Ifugao Tourist Spots: Banaue Rice Terraces & More
If you're looking for a mix of culture, history, and jaw-dropping natural beauty, Ifugao should be on your radar. Ifugao tourist spots offer stunning views, unique traditions, and unforgettable experiences, and a visit to the iconic Banaue Rice Terraces is simply something you shouldn’t miss.
About Ifugao Province
Ifugao is a province nestled in the heart of the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) in the northern part of the Philippines. The province is predominantly mountainous, with the Sierra Madre mountain range to the east and the Cordillera Central mountain range to the west.
Map of Ifugao
The province of Ifugao is composed of 11 municipalities, each offering its own distinct charm, and no cities. Municipalities include Banaue, Batad, Hungduan, Natonin, Mayoyao, Alfonso Lista, Asipulo, Kiangan, Lagawe, Tinoc, and Aguinaldo.
Top Tourist Spots in Ifugao
Ifugao is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and historical significance. Here are the top tourist destinations in Ifugao that should definitely be on your list:
1. Banaue Rice Terraces
The Banaue Rice Terraces are undoubtedly the most famous tourist spot in Ifugao. These stunning, ancient terraces have been cultivated for over 2,000 years, earning the title of the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” Here, you can dress up in an Igorot costume for a fee and take a photo with the indigenous people.
2. Batad Rice Terraces
Located in a remote valley, the Batad Rice Terraces are often considered a more secluded alternative to the Banaue terraces. Surrounded by towering mountains, Batad’s terraces are known for their unique amphitheater-like shape. This spot offers a peaceful escape with breathtaking views and is perfect for those who want to experience a quieter side of Ifugao.
3. Mayoyao and Hungduan Rice Terraces
Located in the municipality of Mayoyao and Hungduan, respectively, these two terraces are often overlooked in favor of the more famous Banaue and Batad terraces, but they offer equally stunning views. Even more remote than the two, the Mayoyao Rice Terraces are a UNESCO World Heritage site, just like their more well-known counterparts.
4. Tappiyah Waterfalls
Tucked away near Batad, Tappiyah Waterfalls is a natural treasure that requires a short hike to reach. Surrounded by lush forests and rocky terrain, the waterfall is a popular stop for travelers after exploring Batad Rice Terraces. The cool, refreshing water offers the perfect spot to swim and relax after a long trek.
5. Banaue Ethnic Village and Pine Forest Resort
Photo from Banaue Ethnic Village and Pine Forest Resort’s Facebook Page
For those interested in Ifugao’s rich culture and traditions, a visit to the Banaue Ethnic Village and Pine Forest Resort is a must. Here, you can learn about the indigenous Ifugao people, their customs, and their way of life. The resort offers a serene environment, surrounded by pine trees and scenic views. It’s also a great place to experience traditional Ifugao huts and craftwork.
6. Kiangan
Photo from the National Museum of the Philippines
Kiangan is a historical town known for its significant role during World War II. The town is home to the Ifugao National Museum, which showcases artifacts, stories, and historical items related to the region's past. Kiangan is also famous for its beautiful surroundings, making it an ideal place for both cultural exploration and nature walks.
Hotels and Accommodations in Ifugao Province
If you are planning to stay overnight in Ifugao, we suggest staying in Banaue, Batad, or Lagawe, the capital of Ifugao.
Where to Stay in Banaue, Ifugao
■ Banaue Hotel and Youth Hostel
■ Banaue Homestay
■ Bogah Lodge
■ 7th Heaven Lodge and Café
■ Batad Pension and Restaurant
■ People's Lodge and Restaurant
■ Banaue Grandview Hotel
■ Querencia Inn
■ Banaue Ethnic Village and Pine Forest Resort
Where to Stay in Batad, Ifugao
■ Ramon's Native Homestay and Restaurant
■ Batad View Inn and Restaurant
■ Batad Transient House
■ Batad Pension and Restaurant
■ Batad Cristina's Main Village Inn & Restaurant
■ Vista do Hotel
■ Family Inn
■ Batad Hillside Inn and Restaurant
Where to Stay in Lagawe, Ifugao
■ KGI Mountainside Hotel
■ Brussel Garden Inn
■ SouthVille Inn
■ K's Lodge
■ Pedralta Hotel
Most of these accommodations are homestays, transients, and apartment-like stays, so make sure you bring all your travel essentials and toiletries.
Also, don’t forget to bring a portable travel bath towel so you can freshen up for the next day.
Where to Eat in Ifugao Province
There are not many restaurants in Banaue, Batad, or Lagawe, so manage your expectations. However, there are small eateries and carinderias around for authentic Cordillera cuisine. Most accommodations also feature small restaurants, serving delicious local cuisine.
Some of the popular places to eat include:
■ Banaue-View Cafe
■ Terrace View Restaurant
■ Uyami's Green View Lodge and Restaurant
■ Fern Tea's View Deck
■ Kay-Ang Hill Traveller's Escape
When you’re in Ifugao, be sure to try pinikpikan, baked fish, Igorot rice, and etag. For pasalubong, you’ll find them near famous tourist spots, such as near the Banaue arc.
How to Get to Ifugao
While Ifugao may seem a bit remote, it’s relatively easy to get to Ifugao from major cities like Manila, Baguio, or even neighboring provinces.
Traveling from Manila to Ifugao
The most common route to Ifugao starts in Manila, the capital of the Philippines. From here, you have several travel options:
By Bus
Several bus lines operate routes from Manila to Banaue, the most popular entry point to Ifugao. Travel time is around 8-10 hours, depending on traffic conditions. Some of the major bus companies that provide services to Banaue include Ohayami Trans, which serves direct routes to Banaue, and the Florida Bus via Baguio and then onward to Banaue.
You can catch these buses at their terminals in Cubao or Pasay in Metro Manila. The buses are comfortable, and they usually have overnight trips to ensure you arrive in the morning.
By Private Vehicle
If you prefer a more private and flexible option, you can drive from Manila to Ifugao. The road trip takes approximately 8-10 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions.
From Manila, you would typically take NLEX (North Luzon Expressway) or SCTEX (Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway) to Tarlac, then take National Road through Cabanatuan, San Jose, and continue towards Banaue via Ifugao’s mountain roads. This route offers beautiful views of the mountains and rice terraces as you approach the province.
Make sure to bring road trip essentials, especially on long drives like this.
Traveling from Baguio to Ifugao
Baguio, a popular destination in the Cordillera region, is another gateway to Ifugao. If you’re coming from Baguio, here’s how you can get there:
By Bus
Several bus lines operate routes from Baguio City to Banaue, with travel times of about 4-5 hours. You can find these buses at the Baguio City Terminal, which offers routes to various points in Ifugao. Some bus lines, such as Victory Liner or Hershey Bus, have regular departures to Banaue.
By Private Vehicle
If you prefer to drive from Baguio to Banaue, the trip takes about 4-5 hours. You will take the scenic route along the Marcos Highway or Asin Road and head towards Bauang, Naguilian, and then onward to Banaue.
Traveling from Other Provinces
If you're coming from neighboring provinces such as Nueva Vizcaya, Isabela, or Mountain Province, here’s what you need to know:
By Bus or Jeepney
There are buses and jeepneys that connect these nearby provinces to Ifugao. For example, buses from Solano (Nueva Vizcaya) or Bayombong can bring you to Banaue or Lagawe. From Lagawe, you can take a local jeepney or tricycle to your destination in the province.
By Private Vehicle
Traveling by private vehicle is a great option if you’re coming from nearby provinces. It’s an easy drive via provincial roads, and you can enjoy the scenic views of the Cordillera mountains. From Bayombong or Solano, the drive typically takes 4-5 hours to reach the capital, Lagawe, or the famous Banaue.
Getting Around Ifugao
Once you're in Banaue or Lagawe, getting around Ifugao can be done via jeepneys, tricycles, or even on foot. For longer trips to more remote areas like Batad or Hungduan, you can hire local jeepneys or take organized tours. Jeepneys and tricycles are the most common modes of transport within the province, and they are affordable and easy to hail.
Visit Ifugao Province Today
Ifugao is a province that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and historical significance. If you’re planning a visit to the iconic rice terraces or venturing into the more remote corners of the province, Ifugao will undoubtedly be an unforgettable part of your Philippine adventure.
Plan your weekend trip today and discover the true beauty of Ifugao!
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