessible only by foot.
• Bangaan Terraces: A picturesque, traditional village nestled beautifully among the rice fields.
• Local Life: Visit local village and experience the authentic, everyday life of the indigenous Ifugao people.

Transportation Options: Manila to Banaue

Private Car (Arranged by Us): Given the long distance, our private vehicle offers the highest level of comfort, flexible departure times, and opportunities for scenic photo stops.

If you want more economical way, you can take overnight Bus (arranged by yourself): 9-10 hour night bus. Sleep during the journey and arrive in Banaue early the next morning.

• Note: Please provide your exact pickup location (hotel name or flight details) at the time of booking to ensure a seamless transfer.

Dining：

None

Accommodation：

Banaue Town

Manila City View

Banaue Rice Terraces

After breakfast, you will have a nice day to explore Banaue Rice Terraces. In the morning, begin your exploration of the Banaue region:

First, head to Banaue Viewpoint. Enjoy panoramic views of the 2,000-year-old terraces. Marvel at the lush green paddies and local houses that rise layer by layer to altitudes of 1,500 meters.

Make a stop at Aguian View Deck. Stop at this famous viewpoint to see the exact terrace landscape featured on the back of the Philippine 20-peso bill.

Learn more at Banaue Museum. Dive into local history. Discover the rich cultural heritage of the Ifugao people through exhibits of traditional costumes, weapons, tools, and musical instruments.

In this afternoon, head to the remote village of Batad (home to around 1,500 residents) for the highlight of your tour:

Take a privately chartered jeepney to Batad Saddle Point, where your hiking journey begins. Explore Batad Rice Terraces. Trek along narrow walkways, water irrigation channels, and verdant paddies. Unlike other areas, Batad features unique stone-walled terraces shaped like a spectacular amphitheater.

Hike to Tappiya Waterfalls. Have a 1.5 to 2-hour trek to the bottom of the terraces. Reward yourself with a refreshing swim in the natural pool of this breathtaking waterfall.

After the tour, arrival back in Batad town proper, overnight at local village inn.

Dining：

Breakfast

Accommodation：

Banaue Town

Banaue Rice Terraces

Banaue Rice Terraces

After breakfast, you will depart from Banaue Town for Sagada (84 km, 3-hour drive). Located in the Mountain Province of the Philippines, Sagada is renowned for its cool, temperate climate and stunning landscapes. It is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, famous for its intricate cave systems, majestic waterfalls, and the mysterious hanging coffins.

Upon arrival, you will begin with a walking tour to the Church of Saint Mary the Virgin, a remarkable historical landmark and the primary Episcopal church in Sagada. Built in 1904, this picturesque church showcases a unique architectural blend, fusing local Igorot culture with Western influences. After admiring the intricate details of this historic structure, your adventure continues.

Next, you will take a leisurely walk past the Sagada Anglican Cemetery to reach the Echo Valley. Here, you will be greeted by a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding mountains. Take a moment to soak in the scenery before beginning your downhill trek to the Hanging Coffins of Sagada. As you descend for about 15–20 minutes, you will arrive at this sacred site to witness the ancient burial rites of the Igorot tribe. For over 2,000 years, the people of Sagada have practiced this unique tradition. You will learn how the elderly traditionally carved their own coffins from hollowed logs, or how their families prepared the final resting place if they were unable to do so. Seeing these coffins up close offers a profound look at the craftsmanship and cultural significance behind this ancient practice.

Afterward, you will be transferred to Sumaguing Cave. While there are over 60 caves discovered beneath the town of Sagada, Sumaguing Cave—often called "The Big Cave"—is the most impressive, boasting the largest chamber. This limestone cave system features a variety of rock formations, underground rivers, and vast chambers shaped by nature over thousands of years. Your expert guide will lead you through the cave, pointing out fascinating formations that resemble familiar shapes, such as a bear, an elephant, a turtle head, rice terraces, and even a "chocolate cake."

After the tour, be transferred to your hotel in Sagada. Stay overnight in Sagada.

Dining：

Breakfast

Accommodation：

Sagada

Hanging Coffins in Sagada

Explore Sumaguing Cave

After breakfast, you will have some time to explore in Sagada. You’ll visit Bomod-ok Falls or Marlboro Hills.

Option A: The Silver Falls (Bomod-ok). 1-hour trek through emerald rice paddies and traditional Igorot villages. The trail leads to a 200-foot cascade crashing into a pristine natural pool. Perfect for a refreshing swim and a deep dive into the valley’s local rhythm.

Option B: The Sea of Clouds (Marlboro Hills) For the mountain lover, this 2-3 hour hike reaches Sagada’s highest point. Experience a 360-degree panoramic view of the Cordillera ranges, overlooking lush pine forests and the mist-covered valleys below.

In this afternoon, we depart Sagada and wind through the mountains toward Baguio City, the "Summer Capital of the Philippines," before descending to the lowlands. A scenic 9–10 hour drive back to the city.

Drop-off Service in Manila: Direct drop-off at your Manila hotel or airport. Tell us your arrangement in advance. Service Ends.

Extend Your Philippines Trip:

Not ready to go home? We can seamlessly connect your North Luzon tour to the white sands and turquoise waters of: El Nido | Boracay | Bohol | Cebu | Dumaguete. Share your ideas with us, and we’ll handle the rest.

Important Notes

Flexible Itineraries: To ensure the best experience, we may adjust the route based on seasonal weather, local holidays, or special events. Our priority is always your safety and the quality of your journey.

Dining：

Breakfast

Accommodation：

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Baguio

Make a stop in Baguio