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Top 20+ Best Sagada Tourist Spots: Sea of Clouds, Caves, & Waterfalls

Here is a complete list of Sagada tourist spots you should not miss especially if you’re an adrenaline junkie! Aside from eco wonders, I also included the best cultural places to visit in Sagada.

Sagada in Mountain Province easily ranks as one of the top ecotourism destinations in the Philippines.

Cascading waterfalls, stunning caves, limestone rock formations, rustic mountain views, and authentic cultural heritage are among the tourist spots in Sagada. Indeed, it’s a paradise of amazing natural, cultural, and historical wonders rolled into one.

A whole month of a break from work allowed me to visit Sagada’s tourist spots. I’ve conquered almost all of them, even the off-beaten tracks and I would like to share them on this travel guide.

Without further ado, let me now walk you through the different tourist spots in Sagada!

Behold Must-See Sagada Tourist Spots

1. mt. ampacao.

Mt. Ampacao towers to more than 1,889 MASL, making it the highest peak in Sagada.

Getting here is quite easy as the trails are well-established and do not run across steep terrains. Expect to walk on grassy terrains and on some parts, trail on secondary forests.

While atop, you can see a panoramic view of Sagada town and its surrounding mountains and pine forests. Kapay-aw rice terraces are also visible from here.

During the early morning, a sea of clouds usually forms. Mt Ampacao is one of the most popular of Sagada’s tourist spots.

• Location/Jump-off: Ambasing Elementary School, Brgy Ambasing
• Trekking Time: 40 minutes
• Guide Fee: Php 1,700 for 10 visitors or less

2. Bumayeng Falls

Located on the remote mountains, Bumayeng falls is one of the least known tourist spots in Sagada.

To get here, you’ll have to cross streams, jump across boulders, and wade on pools. Thus, it is only recommended for ardent adventurers and extreme hikers.

Bumayeng is a multi-layered fall, each with a beautiful catchbasin. If you prefer a more rustic setting, away from social bustles and hustles, then you should brave the trail to this wonder. An experienced guide is also required to ensure your safety and convenience.

Many locals especially youngsters love coming here during summer months to have a picnic and enjoy the sceneries. Mossy forests upstream feed the river leading to the waterfall.

• Location/Jump-off: Brgy. Bangaan
• Fee: Php 2500 for 5 visitors or less (inclusive of guide fee and packed meal)
• Trekking Time: 3 hours (one-way)
• Transportation: Php 650 (one-way)

3. Kiltepan Viewpoint

Made famous by the movie, “That Thing called Tadhana,” Kiltepan Viewpoint offers a spectacular view of the sunrise and an occasional sea of clouds including the scenic Kiltepan Rice Terraces.

That is why it is best to come here during the early morning or late afternoon to catch sight of a beautiful sunset.

Some trek to the viewpoint from the town center for more or less one hour. Others arrange a van with the Sagada Tourist Information and this usually departs at 4:30 a.m. You can also camp here during the night if you want.

Kiltepan Viewpoint is among the iconic tourist spots in Sagada.

• Location/Jump-off: Sagada town center/Poblacion
• Trekking Time: 30 minutes – 1 hour
• Camping fee: Php 100 per person

4. Bomod-ok Falls

Considered the highest cascade in Sagada, Bomod-ok falls has a height of more than 50 meters. It has a naturally-built pool with icy-cold and crystal-clear waters. Thus, you can often see small fishes swimming around. One local told me that they also caught a giant eel from the pool.

Beautiful rock formations surround the catch basin and from these, you can jump or dive for an invigorating swim. If not, you can just sit on one of the boulders and let the mists of the waterfall caress you.

To get here, you’ll hike for more or less an hour, passing by barangay Fidelisan and their beautiful rice terraces. It’s a downhill hike towards Bomod-ok falls and obviously, an uphill trek back to the road. Bomod-ok falls is one of the tourist spots in Sagada you should not miss.

• Entrance Fee/Barangay Fee: Php 10
• Tour Guide Fee: Php 500 for a group with a maximum of 10 pax
• Location: Barangay Fidelisan/Brgy Bangaan
• Trekking Time: 1 hour

5. Bokong Falls

Want a natural treat near the Sagada proper? Check out Bokong Falls , one of the most accessible tourist spots in Sagada. It is just a 30-minutes of easy walk from the town center.

The falls is relatively small compared to the rest. But it has its own unique features to offer. It has a small catchbasin. But don’t be fooled by its miniature size. It is actually very deep and you must know how to swim before taking a plunge.

Whenever I come here, I would jump from the top of Bokong Falls towards the deep pool. Oh, what a soothing way to relieve me from the daily hustles and bustles.

• Entrance Fee: None
• Jump-Off: Poblacion, Sagada
• Trekking Time: 30 minutes
• Guide: Optional

6. Pongas Falls

Located on a remote outskirt, this towering twin beauty is one of the less-known tourist spots in Sagada. It is best to come here just after the rainy months to catch sight of Pongas falls’ full force.

Huge boulders surround the small and shallow basin of Pongas Falls . To enjoy it, you can position yourself on its base while the cascading waters give you a caressing massage.

There are more waterfalls to see upstream and downstream. If you have more time and energy, ask your guides to take you to some of these.

• Entrance Fee: Php 10
• Location: Barangay Ankileng
• Trekking Time: 30 minutes- 1 hour
• Guide Fee: Php 600 for a group with a maximum of 10 persons

7. Sumaguing Cave

If you’re seeking to explore the underneath, check out Sumaguing cave, arguably the most popular tourist spot in Sagada. It contains fascinating stalactite and stalagmite formations resembling different figures such as an elephant’s trunk.

Spelunking here is quite challenging and can often be dangerous if safety procedures are not properly followed. It is considered the deepest cave system in the Philippines.

• Two-way Transportation: Php 350 (Optional)
• Tip: Best to come here with a group for a more budget-friendly experience
• Guide Fee: Php 800 for 4 pax
• Caving Time: 2 hours

8. Echo Valley and Hanging Coffins

They don’t call it the echo valley for no reason. While you’re there, do create echoes and you’ll see why. Interestingly, this is also where you can find the iconic hanging coffins, one of the cultural tourist spots in Sagada. You could just wonder how the locals of the past were able to place the coffins high up on the ground.

To know more about the folklore associated with the Hanging Coffins , you can ask your guide. It’s one of the tourist spots in Sagada which are just some minutes of walk from the Tourist Information Center.

There is also a spot nearby for rappelling or rock climbing.

• Guide Fee: Php 300
• Trekking Time: 20-30 minutes
• Extra Sights to See: Pine forests, Limestone Rock Formations, Burial Caves
• Local’s Tip: You can try rock climbing near Hanging Coffins.

9. St. Mary the Virgin Church

This is one of the historical tourist spots in Sagada. It is a stone-walled structure catering to the spiritual needs of the locals who are mostly Anglicans.

What I find interesting about this church is the fact that it was built during the American period. It’s more than a century-old heritage! Regular masses are conducted here. The church is one of the sights to see when going to the Echo Valley and Hanging Coffins.

• Location/Jump-off: Poblacion, Sagada
• Trekking Time: 5 minutes from the Tourist Information Center
• Reminder: It’s a sacred place so do respect it.

10. Marlboro Hill

If you are looking for challenging and at the same time, rewarding hiking experience, Marlboro Hill should be added to your list. It is one of the rising tourist spots in Sagada.

Hiking there will lead you across lush pine forests, scenic rice terraces, and limestone rock formations. You will also pass by the so-called Blue Soil or Blue Hill which turns bluish-green especially just after the rains. There are also good points here for viewing sunrise and sea of clouds, making it a good alternative for the Kiltepan viewpoint.

To save on budget, it’s best to come here as a group.

If you’re lucky, you’ll glimpse of horses running around. But they are not wild. They were just released years ago to give the place a feature of the cowboy’s range in the United States.

• Guide Fee: Php 1800 for 3 pax
• Trekking Time: 3-4 hours
• Transport Fare: Php 1350 (roundtrip)
• Tip: Best to come here during early morning to chance on sunrise and sea of clouds.

11. Gaia Cafe

This is one of my recommended Sagada tourist spots. Aside from the magnificent views of the rice terraces from here, they serve organic vegan meals. It’s a paradise for health-conscious travelers, environmentalists, and vegan advocates. They have coffee, drinks, and snacks that can help nourish your mind, body, and soul.

The cafe advocates for sustainable living in harmony with nature and God. It’s just minutes of walk from the Sumaguing Cave. If you happen to chance on Dr. Penelope Domogo, you can ask her to share some tips on how to develop habits for an eco-living. She’ll be more than happy to share with you her knowledge and experience.

Plus, she’s a good friend and mentor of mine (hehe).

• Location/Jump-off: Ambasing, Sagada, Philippines (near Sumaguing Cave)
• Trekking Time: 20 minutes from Tourist Information Center
• Contact: +63 949 137 6777 (Smart) +63 915 727 6831 (Globe)
• Operating Time: Mondays to Saturdays (11.00 am to 7 pm)

12. Blue Soil

If you’re up for a thrilling trek to a bizarre destination, check out the so-called Blue Soil . It features mounds of limestone rock formations that turn blue when wet. Those hiking to Marbolo Hills usually follow the trail all the way to the Blue Soil.

Barangay Balili of Bontoc also claims the site and call it Kaman-Utek because it resembles the brain. This is one of my favorite Sagada tourist spots.

To reach it, expect a long trek from the town center. Although tiring, the views you’ll see on the way will surely gratify your quest for adventure. Add to that the stunning view of Blue Soil itself.

• Location/Jump-off: Sagada town center
• Trekking Time: 4-5 hours
• Extra Sights to See: Pine forests, mountain views, wildflowers, rock formations, cliffs, grasslands

13. Sagada Underground River

If you’re coming from Bokong Falls or the Hanging Coffins, you can actually follow a trail leading to Sagada’s Underground River . It’s around 300 meters in length. Inside, you’ll find natural pools and different limestone rock formations. You’ll also glimpse of bluish pools when you follow the brook to Sagada Underground River.

• Trekking Time: 2-3 hours

14. Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Mission

Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Mission is a newly-constructed church catering to the Catholic faithful. You can see this along the highway when trekking to Kiltepan Viewpoint or Bokong Falls. The church is among the best places to visit in Sagada.

If you’re after a place for a tranquil spiritual escape, you should come here.

• Trekking Time: 15-20 minutes from Tourist Information Center
• Reminder: It’s a sacred place.

15. Fidelisan Rice Terraces

You’ll catch sight of these when trekking to Bomd-ok Falls. These stone-walled structures signify the industry of the locals and their communion with nature. Interestingly, the locals’ ancestors built these using only wooden tools and stones.

If you want, you can join the locals in planting or harvesting rice. In that way, you’ll learn to appreciate farming and its importance to our society. Surely, you’ll also find it more enjoyable and fulfilling sharing casual stories with the locals.

You bet. They’ll love you for that.

• Location/Jump-off: Brgy Fidelisan, Sagada
• Trekking Time: 20-30 minutes from the highway
• Tip: You can join the locals when planting and harvesting rice.

16. Lumiang Cave

Lumiang Cave is known for its piles of burial coffins. It is connected with the Sumaguing Cave and there is a tour package that covers both caves. Along the way going here, you can also glimpse of limestone mountains and hanging coffins. It is one of the best places to visit in Sagada.

• Location/Jump-off: Brgy Ambasing, Sagada
• Trekking Time: 25 minutes from the tourism center

17. Lake Danum

Lake Danum is claimed by both Sagada and Besao. Because of this, the lake is currently closed for tourism. It’s just along the highway so you can actually view it when going to and from Besao.

18. Balangagan Cave

Balangagan Cave is one of the newly-discovered tourist spots in Sagada. It is a bit far from the town center and you need to ride a vehicle to reach it. Inside, you’ll also find stalactite and stalagmite rock formations.

• Location/Jump-off: Between Taccong and Suyo

19. Sagada Blue Lagoon/ Obwa Falls

Sagada Blue Lagoon is a series of mini-waterfalls with circular pools that reflect the blue sky. It is one of Sagada’s remotest tourist spots. Thus, getting here is recommended for extreme hikers and adventurers. Plunge into one of the pools to give you instant relief. It is one of the rustic places to see in Sagada.

• Location/Jump-off: Brgy Suyo
• Trekking Time: 25 minutes from the highway

20. Sagada Pottery House

Sagada Pottery House is one of the cultural Sagada tourist spots, advocating for the preservation of pot making in the said town. Here, you can experience and see for yourself how the pots are made.

To get here, ride a jeep bound to Besao and tell the driver to drop you by the pottery house. If not, take the one hour walk to reach the place.

Every time you come here, you help promote the preservation of this ancient culture. You can buy one or two of these pots for a souvenir.

How to Get to Sagada

Manila to Sagada . If you want a direct trip to Sagada, ride Coda lines bus, stationed at HM Transport Cubao Terminal. This is located along EDSA at Cubao, Quezon City. Regular trip schedules are 8:00 pm, 9:00 pm, 10:00 pm, and 10:30 pm.

Fare is 720 pesos and travel takes around 12-13 hours. Take note. If you cannot do online booking, be at the station at least an hour before your preferred time of departure.

Baguio to Sagada . First, ride either Victory Liner or North Genesis buses going to Baguio. Both have stations at Pasay and Cubao, Quezon City and both have hourly departures. Travel time takes around five to six hours and fare ranges from 450 pesos to 485 pesos.

Upon reaching Baguio city, ride a taxi or Grab towards GL Trans station at Dangwa Terminal (back of Center Mall). GL Trans buses that are bound to or passes along Sagada depart by 6:30 am, 8:00 am, 9:00 am, 10:00 am, 11:00 am, and 1:00 pm. Travel time is more or less six hours and the regular fare is 220.

Bontoc to Sagada . If you are coming from Bontoc, there are jeeps there bound to Sagada. These are stationed in front of the Walter Clapp Hotel. A jeep departs once filled to capacity. Travel time takes less than an hour and fare is 50 pesos.

Try Speaking Local Utterances

As goes a popular adage, “When in Rome, do as the Romans do.” In the same way, you can also try conversing with the locals using their language. This is especially helpful in building rapport with the community.

Kankanaey is the main language in Sagada. Take note, this is different from the Kankanaey language of some communities in Benguet. I get it. You don’t need to be well-versed. But you can at least try common utterances such as the following. Have fun learning and using them:)

Sagada Tour Packages

Here are the tours in Sagada you can avail of. Take note. There are new tours you might want to try. Inquire from the Sagada Tourist Information Center about these.

Sagada Caves Tour

1. Cave Connection

• Lumiang Burial Cave to Sumaguing Cave
• Time Required: 3-4 hours
• Guide Fee: Php 1000 for 2 visitors, Add Php 500 for every extra
• Transportation Fee: Php 400 (two-way)
• Tip: You can walk all the way to the cave to cut on transportation costs.

2. Sumaguing Cave/Short Course Caving

• Time Required: 1 hour and 30 minutes
• Php 800 for 4 persons or less
• Php 900 for 5 persons
• P 1,600 for 6-9 persons
• Php 1,800 for 10 persons
• P 2,400 for 11-12 persons
• P 200 per person for a group of 13 or more
• Transportation Fee: Php 250 (Two-Way)

3. Balangaan Cave

• Time Required: 2 hours
• Php 650 for 4 visitors or less
• Php 800 for 5 visitors
• P 1,300 for 6-9 visitors
• Php 150 each for a group of 10 or more
• Transportation Fee: Php 650 (two-way)

Sagada Waterfalls Tour

1. Bomod-ok Falls

• Trekking Time: 3 hours back and forth
• Guide Fee: Php 500 for 1-7 persons
• Barangay Fee: Php 10 per person

2. Pongas Falls

• Trekking Time: 1 hour to the falls
• Guide Fee: Php 600 for 1-10 visitors

3. Bokong Falls

• Trekking Time: 10 minutes
• Guide Fee: Php 300 for 1-10 visitors
• Transportation Fee: Php 250 (two-way)

Walking Tours

1. Eco-Tour

• Time Required: 3 hours of a loop hike
• Attractions: Church of St. Mary the Virgin, Echo Valley, Hanging Coffins, Sagada Underground River Entrance
• Php 800 for 10 persons or less
• Php 1,600 for 11-20 persons
• P 2,400 for 23-30 persons

2. Adventure Trail

• Time Required: 3 hours of trek
• Attractions: St Mary Church, Echo Valley, Hanging Coffins, Latang River, Underground River, Bokong Falls
• Php 3000 for 10 visitors or less

3. Echo Valley Hanging Coffins

• Trekking Time: 30 minutes from the tourist info center
• Php 300 for 1-10 persons
• Php 400 for 11 persons
• P 600 for 12-20 persons
• Php 700 for 21 persons
• Php 900 for 22-30 persons
• P 1000 for 31 persons
• Php 1,300 for 32-40 persons
• Php 30 per head for a group of 41 and above

Sagada Mountain Trekking Tour

1. Mt Ampacao Traverse

• Trekking Time: 3 hours
• Guide Fee: Php 1,200 for 10 persons or less
• Shuttle Fee: Php 800 (two-way)

2. Marlboro Country/Hills

• Guide Fee: Php 800 for 10 persons
• Shuttle Fee: Php 650 (two-way)

3. Langsayan Danum Traverse

• Trekking Time: 3 hours hike
• Guide Fee: Php 1000 for 3 visitors or less

4. Marlboro Hills to Blue Soil Traverse

• Guide Fee: Php 1600 for 1-5 persons
• Shuttle Fee: Php 1350

Sagada Weather and Temperature

Sagada’s weather and the temperature are much like that of Baguio City. If you’re after the sunny months, then it’s best to visit Sagada from January to April. Most rainy days are during the months of August to October, coinciding with the occurrence of typhoons.

During March to April, the temperature in Sagada becomes warmer but that does not mean, it loses its hinterland feels. The coldest months are typically starts from November to February. So you’ve got to bring thick jackets during these times.

With the changing climate, however, there have also been inconsistent weather intervals in Sagada and elsewhere.

Thus, it’s best to keep in touch with the Sagada Tourist Information Center or with the locals for them to provide updates regarding the weather and temperature in Sagada.

Where to Stay in Sagada?

There are numerous accommodation amenities where you can stay in Sagada. Most of these are homestay setups as well as inns. There are no hotels in Sagada as per the standard of the Department of Tourism. But that’s what makes your stay here unique as you’ll get to experience simple living, not luxuries.

We’ll provide a comprehensive list of these soon! Keep touch.

Where to Eat in Sagada?

Eating in Sagada is one of the most memorable experiences you’ll have during your visit. That is because you’ll get to experience local cuisines and treats. The most popular are the Lemon Pie Cake and the Etag (meat salted the traditional way). The price of a meal in Sagada ranges from Php 50 to Php 200.

We’ll also provide a comprehensive list of these soon!

For More Info on Sagada Tourist Spot:

If you need more information that may help in setting up your itinerary to the tourist spots in Sagada, contact the following:

• Sagada Tourist Information Center: 0917 134 5353
• Sagada PNP: 0908 2258115

Note: Sagada Tourist Information Center opens from 7 AM to 5:30 PM. You can also refer to the following brochure for more info about Sagada tourist spots’ package rates.

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Thank You for your comprehensive and very informative write up on your travels. It’s very helpful tips for first time travelers.

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Hi there fellow traveler! My name is Daniel although you can call me Kumafor. That's my indigenous name. I grew on a remote village called Lias in Barlig, Mountain Province.

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SAGADA TRAVEL GUIDE with Budget Itinerary

When I think about Sagada, I think about my friend Tonet.

“Let’s go to Sagada,” she said one time at film school. Back then, I didn’t know much about Sagada other than as a setting of a Juday-Piolo movie. Tonet wanted to make her own romantic comedy too, maybe set in Sagada; she wasn’t sure. But she wanted to just go, see, and perhaps be inspired by it.

Over the years, she would constantly, randomly squeeze Sagada into conversations. “I really want to go there,” she would mumble. Every time, I would answer, “Sure, when we find the time and money.”

The time and money eventually came just after Christmas nine years ago. Tonet was a humble script supervisor with nothing but big dreams in her pockets. Finally, she was in the presence of Sagada and she embraced every tiny moment of it. She walked up and down its terraced mountains, went deep into its caves, and at a bonfire party, danced drunk with locals with reckless abandon. I thought that was it, that it was the end of it. It turned out, it was just the beginning.

She would return again and again, each time with different companions and carrying a different piece of her. She’s now been to Sagada as a wild dreamer, as a loyal friend, as a broken lover. But one day, she set foot in Sagada as somebody she was destined to be — a movie director. It wasn’t until I saw her film, shot in Sagada, that I realized that her affair with this town wasn’t just a simple fascination or infatuation or even obsession, it was something more powerful and transcendental. It was that thing called tadhana.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

UNDERSTANDING SAGADA

For younger travelers, Sagada is one of the filming locations of the romantic comedy That Thing Called Tadhana . But the truth is, Sagada was already pretty popular among backpackers even before the movie hit the theaters. I’ve been there multiple times before the movie and there already was a considerable increase of visitors year after year. As it became easier to access, as tours became more organized, and as a new wave of travelers sought more places to explore, Sagada was already on the path to becoming mainstream.

Located in the Mountain Province, Sagada is a fifth class municipality with only 11,000 residents as of 2015. Think of it as a small, slightly developed village at the heart of the Cordillera. Life here is simple. Agriculture is the primary driver of the economy, but tourism has been contributing significantly.

The town’s three major roads are flanked by inns, guesthouses, and restaurants catering to tourists. It has a generally chilly climate year-round, much colder than Baguio, something that attracts domestic tourists. Aside from the cooler temperature, it also has a lot to offer to adventurers, sightseers, and history buffs alike. It’s best known for the hanging coffins, waterfalls, and a network of caves. The good news is, the local government and the residents themselves are environment-conscious and have enforced certain regulations.

Here are more bits about Sagada:

• Location: Mountain Province, Philippines.
• Language: Kankana-ey. But most locals, especially tourism workers, are also very fluent in English and Tagalog.
• Currency: Philippine peso (PHP, ₱). PHP100 is around USD 1.90, EUR 1.69, SGD 2.57 (as of April 2019).
• Modes of payment: CASH is still king (and queen) in Sagada.

WHERE TO STAY IN SAGADA

First of all, let me just say this: There are no luxury hotels in Sagada. If you’re looking for a well-appointed suite with a gazillion of amenities, you’re not gonna find one here. Almost all available accommodations in Sagada are inns, guesthouses, and homestays. It’s quite common for guests to share toilet and bathrooms with other guests or with the residents. If the room has a private toilet and bath, it’s usually very small.

Now that we got that out of the way, you need to be familiar with the layout of the town proper. It’s easy to remember. Think of Sagada as a giant letter Y. There are three main roads that meet at the center of the poblacion area. This junction is the main bus stop of the town. It’s also where you’ll find the tourism office, the police station, and the municipal hall. The town’s church is also just a short stroll away from this. You can use this junction as your reference point.

Now, going back to the Y. Here are the three roads that compose it.

• Staunton Road (North/East). If you’re coming from Baguio, Bontoc or Manila, this road that you’re taking to reach Sagada. This also leads to the access roads to Bomod-ok Falls, Marlboro Hill, and Kiltepan Viewpoint.
• West Road. Aka Sagada-Besao Road. This road will take you to Lake Danum and Sagada Pottery. When viewed from the junction, this is an uphill road.
• South Road. This leads to Barangay Dagdag and Demang, where most well-known inns and restaurants in Sagada are located. It’s also the only way to Lumiang Cave and Sumaguing Cave. From the junction, this road runs downhill.

You’ll find plenty of inns and guesthouses flanking any of these roads. But I prefer staying along the South Road because most of my favorite restaurants in Sagada are here.

A twin or double room usually costs P1200-P1400 per night so this is a good estimate. You can also find a single room or bed for P600 per night.

Here are the hostels and inns that you can book via Agoda.

• Isabelo’s Inn & Café. Check Rates & Availability!
• Masferre Country Inn & Restaurant. Check Rates & Availability!
• Grandma’s Yellow House. Check Rates & Availability!
• Kanip-aw Pines View Lodge. Check Rates & Availability!
• Kenlibed Inn. Check Rates & Availability!
• Sagada Heritage Village. Check Rates & Availability!
• Shamrock Tavern Inn. Check Rates & Availability!
• Coffee Heritage House and Hostel. Check Rates & Availability!
• Rocky Valley Inn. Check Rates & Availability!

I have tried George Guesthouse and Residential Lodge along South Road, and Ligaya’s Inn and Cottages .

We have a list of all accredited accommodations with contact numbers here: SAGADA HOSTELS, INNS & HOMESTAYS!

Search for more Sagada Hotels!

How to get to sagada, manila to sagada by direct bus.

You can now travel directly from Cubao to Sagada! Operated by Coda Lines , this bus can take you straight to Sagada in 12 hours , with a few restroom stops along the way. It takes the Banaue route (not Baguio).

There are two types of buses:

Super Deluxe, 35-seater bus with restroom onboard. Fare: P980. Semi-Deluxe, 45-seater bus without restroom. Fare: P760.

All buses leave Cubao in the evening and then drive through Banaue (not Baguio) to reach Sagada overnight. What I like about this is that you’re not wasting a day on the road. You’ll arrive in Sagada in the morning, hopefully ready to do some mild sightseeing.

Here’s the Coda Lines Cubao-Sagada timetable:

To book, visit www.codalinesph.com .

Manila to Sagada via Baguio

It is also possible to reach Sagada via Baguio. This involves a change of bus and terminal in Baguio City.

A number of companies offer bus services to Baguio, but two of the most popular are Victory Liner and Joy Bus.

Victory Liner has terminals in:

JoyBus has terminals in:

If you can, choose a late night bus so you’ll arrive in Baguio in the early morning because the last Sagada-bound bus leaves Baguio at either 11:30am or 01:00pm.

Once in Baguio, follow the steps in the next section.

Baguio to Sagada by Bus

Sagada is 6 hours away from Baguio. There are two bus companies that operate this route: GL Trans and Lizardo Trans. GL Trans is more highly recommended by my local friends because they said the buses are in better conditions. I also haven’t tried Lizardo so we’ll be focusing on GL Trans in this post.

If you’re coming from Victory Liner/JoyBus station, hail a cab and ask to be taken to GL Trans Terminal. Taxi fare: around P80.

At the GL Trans terminal, approach the counter and buy a ticket immediately. Fare: P220 .

Here are the schedule and routes as of this writing:

• 05:30 am – Sagada > Besau
• 08:30 am – Sagada Ambasing
• 09:30 am – Sagada > Besau
• 10:30 am – Sagada > Besau
• 11:30 am – Sagada Ambasing
• 01:00 pm (last trip) – Sagada > Besau

You’ll notice that most of the buses depart Baguio before noon, so if you’re coming from Manila, you must arrive in Baguio in the early morning in order to catch a ride. Otherwise, you’re gonna have trouble looking for one.

In our recent trip, we arrived at the GL Terminal before 10am but the 11:30-bus was already fully booked. Fortunately, there was still another bus slated for a 1pm departure that day. We were actually surprised to learn about it because most online sources tag the 11:30-bus as the last trip. But the lesson here is, be early , especially if you’re traveling on a weekend.

Here are other reminders:

• Sagada Town Proper isn’t the final stop of any of these buses. Don’t fall asleep when you’re nearing Sagada. You might miss your stop and end up in Besau.
• Reservations and advance bookings are not accepted. They issue tickets for trips scheduled on that day only.
• They start selling tickets at 5am. First come, first served.
• The bus makes at least two stops.
• If you get hungry while waiting for your bus, there is a Good Taste branch near the terminal. Good Taste is a popular local restaurant in Baguio.

HOW TO GET AROUND SAGADA

When it comes to public transportation, your options are very limited. You won’t see that many jeepneys around town. Here are your options.

As for attractions located outside poblacion, you can easily book a tour.

• To get to attractions within town center: Walk! Thankfully, the town center is quite small and very walkable. Most restaurants, cafes, inns, and souvenir shops are located not too far from one another. There are some hilly parts, but a stroll around town is generally comfortable.
• To get to attractions outside the town center: Book a tour! Tourism operations in Sagada are very organized. Visitors are required to have a guide when they explore. Your guide can also arrange your transportation to get to any destination. Vehicle fee is charged on top of guide fee.

For more information about the tours, read the next section.

SAGADA TOURS

The local government imposes fixed and uniform rates on tours and requires visitors to have a guide when exploring. Whether you want to see Kiltepan, Lake Danum, Sumaguing Cave, Bomod-ok Falls or even Echo Valley, you MUST have a guide .

Hence, before you start exploring, the first thing you should do is drop by Sagada Tourism Office to register, pay the P50 tourism/environmental fee, and make some arrangements. If your inn is near South Road, you can also go straight to the office of SAGGAS (Sagada Genuine Guides Association) to book your tours. They can also handle the registration and payment of tourism fee for you.

After registration, you should be given a receipt and you must keep it with you at all times during your stay. You will be asked to present it upon entry to certain attractions.

Also note that vehicle fee is separate from guide fee and entrance fees.

Anyway, here are the tours and corresponding rates.

Sumaguing Cave

Underneath Sagada is a network of more than 60 caves, the biggest of which is Sumaguing Cave, earning its nickname “The Big Cave.” Inside are countless rock formations slowly shaped by nature over thousands of years. These rock formations mimicking familiar shapes are the highlight of this spelunking adventure. Some of these formations include the bear, elephants, turtle head, chocolate cake, and pregnant woman. It is perhaps these shapes (and the overall experience) that tourists keep coming back to Sagada for. Sumaguing Cave is probably the most popular of all tourist attractions in town.

Prepare to be wet and get physical. Although it looks daunting, it’s not as difficult as you might be thinking. Just follow the instructions of your guide and you’ll be fine.

The whole activity lasts around 2 hours.

• 1-4 pax : P800 (1 guide)
• 5 pax : P900 (1 guide)
• 6-9 pax : P1600 (2 guides)
• 10 pax : P1800 (2 guides)
• 11-12 pax : P2400 (3 guides)
• 13 pax or more: P200 per person

Two-way transportation fee (optional): P350

➡️ MORE INFO: OUR SUMAGUING CAVE EXPERIENCE

Cave Connnection (Lumiang Cave to Sumaguing Cave)

Cave Connection is much more challenging than Sumaguing Cave. It’s so called because it connects two of the most well known caves in Sagada. The Cave Connection Tour starts at Lumiang Cave , a burial site where hundreds of coffins are stacked as part of the local tradition. After 3-4 hours, you’ll emerge out of Sumaguing Cave.

Guide Fee: P1000 (good for 1-2 pax). P500 per additional person

Two-way transportation (optional): P400

➡️ MORE INFO: OUR CAVE CONNECTION EXPERIENCE

Bomod-ok Falls

Sagada has three waterfalls that are open to tourists: Pongas, Bokong, and Bomod-ok. Of the three, Bomod-ok is the largest and tallest, which is why it’s nicknamed “Big Falls.”

You’ll walk across mountains to reach it. The getting there is quite a challenge but this 200-ft cascade will deliver. You’ll be balancing on the edge of the terraces while wallowing in the gorgeous scenery. You may also opt to take a dip at the pool at the base of the waterfall. You might find yourself doing something new — vomit air — so bring lots of water and energy.

Guide Fee: P500 (good for 1-7 pax)

Barangay Fee: P10

Transportation Fee: P500-650

➡️ MORE INFO: OUR BOMOD-OK FALLS EXPERIENCE

Echo Valley and Hanging Coffins

The Echo Valley is where you’ll find Sagada’s famous hanging coffins. It lies just next to the town center. It’s a short walk away from the Church of St. Mary the Virgin and through the new cemetery. The trail from the cemetery to the coffins has been made safer for hikers.

There are three trails that you can take. All these will allow you to see the hanging coffins, but the last two will take you to more natural attractions.

• ECHO VALLEY HANGING COFFINS TOUR. From the church, you’ll go on a short hike to the view point and then down to the valley to see the coffins up close. Guide fee: P300 for 1-10 pax; P400 for 11 pax; P600 for 12-20 pax. Duration: 1 hour.
• ECO TOUR. This will take you from the church to the hanging coffins to the underground river entrance to Bokong natural swimming pool through canyons and rice fields. Guide fee: P800 for 1-10 pax; P1600 for 11-20 pax; P2400 for 12-30 pax. Duration: 3 hours.
• ADVENTURE TRAIL. From the church, this trail will lead you to the hanging coffins, Sagada Underground River, and Bokong Waterfall. Guide fee: P1000 for 1-10 pax; P100 per additional person. Duration: 3 hours.

Kiltepan Viewpoint (Temporarily closed)

Kiltepan Viewpoint is the most popular spot to catch the romantic Sagada sunrise. The fading darkness reveals a sea of white clouds blanketing the hills and the valleys below. As the sun inches from the horizon, the clouds part and reveal the magnificent terraces underneath.

The site was made even more well-known by the movie That Thing Called Tadhana . It’s evident in the number of tourists screaming their feelings out on top of Kiltepan, reminiscent of one of the movie’s most affecting scenes.

If you want to catch the sunrise, you must leave at 4:30am and drive for 15 minutes. A short hike will take you to the viewpoint.

Two-way transportation fee: P500 for 1-10 pax; P50 per additional person.

Note: Kiltepan is closed for now .

Marlboro Hill and Blue Soil Trek

Because Kiltepan is currently inaccessible, Marlboro Hill has become the go-to sunrise-viewing spot. It’s funny because I was just there last week and there were still tourists shouting their feelings at the top of their lungs a la That Thing Called Tadhana even though we were on a completely different mountain peak.

To catch the sunrise and the sea of clouds, you must leave at 4:30 am or earlier and drive to the jump off point. From there, you will be hiking for about 20 minutes to reach the viewpoint. There are also kiosks selling champorado, sopas, and arroz caldo on site.

Most visitors would just watch the sunrise, take photos, and then hike back to where they came from. But what we recommend is to continue the trek to the Blue Soil Hill, locally called Kaman-utek. Along the way, you’ll pass by several scenic sites including more spectacular viewpoints and limestone cliffs. It’s a downhill trek so it’s not that difficult. Then, you’ll reach Blue Soil Hill, which gets its powder blue color from the high amounts of copper sulfate in the soil. You can take a rest here and have a quick bite.

The trek takes around 2 hours, depending on your pace. But the whole activity from pick up and Marlboro sunrise to the end of the trek lasts 4-5 hours.

MARLBORO HILL ONLY Guide Fee: P600 for 1-10 pax. Two-way transportation fee: P650 (optional)

MARLBORO HILL + BLUE SOIL HILL Guide Fee: P1,600 for 1-5 pax; P1300 per additional person. Two-way transportation fee: P1,350 (optional)

Orange Picking at Rock Farm

This isn’t really a guided tour, but it’s a fun activity. When oranges are in season, you can visit Rock Farm and go ponkan-picking.

Situated east of the town center is a lodging and dining complex composed of Rock Inn and Cafe Bodega. Of all the food places in Sagada, Cafe Bodega, hands down has the best ambiance. We usually have lunch here when we’re in Sagada, and while waiting for our order, we would go to the orange plantation next to it for a meet-and-greet with the poster fruit of Vitamin C!

I’m not sure how much the entrance fee is now, but as of 2017, it was P50. While inside the premises, you can eat as many oranges as you want. (That’s part of the P50 fee.) Then if you decide to have some for take out, that’s another P50 per kilo.

Other Sagada Attractions

• Balangagan Cave. Located 30 minutes from poblacion, this is another cave for fun spelunking adventure. Guide fee: P650 for 4 pax, P800 for 5 pax, P1300 for 6-9 pax. Transport fee: P650.
• Pongas Falls. Requires a 1-hour hike. Guide fee: P600 for 1-10 pax. Transport fee: P650.
• Lake Danum. A good sunset-viewing spot 20 minutes from the town proper. Transport fee: P550 for 1-10 pax.
• Mt. Ampacao. A 3-hour traverse from the poblacion to Lake Danum to Mt. Ampacao. Guide fee: P1200 for 1-10 pax.

WHERE TO EAT IN SAGADA

We’ll be creating a separate post for this very soon!

SAMPLE SAGADA ITINERARY

Because tours in Sagada are organized and well-regulated, it’s easy to build an itinerary. Yes, there are a lot of activities to try, but you can group them into three major types: spelunking, waterfall chasing, and trekking. What I recommend is to pick one from each category.

It is also important to note that most of these tours can be exhausting. Mind your pace. If you can, just do one tour per day, preferably in the morning so you don’t need to worry about the sun too much. Then, spend your afternoon just chilling at a cafe and strolling around town. You can also add a visit to the Hanging Coffins to any day’s schedule since this is an easy and hike.

Here’s our sample Sagada itinerary. Note that this assumes the following:

• You’re a group of 4, splitting tour and transportation costs.
• You have a lodging budget of P700 per person per night. A twin or double room usually costs P1200-P1400 per night so this is a good estimate. You can also find a single room or bed for P600 per night.
• You’re coming from Manila and taking a Coda Lines semi-deluxe bus. Fare is P760.

As always, feel free to make adjustments to this itinerary according to your taste and whatever other considerations you have.

DAY 1: SUMAGUING CAVE 08:00 am – Arrival in Sagada, Bus fare: P760 08:15 am – Pay Tourism Fee, P50 08:45 am – Hotel check in or bag drop 09:15 am – Breakfast at Salt and Pepper, P200 10:15 am – Leave for Sumaguing, Jeep: P87.50 (P350/4pax) 10:40 am – Sumaguing Cave, Guide: P200 (P800/4pax) 01:30 pm – Lunch at Gaia Cafe, P300 03:00 pm – Freshen up, rest, recharge 06:30 pm – Dinner at Sagada Brew, P300 08:00 pm – Back at inn

DAY 2: BOMOD-OK FALLS 06:30 am – Leave for Bomod-ok, Jeep: P162.50 (P650/4pax) 07:00 am – Bomod-ok Falls, P125 (P500/4pax) + P10 access fee 12:00 pm – Lunch at Yoghurt House, P250 03:00 pm – Echo Valley Tour: P75 (P300/4pax) + P10 access fee 05:00 pm – Shop for souvenirs 07:00 pm – Dinner at Log Cabin, P300 08:30 pm – Back at inn

DAY 3: MARLBORO + BLUE SOIL HILLS 04:30 am – Leave for Marlboro Hill, Jeep: P337.5 (P1350/4pax) 05:00 am – Start Trek, P400 (P1600/4pax) 06:00 am – Breakfast at Marlboro Hill, P70 06:30 am – Trek to Blue Soil Hill 09:30 am – Back to inn, shower, pack, check out 11:00 am – Brunch at Lemon Pie House, P200 01:00 pm – Try yoghurt and chill at Yoghurt House, P120 03:30 pm – Walk to junction, wait for bus 04:00 pm – Bus to Manila, P760

The itinerary above will set you back around P6300 (USD 122, SGD 165, EUR 108) per person, excluding tips/gratuities and shopping expenses. Again this is based on the assumption that you’re a group of four.

The biggest chunk of the cost above was spent on restaurants, which can be expensive. A meal at a tourist-targeted resto plays within the P200-300 range per meal. But if you stay at an inn with a kitchen, you can cook your own meal.

If you limit your food expenses to P300 per day and remove the restos, the itinerary above will cost you P5700 (USD 110, SGD 149, EUR 98) per person.

MORE TIPS FOR THE POOR TRAVELER

• Stay at an inn or homestay with an open kitchen. This way, you can cook your own meals on some days and reduce food expenses. We once shared a floor with a family who would always cook their meals. Go try restaurants every once in a while, but if you money is tight, go prep your own food.
• Try street food. This is another way to reduce food expenses. Barbeque and isaw are available for P10-15 per stick. Delicious homemade yoghurt is sold at P35 per cup.
• Form a bigger group. Tour rates depend on how big your group is. Normally, the bigger your group, the smaller the per-person cost because you have more members to split it with. If you’re a small party and you’re on a budget, you can join or merge with another group to reduce cost. For example, the guide fee for Bomod-ok Falls Tour is P500 for 1-7 pax. If you’re a party of 2, that’s P250 per person. But if you merge with other travelers and form a group of 7, the cost per person is lowered to only P72.
• Buy a gallon of water on your first day in Sagada. Ideally, bring your own water bottle, but note that restaurants in Sagada wouldn’t allow you to refill it with their water. So just buy a big container of water, bring it to your room, and refill from there.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

When is the best time to visit sagada.

November to April. This is the driest and coolest period, which is suitable for all the outdoor activities. However, expect quick, passing showers in late afternoon even in the dry season.

Bonfire Festival. A great time to visit is the week between Christmas and New Year. On one day of that week, you can join the Bonfire Festival where you get to meet other tourists and even locals while partying Sagada-style. There’s buffet and overflowing local wines.

However, that week is peak period, so if you don’t like sharing Sagada with big throngs of other tourists, you might want to pass up. Stay away from Holy Week, too.

June to September are the wettest months. The rain can make touring and trekking in Sagada difficult, so avoid this period too.

Is Sagada safe?

Yes, very safe.

The number of crime incidents per year is only at a double-digit level and most of them are about damage to vehicles that are parked along the road. Index crimes are very rare in Sagada. According to our guides, the municipal prison is empty, but I wasn’t able to confirm this.

However, Sagada is an adventure destination so you must take extra care especially when spelunking or trekking. You’re in the highlands, so expect a lot of cliffs and ravines.

Here are important numbers to keep:

• Sagada Police: +63 908 225 8115
• Sagada Hospital: +63 917 629 6084
• Emergency Response Team: +63 906 822 0044, +63 999 994 3282

What type of power plug / socket is used in Sagada?

Electricity Info: 220V, 60Hz. Plug and socket Type A.

What is the tipping custom in Sagada?

Just like in other places in the Philippines, tipping is not mandatory in Sagada. Tip only if you really enjoyed the service.

However, I encourage you to tip your guides, especially the spelunking guides. What they do every day isn’t easy. You’ll understand this after you’ve done it. It doesn’t have to be money all the time. You can invite them to join you for lunch.

Are there ATMs in Sagada?

YES. We’ve spotted a DBP ATM at the Police Station near the junction. I’m not sure if there are others, but there’s at least one.

To be sure, make sure you have enough cash before arriving in Sagada. Best to withdraw or, if you’re carrying a foreign currency, exchange money before you leave Manila or Baguio.

2️⃣0️⃣1️⃣9️⃣ • 4️⃣ • 2️⃣4️⃣

More Tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

Is this post helpful to you?

Related Posts:

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• BOMOD-OK FALLS, SAGADA: What to Expect
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• SAGADA Travel Guide
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• LIST OF ACCREDITED SAGADA HOTELS, HOSTELS & HOMESTAYS
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This was very helpful! Thank you!

No prob! :)

very helpful.. very detailed.

Looking forward to the blog for Sagad Restaurants! Thanks for this blog.

Hi King! Yep, we’ll try to publish within the month. :)

Hi i am planning to do a travel around all Philippines on July. your post was so helpful but the prices of bus are kind of expensive. I heard that in Phillipiines is usuaul to rent a vehicle to move around. I heard about some companies to do that as a book2wheel.com but I am not sure about that option because in my country is kind of risky. Is it safe this option? do you know if this one is nice or do you another company which do that because i want to be sure that all is fine but withouth expend to much money

great! thanks for the detailed information! ;)

No prob! Enjoy Sagada!

First of all, I want to thank you that you wrote such a good post for us. Like you, I have a lot of interest to travel around the world. Like every travel lovers, there is a desire in my heart to see all the places in the world and therefore I have been travilng around some places of the world. Last month I went to the US and I have seen a lot of places and now I am thinking that I would go to see the new 7 wonders. I have heard many times about these , but so far could not see the seven wonders. If you have any suggestions about this, then definitely guide me.

Thank you..

Amazing blog about Travel.Thanks for providing information about different places..

Hello, what is the wi-fi situation in Sagada? Im planning to visit on a long-term basis and will be brining my work with me. Thanks, Really find your guides detailed and helpful. Keep up the good work!

Hi Psyche, some inns have free-wifi. (Ours didn’t.) But I usually just use my phone’s data hotspot anyway.

This is very useful especially like me who really wanted to travel with a low budget. God bless you!

is it possible to do outdoor activities even when it’s raining?

Hi King, sa experience namin, kina-cancel nung guide namin ung tour pag umuulan. Minumove sa hapon or pag di tumitigil talaga, kinacancel na lang.

Mas okay pag umaga magschedule kasi madalas sa hapon umuulan.

Hi my friends and I would like to visit Sagada for a day this coming October after out tour in Baguio City. Do you have any suggestion for our travel especially for the bus schedule in Sagada? Thank you

Hi Gege, parang mahirap ang day tour ng SAGADA from Baguio because Sagada is 6 hours away.

Yung bus schedule from Baguio to Sagada, nasa post naman sa itaas. Pabasa na lang po.

Ang goal ko po sana ay yung marlboro country lang, allowed po kaya ako na magtrek mag isa? Allowed po din kaya akong mamasyal na walang tour guide, i am comfortable w/o tour guide kasi, gusto ko po sana matuto hehe sslamat

kasi balak ko po sana na ako lang magisa ang magtravel.

Thank you so much for this. very helpful. and im excited to go there this november. alone :(

I think you can still enjoy Sagada even if you’re alone. :D

Hi! If I use codalines bus from Manila to Sagada, will they drop me off near South Rd, Sagada?Or do i still need to ride a jeepney to go to that place? Will the place of drop off be the pick up point as well when I am going back to Manila? thanks!Thanks! :)

1. No, the bus won’t take the South Road. Hanggang junction lang talaga.

2. What’s your inn? Most inns are within walking distance from the junction.

3. Yes, same lang yung drop off and pick up point nung bus. :)

Sobrang thank you po, first time ko maglalakwatsa ng magisa. laking help po nito.

Kaya yan! Enjoy Sagada!

How much po kaya ang total expenses if I’m planning to go there alone? Kahit estimated amount lang po. Thank you!

I have two sons aged 13 and 6, who are excited to visit Sagada, do you think its ok to bring them along?

Hard to say. Most of Sagada’s main attractions are very physical — caves, trek to the waterfall, etc. I’m not sure if may age limit.

I haven’t tried traveling to Sagada with kids, but I know that if I did with the kids in my family, they would have enjoyed the hike — Bomod-Ok, Blue Hills, Kiltepan. But I wouldn’t have them join the spelunking (cave) tours. But that’s just us.

Hello, Whe you said,

“Sagada Town Proper isn’t the final stop of any of these buses. Don’t fall asleep when you’re nearing Sagada. You might miss your stop and end up in Besau.” – so where is the drop off?

The bus makes a stop at drops off passengers at Sagada junction.

The final stop of most buses is in Besau.

Hi po, ask ko po yung Transportation Fee like sa Bomod-ok eh roundtrip po ba yoon and good for ilang tao? Thank you po.

Hi Jayson, yep, two-way din ung sa Bomod-ok.

Di ko alam ilan kasya exactly pero maliit na jeepney yun. :)

How long will it take to hike to LUMIANG CAVE?

From the road to Lumiang Cave entrance? It was a very quick walk, around 5 minutes, if I remember correctly.

Hi! May I know is there a certain date before I can book the bus? eg: only 1 month in advance? I am going in March and I already tried booking but it’s all ‘There is no available bus’. I am kind of worried as I am not from Philippines and I already booked my flight. Thank you so much! Happy New Year!

Hi Kimmy, I’m not sure. I tried booking but it looks like only trips until Feb 29 is available for booking for now.

Hi! Do you know why the Kiltepan is closed? And Is it open now?

This was probably the reason: facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=352071655364129&id=100016838910305

NICE BLOG!!! I LIKE IT! <3

HI! Are the guide fees stated from the group tour you mentioned? thanks

Hi ! Dalawa lng po kme magtatravel this coming end of the month, would it be possible to join other groups there po ?. Inaallow po ba nila un? Thanks po in advance

Yep, pwede ka mag-request sa SAGGAS na imerge kayo with other groups. Pero syempre dapat pumayag yung ibang groups.

Hi, just want to know

May Bus ba or any public transport going to buscalan from Sagada :) para sulit ang trip sa north kc plan ko from sagada to buscalan ^_^ kay Apo Wang ood :)

Unfortunately, di pa kami nag-Kalinga. :(

Hi were planning to spend our christmas and new year 2020 in sagada with my family, relatives and friends. gusto namin ma-try yung bonfire fest and the other tours. may mai-recommend ka bang travel and tour guide for private tour. thanks!

Hi Belle, when you reach Sagada, you can go to SAGGAS. It’s the tour guide association in town. They organize the bonfire fest, and they have private tours too. You can try contacting them in advance.

Hi, until when is the suspension of the trips to sagada? And btw, regarding with the fee for example the fee is 800P for 1-4pax is does that mean if we are only 2 we needed to devide that into 2 and we have to pay 400 each? Thank you in advance. Nice blog tho.

Yep, P400 if dalawa lang kayo. :)

And if we travel the bus at 4PM from sagada to MNL what is the ETA? Thankyou again.

Wow! Such a great resource for a wonderful Sagada trip our family is planning next year. Thanks for this, very informative indeed. Hope all’s well by next year so we could visit the place.

wish that all Sagada activities will resume soon and we shall enjoy life – short as it is.

Hi – with that itinerary you provided, what is the estimated budget allowance?

Thank you, very helpful

Very informative… Hoping to visit Sagada the soonest…

hi, there is a bus from the junction to manila?

Hi Lyka, in our exprience the CodaLines bus (direct to Manila) waits for passengers near the junction. But best to book in advance.

Hi, thanks for the very detailed info. Just want to ask though if this itinerary is child-friendly? Or would you recommend other travel spots that we can bring a kid? Me and my wife is planning to go to Sagada with our 11 y.o. son this September. Thanks in advance.

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13 Best Sagada Tourist Spots

When you hear the word Sagada, what first comes to your mind? Is it the cool weather, the picturesque views, or the kiwi-like locals? If you haven’t been to this lovely mountain town yet, then now is the perfect time to plan your trip to this spectacular and jaw-dropping destination.

Sagada is at the heart of the Cordillera Mountains and is known for its breathtaking views. It has plenty of spots to explore and enjoy, from caves to waterfalls and natural springs. Thanks to its mesmerizing beauty, many movies have already featured the place, serving as a go-to spot for soul-searching and adventure.

You know what we mean if you have seen the movie “That Thing Called Tadhana”! The movie showed just how gorgeous that place is, but it is never enough actually to experience it. To help you get started on your Sagada trip, here is a list of the best spots you should visit when in town.

Table of Contents

Sumaguing Cave

The Sumaguing Cave is actually connected to another cave called the Lumian Cave. This place is a popular tourist spot due to its wide range of attractions. Sumaguing Cave has an underground river, waterfalls, and large chambers, while Lumian Cave has a wide variety of rock formations. You’ll be in awe at the grandeur and beauty of this place.

Make sure to bring a flashlight to explore the cave deeper. Experienced guides are also available to ensure your safety while exploring these splendid caves. The average person can explore the entire cave system in about three hours. Water is ice-cold, and a mushroom-like stone formation inside will make you want to take tons of pictures.

Sagada Rice Terraces

The intricate rice terraces are one of the most stunning sights in the province of Mountain Province. The architecture and design of the Sagada Rice Terraces are beautiful, featuring the stunning stone work of locals who lived there centuries ago. This is a must-see for every tourist.

The locals needed a way to farm on the mountainous terrain, so they carved out large steps and implemented sustainable irrigation. The breathtaking view is always a sight to behold and is definitely one of the best spots in Sagada.

Hanging Coffins

Another popular spot in Sagada is the Hanging Coffins, which is an important part of the culture of the locals in the area. It is a burial practice still observed today by some locals as part of their funeral rituals. Many people believe the wooden coffins to be more than a thousand years old.

The idea behind this practice is that it will bring the dead closer to heaven and closer to their ancestors. This has been a tradition since the time of their ancestors, with some locals still observing the ritual. It makes for a very interesting sight and definitely something that you should not miss when visiting Sagada.

Bokong Falls

If you want to experience a thrill-seeking adventure, head to Bokong Falls. This stunning waterfall is 60 meters high and one of the most picturesque spots in Sagada. There are no roads leading to this place, so you have to walk for about 40 minutes from the town center before reaching Bokong Falls.

The trek can be challenging and tiring, but the view is worth it. You’ll be able to relax and feel the mist from the waterfall. Plus, there are other nearby attractions that you can explore, such as Echo Valley and Bomod-ok Falls.

Mount Ampacao

Mount Ampacao is the highest peak in Sagada, at 2,407 meters. This is not for the faint-hearted due to its steep terrain and difficult trails. But if you’re up for the challenge, then it’s worth noting that you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of both Echo Valley and Bokong Falls.

The entire trek will take around 9-10 hours, and it is recommended that you bring a guide when attempting to conquer Mount Ampacao. It’s one of the most challenging yet fulfilling hikes in Sagada! Remember to bring your sunscreen, snacks, and plenty of water for the journey ahead.

Echo Valley

Echo Valley is the perfect place to view Sagada’s remarkable rice terraces and limestone formations. This is a great spot for tourists who want to explore more of the area and take tons of photos they can share with friends back home. Echo Valley has an amazing echo effect, which makes it even more special and fun.

Here, many tourists would shout till the sound echoed around the valley. It’s a great way to interact with nature and bond with friends or family. You can also do other activities like trekking, birdwatching, and camping in Echo Valley to make your Sagada getaway even more unforgettable.

For those who want an even more relaxed adventure, head on over to Lake Danum. This is the largest natural body of water in Sagada and a popular spot for swimming, fishing, and boating activities. The lake is surrounded by stunning flora and fauna that will capture your attention.

Fun fact: Danum is a Kankana-ey word that means water. 

Another fun fact: Danum also meant water in Kapampangan.

Bomod-Ok Falls

Bomod-ok Falls is a hidden gem in the mountains of Sagada. This beautiful cascade is only accessible by a steep stairway that’s surrounded by lush greenery. It’s definitely worth the effort because at the bottom, and you’ll find an enchanting swimming area in which visitors can enjoy a refreshing dip and soak up some sun.

Bomod-ok Falls is also known for its therapeutic properties, with many locals believing that the waters are blessed and have healing powers. If you get tired of swimming, you can simply sit beside the waterfalls and watch the cascading water flow. It’s definitely a wonderful sight to behold!

Church of St. Mary the Virgin

This is a famous landmark in Sagada that has been around since the 1800s. The Church of St. Mary the Virgin is a majestic brick Gothic structure that stands proudly in the center of town. It’s one of the oldest churches in the Philippines and remains a popular destination for tourists who want to explore its rich history.

You’ll find plenty of religious artifacts and artworks that tell stories about Sagada’s past inside. It’s a great place to learn more about the region and take amazing photographs of the intricate architecture.

Lumiang Burial Caves

Another unique attraction in Sagada is the Lumiang Burial Caves. Unlike the Hanging Coffins, the burial caves are on a limestone cliff and usually contain smaller coffins. Locals believed that those buried in these caves were the most loved ones of their families.

The burial cave is still open to visitors, but they must be respectful when exploring it as it is considered sacred by many locals. The caves are a wonderful reminder of the town’s culture and history, so make sure to snap some photos or videos!

Ganduyan Museum

The Ganduyan Museum is probably the best place to learn about Sagada’s heritage and culture. This museum houses artifacts, photos, and other memorabilia about the town’s history. There are also interactive activities that visitors can do, such as weaving traditional fabrics, pottery-making, and tasting samples of local delicacies.

Marlboro Hill

Marlboro hill is a great sunrise spot and one of the best hiking spots in Sagada. To get there, you’ll pass a forest of pine trees, rock formations, rice terraces, and even the famous Blue Soil. It’s a good alternative to Kiltepan Peak.

Kiltepan Peak

Lastly, no trip to Sagada is complete without visiting Kiltepan Peak. This provides an unobstructed view of the sun as it rises above the mountains. The view is especially breathtaking during sunrise, so you definitely won’t want to miss it!

You can go to Kiltepan Peak by taking a short hike from the main road of Sagada. Be sure to dress warmly and bring snacks when attempting this trek, as it may take up to an hour. The picturesque mountains and rice terraces of Sagada along with the grandeur of sunrises and sunsets will leave you in awe of your surroundings.

One thing is for sure: if you choose to explore Sagada, it will be an unforgettable experience! From stunning waterfalls to impressive limestone formations, Sagada has something for everyone. Whether you’re a hiker looking for an adrenaline-pumping adventure or a family seeking a peaceful getaway, you’ll surely find something to love about this unique and beautiful place. So why not visit Sagada today? You won’t regret it!

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Sagada Tourist Spot Guide – 18 Authentic Places to Visit in Mountain Province

• by Hungry Traveller
• October 15, 2020 February 7, 2022

Learn from this Sagada Tourist Spot list why this small town remains a favorite local destination.

Sagada is a small town in Mountain Province enriched with its natural landscape and preserved way of life. Its chilly climate makes it perfect for a long weekend getaway for both backpackers and adventure lovers.

According to Climate-Data.org , the average temperature in Sagada is 19 degrees C annually. Its hottest temperature peaks at 24 degrees C from April to May, while January to February has an average low of 12-13 degrees C.

With its mountainous setup like Baguio , Sagada offers plenty of natural attractions perfect for excursions.

Book your tour to Sagada in advance so that you can save from accommodation fees. The most visited month is January, followed by November to December.

Traveling to Sagada

Traveling from Manila to Sagada takes around 10-12 hours, depending on the season and the number of stopovers.

While taking a bus is the most cost-effective way for backpackers and solo travelers, bus operators commonly offer night departures.

You can also book private cars if you have that extra budget to arrive quicker.

Here is the list of Sagada Tourist Spot you can add to your itinerary

Table of Contents

1. The Hanging Coffins of Sagada

Hanging a deceased loved one’s casket is an ancient tradition in Mountain Province. As a result, the hanging coffins became an iconic Sagada tourist spot .

They believe that placing their loved one’s remains on a higher altitude brings the souls closer to the heavens. Thus, hanging on the mountain cliff became a tradition for 2000 years.

Hire a local guide to explain how they brought and suspended the coffins above the cliff.

You can observe Sagada’s hanging coffins from a distance or trek for half an hour down the cliff and see up close.

Indeed, visiting the Sagada hanging coffins gives you a glimpse of its uniqueness and tradition.

2. Sumaguing Cave

Prepare for unforgettable spelunking at the Sumaguing Cave . Best for a group activity, exploring its chambers is hugely challenging at some point.

The natural rock formations inside will stun you as some of them resemble animal and humans shapes.

While it is expected of you to get wet, wearing proper gear will let you maximize spelunking at Sumaguing Cave.

Passing through some chambers of the cave is no easy task. For example, you’ll have to be passing on a narrow boulder, climb a rock and rappel down, and even pass on a cold pool of water.

Exploring the cave usually takes two hours, depending on the tourist’s volume.

Drop by first at its tourism office to secure a permit and have a local guide assigned to your group.

However, you can warm up by walking from the municipal office to the cave for approximately 30 minutes.

Spelunking in Sumaguing cave makes a top Sagada tourist spot choice for adventure lovers as a whole.

3. Lumiang Cave

Finishing your Sumaguing Cave adventure leads you to the Lumiang Cave because of its underground passage connection.

You can see a stockpile of tiny coffins that have been there for over 500 years from its entrance. The caskets blend to the color of rocks as well.

Visiting Lumpiang Cave separately, on the other hand, lets you trek down with the help of a guided railing for a few minutes.

Taking the Sumaguing Cave tour includes the Lumiang Cave, though.

4. Echo Valley

Another way to see the hanging coffins of Sagada is by visiting the Echo Valley .

Trek down the valley for about 20 minutes, and you will be passing by the local cemetery and the Calvary Hill.

Its name comes from the fact that sounds resonate back from the mountains, especially when you shout loud. Testing the sounds is not allowed anymore, though.

In today’s modern time, some locals still practice burials at the mountain cliffs.

Visiting the Echo Valley gives you a different view and a meaningful perspective of their culture.

5. Kapay-aw Rice Terraces

From its mountainous terrain, towns near Sagada also share rice terraces, just like those from Ifugao. And that is the Kapay-aw rice terraces .

Though not as high as those in Banaue, Ifugao, the rice fields still look breathtaking from afar.

You can stop by the road and be mesmerized by its panoramic view when heading to Sagada.

Visiting this Sagada tourist spot is indeed beautiful scenery every traveler can appreciate. You get to have a lush green view after the planting season, while a golden mountain range when it is about to harvest.

6. Bomod-ok Falls

If there are mountains, there are probably falls, too. The Bomod-ok Falls is among those the province has.

Reaching the falls, however, requires an hour of trekking. That includes passing by the Kapay-aw rice terraces and a small village. You need to register at Barangay Banga-an and hire a guide first, though.

Immerse yourself in the refreshing waters of the falls as a reward for your long trek. The falls make a lovely backdrop, too, if you like to snap some photos.

After a long journey, it certainly rewards you with its natural charm. This Sagada tourist spot makes a great addition to your itinerary.

7. Kiltepan Viewpoint

The Kiltepan Viewpoint is the perfect place to witness a mesmerizing sunrise from a high altitude for tourists who seek the sea of clouds.

Access to the vantage point requires around 40 minutes of trek, or hire a car to get to the site fast.

While it is relatively cold in Sagada, you should wear a comfortable dress to enjoy the view.

Watch as the sun rises from the mountains of Cordillera and be stunned by the sea of clouds.

While waiting, you can also indulge in local Sagada coffee that is offered by a cafe nearby. They also sell champurrado (hot chocolate porridge), which is perfect for the chilly weather.

8. Marlboro Hills

Another location to witness the sea of clouds is trekking to Marlboro Hills .

Hike the rolling hills for an early morning adventure. Likewise, reaching the viewpoint gives you a 360-degree view of the seemingly endless mountain ranges and the sea of clouds.

This alternative location for witnessing the great sea of clouds keeps you away from the crowd at Kiltepoint Viewpoint.

Worry not to get thirsty as there are stalls positioned along the trails.

9. Lake Danum

Spend your afternoon chasing sunset at the Lake Danum .

It takes an hour of trekking getting there, though. You can opt to hire a tricycle if your legs are in awe after a day full of walking.

Lakes above mountains are very rare, so make sure to visit this as well.

Grasses cover the lake’s perimeter and make an ideal sitting spot while waiting for sundown. It makes an excellent option for campers, too.

You can also spend the rest of the day for a quick picnic by the lake. Pop-up stores selling snacks are around the corners as well.

Take a picture for the gram, or thoroughly enjoy a different view while on the high altitude.

10. Blue Hills

After watching the sea of clouds at Kiltepan or Marlboro Hills, Visiting the Blue Hills is an excellent move to maximize your Sagada tour.

The hills’ surface turns bluish thanks to its copper component. To protect the area, the local government thus prohibits mining from these hills.

Feel like you’re in a magical place while taking some photographs. Carefully explore the steep hills by wearing appropriate gear.

The surrounding pine trees also complement the spectacular spot so that you can enjoy your quick getaway.

Plan your next tour now and include this to your Sagada tourist spot list.

11. Pongas Falls

Aside from the Bomod-ok Falls, there goes another must-see water feature by the name of Pongas Falls .

Also referred to as the Twin Falls of Sagada, the Pongas Falls stands smaller than Bomod-ok Falls.

You will be passing by a humble village, and the trail itself is much easier than that of Bomod-ok.

You would consider dedicating at least half of the day to catch up with the time of trekking back and forth, though.

Take a dip in its refreshing waters while feeding your soul with a breathtaking view. You can also climb up halfway and rest below the rushing waters that act as a water massage.

12. Bokong Falls

Bokong means small, and it is where its name came.

You can add the Bokong Falls to the Echo Valley tour because of their proximity.

With its more accessible trail, you can instantly enjoy the cold waters of its running waters.

Its open basin is relatively deep and is perfect for taking a quick swim.

Try visiting Bokong Falls instead of its challenging counterparts. It is an excellent way to relax your busy feet after some time.

13. Mount Ampacao

Hiking enthusiasts and beginners should not miss the opportunity to visit Mount Ampacao when you are in Sagada.

Reaching the 1800-meter summit takes you around less than two hours from Ambasing Elementary School, depending on your pace. Getting to the true summit, however, takes you another 40 minutes of steep trekking.

Dedicate at least half of the day, especially when you plan to traverse the Lake Danum in the afternoon.

Consider bringing with you enough water as it is deliberately hot during the summer.

14. Episcopal Church

Built during the American occupation, The Episcopal Church of Saint Mary The Virgin serves as the main church in Sagada.

It is a Protestant church, and most of the citizens in the town are baptized here.

The old church features stone-walled architecture and stained glasses. Its bluish door adds instantly adds curiosity to anyone who visits the place.

Take some time to drop by before or after your tour at Sagada. It is always nice to have a solemn moment once in a while, especially when traveling.

After a long day of the tour, you can relax in its surroundings shortly, thanks to the cold climate and greeneries around.

15. Ganduyan Museum

The Ganduyan Museum is a private museum found in the town proper.

This museum showcases a vast collection of traditional specimens like sculptures, tools, jewelry, and fabrics.

Visiting the museum includes a brief introduction to the rich culture and tradition of Sagada by the owner.

16. Orange Picking

Like the strawberry picking in Baguio , you can try orange picking at Sagada Rock Inn & Cafe.

Rent a car to quickly reach the cafe in exchange for an hour of walk from the town center.

First, you need to pay a small entrance fee, and you are good to go picking some fresh fruits. Note, however, that you’ll be paying for the picked oranges after the activity.

Be sure to include this unique experience to your Sagada tourist spot list and enjoy the rest of your stay.

You can try tasting their local dishes after your orange picking activity.

17. Sagada Weaving

For your souvenir items, you can drop by at Sagada Weaving . Here, you can watch how locals make their patterned fabrics.

This humble shop sells coin purses, handbags, and other products made from woven fabrics.

Their fabrics are meticulously crafted hand-in-hand and assure you of their uniqueness and originality.

If you love traditional textiles, shop at Sagada Weaving, as prices are comparatively lower than those sold at your local boutique shops.

18. Sagada Pottery and Training Center

Visit the Sagada Pottery and Training Center when you are traveling with your kids.

They offer an introductory lesson in pottery, and the best part is you try it out by yourself.

However, note that you cannot bring your handcrafted pots with you because of their curing process. Instead, they offer finished products ready for sale.

Overall, it is an excellent experience worthy for kids and adults alike.

🔗Read nearby Tourist Destination | Baguio |

List your sagada tourist spot itinerary now.

Sagada is known as the best-kept secret of the North. With tourism significantly increasing year by year, some Sagada tourist spot caters to enormous crowds, especially during peak months.

It is truly a fantastic experience traveling to places like Sagada while you are still young. To maximize your trip, you have to immerse yourself in its outdoor fun activities.

Visiting Sagada entails being a responsible tourist. The place is considered sacred to its locals and a place for serenity and finding inner peace.

Prepare your itinerary now from the list above. Make sure to plan your DIY or organized tour so that you can maximize staying and discovering the beautiful Sagada.

Safe Travels!

Remember that we are still in the middle of a pandemic. For your guidance about the changes in health protocols and travel requirements, you may visit their Facebook page or the official page of the Department of Tourism . Stay safe.

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Sagada Travel Guide: A Peaceful Mountain Destination

Best Time to Go to Sagada

• How to Get to Sagada

By Private and Shared/Joiner Tours

By private car, where to stay in sagada, what to see and do in sagada, spelunking at sumaguing cave, see the view at kiltepan peak and marlboro hills, walk through history at lumiang burial cave, rise and shine at kapay-aw rice terraces, know the beginnings of sagada at ganduyan museum, forget the blues at blue soil hills, what to eat in sagada, practical information and tips, what to wear, what to bring, sample itinerary in sagada, day 0: travel to sagada, day 1: arrival + cultural tour, day 2: sightseeing + weaving + cave excursion, day 3: museum tour + nature appreciation + souvenir shopping, day 4: departure.

Explore the laidback town of Sagada in the Mountain Province known for its hanging coffins. Find out the best time to go, how to get there, the top attractions to visit and activities to try, what to eat, and how to plan your itinerary with this guide. 

If your idea of the perfect vacation is waking up to sunny yet chilly weather, with lush natural landscapes as your backdrop, Sagada is going to be your happy place.

• Find the best tours in Sagada  for your travel itinerary 
• Book this  1-week Ilocos Baguio Sagada tour package

Situated in the Mountain Province of Cordillera Administrative Region in North Luzon, around 415 km from Manila, Sagada offers a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. 

Famed for its mysterious and historic hanging coffins, these Sagada tourist attractions are a testament to 2,000 years of Igorot burial traditions that you can marvel at today.

Sagada is known for its scenic and calming mountain valleys, rice fields, limestone caves, refreshing waterfalls, and cliffs that come with a sea of clouds. 

See our popular Sagada Tours and Activities

Private sagada tour to cultural & nature attractions with snacks & transfers from baguio, ultimate 1-month philippine adventure tour package to boracay, palawan, siargao, bohol, cebu, baguio, sagada cave connection spelunking with transfers & guide | sumaguing cave & lumiang burial cave.

Add to that the friendly Igorot locals, fresh servings of food, coffee, and lemon pies. It’s a destination where you can find the peace and quiet you’ve been yearning for. 

Read on to know more about Sagada to plan your ultimate getaway. 

Sagada weather is similar to Baguio - chilly on both dry and wet seasons. Being in a mountainous region, it’s a haven away from the humidity in other Philippine cities, and where agriculture is a booming business of bountiful fresh vegetables and fruits.

The best time to go and discover Sagada is during the wet season (November to February) where you can expect temperatures that drop to as low as 4 degrees Celsius.

The wet season is also the harvest period for fruits and produce so you can taste the best of Sagada and participate in festivals. The only downside would be the crowds as this is also considered as the peak season for travelers.

In fact, specific festivals are held to celebrate the harvest season from October to early January. Rice is also celebrated through Begnas Festival, a sacred thanksgiving tradition that happens three to four times a year.

Panag-etag, a festival native to Sagada, is a tradition that locals do to preserve their ancient culture, encourage ecotourism, and improve the economy. It happens annually from January 30 to February 2 where every visitor can participate and partake in various ceremonies (parades, holy mass, rituals).

• Book this Sagada Buscalan tour package

If you want to avoid heavy crowds, you can go just in time before the rainy season starts (June to October). You can expect a colder climate than usual due to the rain showers so it’s important to bring raincoats and umbrellas to keep you warm.

The dry season (March to May) is also known as summertime in Sagada. Expect moderate crowds, and warm weather conditions so dress comfortably.

Depending on your vacation schedule, secure your trip by planning ahead and checking the weather conditions and calendar events to prepare against the weather and crowds.

How to Get to Sagada

What was once a challenging place to visit, is now made convenient with multiple ride options bound for Sagada.

Due to the popularity of the place, tour and bus companies have made it possible to enjoy a smooth and streamlined system despite the long hours of travel.

Here are the ways and some tips on how to best visit Sagada:

Bus trips are the easiest way to visit Sagada due to the amount of operating companies available in Pasay and Cubao. It’s also the most wallet-friendly way to travel, if you don’t mind the longer travel hours and stopovers.

From Manila via Baguio

If you’re coming from Manila, you can buy tickets at Victory Liner , one of the regular bus companies that operate daily to and from Manila to Baguio. They have terminals at Pasay, Cubao, and Caloocan and you can choose from a basic or deluxe riding experience.

Within 4 to 6 hours, you will arrive at Baguio City where you have to ride a taxi bound for Dangwa Station to ride the GL Trans Bus going to Sagada. Trips are from 6AM to 1PM, and will take you around 5 to 6 hours.

From Manila via Benguet

In Sampaloc, Manila you can ride Dangwa Tranco bound for Banaue. Buses leave at 10PM and takes around 9 hours. Upon arrival in Banaue, you can ride jeepneys to Sagada. There are mini buses and vans as well but only on rare occasions.

The entire trip will take 3 to 4 hours with the same road conditions as the Baguio route so prepare wisely to have a comfortable journey.

Non-Stop Bus from Manila 

Coda Lines operates non-stop trips from Quezon City to Sagada every 9PM, with a total of 10 to 15 hours trip (including stopovers). There are also additional trips in super deluxe, deluxe, and VIP service. Apart from the non-stop route from Manila to Sagada and back, Coda Lines also have routes on Bontoc, Banaue, Baguio, and Kiangan.

If you’re looking for a cost-efficient and time-efficient way to travel to and from Sagada, your best option would be to book tour operators.

A lot of tour operators offer both transportation, accommodation, entrance fees, activity itineraries, and food so you won’t have to plan other things and focus on experiencing Sagada to the fullest.

Make sure to find the right tour operator - do your research, check the comments, ratings, and reviews, compare tour packages and you’re all set!

If you plan to Do-It-Yourself your entire Sagada trip, you can approach it in two ways: renting a car with driver, or driving on your own.

If you want to go around most Sagada tourist spots at your own pacing, having your own car will be the best option to make. Sagada is a mobile data / Wi-Fi friendly place so you can Waze or Google Maps your itinerary away.

Here are some tips to help you prepare for the long and challenging ride ahead if you’re up for the task and the experience:

If renting a car/car driver to Sagada:

1. Social media is your friend. A lot of individuals are now offering rent-a-car / van services on different daily rates. Check previous user reviews and make sure to ask everything especially about gas, car limitations, driver rates (if renting one), etc.

2. Save the contact numbers and arrange schedules before your trip. Don’t let stress get in the way of your Sagada getaway.

3. Make sure the rented car is in the best condition and ready to face Sagada’s rough roads.

If driving on your own to Sagada:

1. The roads of Sagada are bumpy, twisty, and extremely challenging. It won’t be an easy ride especially once you arrive at the mountainous roads of Baguio to Sagada, particularly the Halsema Highway (the ‘Mountain Trail’, one of the Philippines’ deadliest highways).

If you’re a city driver, it might take time to adjust to the long ride + road condition so prepare ahead. If you’re not confident enough to face the road, renting a driver might be suitable.

2. With the construction of TPLEX (Tarlac - Pangasinan - La Union Expressway), the total ride to Sagada have been reduced to 8 to 12 hours depending on your driving speed and resting times.

To maximize time, you have to go for an overnight drive (around 10PM) to avoid traffic and rushing crowds especially during holidays or vacation season.

You have an option to rest at Baguio City and wait until dawn to continue driving to Sagada so you can better manage the road and see clearly. There are gas stations and food stores along the way so you can be rest assured you’ll be covered.

3. While there’s mobile signal and Wi-Fi in Sagada’s main town proper, you might get signal bumps prior to your arrival as you’ll be driving beside mountains where GPS / internet connectivity might get slow or lost.

To prevent this, you can download the offline version of the map to Sagada via Waze or Google Maps. You can also ask locals along the way but it might be a bit tricky especially if you’re driving at night.

4. Make sure to get your car checked and ready for the long ride. Experiencing engine failures will eat up your time and make you more tired to continue the journey. Ensure your car is in the best shape so you can have a continuous drive.

5. Take rests if you must! Have a shifting schedule if you have a fellow driver in your travel party. Never drive when you’re sleepy or tired.

Remember: You’re driving along the mountains so there are instances of falling rocks and cliffs. Avoid accidents by being in tiptop shape as well. Bring energy snacks and drinks, be patient, and drive carefully.

You can enjoy a variety of Sagada hotels and other accommodation styles. From Bed and Breakfasts (BNBs), private hotels, hostels, and homestays, you have a lot of options to choose from.

Budget Accommodation

As you’ve probably read and heard from fellow travelers, Sagada is a budget-friendly place - from food, activities, to accommodations. Whether you’re looking for a comfortable place to crash the night for a few days, or a luxurious stay, you’ve got lots to choose from:

Shamrock Tavern Inn

Located at Makingking, Demang, Shamrock Tavern Inn is a cozy room ideal for backpackers aiming for a short-term stay.

The inn comes with free internet and parking, dry cleaning and laundry service, room service, concierge, sun terrace, and a restaurant bar / lounge. The location is also near common spots such as GAIA Café & Crafts, Sagada Brew, and Hanging Coffins .

Isabelo’s Inn and Cafe

Isabelo’s Inn and Café provides a place for relaxation and rejuvenation at the heart of Poblacion, Sagada.

Famous for its family-friendly features as well as proximity to known spots, the inn also includes free internet and breakfast, non-smoking and family-friendly hotel rooms, and laundry service.

Agape Log Cabin and Restaurant

Somewhere at Dagdag, Sagada lies an enchanting cabin that’s made entirely of logs. If you’re looking for a rustic, yet moody stay Agape Log Cabin and Restaurant is the perfect pick for you.

What’s more, it comes with free parking and Wi-Fi, non-smoking hotel and family rooms, restaurant, and laundry service.

Mid-range Accommodations

If you have some budget to spare, you can level up your accommodation preference with these options:  

Coffee Heritage House & Hostel

If you’re a coffee lover, this pleasant hostel at Sitio Nadatngan, Brgy. Madongo, Sagada will pump you up. As the first coffee-themed destination in town, Coffee Heritage House & Hostel is more than just a bed and breakfast.

Here you will meet coffee enthusiasts and specialists as well as partake in coffee-related activities that help promote Philippine coffee.

Apart from the smell of coffee in the morning, there’s also free Wi-Fi and parking, non-smoking hotel and family rooms with multilingual staff, breakfast offering, laundry service, and a restaurant bar / lounge to get you settled.

Treasure Rock Inn

Great views, great atmosphere, great stay. The Treasure Rock Inn at Makingking, Demang, Sagada is a great valuable find when finding your second home at Sagada.

Warm, cozy, and welcoming, you can also find free Wi-Fi and parking, non-smoking hotel and family rooms, kitchenette, and a bar / lounge to complete your experience.

Inandako's BNB

A family-owned establishment, the Inandakos BNB situated at Kenlibed, Dagdag, Sagada provides a genuine hostel environment for all – cozy and comfy beds, social places, serene atmosphere, and energizing coffee.

Complete your stay with free Wi-Fi, non-smoking hotel and family rooms, and several breakfast offering.

Luxury Accommodations

While Sagada is not a place to seek exceptional luxury hotels, it still has its own share of high-quality quarters:

Martha’s Hearth

Sheltering travelers since the ‘70s, Martha’s Hearth is a guesthouse where you’ll always feel at home in Dokkos, Sagada. Here, guests are treated as family and will forever be treated as one.

Newly reopened and renovated, the inn provides a majestic experience with free parking and romantic hotel-style features. 

Nellies Chalet Sagada

A luxury inn found at the quiet streets of Nangonogan Road, Sagada. Aunt Nellie’s Chalet has four comfortable rooms you can call your own for the duration of your stay. Experience peace and quiet as you fully immerse in the surroundings. The chalet also comes with free Wi-Fi and parking.

Rock Inn is a mid-range and quaint hotel style at Batalao, Sagada that’s known for its fresh oranges and vegetables harvest.

Bask in nature and enjoy raw food from the gardens of the inn, as you relax your heart out at the Filipino-style rooms. Also available at the inn is free parking, non-smoking hotel and family rooms, shuttle bus service, and restaurant.

While the peace and quiet is an enchanting quality, Sagada offers a multitude of activities for the young at heart, adventurous at heart, and wanderers at heart.

Known as ‘The Big Cave’, Sumaguing Cave has the largest enclosure from the 60 caves found underneath Sagada. Spelunking in Sumaguing Cave is a popular activity when in Sagada as you will see countless rock formations - animals, food, and people shapes.

The entire trail is divided into three levels:

Level 1 - Going down the cliffs (caution: it’s slippery and full of bat wastes)

Level 2 - Rock formations (reminder: shoes and slippers will be removed)

Level 3 - Get wet in the tunnel (prepare: move through narrow openings and wash in stone-cold waters

Sagada is famous for its sea of clouds sighting at Kiltepan Peak and Marlboro Hills. You can either camp out to wake up to this majestic view or wake up before dawn breaks to rise in time with the sun and clouds.

Plan early, the sea of clouds viewing is one of the most popular things to do at Sagada and there will be lots of people waiting for the morning to rise. This is where people with broken or complete hearts go to.

Tip: ride the jeepney en route to Kiltepan or Marlboro Hills, topload version. It’s fun, thrilling, and you get to see marvelous sights as you breeze through!

A 30-minute walk from town will take you to Sagada’s ancient sites. This is where the oldest coffin is said to be 500 years old.

You know you’ve reached the cave when you see hundreds of stacked coffins at the entrance, with symbolic markings of life and fertility. The ‘Cave Connection’ challenge starts with the Lumiang Burial Cave.

Kapay-Aw rice terraces is Sagada’s own version of the rice terraces in Banaue. It’s not just a simple walk in the terraces, you can see the lush agriculture life cultivated by the locals to make time for harvest. As you climb and rise through the stairs you will see a majestic view that only the sunshine-y valleys of Sagada can provide.

Ganduyan, the Kankana-ey origin of Sagada’s name is a fitting name for this museum. Listen to Christina Aben (owner of the museum) as she narrates Sagada’s birth and the stories in between.

You can view sculptures, traditional clothes, and Sagada’s rich history inside, however picture-taking is not allowed.

This is an awe-inspiring natural wonder. Best viewed after the Marlboro Hills sunrise viewing or just before sunset, let yourself be transported to a fantasy land once you caught sight of Blue Soil Hills and the towering trees surrounding it.

While the trek to Blue Soil Hills is achievable even for beginners, wear appropriate trekking equipment to avoid injuries.

There are a lot of food and culinary trips you can do in the Philippines, which is why you should try out local food and restaurants during your trip to the beautiful province of Sagada.

Sagada Lemon Pie House

Lemons are an unusual sight in the Philippines. But in Sagada, it’s a different case. The famous lemon pie from Sagada Lemon Pie House is one of the most sought after treats that will complete your Sagada adventure.

In fact, the rustic feel and interior complement the food you will be consuming - warm, hearty, and memorable.

Apart from lemon pies, they also offer other breakfast, lunch, and dinner meals. If you plan to order boxes of lemon pies, make sure to order in advance as they tend to get sold out - quick!

GAIA Cafe & Crafts

An atmospheric place to be creative, relax, and be one with nature as you marvel at the lush forests of Ambasing, Namsung, Balugan / Bugang, Ankilang, and Suyo valleys. 

Best time to eat here is during brunch or merienda to savor their locally-grown delights and coffee and view the Kankana-ey fashion and crafts.

Yoghurt House

Yoghurt House has been voted as the #1 best food house in Sagada. While their yoghurt is a must-try (it’s a different experience than the ones available in the metro cities) their fresh and local menu leads to a good morning, indeed.

After eating, you may view the Sagada photo exhibit but taking pictures are prohibited.

Tip: the first floor gets crowded easily so best to find a place near the windows (if you don’t mind the jeepney fumes) or find a seat at the second floor or balcony - fast.

Currency 

There are ATMs near the tourism center for you to use. But it’s still best to bring enough cash in case of emergencies.

Pack lightly, but wisely. Depending on the season, make sure to bring comfortable and light clothes for layering to counter the cold and activewear for spelunking and trekking. Bring sandals, slippers, and first aid kit to help you with motion sickness and injuries.

Make sure to bring medicine. The way to Sagada contains lots of twists, turns, and bumps, so you have to arm yourself with remedies to counter motion and altitude sickness.  

Travel responsibly. Refuse single-use plastics and utensils. Bring your own tumblers, lunch boxes, and utensils to reduce trash. Sagada is an eco-friendly destination and every traveler is encouraged to practice and be a good steward of responsible traveling.

With so many activities and attractions to see in Sagada, how do you schedule them in your trip? We recommend at least 4 days in Sagada for the complete experience. Here’s a sample itinerary to guide you.

See our popular North Luzon Tour Packages

2-day adventure to buscalan kalinga tattoo village of apo whang-od from manila with homestay & meals, aureo hotel la union overnight package with breakfast, fascinating 7-day history, heritage & nature tour to laoag, pagudpud & vigan ilocos from manila.

09:00 PM - Departure from Manila

08:00 - 09:00 AM - Arrive in Sagada 

09:30 AM - Visit Sagada Tourism Center (registration, tour packages) 

12:00 NN - Lunch at Yoghurt House 

02:00 PM - Hotel check-in 

02:30 PM - Visit Echo Valley, Hanging Coffins, Church of St. Mary the Virgin, and more. It's included in a day tour in Sagada

04:00 AM - Visit Kiltepan Peak. Go sightseeing in Marlboro Hills 

08:00 AM - Visit Sagada Brew

0 9:00 AM - Try Sagada weaving and pottery 

10:00 AM - Cave connection experience. Lumiang and Sumaguing Caves are popular attractions included in Sagada tours

02:00 PM - Visit Sagada Lemon Pie House 

07:00 PM - Dinner 

06:00 AM - Blue Soil Hills 

10:00 AM - Brunch at GAIA Arts & Crafts 

11:00 AM - Ganduyan Museum 

12:00 NN - Lunch 

01:00 PM - Kapay-aw Rice Terraces 

02:00 PM - Sagada Cemetery 

03:00 PM - Sagada orchard (ideal for harvest season) 

04:00 PM - Souvenir shopping 

09:00 AM - Hotel check-out 

10:00 AM - Breakfast 

11:00 AM - Back to Manila

Start Planning Your Trip to Sagada Philippines

If you find yourself going to bed and dreaming of a calming fortress away from the busy concrete jungle, it’s a sign that you have to go to Sagada and explore its tourist spots, stat.

Gather your family, invite your friends, call your special someone, or go on your own - take this moment to collect your thoughts and reward yourself with a well-deserved break at Sagada.

Bookmark this guide to help you plan your ultimate Sagada getaway. The journey might be long, but it’s going to be worth more than what you see on the pictures and blogs. Look into Sagada tours and activities that you can add to your itinerary for a hassle-free adventure.

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9 Places to Visit in Sagada and Mountain Province + Things To Do

The Philippines isn’t just all about postcard-perfect beaches. It has cool highland destinations too! If you want to be close to nature and the Philippines’ mountain culture, venture north of Manila and visit Sagada. You can find this small town high in the mist-covered Cordillera (mountain range) of Northern Luzon.

Surrounded by spectacular mountain views, Sagada is most-known for the bizarre hanging coffins, a burial tradition that has survived for over 2,000 years. When in town, don’t miss the cave connection tour (Sumaging-Lumiang Cave), sunrise view from above a sea of clouds at Kiltepan Peak, the local coffee (best in PH) & hike to the many waterfalls in the area including Bomod-ok Falls and Pongas Falls.

To help with your trip planning, I’ve added links to the locations on Google Maps. Feel free to click/tap on the links posted below. Then, use the “save” feature on the Google Maps app for easy reference. But before you start ticking goals off your bucketlist, here are travel essentials & discounts you’ll need to check. Pre-book online for a hassle-free trip!

Sagada travel essentials

Click below to compare rates & read reviews:

Sagada Hotels Flights

View all travel tips on: Sagada .

1. Echo Valley & Sugong Hanging Coffins

Location : Sagada, Mountain Province, Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), Luzon Island, Philippines . Save on Google Maps .

For more travel inspiration,  follow Detourista on :

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2. Lumiang Burial Caves

Location : South Rd, Sagada, Mountain Province . Save on Google Maps .

3. Sumaging-Lumiang Cave Connection

4. Bomod-ok Falls

Location : Aguid-Pide-Fidelisan Trail, Sagada, Mountain Province . Save on Google Maps .

5. Aguid Rice Terraces

Location : Aguid Rd, Sagada, Mountain Province . Save on Google Maps .

6. Pongas Falls

Location : Ankileng, Sagada, Mountain Province . Save on Google Maps .

7. Kapay-aw Rice Terraces (South Central Sagada Rice Terraces)

Save on Google Maps .

8. Sagada Food Trip

Yogurt House Location:   Save on Google Maps .

Log Cabin Location:   Save on Google Maps .

Sagada Lemon Pie House Location:   Save on Google Maps .

Pinikpikan Haus Location:   Save on Google Maps .

9. Church of St. Mary the Virgin

Location : Staunton Rd . Save on Google Maps .

Other interesting spots in Sagada

Lake Danum Location:   Save on Google Maps .

Ganduyan Museum Location:   Save on Google Maps .

Sagada Weaving Location:   Save on Google Maps .

Sagada Pottery House Location:   Save on Google Maps .

Orange Picking Location:   Save on Google Maps .

Marlboro Hills Location:   Save on Google Maps .

Blue Soil Hills Location:   Save on Google Maps .

Kiltepan View Location:   Save on Google Maps .

Where to go near Sagada

Location : Mountain Province . Save on Google Maps .

Location : Ifugao province . Save on Google Maps .

Where to stay

See more : Banaue travel tips

Location : Benguet . Save on Google Maps .

Where to stay Tours + discounts

Top discounts

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The Manor at Camp John Hay (Overnight Stay) with Breakfast

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What places have you added to your bucketlist? Have you been to beautiful places in Sagada that should be on this list? Feel free to share your thoughts!

Places to visit in Sagada

Sagada tourist spots, things to do in Sagada, where to go in Sagada & more.

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

Where to Stay in Sagada

Click below & search recommended Sagada hotels/hostels/home rentals within your budget. Remember to set your  min/max price , travel dates, and  sort by review ratings . I often book online with these trusted booking sites below for rock-bottom prices & convenient bookings.

Agoda Booking.com

Book sooner rather than later if you already have your dates set. Cheaper-priced rooms and hotels with high reviews tend to get fully booked faster, especially during busy days like weekends, holidays & peak tourist seasons.

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Home » Southeast Asia » Philippines » Sagada

The ULTIMATE Sagada Travel Guide (2024 • updated)

Exactly like a mangy stray after a bath, a pedicure and a long visit to the veterinarian, Sagada is currently getting a lot more love than it used to.

And it is DESERVING!

It is a welcome break from the infallible exhaustion of gorgeous sandy beaches, offering clear mountain air , fascinating cave systems, and, of course, the echo valley hanging coffins.

In my top tier S agada travel guide , I’m going to be exposing all the info you need to ensure an action-packed and mostly problem free visit. I might even tell you how to save a bit of money too…

Let’s get into it!

Why Visit Sagada?

A sample 3-day itinerary for sagada, top things to do in sagada, backpacker accommodation in sagada, sagada backpacking costs, sagada travel guide budget travel tips, the best time to visit sagada, staying safe in sagada, sagada travel guide to getting around, working and volunteering in sagada, nightlife according to my sagada travel guide, faqs about travelling to sagada, final thoughts.

If my spectacular introduction has not yet convinced you that my Sagada Travel Guide holds some crucial (and juicy) knowledge, you and I are going to have some serious words later ( ED : or more likely, you and me).

Anyway, Sagada is an awesome location to add to any Philippines trip ! Especially if you are one of those beautiful people who loves varying their experiences and getting off the beaten path. Mountains? Caves? Limestone cliffs decorated by coffins? Legendary …

Why else should you visit Sagada (and utilise my epic Sagada travel guide)?

It is seriously cheap. The cost of living in the Philippines is low, and this means that you can send it up a mountain, explore the tastiest places and stay at surprisingly lush accommodations for pennies on the dollar.

The people (as with most places in the Philippines), are super friendly and generous, making Sagada a fantastic place for better exploring local culture. Beaches are cool, but they can sap the exoticism from a place, in the form of multiple little stars…

So what does a trip here look like? For starters, you have to remember to register online and book a single night’s accommodation at a trusted location. You need this to get through the border!

There are increasing amounts of red tape to account for the number of tourists. It’s worth double-checking what is and isn’t allowed. However, I do know that you must stay for at least one night! So why not try 3…?

Day 1: The Tourist Office, Sumaguing Cave, Lake Danum

There’s no way anyone is taking part in a sunset hike on day 1. But that doesn’t mean that things won’t get done! Head to the Sagada Tourism office to book your tours (and the mountain sunrise on day 2). Yes, you may part with a significant cash sum, but there is an ATM in the town, and this will be one of your biggest expenses.

The Ganduyan Museum is worth an hour, and grab a delicious breakfast at any of the local cafes nearby.

Next, we’re going to get stuck into the Sumaguing Cave , one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area. It is a caving experience, so get ready to climb through some tight spaces and see weird cave stuff. The whole activity takes 2 hours, with transport either way.

You’re likely to be pretty tired after caving, so we’ll head to Lake Danum for gorgeous sunset views, and maybe a picnic if you’re pragmatic enough. You’ve got an early start tomorrow, so don’t overdo it at the local bar…

Day 2: Mountain Sunrise, Blue Soil Hill and Hanging Coffins

4:30 am start to catch some stunning views. Head to the Marlboro Hills (incl. Kamanbaneng) to stick your head above the clouds and experience the magic of the morning. There are various vendors in the area, so you can grab a snack and a drink if for some reason you are awake enough to eat.

Next, we’re going to embark on a hike to Blue Soil Hill . It takes around 2 hours to trek there but is predominantly downhill, and there is a range of other awesome viewpoints to take advantage of. The blue soil is pretty amazing too.

When you get back, grab a super tasty/amazing brunch and chill out in the city centre. You could take the time to hike to the cemetery at Calvary Hill if you want something free and local to do. That is a top Sagada travel guide recommendation right there.

Next up are the Hanging Coffins . The whole tour takes about an hour, but it is super interesting. Head for dinner at Log Cabin for a super tasty dinner. You can have a beer or five tonight.

Day 3: Bomod-ok Falls, Balangagan Cave

Heading to the Bomod-ok Falls is a top thing to do in Sagada. The largest of the three local waterfalls, touring here involves a mountain trek, followed by some sensational photo opportunities and the chance to swim in the pool at the base. There might even be a little surprise for you when you get there.

Head back to town for lunch, as you will be starving!

For your second caving experience of the trip, jump into Balangagan Cave . It is less visited than Sumaguing and is a little less user-friendly. If you back your caving skills, then challenging yourself here can be fun and rewarding. It has the prettiest cave formations in Sagada.

If that’s not enough for you, head to Demang to experience another side of the local culture. Sometimes, wild celebrations and activities are conducted, so count yourself lucky if you manage to see them!

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

Being one of the most beautiful areas of the Philippines , there is a boatload of cool stuff to do in Sagada. My Sagada travel guide has got all the best ones, including intricate cultural oddities, paradisical nature, and some saucy bonuses!

1. Marvel at the Unique Hanging Coffins

One of the main reasons a lot of people make the trek up to Sagada is to see the iconic hanging coffins. The Igorot people of Sagada have traditionally ‘buried’ their dead in colourfully painted coffins clinging to the sides of limestone cliffs, or piled up at the entrance of caves.

They believe these methods of burial provide an easier path for the spirits to reach the great beyond, as well as keep wild animals from their remains. These days it is more common for locals to bury their dead in cemeteries – although there are still a few locals who choose to be buried in the traditional way.

You can reach some of the coffins independently or a visit can be included in an Echo Valley tour booked through the Tourist Information Centre. This is a must-see on any Sagada itinerary.

2. Go Spelunking in Massive Cave Systems

If adventure is your middle name, and you’re backpacking the Philippines, then spelunking may very well be the perfect activity for you. The most popular spelunking adventure is the Cave Connection tour, which takes you from Lumiang Cave through to Sumaguing Cave .

Exploring the underground cave system involves wading through chilly rivers, rappelling down waterfalls, and squeezing yourself through tiny openings.

It is like being birthed again, except this time you are old enough to be aware of it. Definitely not for the claustrophobic! There are also stacks of wooden coffins located at the mouth of Lumiang Cave, which is always an interesting sight.

Tour Guides are required for this 3-4 hour adrenaline rush of an activity, and you can pick them up from the Tourist Information Centre. If this sounds too extreme, you can do a shorter caving course in Sumaguing Cave. There is also an option to explore Balangagan Cave which is a 4-hour adventure and has some of the most beautiful rock formations of all the caves.

3. Hike in the Lush Mountainous Surroundings

There are many hikes on offer in the mountains around Sagada, some that can be done independently and a larger number that require a guide (all very affordable) Echo Valley is one of the most popular hikes in a Sagada itinerary, and on half-day hiking, you will see rice terraces, an underground river, hanging coffins, and a waterfall, along with lots of gorgeous scenery.

If you feel like a challenge, you could climb the highest peak in Sagada – Mt Ampacao – or hike to one of the waterfalls mentioned below. There are a large number of hikes available with local guides from the Tourist Information Centre, where you can pick up a free map and guide with the hikes listed.

4. Swim under a waterfall

It can get pretty hot during the day up in the mountains and what better way to cool off than in a deep, cool pool under a cascading waterfall? I can’t think of any!

There are numerous waterfalls around Sagada that can be visited independently or as part of a tour. Visit Bokong Falls for its deep, perfectly shaped rock pool close to town, Bomod-Ok Falls for its impressively high falls surrounded by rice terraces, and Pongas Falls for an adventure, with a challenging trek of slippery trails, and a sheer drop-off to reach it.

5. Try all the excellent eateries

The Philippines is not known for its cuisine but it doesn’t mean there aren’t delicious food destinations – Sagada is definitely one of them. For such a small town there is a ridiculously high number of eateries, and the crazy thing is – almost all of them serve incredible food.

Sagada is known for its lemon pie, but there are so many other delectable dishes that are done so well here – wood-fired pizza, Korean dishes, fried chicken that Colonel Sanders would be proud of, traditional Pinoy dishes such as chicken adobo, handmade Italian pasta dripping with cheese, and so much more.

You won’t go hungry in Sagada, in fact, you may come away with a few joyfully earned extra pounds. Check out the restaurant list further down this guide to start planning your meals now and make sure to include at least some of them when planning your Sagada itinerary.

6. Try the local coffee

As with its cuisine, the Philippines is also not generally known for having great coffee, but Sagada is definitely an exception. Due to the higher altitude and cooler mountain temperatures, coffee grows exceptionally well in this mountainous corner of the Philippines and a lot of the local cafes not only serve the premium local stuff, some even roast the beans themselves onsite. They also grow tea in the area so try to pull yourself away from the glorious coffee to try the mountain tea as well. They also grow tea in the area so try to pull yourself away from the glorious coffee to try the mountain tea as well.

If you have ever wanted to try the infamous civet coffee, a.k.a. Kopi Luwak, the most expensive coffee in the world – then you can find it here. However, the method of harvesting this coffee bean requires the s ystematic abuse of the endangered civet . Civets are kept in cage farms where they are fed and harvested for the half-digested coffee beans they excrete (yep – that’s the source of Kopi Luwak).

Think hard before you spend your dollaridoos: The Broke Backpacker doesn’t engage with animal tourism , and neither should you. (The other coffee is fine though.) 🙂

7. Go for a leisurely stroll around town

The surrounding mountains of Sagada offer gorgeous spots for hiking and adventure, but the town itself is beautiful and also definitely worth exploring. There are pine-covered mountains surrounding you everywhere you look, and once you head in any direction from the main street of town, you will very quickly come across the lush and verdant countryside with mountain views, rice terraces, and a whole lot of peace and quiet.

There are a few destinations that are worth visiting on the outskirts including the Sagada Weaving Cooperative where you can buy quality woven items and clothing while also seeing the talented weavers at work, Gaia Cafe – a crazy-looking hippie treehouse/vegetarian restaurant, and Misty Lodge – a painfully quaint wooden lodge with a restaurant serving the most amazing pizza. Make sure to add these to your Sagada itinerary.

8. Try your hand at rock climbing

If you have ever wanted to give rock climbing a try but have been put off by high prices, then now is your chance. Rock climbing in Sagada is relatively cheap and with a low difficulty level, it is the perfect place for beginners.

You can either just show up, it is located behind the cemetery in town and the attendant is usually there, or ask for more information at the Tourist Information Centre. All the gear is provided.

Wondering where you should stay in Sagada ? Sagada is the perfect destination for backpackers and home to some of the best accommodations in the Philippines!

There are plenty of budget options in and surrounding the town, but it’s almost impossible to book anything in advance, so you need to just rock up and see. If that isn’t your style, you can book a hotel…

You have to book at least one night online, but after that, feel free to search for much better and cheaper accommodation options. The Sagada tourism office wants you to spend money, but they also understand that backpackers are travelling on a shoestring.

Accommodation is usually more expensive during the peak tourist season. Try heading over between October and April when the tourists are away!

Remember that Sagada is still a little out of the way. You’re not going to find too many places that can offer the whole package. It is a perfect backpacker destination, however!

Best Places to Stay in Sagada

These are the top places to stay in Sagada, according to my EPIC Sagada travel guide:

If you want to be a little more off the beaten track, then look for somewhere to stay in Kilong. You’ll find mostly private Sagada accommodation options in this area as well as a wealth of natural features.

Ambasing is located south of the center of Sagada and close to the Lumiang and Sumaguing Caves. This makes it a great choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Sagada on a budget.

Patay is one of the largest neighborhoods in Sagada and is pretty much the center of the town. This is where you’ll find the tourist center where you can get information on the best activities and sites.

We should all have been gallivanting through the Philippines for long enough to know that 100PHP = $1.80. Or (a more useful approximation) $1 = 50PHP. Using this will keep your budget in line!

You generally don’t have to worry too much about costs, unless you are taking some seriously expensive tours, or staying at plush hotels. Most tours are worth it though!

Tour prices are generally set without regard to the group size. If you can get together with the right number of people, the prices are much lower individually. Sadly, every tour has a different bloke in charge, so having a flexible group will drop prices.

When you explore further afield, you are required to have a guide. Don’t be a dick and slip off alone, THEY WILL CATCH YOU. A workable daily budget is probably $10-$30 .

The town itself is walkable, and eating street food is a great way to slash costs. Water is weirdly expensive here too, so buy a big 10L thingy and refill your water bottle from there.

As always, the most expensive parts of your day should be tours and accommodation. You want to get out there, and you need a place to sleep! Public transport to Sagada is about $15 each way by bus.

A Daily Budget in Sagada

Need some more info? Here’s a breakdown of a stereotypical daily budget in Sagada…

Below I have listed a few key travel tips for visiting Sagada!  

• Register with the Tourist Information Centre when you arrive and pay the environmental fee, you will need the receipt to book any tours and to do any hiking in the area.
• You don’t generally need to book accommodation in advance (unless it’s a holiday period), just turn up and ask around until you find a place where the price is right. It is perfectly acceptable to haggle (if you know how) .
• The Internet is pretty spotty in Sagada and most cafes either don’t offer it or it is so bad that it’s not worth using. Try getting a guesthouse with internet or pay to use the internet at the internet cafe on the top floor of the shopping centre, next to the Tourist Information Centre.
• There is an ATM in the Tourist Information Centre
• If you want to travel during holidays such as over Christmas, New Year’s or Easter – make sure to book your buses in advance as they fill up quickly.
• Most importantly: be respectful of the local people and their culture.

Top Tips for Broke Backpackers

To keep your spending to an absolute minimum and travel cheaply whilst backpacking in Sagada I recommend sticking to the three basic rules of budget backpacking …

• Camp : With plenty of gorgeous natural places surrounding Sagada, why not carry a tent and camp to cut down on costs? If not camping then why not a local experience? Make sure to check out Airbnb or Couchsurfing for a local taste of Sagada.
• Cook your own food: To save money on food, carry a pocket rocket stove on your backpacking trip so you can cook meals on the fly. Another option is to make simple salads and sandwiches – no cooking required. It will save you a ton of money.
• Hitchhike : Thumb a ride! People in the Philippines are kind and generous so there’s no harm in giving hitching a shot. Getting around by hitchhiking is a great way to keep your transport costs in Sagada down.
• Pack a travel water bottle:  Ditch plastic – save money AND the planet every day!

Why You Should Travel to Sagada with a Water Bottle

Plastic washes up on even the most pristine beaches… so do your part and keep the Big Blue beautiful

You aren’t going to save the world overnight, but you might as well be part of the solution and not the problem. When you travel to some of the world’s most remote places, you come to realise the full extent of the plastic problem. And I hope you become more inspired to continue being a responsible traveller .

Plus, now you won’t be buying overpriced bottles of water from the supermarkets either! Travel with a filtered water bottle instead and never waste a cent nor a turtle’s life again.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

The best time to visit Sagada is generally considered to be between November and February. A lot of tourists go at this time, especially in January and December, which can make it more expensive than usual. Sagada is generally humid and hot and has two seasons; the dry season and the wet season.

The dry season runs from December until May, which means that you are less likely to be obliterated by a torrential downpour. Visiting June to November in the wet season will earn you some pretty epic rainstorms.

Average temperatures hover between 25-30 degrees Celsius and are pretty consistent within this range. Because of the humidity, it can feel hotter. However, when you head up the mountains for a glorious sunset, it can get pretty chilled. Take a coat?

What to Pack for Sagada

Here are a few essentials I wouldn’t miss when heading out on the trail. Add ’em to yo packing list man!!

Osprey Daylite Plus

Any city slicker needs a SLICK daypack. In general, you can never go wrong with an Osprey pack, but with its array of awesome organisation, durable materials, and a comfy build, the Daylite Plus will make your urban jaunts buttery smooth.

Grayl Geopress Filtered Bottle

Save $$$, save the planet, and save yourself the headache (or tummy ache). Instead of sticking to bottled plastic, buy a Grayl Geopress, drink water no matter the source, and be happy knowing the turtles and fishies thank you (and so do we!). 🙂

OCLU Action Camera

Wait, it’s cheaper than a GoPro and… better than a GoPro? The OCLU action cam is the cam for budget backpackers that want to immortalise all their wildest adventures – including that time you dropped it off a Himalayan mountain – WITHOUT breaking the bank.

Solgaard Solarbank

Resourceful travellers know how to find power outlets anywhere on the road; smart travellers just pack a solar power bank instead. With 4-5 phone cycles per charge and the ability to top up literally anywhere the sun is shining, there’s no reason to ever get lost again!

Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

ALL travellers need a headtorch – no exceptions! Even in the hostel dorm, this beauty can save you in a real pinch. If you haven’t got in on the headtorch game, DO. I promise you: you’ll never look back. Or at least if you do, you’ll be able to see what you’re looking at.

Sagada is generally super safe. Operating as a relatively isolated mountain town, everyone knows everyone and tourists are generally treated very well (for obvious reasons).

Crime is extremely rare, but you should stay on top of your possessions and not do silly stuff. Take normal precautions and you should have no trouble.

Sustaining injury from adventuring is a much more likely occurrence. There are a host of active occupations to take part in, and accidents do happen. However, the chances of this happening are still low.

Especially since you are accompanied on active tours by an experienced guide (e.g. caving, climbing, rafting, hiking), the extent of problems that may arise is relatively narrow. However, healthcare is not superb, so try not to puncture a lung 🙂

Sex, Drugs, and Rock ‘n’ Roll in Sagada

Like the rest of the Philippines, alcohol is as free-flowing as a mountain stream. You can pick up local brews, cheap shots, and even head to some pretty western bars.

However. Local rules and customs mean that most bars shut around 10 pm, which means there is no crazy wild nightlife. Your best bet is to make some friends and try and work out if anything is going down under the radar. Or have some beers around a fire and leave it at that.

This is definitely not the place for super wild partying!

There are two ways to reach Sagada from Manila: via the mountain city of Baguio, or via the smaller town of Banaue, which is a popular destination in itself (for its rice terraces).

There are several bus companies that run regular buses, usually hourly, between Manila and Baguio. You can also catch buses overnight. Victory Liner is one of the main companies and they run buses from Cubao, Pasay and Monumental Main Terminal in Caloocan City. The trip takes between 4-6 hours and you can choose a basic or deluxe bus service.

On arrival in Baguio, you will need to get from the main bus station to Dangwa Station, a short taxi ride away, to catch the GL Trans bus to Sagada. You can also choose to stay in Baguio if you’d prefer to explore the town before heading to Sagada.

Buses leave on the hour from 6 am to 1 pm and take about 5-6 hours to reach Sagada. These buses are basic, with tiny seats and no air-conditioning. A word of warning: prepare for a hot and bumpy ride!

For buses to Sagada from Manila via Banaue, you can take Autobus and Dangwa Tranco which both leave their respective terminals in Sampaloc at 10 pm for the nine-hour journey.

On arrival in Banaue, there are jeepneys, and sometimes minibusses or vans that can take you the last 3-4 hours to Sagada. Just ask at the Information Centre although it is likely you will have drivers waiting where the bus drops you off. Alternatively, take the 9 am jeepney to Bontoc and transfer there to the bus to Sagada.

Both ways take about the same amount of time and also cost approximately the same amount. You could break up the long journey with time in either Baguio or Banaue if you don’t want to bang it all out in one go.

The working and volunteering scene in Sagada is almost nonexistent unless you are somehow able to magic a project from your back pocket.

In general, for the Philippines, all foreign nationals are required to fill out a work visa if they intend to earn in the country. If you want to volunteer though, you won’t need a visa unless you plan on sticking around longer than six months! How cool is that!

In general, I am a massive fan of Worldpackers , which connects you to volunteering and work opportunities all over the globe. If you’re looking to travel for a while, this is one of the best ways of extending your stay , and contributing to local communities too!

Worldpackers opens the doors for the top work opportunities in hostels, homestays, NGOs, and eco-projects around the world.

Worldpackers: connecting travellers with  meaningful travel experiences.

As previously said, there is little to no nightlife, considering bars close at 10 pm. There is occasional live music though, and you can have a few beers in the daytime with no trouble. Don’t expect a big party scene, but you might be able to link up with some other travellers for a few beers.

Food in Sagada

As mentioned above, the options are almost endless for amazing food in Sagada. Sagada’s street food is delicious, but don’t take my word for it. Check out this awesome video guide to the best street food in Sagada .

Here are a few tried and tested favourites:

• Bana’s Cafe – One of my favourite spots, hanging over a leafy gorge. Bana’s serves awesome local coffee which they brew themselves onsite, including civet coffee, as well as some of the best-tasting food in Sagada. The breakfasts here are the best in town, their chicken curry is the best I have eaten in the Philippines and the honey and broccoli chicken is to die for. Don’t miss this place.
• Yogurt House – A cosy two-storied log cabin, Yoghurt House is famous for – you guessed it: Yoghurt. They have some killer yoghurt and fruit lassis here but the mains are also pretty good – try the pasta and chicken with potato rosti.
• Strawberry Cafe – Hidden away down an alley off the main street, Strawberry Cafe has simple but delicious breakfasts that are very budget-friendly, and their coffee is awesome.
• Gaia Cafe and Crafts – Gaia Cafe is a hippie spot serving organic vegetarian and vegan dishes along with local crafts. The unusual treehouse structure has the best views in town, overlooking a scenic valley of rice terraces. It’s about a ten-minute walk out of town and isn’t always open when it says it will be but it’s definitely worth trying your luck for.
• Misty Lodge Cafe – On the outskirts of town, Misty Lodge Cafe is a peaceful spot to enjoy some of the most amazing pizza in the Philippines, which is made from scratch. Misty Lodge is also well-known for its great breakfasts at affordable prices.
• Sagada Lemon Pie House – The best spot in town for the world-famous Sagada lemon pie. Seating is Japanese tea house style – on cushions on the floor around low tables. Make sure to try the iconic lemon pie or their equally as good egg (custard) pie, washed down with a steaming cup of mountain tea or local coffee.

Being a Responsible Backpacker in Sagada

Travelling is the best, however, travelling can be one of the most AMAZING opportunities for personal growth and development. Provided you travel well.

Backpacking in Sagada can be one hell of a crazy party at times. Take it from me, it can be easy to get carried away. It is important to keep in mind that you are an ambassador for your country, which is awesome. We can make a positive impact on people when we travel and get rid of any ugly stereotypes that may be associated with your country.

If you visit indigenous villages or small communities in the rural areas always ask before taking photos. The people who live in these villages are not exhibits in a museum. They are normal folks just living their lives.  Always show them the complete respect that they deserve.

I know it can be hard, but do your best to use the least amount of plastic water bottles that you can. Refill the ones that you do buy! Use a Grayl Geopress .  Refill at your hostel! There are plenty of ways to reduce plastic!!!

Show the world around you some gratitude and help to make a positive impact on it. Be a good traveller , smile, laugh, and show the world your best side. Most of all have the time of your life and spread the love!

I hope that this Sagada Travel Guide has been helpful to assist in planning where to stay, how to get there, what to eat and, the top things to add to your Sagada itinerary.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Sagada

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Here’s what people usually ask us about visiting Sagada, and what they wanted from my Sagada Travel Guide.

What are the Top Tourist Spots in Sagada?

The best tourist spots in Sagada are: 1. The Hanging Coffins 2. Sumaguing Cave 3. The Kapay-aw Rice Terraces 4. The Marlboro Hills 5. The Blue Soil Hill 6. Mount Ampacao 7. The Bomod-ok Falls 8. Mount Kiltepan Viewpoint (check if open) 9. Balangagan Cave 10. Cave Connection

How do you get to Sagada?

From Manila, find the HM Transport Cubao Terminal and jump on a Coda line bus. It’ll cost around 700PHP and take 12-13 hours. They are regularly scheduled in the morning. From Baguio, find the GL trans station at the Dangwa Terminal. The cost is around 200 PHP and it will take around 6 hours. From Bontoc, grab a jeep from in front of the Walter Clapp Hotel. Less than an hour, and 50PHP. Easy!

What are the Best Sagada Caves?

The most popular cave in Sagada is the Sumaguing Cave. There is a two-hour caving experience here that is very popular. With some extra time, you can travel between the Sumaguing and Lumiang caves via the cave connection tour. Balangagan Cave is best known for having the best geological formations in the region.

What are the Best Attractions in Sagada, Philippines?

There are a ton of great attractions in Sagada, but checking out the mountain dawn at the Marlboro Hills or on top of Mount Ampacao has got to take the crown. The hanging coffins are pretty spectacular too, and take the time to go caving in Sumaguing Cave! Checking out the Bomod-ok Falls is ok too I guess.

Sagada is a fantastic place to head to, especially if your Philippines trip has become too beachy. The rice paddies, mountain air and bizarre culture are all massive drivers of tourism in the region. However, that doesn’t mean that it has become overcrowded. Whilst you will undoubtedly meet other tourist groups, the Philippine travel authority keeps a sharp eye on tourism in the region. So don’t worry!

You’re going to need that adventurous spirit because Sagada is probably one of the strangest and most brilliant places you will ever go to. I hope you enjoyed my Sagada travel guide!

Abe out. 22/04/2023

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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22 Comments

I am in Sagada now and am not impressed with the town it self and not with most of the food either. We have a budget hotel for 40 dollars a night. Its a dump. I agree with a lot about you wote but the tone is too idyllic for me. We booked for 7 days so we can relax in the mountains. Sagada is wonderful to be active but the town it self is very noisy. Traffic, building, sawing metal. The whole night dog barking dogs, and roosters going for it at all hours. We travel extensively so we have been in places like this so often. But based on all the positive vibe information we decided to stay longer than normal. That is why I also want to tell the other side of Sagada.

Cool!!! really great information! From Altadena, Ca – LAX to manila. Then driving straight to visit Vigan city on mid-Jan. 2024. Definitely, now we will add to visit Sagada and take the Haselman hi-way. Cheers!

How about drones? Do I need to ask for a permit or pay?

Flying drone can be problematic in some countries and could therefor land you in a spot of unintended trouble. There are a bunch of amazing sites out there such as droneregulations.info or drone-made.com that would be a great place to start research into this.

Sagada is literally so far away from the hustle and bustle of the city. I’m still thinking of the perfect date to file my leave at work and finally go there. I like these kind of places and I have hiked Indian Himalyas a few times and Sagada is giving me that kind of vibe ,see you soon echo valley.

Hi Keith,good for you,I dare you to visit that special place( I’m a proud sagadian-contact me if you need more information)

What time is the last trip of sagada to baguio?

This just confirmed that Sagada is our next destination. Been a road trip from Bataan to Iligan City, to Cebu, Bohol, Samar, Leyte, Iloilo, Baler, Pagudpod, Baguio, Alaminos and Bolinao. Can’t wait for our next family road trip!

Congrats! Let us know how Sagada goes for you!

Just came across this site and honestly I enjoy reading your posts especially about my hometown Sagada..??. Thank you for sharing.

Your ideas are very interesting and these places are also looking very cool. I loved your post. Keep updating!

Thanks, Mike!

Such a Wonderful information. I usually get some good information whenever i read your post. Thanks for the information. Am eagerly waiting for your next post.

Wow, so much information. After reading i think Sagada is best for travelling in nature. the houses are so nice. BTW the pictures are well too

I’ve been thinking of going to Sagada lately since I think Sagada is the best place to unwind. It’s literally so far away from the hustle and bustle of the city. I’m still thinking of the perfect date to file my leaves at work and finally go there!

I am super psyched about sagada thanks for the insights

Bravo..thats the magic of sagada that I know..thanks Katie for your post…pure blooded sagadian here..

Sagada is the perfect place for nature lover. Thanks, Katie for explaining everything in detailed. I would visit Philippines next year. This will help me a lot.

Definitely, Sagada is a must visit here in our country the Philippines. And so nice of you for sharing such an informative post about it. Can’t wait to go to Sagada again, it’s definitely worth it place to go to if I want to go out of the town. Amazing post!

Never heard of this place and that too in Philippines. It seems Sagada is full of new adventures to explore.

Wow, so much detailed from information here. I grew up in Zamboanga, Philippines and then lived in Cebu City until I got married and moved to the U.S. I would love to go on the Sagada adventure. I am on a budget so these will help me when I go back to visit my family if I can afford to go. Thanks 🙂

Wow… Ultimate indeed! Not a place that was on my radar until now, cheers!

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Sagada Tourist Spots: Complete Travel Guide 2023

Sagada is a high-altitude municipality located in the Mountain Province of the Philippines. This place is not just blessed with beautiful sceneries and landscapes but also rich in history, culture, and tradition. Many tourists worldwide visit this place to discover its hidden gems and learn more about the heritage that the people have carried for thousands of years. In this ultimate travel guide, we will discuss the Sagada tourist spots, places to stay, and things to do in this breathtaking mountain town.

• Brief Information about Sagada

Travel Requirements Before Visiting Sagada

Private vehicle: manila to sagada.

• Bus from Cubao to Sagada
• Bomod-ok Falls

Fidelisan Rice Terraces

Church of st. mary the virgin.

• Echo Valley

Hanging Coffins of Sagada

Matangkib exit, sumaguing and lumiang cave, kiltepan pog-o.

• Other Attractions: Pongas Falls, Blue Soil, Marlboro Hills etc.

Where to Stay in Sagada

• 2 Days and 1 Night Sample Itinerary
• 3 Days and 2 Nights Sample Itinerary
• Permitted Travel Agencies

Travel Tips to Sagada

Brief information about sagada philippines.

Sagada is located west of Bontoc in the Mountain Province of the Philippines. It has an average elevation of 4,800 feet and features a subtropical highland climate. Its coldest month is every February, when temperatures can drop to 9C. Due to its consistently cool environment, the town can cultivate products such as lettuce, tomatoes, strawberries, lemons, and oranges. In recent years, tourism has increased in Sagada because of mainstream media influences. Sagada boasts beautiful landscapes, hiking trails with amazing sceneries, and historical tours that will leave visitors with knowledge about the culture and heritage of the Igorots.

Sagada’s local government has set requirements that tourists must follow before visiting the municipality. Additionally, visitors are required to pay the tourist registration fee (PHP 100 or USD 2) at the local tourist information office. Here are the travel requirements before visiting Sagada:

• Book at least a one-night stay at a DOT or LGU-accredited accommodation online. You can find the list of accredited establishments here.
• After securing your booking, your accommodation will provide an access code for registration through the Umali Kayo Tourist Registration Portal. Sign up and follow the instructions on the website.
• After successful registration, you must print and bring your registration summary with a QR code and present it at the Sagada Border.

How to Go to Sagada

Bringing your private vehicles is possible, but the most popular option is riding a bus. Here are several ways to visit Sagada:

If you are coming from Manila, you can take the usual route from Manila to Baguio City. You have the option to take a break in Baguio City before heading to Sagada because the drive to the Mountain Province is challenging. 

• From Baguio City, drive northward via Halsema Highway to Bontoc, the capital of the Mountain Province. Halsema Highway features zigzag roads, and some sections of this highway are located next to a cliff. The trip from Baguio City to Sagada via Halsema Highway can take up to 5 hours, depending on the weather and road conditions. You can check the local government’s Facebook Page for any updates about Halsema Highway.
• After safely arriving at Bontoc, you can drive westward of the city to Stauton Road. This road will lead you to Sagada.

How to go to Sagada from Cubao: Commute Option

This is the most popular method of visiting Sagada. CODA Bus Line provides bus transportation from Cubao Quezon City to Sagada, which takes around 8-10 hours.

You can also purchase bus tickets online through their website for convenience.

Sagada Tourist Spots

Nestled in the breathtaking Mountain Province of the Philippines, Sagada is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. With its captivating landscapes and rich cultural heritage, Sagada boasts an array of enchanting tourist spots and attractions that will leave you in awe.

Bomod-Ok Falls

This majestic waterfall is located in the northern part of Sagada. Visiting Bomod-ok Falls requires a downhill hike for an hour. Your reward is the cold mountain waters pouring from the waterfall and a place to swim in its plunge pool.

As you hike to Bomod-ok Falls , you will stumble upon gorgeous rice terraces in the villages of Pide and Fidelisan. These green fields provide rice and other crops and offer a glimpse of the locals’ way of life.

Visiting this church is part of the Paytokan Walking Tour (also known as the Eco Tour) provided by the local tourism office. This church was built in the 1900s by the American Anglican Missionaries. With its historical significance and spiritual influence for more than a century on the people of Sagada, this church garnered recognition as a cultural heritage site.

Echo Valley (Baw-Eng Creek)

This place showcases an amazing panorama of the Baw-eng Creek. It overlooks the mountain forests of Sagada with limestones and other rock formations nearby. Interestingly, this tourist attraction is also called Echo Valley because of the resounding echo from a shout.

This tourist spot is one of the centerpieces of Sagada. It features coffins hung on a mountain cliff. The Sagada Hanging Coffins is a burial practice observed for thousands of years and offers significance to the local culture and heritage.

At the end of your Paytokan Tour, you have an option to visit the Matangkib Exit (also known as the Sagada Underground River Entrance). The underground river is part of a complex network inside the cave systems of Sagada.

This cave connection provides a spelunking experience to both first-timers and experienced tourists. The Sumaguing Cave is the most visited in Sagada . It has a depth of 500 feet, and travelers will experience physical activities inside the cave, such as rappelling. If you want to step up your adventure, you can avail of the Lumiang-Sumaguing Cave connection, which features a 4-5 hour spelunking experience inside the depths of Sagada.

Kiltepan sits in the eastern part of Sagada. This tourist spot offers sunrise viewing and a sea of clouds . This attraction offers a picturesque experience in Sagada.

Other Sagada Tourist Attractions

The Sagada Tourism Office also offers the following tourist attractions depending on your travel needs:

• Nabas-Ang to Ampacao Trail: A 4-5 hour hiking tour through the grasslands of Sagada with a rewarding sunset viewing at Mount Ampacao.
• Pongas Falls: A 2-4 hour hike in the southern part of Sagada, which ends with the fantastic cascading waterfalls.
• Balangagan Cave: This tourist spot offers an easy spelunking experience for tourists and provides a glimpse of the cave burial site of the locals of Sagada.
• Marlboro Hills to Blue Soil Trail: This trail offers another place for the sea of clouds and sunrise viewing, similar to Kiltepan Peak. The trail also passes to the peculiar blue soil located around the area.
• Kapay-Aw Farms (currently suspended): This tour visits Sagada’s agricultural sector, offering visitors a taste of their coffee beans, produce, and crops.

As mentioned earlier, visitors must book a DOT-accredited accommodation online or by contacting the place directly before registering to Sagada’s online travel portal. We recommend booking a lodge or homestay in the Central Town of Sagada for easier access to tourist spots. Here are our recommended places to stay in Sagada:

Bosaing’s Place

Bosaing is a lovely homestay in Central Sagada. It is less than a kilometer from the main town center and provides a cozy and relaxing stay after your adventures. The owners are friendly and accommodating; it feels like you are part of a family. You can contact Bosaing’s Place at +639154922193 or visit their Facebook Page.

Lodge Labanet

This mountain lodge is in the main town of Sagada and offers a more traditional lodging experience with check-in counters and a breakfast/restaurant on the ground floor. Labanet also has more accommodation options, especially for tourists in big groups. You can contact Lodge Labanet at +63 9209483133 or send an email at [email protected]

You can also check our travel partners from Agoda for accommodation deals and discounts at Sagada.

Sagada Itinerary

Building an itinerary is essential for every trip. Hence, here’s our sample Sagada Itinerary. Please note that the Sagada Local Tourism Office does not accept day tours in their municipality. You must stay in their place for at least one night per policy.

Sagada Itinerary: 2 Days and 1 Night

This 2-day and 1-night itinerary will provide a taste of Sagada adventure with meaningful visits to their historical sites.

Sagada Itinerary: 3 Days and 2 Nights

This 3-day and 2-night itinerary offers more adventure and exploration of Sagada Tourist Spots. We will start with a relaxed walking tour at the Echo Valley, exiting at Matangkib. Then, we will dive into more hiking tours for the most picturesque experience in Sagada.

How to Book Tour Packages in Sagada

There are several local tour guide associations accredited by Sagada’s local tourism office that offer tour arrangements, shuttle services, and a tour guide. We recommend contacting these tour guides for travel arrangements to prevent problems during your trip.

Sagada Travel Agencies

If you don’t like to do a DIY travel plan, you can also inquire about these travel agencies permitted to operate in Sagada. In my experience, my friends and I had great customer service with Opti Travel Philippines. Here are some of the accredited travel agencies in Sagada:

• Opti Travel and Tours
• Kamina Travel Services EC5
• Kadulaan Travel and Tours (Sagada Branch)

Here are essential travel tips that you need to know before visiting Sagada:

• Follow the rules and policies implemented by the Sagada Local Tourism Office.
• Book accommodation first before registering on their online travel portal. Your chosen accommodation will provide a registration code, which you will use during sign-up in Sagada’s online travel portal.
• Contact the tour guides association for tour arrangements.
• Bring hiking gear (hydration packs, first-aid kits, hiking shoes, and proper clothing) because Sagada is all about adventures!
• Bring a camera because you will have a lot of memorable moments in Sagada.
• Respect the culture and tradition of Sagada.
• Do not throw any trash! Let’s keep Sagada clean!

Summary: Sagada Tourist Spots

In wrapping up our Ultimate Travel Guide to Sagada, we’ve explored an array of incredible Sagada Tourist Spots that will leave you with memories to cherish. With our suggested Sagada Itinerary, you can embark on a journey to the Echo Valley, Hanging Coffins , breathtaking rice terraces, Sumaguing Cave , and Bomod-Ok Falls . This charming destination invites travelers from all walks of life to experience the perfect blend of nature, culture, and adventure. So, pack your bags and let the magic of Sagada captivate your heart as you explore its wonders. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or simply looking for a beautiful escape, Sagada has it all, just waiting for you to uncover its secrets and create your own unique stories. Discover the enchantment that makes Sagada a must-visit destination for travelers seeking something extraordinary.

You might also like:

Baguio tourist spots: 18 attractions to visit (2023 update).

Lakawon Island: Travel Guide and Review

Bomod-ok Falls in Sagada: Updated Travel Guide 2023

Baguio Itinerary: Ultimate Travel Guide 2023

Pililla Wind Farm: Travel Guide and Experience

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Is covid vaccine not required anymore when entering Sagada? Thank you for answering

Hi Jade, not necessarily. If you never had any COVID vaccine before, then you have to present your most recent negative COVID test results. If you had COVID vaccine before, then no need for a COVID test.

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Top Sagada Tourist Spots

Nestled in the Mountain Province of the Philippines, Sagada is a famous destination in the Cordillera mountains. The Sagada tourist spots are breathtaking destinations that are known for their unique cultural heritage, beautiful caves, and serene atmosphere.

Here are the top 20 tourist attractions and activities to explore in Sagada.

1. hanging coffins of echo valley.

Witness the centuries-old burial tradition of the Igorot people at the Hanging Coffins of Echo Valley. Marvel at the wooden coffins suspended from the cliffs, a testament to the region's rich cultural heritage.

2. Sumaguing Cave

Embark on an exhilarating spelunking adventure at Sumaguing Cave, one of Sagada's most popular attractions. Navigate through the cave's stunning rock formations, chambers, and underground pools.

3. Bomod-ok Falls

Trek to the stunning Bomod-ok Falls, also known as the Big Falls, and take a refreshing dip in the cool waters. The falls are surrounded by lush greenery and terraced fields, creating a picturesque scene.

4. Lumiang (or Lomiyang) Burial Cave

Explore the Lumiang Burial Cave, another site showcasing the unique burial traditions of the Igorot people. This cave houses hundreds of wooden coffins stacked along the walls, some dating back over 500 years.

5. Lake Danum

Visit the serene Lake Danum, a picturesque lake surrounded by lush pine forests. Enjoy a peaceful walk around the lake or catch a breathtaking sunset.

6. Marlboro Country

Hike to Marlboro Country, also known as Marlboro Hills, and marvel at the panoramic views of the rolling hills, terraced fields, and surrounding mountains.

7. Mount Ampacao

Hike up Mount Ampacao, a relatively easy trek offering panoramic views of Sagada and the surrounding landscape. This hike is perfect for those looking for a less strenuous adventure with rewarding vistas.

8. Sagada Pottery

Discover the art of traditional pottery at Sagada Pottery. Watch local artisans at work and even try your hand at creating your own pottery masterpiece.

9. Echo Valley

Explore the scenic Echo Valley, home to the Hanging Coffins and a popular spot for nature walks, bird-watching, and photography. Echo valley is an easy walk from most of the accommodation facilities in Sagada.

10. Balangagan Cave

Delve into the depths of Balangagan Cave, a fascinating spelunking destination in Sagada. The cave is known for its impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations, offering a memorable experience for adventurers.

11. Ganduyan Museum

Learn about the culture and history of Sagada and the Mountain Province at the Ganduyan Museum, which houses a collection of traditional clothing, artifacts, and photographs.

12. Kiltepan Viewpoint

Catch a breathtaking sunrise at Kiltepan Viewpoint, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and a sea of clouds.

13. Pongas Falls

Discover the hidden gem of Pongas Falls, a secluded waterfall ideal for swimming, picnicking, and photography.

14. Rock Inn & Café Bodega

Visit the Rock Inn & Café Bodega, a charming inn and café surrounded by fruit orchards. Sample their freshly brewed coffee and delicious homemade meals.

15. Sagada Weaving

Witness the intricate art of traditional weaving at Sagada Weaving. Observe local weavers creating colorful textiles and shop for souvenirs to bring home.

16. St. Mary the Virgin Church

Visit the historic St. Mary the Virgin Church, an Episcopal church dating back to the early 1900s. Its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere make it a must-see in Sagada.

17. Mission Compound

Explore the Mission Compound, home to several historical structures, including the St. Mary the Virgin Church, the Sagada Bell Tower, and a traditional graveyard. The compound offers a glimpse into the early 20th-century missionary history of Sagada.

18. Latang Underground River

Embark on a thrilling adventure at the Latang Underground River, where you can explore the river's subterranean passages and marvel at its stunning rock formations. A must-visit for spelunking enthusiasts.

19. Adventure Trail

Trek along the Adventure Trail, which winds through scenic landscapes, limestone cliffs, and pine forests. This moderately challenging hike offers a thrilling experience for outdoor enthusiasts.

20. Blue Soil Hills

Visit the unique Blue Soil Hills, where the earth takes on a striking blue hue. This natural phenomenon offers a surreal experience and fantastic photo opportunities amidst the verdant landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions about Traveling in Sagada

1. What is the best time to visit Sagada?

The best time to visit Sagada is during the dry season, from November to April, when the weather is more favorable for outdoor activities such as hiking and spelunking.

2. How do I get to Sagada?

Sagada can be reached by bus from Manila, with several companies offering daily trips to Bontoc or Sagada. The journey typically takes around 10 to 12 hours.

3. Are there accommodations available in Sagada?

Yes, Sagada offers a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly homestays and guesthouses to more luxurious hotels and resorts.

4. What local dishes should I try in Sagada?

Some local dishes to try in Sagada include "etag" (smoked pork), "pinikpikan" (roasted chicken), and "kinuday" (smoked meat).

5. Is Sagada safe for tourists?

Yes, Sagada is generally safe for tourists. However, it is always important to take standard safety precautions, such as keeping your valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings.

Embark on an unforgettable journey to Sagada, a region of stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and thrilling adventures. Explore its many attractions and immerse yourself in the unique Igorot culture for a truly memorable experience.

Dive Into Philippines

⛰️Perfect Sagada Itinerary For 1-3 Days [2024]

Heading to Sagada and looking for the perfect itinerary for Sagada? Perfect! We can help in this Sagada itinerary blog post.

Come spend a few days in crisp mountain air, surrounded by pine trees and scenic views, dining on fresh produce and enjoying excursions led by friendly guides. Not to mention some fantastic adrenalin activities, epic mountain treks, rice fields, waterfalls, plus the early morning world-famous “sea-of-clouds”… and those weird and wonderful Hanging Coffins of Echo Valley!

Sagada is a unique Philippines destination, away from the coast and far from crowded cities. Similar to Sapa in Vietnam, you’re transported high above sea level to lush covered mountains, to small villages where local people still tend their rice fields by hand, and fully immersed in nature. Every waking moment is spent savouring the healthy fresh air and peaceful views.

Often paired with a trip to Banaue, you’re sure to fall in love with the beauty of Sagada.

Below, you will find the ultimate itinerary: Sagada! We walk you through options whether you have just a day in Sagada or are looking for a full Sagada itinerary 3 days 2 nights. You can simply stop following our itinerary in Sagada if your trip finishes in less than 3 days when you hit the number of days you have or pick the days that sound best from the itinerary below.

We also have a complete list of what to do in Sagada, Philippines so you can decide if the stops in our itinerary are perfect for you. You will find all the options for Sagada activities below.

Finally, we also recommend some top places to stay in Sagada depending on your budget and some tips for visiting Sagada with kids.

Table of Contents

Full Sagada Itinerary 2024

Remember, this is a full Sagada 3 days 2 nights itinerary. If you have less days, simply pick the days that most appeal.

This can be either a Sagada budget itinerary or a more expensive one – you can pick the quality of accommodation and activities to suit your budget.

Sagada Itinerary 1 Day: Historic Sagada, with the Hanging Coffins

Wondering what to do in Sagada 2024? Well, here we go with your Sagada tour itinerary, and there’s a lot to fit into your first day. Don’t dally on breakfast as this itinerary makes the most of your stay and you’re ticking off some prime Sagada attractions today!

• First stop is the Sagada Municipal Tourist Information Centre to book guides, where needed or mandatory, for your excursions to the Sagada tourist attractions
• Spend an hour at the Ganduyan Museum
• Take a short stroll to explore the cemetery at Calvary Hill
• On to Echo Valley – one of our favourite Sagada places to visit -and through to the viewing point for the Hanging Coffins
• Back in town and refresh
• Mid-afternoon stroll to Danum Lake, possibly with a picnic, and await the sunset or hang around longer for the stunning starlit sky – definitely one of our favourite places to go in Sagada

Sagada Itinerary 2 Days: Sagada Sea-of-Clouds, Treks and Caves

If time is short and you’re enjoying a Sagada Itinerary 2 days 1 night, this is your last day. However, if you’re staying for the full three days… lucky you! Either way, it’s a pre-dawn start today.

• Join your jeep and guide at 4 am to start your journey to perhaps the best place in Sagada, the Marlboro Hills
• Catch the first rays of sunrise and photograph – weather permitting – the gorgeous sea-of-clouds before taking the 2-3 hour Trek to the Blue Soil Hills (a highlight of any Sagada 2 days, 1 night itinerary)
• Return to town, grabbing a locally-made coffee and early lunch
• Next up, Spelunking adventure at Sumaguing Caves
• …and drop by nearby Lumiang Cave on your return to Sagada
• Early evening, visit Demang for a glimpse of old Sagada and local life – a great way to end your Sagada 2 days itinerary

Sagada Itinerary 3 Days: Sagada Full On: Waterfalls or Rafting

Following our full 3 days itinerary? Great, as there are still lots of beautiful places in Sagada to discover. We’re giving you two options today, dependent on the season and/or your preference… but both promise an exhilarating final day!

• Full day trek, with picnic lunch, to the beautiful Bomod-ok Falls
• An early morning start again, this time heading to another of our favourite places to see in Sagada, Mt Kiltepan for your second Sagada-famous sunrise!
• Back to town for a late breakfast and refresh
• Join a tour for rafting or kayaking experience at the Upper Chico River

Click here for a Sagada and Cordillera Mountain Range tour option and discounted tickets.

Complete List Of Best Things To Do In Sagada, Philippines

Don’t forget that for many activities within our Sagada trip itinerary it is mandatory to have a guide. Thus the best start to your stay is to head directly to the Tourist Office, planning out your days and tours.

Hanging Coffins In Echo Valley

Locals believe that the higher coffins are placed, the nearer to heaven they are… hence the unique Hanging Coffins at Echo Valley, perched halfway up a cliff.

This old-world burial site (supposedly dating back almost 2000 years) of the Igorot indigenous people, is just a short walk from Sagada’s main road. You’ll soon come across a view of sharp cliffs with coffins suspended along one edge – making this Sagada’s most popular attraction.

The majority of the coffins – hollowed from logs and usually carved by the elderly Igorot themselves before they die – are centuries old, whilst others have only been there a few years, with the last placed around 2008.

They are actually so high up that it almost defies logic how they were erected!

Echo Valley Lookout

You’ll find the Hanging Coffins in the magnificent Echo Valley, which offers splendid views of Sagada’s rocky village and the coffins. A small ravine along the highlands – near to the town’s centre – it’s apparently one of the few places in the world where shouting is allowed. Echoes reverberate around the valley, shaped like a large megaphone.

Visitors flock here to enjoy the beauty of the surroundings that lead the way to the coffin’s viewing point… and, perhaps more importantly, to scream out their names waiting on the fun echo!

Calvary Hill

On your way to Echo Valley and the Hanging Coffins, you’ll also pass by the town cemetery, known as “Calvary Hill”. This is the newer version of the Sagadan’s burial site, replacing the cliffside coffins with a more traditional style of burial.

At first glance, this seems a typical cemetery, until you learn that burials are planned not on a lot or family plot basis, but by the type of death. This comes about due to the Sagadan’s believing that the spirits of their deceased are the highest forms of supernatural beings. Therefore, they are particular about where they are buried. Macabre as it is, there are areas for deaths such as childbirth, suicide, dying unmarried (!), etc. For example, suicides are buried within the deepest parts of Echo Valley to stop them returning to haunt those left behind…

There are many interesting rituals surrounding the burials in Sagada and it’s well worth discussing this with a local or joining with a tour guide.

Also, take time to search out one tomb of note – that being of Sagada’s adopted son, Dr William Henry Scott. An anthropologist/historian, Dr Scott spent most of his life studying the people of the Cordillera and wrote many books about the prehispanic Philippines.

Marlboro Hill to Blue Soil Trek

There are many hikes on offer in the mountains around Sagada (and you should be aware that the majority need a guide, easily arranged from within the village). One of the top treks is this highly rated trail that leads from the splendid Marlboro Hills, along a rugged terrain to the Blue Soil Hills.

Most visitors choose to experience sunrise and the renowned sea-of-clouds at Marlboro Hills (see more below), before tackling this two-to-three hour trek (from where you’ll need a transfer truck (approx 700php) back to the town centre.

Arrange a mandatory guide – from any of the operators within Sagada town – and take a jeep ride 30 minutes up to the drop off point, and a further twenty minutes trek to the Marlboro Hill lookout point.

Clean air, crisp weather (sometimes very cold, so pack well) and silent countryside abounds, with rice paddies in the upper valleys, pine trees covering the mountainsides, and wild strawberries underfoot with a sea of white clouds usually hiding the lower valleys. This is some seriously beautiful countryside.

Set off on the trail through colourful mountain wildflowers, passing unusual rock formations, all set to the splendid mountain backdrop. Tall, proud pine trees reach to the sky, emitting a fresh, fragrant scent. Your senses feel alive!

Not a difficult trail, even suitable for children (just ensure sensible footwear and clothing), this is a lovely trek through the colourful countryside with unique plant life. Your final destination doesn’t disappoint either, with the Blue Soil Hills (or Kaman-utek Hills as they are locally known) delighting with their bluish-green colour – due to the high copper sulphate content of the soil. A quite unique natural wonder!

Sumaguing Cave

With over 60 caves discovered underneath the town of Sagada, Sumaguing Cave is perhaps the most famous. Noted as “The Big Cave”, it has the largest chamber of all the caves and is filled with countless rock formations, slowly shaped by nature over thousands of years.

Some of the formations call to mind animals and have been nicknamed such: elephants, turtlehead, bear and, the non-animal but equally unique, Chocolate Cake. These unusual formations, along with dramatic stalagmites and stalactites, are some of the highlights of spelunking adventures on offer at the cave.

A man-made staircase from the roadside leads you into the interior of the cave, an initial easy walk down. However, it soon becomes apparent at the challenges that lay ahead!

Divided into three areas, spelunkers enjoy a great “Descent”, the rock formations, and then The Tunnel, where it’s time to get wet as you squeeze into narrow openings and soak in cold waters! There is also a 10ft boulder to climb up (with the help of ropes) to find your way out of the cave.

Guided throughout your 2-hour exploration, this is a thrilling activity and a firm favourite for tourists visiting the area. Wear sturdy shoes, with a good grip, and ideally bring a flashlight. Wear lightweight clothing, as you’re going to get wet, but there’s a shower area at the end of the tour if you need to change. Have fun!

Lumiang Burial Cave

South of the main village, only 10-15 minutes walk toward Ambasing, you’ll find the well signposted Lumiang Burial Cave. Steep steps lead you down to a massive cave where more than 100 coffins are stacked high at the entrance.

With pinewood coffins dating back almost 500 years, this is yet another ancient burial site. Elaborate designs are carved into the coffins, including images of lizards (symbols of long life and eternity). Buried in the fetal position – as Sagadan’s believe that we came out of our mothers in this position and thus should leave the world in the same position – the coffins are surprisingly small.

If you’re up for a real adventure and have more time – perhaps following your own Sagada DIY Itinerary 2024 – check out the 4-5 hour Cave Connection course, starting here at Lumiang and ending at Sumaguing. Epic.

Marlboro Hills

A guide is mandatory but is well worth the cost, so is the hassle of reaching this rather offbeat location. An alternative to the more well-known sunrise spot of Kiltepan (more on that later), Marlboro Hills promises a similar unobstructed 360-degree view of sunrise across a sea-of-clouds… Totally mesmerizing!

You’ll need to head out around 4 am, taking a jeep/4×4 with your guide up to the viewing point, walking the last 20-30 minutes to the rocky outcrop. And then… wait for the sun to aim its rays over the mountains, seeming to wash the world with a golden glow. As the sun rises, your surroundings take shape, coming into view – plants, flowers, rice fields, pine forests and the ever-present mountains. What a great start to your day!

It’s also a lesser known fact that the sunsets are equally dramatic from this viewpoint and stick around for stunning milky-way views. If you have the time, camping overnight is highly recommended.

Located to the west of town, near the town of Besao, Danum Lake is a peaceful at-one-with-nature setting, surrounded by the Ampacao mountains.

Trek 4km from Sagada town centre – approx 1h10m walk – along Sagada’s West Road, aiming to arrive about an hour before sunset to capture the setting at its best.

A small lake (more of a pond, in fact), the beauty is in the surrounding pine trees reflected in the still waters, and the relaxing atmosphere. A lovely end to any day, this is a firm favourite camping location for Sagada visitors.

If you’re staying longer in Sagada, walk just 200 metres to the smaller Lake Banao, the jumping off point for the long trek to the summit of Mt Ampacao, the highest peak in the area.

Ganduyan Museum

Your visit to Sagada is not complete unless you drop by here. A privately owned museum, maintained by family members, it’s almost directly opposite the Tourist Information Centre in the middle of town and offers a fantastic overview of the beginning of Sagada.

Listen as the curator tells stories of Sagada’s history, culture, art and its people, especially their beliefs and traditions. The small museum is packed with an anthropologist’s dream of sculptures, jewellery and other Kankanay (including Sagada Igorot) artefacts.

To the south of Sagada you’ll find an old village called Demang. Once the original “Sagada”, the village is today still the true cultural heart of the area. You might be lucky enough to witness celebrations or fiestas – always a loud and fun affair!

Bomod-ok Falls

This is the Philippines countryside at its best: an impressively high waterfall (200m), surrounded by rice terraces and breath-taking views. Instagram-worthy pictures guaranteed!

The falls can be reached by a challenging 3-hour trek from Sagada, passing through communities, down and up a mountain, and through rice fields with steep steps at almost 70-degrees. Not for the faint of heart, with 3 hours there and back, it’s fair to say that the exciting part is the journey itself, not the final destination.

Take it slow, pack well, and pencil out a full day to really enjoy the experience. Pack water and a picnic lunch too, though you will find a few local stores along the route selling drinks and basic snacks.

An hour or so into your trek, at the “staging area”, you’ll need to register and take a tour guide through to the Bomod-ok Falls. This is actually great, as the guides have a fountain of knowledge about the area and the places that you pass through.

Once at the falls, it’s time to cool off with a well-earned swim before, alas, facing the return trek. There are a couple of routes back, both taking the same time but one slightly easier so ensure to discuss this with your guide.

Though tiring this is a wonderful trek, totally worth it in our opinion!

Mt Kiltepan

Best explored in the early hours, you’ll need to leave Sagada before the crack of dawn to reach here as it’s again all about catching the dramatic sunrise!

Another popular spot to view the famous Sagada sunrise, with the sea-of-clouds laid out below, you’ll also have panoramic views of the Kilong Rice Terraces.

Located around 40-minutes walk (or 10 minutes drive) from the town, don’t be surprised to find throngs of fellow tourists heading up here at 4.30 am. Fog-allowing, it’s all worth it… As the first rays of the sun breakthrough in a blaze of light and colour!

Probably the most popular viewing spot for the famous Sagada sunrise, if you’re lucky with the weather this is a unique experience and well worth the early start. Wrap up warm as this will be a chilly trip, with your breath smoking from your mouth in the cold mountain climate.

Kapay-Aw Rice Terraces

Sagada’s own version of the rice terraces of Banaue, with variations of greens and patterns spread out over the valley. Take an easy stroll here to see the lush agriculture cultivated by the locals and capture some stunning photos.

Climb up through the rice-terrace levels for a majestic view across the valleys of the Sagada province.

Rafting And Kayaking On The Chico River

Time to get wet and have some fun at the Upper Chico River, high in the mountains. Rated as some of the best white water rafting in the Philippines, six sections of the Upper Chico are accessible from Sagada giving different water conditions, with the season usually running from late June to early January. Experienced kayakers also have a choice of scenic challenging runs, some almost 9km long.

Try The Local Coffee

Fair to say that the Philippines is not renowned for its cuisine or drinks, yet Sagada is definitely an exception when it comes to coffee. Thanks to the high altitude and cooler mountain temperatures, coffee grows very well here. Cafes offer the premium local coffee, with some even roasting the beans themselves.

What To Do In Sagada Map

On this Sagada map, tourist attractions available in this area are all noted.

Best Places To Stay In Sagada

When it comes to the best hotels in Sagada, there isn’t a huge range. The good news is that the accommodation in Sagada is generally good value and budget hunters will feel at home. However, people that prefer more upper midrange and luxury accommodation may be disappointed.

Below I’ve listed a few different places to consider.

Coffee Heritage House & Hostel Review

Looking for peaceful accommodation, surrounded by lush greenery? The Coffee Heritage House & Hostel ticks the boxes.

The first coffee-themed accommodation, aiming to share their passion about Philippine artisanal coffee whilst aiding the local farmers, it’s located on a hill approx 6km outside of town. A family welcome awaits you here, with tasty local and western food cooked to order. And as much fresh coffee as you want!

Views are spectacular, pine-tree scents fill the air, dogs and chickens entertain you, and the dramatic mountain weather of Sagada presents changing views. Oh, and the night sky… You should be easily spotting the milky-way from this remote, rural area.

Beds are comfortable and clean, and the common shared area is spacious – with an open fire for those mountain-crisp evenings. Rooms are varied: 5-bed mixed dorm with Queen, 5-bed mixed dorm with Single, 3-bed mixed dorm Single, Deluxe Queen and Deluxe Triple rooms. Do note that washroom facilities are all shared.

A favourite of visitors enjoying a Sagada backpacking itinerary 2023 offers, the inconvenient location is not ideal for everyone. However, if you’re looking for tranquillity, scenic views and a relaxed atmosphere, this is the spot for you.

Click here for the latest prices

Isabelo’s Inn and Cafe Review

Known for its family-friendly welcome and proximity to some good restaurants within the village, this is a great mid-market accommodation option.

Free internet access, on-site coffee shop and complimentary breakfast are offered. Less than half a mile from the Hanging Coffins, this is a great base for exploring the area.

With two floors, you’ll find the reception on the 1st floor, along with a small living room (with cable tv) and the breakfast-dining area. Upstairs there are 10 various room choices: standard double with private bathroom, twin room with shower, double queen with shared bathroom, triple and family rooms.

The convenient location, friendly welcome and comfortable facilities make this an ideal place to stay for families and couples, or anyone looking to maximise their time for excursions and activities.

Kanip Aw Pines View Lodge Review

Approx 8-minutes walk from the centre of the village, Kanip Aw Pines View Lodge is another ideally located accommodation option.

Various room options include 2 double beds, 1 single, 1 double, family and queen standard. Most have mountain views and a couple have a small balcony/terrace area. WiFi is available in the public areas, a vending machine and a shared lounge/TV area.

A popular choice for backpackers or those looking for a cheap base, not planning on spending too much time in their accommodation.

Find our full list of the best places to stay in Sagada here .

Visiting Sagada With Kids

With its cooler climate and out-doors lifestyle, caves, rock formations, forests and mountain views, children love Sagada! Rough-and-tumble younger children do well here, with lots of space and few vehicles around, climbing rocks, collecting flowers, and basically revelling in the outdoors lifestyle.

Older children appreciate the scenic views and thrill at the early morning jeep rides up to mountain viewing points for those pre-sunrise excursions. Needless to say, the hanging coffins are a winner too, and when you add in rafting, kayaking and spelunking… The kids might not be ready to leave after only 3 days!

Thus, all this makes Sagada a favourite for families with unique cultures and traditions helping to make a stay here not just great fun, but educational too. Don’t forget, that you’re guided by the welcoming and caring Filipinos, who especially enjoy sharing the sights and thrills of their home country with enthusiastic families.

With many things to do in Sagada with kids, this is one destination the whole family will enjoy.

How To Get To Sagada

Reaching Sagada is a fairly lengthy journey, whichever route you take.

Most visitors fly into Manila and take the new Coda Lines bus from Cubao, Quezon City, Manila, straight to Sagada in 12 hours (with a few stops for the restroom along the way). You’ll find a couple of choices – Super Deluxe with 35-seats and restroom, or a more reasonably priced Semi Deluxe 45-seater. This overnight service helps you avoid wasting a full day whilst travelling to Sagada.

Nearer still is Baguio, with a domestic airport 5km outside the city: Loakan Airport. From Baguio, Sagada is only 6 hours by road and there are a couple of bus companies that operate this route.

To see all the latest flights and prices, click here . For the bus routes and rates, click here .

Final Words

Theodore Roosevelt said, “Nothing in the world is worth having or worth doing unless it means effort…”. Reaching Sagada might seem like a lot of effort, but we assure you there will be no regrets!

One of the most relaxing travel spots in the archipelago, the beautiful town, indigenous culture and unbelievable scenery will blow you away. Hire a guide and explore, explore, explore!

We hope you enjoyed this Sagada sample itinerary and the complete list of places to visit in Sagada Philippines. You can find more information in our complete guide to Luzon here .

Related posts:

By Julia Rolph

Julia first discovered the Philippines in 2011, eventually settling in beautiful Bantayan Island, Cebu, with her daughter and Filipino partner.  The family spend every vacation exploring the Philippines, and Julia enjoys helping others discover this wonderful destination. When she's not sharing her vast Philippines knowledge here, she works as a travel planner planning trips for people who want to visit the Philippines

19 Best Things to Do in Sagada (With Tips and Guide)

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Sagada is undoubtedly the most beautiful and mystic place you can ever find in the northern Philippines. It is where I had so much fun, gained peace of mind, and felt immeasurable awe —all at the same time!

Tucked high in the mountains, Sagada is blessed to have eternal spring . That said, it is undoubtedly the unusual side of the Philippines you would want to go to to escape the country’s perpetual summer .

In this blog post, I will explain why you should visit Sagada . Also, you will know the activities & attractions in Sagada and some of the essential things you must know before you come to Sagada . Sagada is a destination you’ll love and won’t regret visiting!

This post contains affiliate links. I may receive a tiny commission at no additional cost to you.

Use the table of contents to skip to topics.

Perched in a valley within the Philippine Cordillera mountains, Sagada is the face of the Philippines that most tourists from other countries aren’t so familiar with . There are no beaches and coconut trees but breathtaking mountains and pine trees.

If you’re a foreign tourist wanting to discover a hidden gem in the Philippines, Sagada is the best destination I can recommend.

Sagada was my first mountain experience, which changed my life forever. I’m not kidding! And, there are no exaggerations in it. 

Awe-filled by breathtaking views of the mountains and scenery in Sagada, I was partly cured of my anxiety from a depressing “dream” job. 

In Sagada’s blue soil , while breathing the freshest air in my life, I realized that the world really has beautiful places. And life, like the world, isn’t only about suffering and ugly experiences. Everything has its lovely side. And sometimes, we can only find it if we desire to see it.

Sagada is beautiful in many ways. But, for me, the profound benefits we can get from traveling to Sagada serve the best reasons to visit Sagada.

Let me explain further by answering the question:

Is Sagada Worth Visiting?

For several reasons, yes, Sagada is worth visiting ! It is one of the best places to discover a fascinating culture (the Igorots and their hanging coffins) , see marvelous works of indigenous Filipinos (rice terraces), and behold rare wonders in the mountains (blue soil).

The pristine nature and spiritual heritage of the Igorot people in Sagada can undoubtedly give you an authentic mountain experience . Because of this, I can personally describe Sagada as a mystical place in the Philippines, a destination best for finding inner peace.

Sagada is pure and sacred.

When I visited Sagada, I learned that the folks in Sagada don’t sell their lands to outsiders . Even big tourism corporations aren’t allowed to alter their surroundings and do business inside Sagada. 

Believe me, Sagada is a totally different destination .

Although food prices (and other commodities) are relatively higher in Sagada, I did not feel like it was a tourist trap. This is why when I buy their souvenirs and meals, in my mind, it’s helping their community thrive.

Nonetheless, Sagada offers numerous things to do, which is also why it is worth visiting. There are activities and attractions where you can discover their culture, have an adventure, taste their local food, and relax.

Ultimately, based on my experience, Sagada is a lovely destination for creating wholesome moments with other people.

It is! Whether you’re with acquaintances or your family, friends, or friends that became a family. You’ll learn them all (what and how) later on.

Find the best hotel deals in Sagada here .

19 Best Things To Do In Sagada

Despite being only a small municipality in the province of Mountain Province, Sagada offers several attractions you can’t all visit within a weekend. We can group them in four categories:

I will discuss each attraction/activity in Sagada after this summary:

Culture. If you want to learn the culture in Sagada, there are four places you must visit:

• Sagada Weaving
• Church of Saint Mary the Virgin
• Sagada Pottery
• Echo Valley and the Hanging Coffins

Among the cultural attractions in Sagada, the ones which you should not miss are the Echo valley and the Hanging Coffins. It will give you insights into the Igorot’s unique culture.

You’ll learn more about Hanging Coffins later.

Adventure. Sagada lets you have adventures, too! I think these are the highlights of a memorable trip to Sagada. Don’t miss trying at least one of these:

• Cave Connections / Lumiang Cave to Sumaguing Cave
• Kiltepan Viewpoint
• Marlboro Hills
• Sagada Blue Soil
• Bomod-ok Falls

Among the adventurous attractions in Sagada, the Blue Soil is the one you must not forget to include in your itinerary. It is a gem and a wonder unique to Sagada. 

When I saw the Blue Soil, I was incredibly amazed by its appearance. It appears like snow, but when you touch it, you’ll know it’s really soil. Fascinating.

Food. Your wanderlust and taste buds are satisfied on a trip to Sagada. The local meals and dishes in Sagada have a taste enriched by the freshest vegetables and fruits from the Philippine mountains. 

Definitely, pigging out in Sagada is an unmissable thing to do! Here are the restaurants I recommend:

• Gaia Cafe and Crafts
• Sagada Cellar Door
• Sagada Brew
• Yoghurt House
• Sagada Lemon Pie House

I’ve tried eating in every one of these restaurants I mentioned. But the restaurant I had the best moment in Sagada was Sagada Cellar Door. I’ll tell you my story about this later!

For the quality of the food, I recommend the Yoghurt House. The serving also is enormous! It’s worth your money.

Lastly, if you’re looking for an Instagrammable restaurant in Sagada, Gaia Cafe & Crafts is the place to go. While you eat, you can see a view of the rice paddies at the foot of the mountains.

Nature. After dining and doing all the adventures, you can relax in these nature-related places in Sagada:

• Rice Terraces viewpoint
• Orange Picking at Sagada Rock Inn and Cafe
• Ambasing Bus Ruin
• Picnic or camping in Lake Danum
• Forest Bathing everywhere

For me, the best place to spend the most time in nature in Sagada is Lake Danum. Lakes in the mountains have a magical appearance, especially during sunrise. (The lake can be extremely crowded during the peak season and sunset)

Read my other blog posts about the Philippines

1. Sagada Weaving

Let’s kick off the list of things to do in Sagada with Sagada Weaving . It is located northeast of the town center, 7 minutes away by foot.

Let’s say you are coming to Sagada from Manila via Bontoc in a private vehicle. Then, Sagada Weaving is the first attraction you can list in your itinerary. It’s just beside the road connecting Sagada and Bontoc , and you should be able to easily spot it.

In a nutshell, Sagada Weaving is home to good-quality handwoven products designed with traditional patterns. They have been weaving bags, slippers, souvenirs, and apparel since 1968. 

When you go inside, you can check not only their merchandise but also how they weave their products. Here, you’ll see the creativity of the locals through the products they’re weaving.

It’s like a mini-museum of local’s traditional art.

2. Church of Saint Mary the Virgin

In the town center, near Sagada Municipal Tourist Information Center, you can find an  Episcopal church or Anglican church . It is a rare find in the Philippines that’s mainly Catholic.

How did the Episcopal church reach Sagada?

After the Spanish colonizers handed over the Philippines to the United States of America in 1904, the Episcopal Church began sending missionaries to the Philippines. One of the towns they’ve reached is Sagada, where they built the Church of Saint Mary the Virgin . 

The Church of Saint Mary the Virgin looks very western , especially with its masonry construction . 

With the mild weather in Sagada and all the pine trees around you, a short stroll in front of this church can make you feel like you’re not in the Philippines at all .

Come inside the church and feel some solemnity. I like the lighting effects made by the windows at the sides of the church, though.

Behind the altar, you can see the kaleidoscopic flower stained-glass window behind the statue of Chris at the Choir.

3. Sagada Pottery

Aside from weaving, the locals of Sagada create pots too. It is a tradition of the Cordilleran people that dates back to ancient times. You can discover it in Sagada Pottery.

Where is Sagada Pottery ?

You can walk to Sagada Pottery from the town center if you don’t have a private vehicle. You can find it along Sagada-Besao (west) road, and it should take 30 minutes to get there.

(Remember that Sagada is a mountainous place. So you must expect inclined/high gradient roads even in different parts of the town.)

When you come to Sagada Pottery, you will meet the skilled potters Siegrid Bangyay and Tessie Baldo . They will introduce you to the pot-making process using their rotating platform.

If you want, you can make your own pot ! They will teach and guide you to shape a piece of earth with your hands. It can be a fascinating experience, especially for culture seekers.

Sagada Pottery has a gallery of beautifully handcrafted pots in their cute hut in the middle of the pine forest. Some are for sale as souvenirs.

4. Echo Valley and Hanging Coffins

Aside from the rice terraces, the Hanging Coffins of Sagada are perhaps the most interesting cultural attraction you can find in the northern Philippines. 

You should come here because it is also a unique tradition practiced only in very few places in East and Southeast Asia , including Sagada .

From the perspective of the Igorot people, what are the Hanging Coffins all about?

In a nutshell, Hanging Coffins is a tradition followed by locals believing that the higher the coffin, the closer they are to heaven when they die. It is the testament of a meaningful reverence of Igorots to their ancestors.

To go here, you must have a guide which you must coordinate with. (Get a guide in Sagada Municipal Tourist Information Center)

From what I’ve experienced, even if people can visit the Hanging Coffins without a guide, having a guide is necessary. Why? Because the guide will be the one who can explain the Hanging Coffins to you very well .

The guide will let you know every detail of their Hanging Coffins tradition. Like, why their coffins are relatively smaller compared to modern coffins. Also, as to how their ancestors can fit inside the coffins . Etc.

Before you reach the Hanging Coffins, you’ll have to hike for about 30 minutes on a paved, cemented path. In the middle of the trail, you’ll pass through the Echo Valley , where you’ll literally hear your voice come back when you shout. 

In popular culture, the Echo Valley is where some Filipinos used to scream words of their pain after a heartbreak.

However, shouting is now prohibited due to disturbances affecting wildlife. Visitors can feel more tranquility while trekking the valley.

5. Cave Connection (Lumiang Cave to Sumaguing Cave)

Believe it or not, there are more than 60 caves underneath Sagada ! You can have an adventure you won’t forget in two of them.

The names of the caves you can have an adventure into are Lumiang Cave and Sumaguing Cave . In them, eye-opening rock formations await. They will uncover as you do the craziest spelunking activities.

Lumiang cave and Sumaguing cave can be traversed together since a route connects them. The activity in which you will explore both caves is called Cave Connection .

The Cave Connection starts from the mouth of the Lumiang Cave and ends in Sumaguing Cave.

In the beginning, you will be welcomed by hundreds of coffins stacked together based on tradition. The coffins are very similar to the ones you’ll see in the Hanging Coffins. Don’t let them scare you!

Anyhow, to try Cave Connections, you must be physically or mentally prepared. You rappel, crawl, climb, and squeeze yourself between the slippery rocks and boulders. Fun and adventure, it is!

Claustrophobic fellows might not want to try, but it’s a great place to overcome fear .

The whole Cave Connection spelunking adventure lasts for 4 hours . You will need a guide to get and try the Cave Connections. Don’t worry about where you can find the caves, your guide will bring you there.

6. Kiltepan Viewpoint

Kiltepan is the attraction in Sagada, which became viral on social media after it was featured in a local movie. It is one of the vantage points in Sagada, where you can witness a heaven-like sunrise view with a sea of clouds .

If it is not foggy, the nearby rice terraces will be visible from Kiltepan.

You can hike to Kiltepan or ride a jeepney departing the town center at 4:30 am. It is that early because you need to catch the spectacular sunrise. The jeepney ride is approximately 15 minutes.

When I visited Sagada, the Kiltepan viewpoint was closed because of a nearby fire incident. If you want to learn how to see Kiltepan, I suggest you check this article from LostAndWonder .

7. Marlboro Hills

The Marlboro Hills is another spot in Sagada where you can watch a beautiful sunrise and, at the same time, witness a sea of clouds. 

Like Kiltepan, the Marlboro Hills is a viewpoint for watching the sunrise in Sagada. And, it’s best to get to the Marlboro Hills before sunrise . This way, you may have a lot of options for a good vantage point.

During the weekends and the peak season (usually December, January to March), Marlboro Hills and Kiltepan can be badly crowded.

However, unlike Kiltepan, you can’t spot the rice terraces from the Marlboro Hills. Also, going to the Marlboro hills requires a 3-hour hike after a 15-minute jeepney ride from the jump-off location.

Yeah, you really have to get up early to catch the sunrise in the Marlboro Hills.

To get to the Marlboro Hills, all you need to do is to coordinate well with your guide (At least a day before). Your guide shall make all the arrangements (as I have experienced). That includes the vehicle to the jump-off location.

Based on my experience, hiking the Marlboro hills is not that demanding. But I suggest conditioning your body a week or days before you get to Sagada if you plan to hike to the Marlboro Hills.

By the way, Sagada isn’t the only place in the Philippines where you can find absolutely scenic views.

Look at my list of the Most Beautiful Mountains in the Philippines .

I also suggest you check the views from Mount Pulag and Mount Mayon —the two most beautiful mountains in the Philippines.

Also Read: The 7 Best Things To Do (Best Experiences!)

8. Sagada Blue Soil

Do you know what the most awe-inspiring destination in Sagada is? It’s the Blue Soil. Well, at least for me! LOL.

But, honestly, it’s a unique natural wonder you can’t find anywhere else in the Philippines. And you must see it. Maybe, it can change your life as it did to me. (as I mentioned in the introduction)

The thing is, it’s really magical. When I stood on a small hill overlooking the Blue Soil , I literally said “wow” to myself. 

I still remember standing in that spot, breathing the freshest air in my life.

I even closed my eyes, stopped taking photos, and put my phone in my pocket. I did not miss the moment to commune with nature (hear the sound of the breeze and the sound they make with the branches of the trees)… and let it take away all the things that trouble me within.

That was deep! But, I think you should also do it. I promise, it heals.

The Blue Soil was also the part of Sagada where I felt immense awe filling me. There’s no word to describe that feeling . For me, to explain that feeling is like for me to answer the question, “how did the Blue Soil come into existence?”

I’ll just say, “I can’t tell.”

Of course, as a curious guy, I did not forget to ask our guide, “how was it possible?”

He wasn’t very clear with his answer, though. What I understood was that there are rich deposits of minerals below the blue soil . They make chemical reactions causing the discoloration of the ground, turning it into blueish white like snow.

Do you now also want to see the Blue Soil?

Again, all that you need to do is to coordinate with your guide . You must know that a hiking trail links the Marlboro hills and the Blue Soil. You can ask your guide to bring you that way so you can save time visiting the best attractions in Sagada. 

Leaving the Marlboro Hills immediately after sunrise is a must if that will be your itinerary. 

Departing from the Marlboro Hills early will give you much time to appreciate the Blue Soil before the crowd invades it . The Blue Soil’s gonna be full of people, and it will be tough to find a spot where you can meditate or simply take pictures without photobombers. 

9. Bomod-ok Falls

Bomod-ok is a 61-meter (200-feet) tall majestic waterfall you won’t miss taking long exposure shots with your camera. It is located near the communities called Pide and Fidelisan in the northern part of Sagada.

It can only be reached through hiking from the jump-off site in Barangay Bangaan , which is approximately a 15-minute drive from the town center. You can book a vehicle ride to Barangay Bangaan from the Municipal Tourist Information Center.

I put Bomod-ok falls on the last part of the adventurous things to do in Sagada because I think it must be the last place you must see when you visit Sagada .

Why is that?

It is because you can be so exhausted after you visit Bomod-Ok falls. And, you may not fully enjoy the rest of your trip to Sagada if you have already used your energy in Bomod-Ok falls hike.

Believe me, we tried. And that’s what we have realized.

Frankly, the hike is not so challenging at all if you’re an experienced hiker. But for beginners, like I was, the hike (at least the return trip to Barangay Bangaan) has strained my hips and legs after the almost-forever-inclining path.

Make sure to bring your hiking poles if you visit Bomod-Ok falls. Usually, your guide will let you borrow a long stick as an alternative to a hiking pole if you do not have one.

If you feel discouraged by the hike, don’t be! The view of Bomod-Ok falls is undoubtedly rewarding. 

You’ll love the sound of its thundering cascade! 

Then, the cool, moist air coming from Bomod-Ok falls? It will quench the heat in your body—one hundred percent relaxing. 

Although the return trip from Bomod-Ok falls can be pretty challenging, the view from the hiking trail is already scenic . And if trekking rice terraces is on your bucket list, the hike to Bomod-Ok falls can be that one experience you’re looking for.

The hiking trail to Bomod-Ok waterfall passes through Fidelisan Rice Terraces. The journey to Bomod-Ok waterfall is a two-in-one experience you can have in Sagada.

You will need at least 4 hours to fully enjoy the hike, rest, and a dip in the plunge pool of Bomod-Ok waterfall.

Indeed, it is an adventure you must have.

But do you know which place has rice terraces, which I think is a glimpse of heaven on earth in the Philippines? Maligcong . You are missing half of your life of travel if you don’t see it with your own eyes. 

Here’s my article about Maligcong . Don’t forget to read it!

10. Gaia Cafe and Crafts

Located in the northern mountainous region of the Philippines, crops in Sagada are cultivated in an ideal climate: cool temperature, enough rain, and the sun showing up all year . 

If you are looking for tasty, fresh, and nutritious meals, Sagada won’t let you down!

One of the best restaurants in Sagada is Gaia Cafe and Crafts . It is one of the highest-rated restaurants on Tripadvisor that you’ll find in Sagada.

People like dining in Gaia Cafe and Crafts for three reasons:

• The food tastes incredibly delicious,
• The cozy ambiance 
• And the beautiful view of the rice terraces seen from its gigantic windows .

The food they prepare is made from locally grown vegetables. So, you must expect what you’ll eat is fresh and delicious!

The menu here varies from sandwiches to rice meals, salad, pasta, and more. 

During our visit, I ordered pesto pasta. The way it was prepared was absolutely appetizing. But when I started devouring it, I realized I should have requested the spaghetti my friend ordered. 

Gaia Cafe is located in Barangay Ambasing, located south of the town center. If you try walking, it can take 20 to 25 minutes to reach Gaia Cafe from Sagada Municipal Tourist Information Center.

11. Sagada Cellar Door

If you are traveling to Sagada in a group and looking for a beautiful place to have dinner, Sagada Cellar Door is the one you’re looking for. Let my story I’ll tell you later be the reason why.

In a nutshell, Sagada Cellar Door is a rustic bar & grill restaurant with an absolutely cozy country vibe.

Inside Sagada Cellar Door’s wooden house is where you will eat your dinner. When we were eating, the crew played songs in the country genre, boosting the we-are-really-in-the-mountain-feels. It was a pleasant experience!

The food that Sagada Cellar Door prepared that night, which our group had chosen, did not match my taste. For me, it was just okay. But to my friends, they are great!

Sagada Cellar Door serves authentic Igorot and Ilonggo dishes , often in a buffet, depending on what they offer you when you reserve for dining. 

You can go to Sagada Cellar Door’s Facebook Page to know how you can reserve. 

After your dinner, you can proceed to the outdoor bar that has a bonfire in the middle. They sell quality beers —totally unmissable! The ambiance is so perfect for bonding with friends and family.

Actually, the outdoor bar is where I had one of the memorable nights in Sagada.

Touched by the warmth from the bonfire, inspired by the glittering sky, and surrounded by pine trees and people also wanting to enjoy the night—I was stimulated to do something everyone can enjoy.

So, I borrowed the guitar I found in the wooden house and brought it to the outdoor bar. 

Nervously, I started strumming the guitar and sang a song… a good thing everyone joined in! 

That was my first time performing in front of my friends and people I barely knew. As we sang together, it felt at home .

Other acquaintances and friends also played the guitar and sang. 

That time, I realized how beautiful traveling is. Thus, I promised to travel the following year at least once a month.

The thing is, you can also have that perfect moment in Sagada Cellar Doo r! The last time I checked the Facebook page of Sagada Cellar Door, they are now allowing walk-in for the outdoor bar until 8 in the evening.

12. Sagada Brew

If you want to drink legit mountaintop coffee and tea , Sagada Brew is the restaurant you should not miss! You can easily find it along the south road, a 10-minute walk from the town center.

Sagada Brew, aside from coffee, offers various desserts and rice meals that I think are great for brunch, lunch, afternoon meals, and dinner. Absolutely, this restaurant is vegetarian-friendly as they sell many vegan options.

I like their chocolate shake and the brown rice meal, which look appetizing.

However, I recommend that you come here only when you’re not that hungry or you’re not in a rush to visit other attractions in Sagada. The service can be really slow, especially during peak hours. 

13. Yoghurt House

I think any trip to Sagada is incomplete if Yoghurt house is not included in your itinerary, especially if you’re a foodie !

As I have mentioned earlier, Sagada has some of the freshest fruits you can find in the Philippines. And the yogurts that Yoghurt House prepares are made from the mountains’ extra nutritious and fresh berries . 

It may seem that Yoghurt house only makes yogurts based on their name. But the truth is, they have many on their menu, like pasta, salad, sandwiches, chicken, beef, pork, and hot drinks . 

Not only delicious, but you will also be surprised how enormous the food serving size in Yoghurt house is. A meal can already satisfy two people.

Because of this, I think Yoghurt House is the best restaurant to dine at after hiking to Bomod-Ok waterfall.

The dining area has a chalet ambiance ; you’ll love it. The floor makes a squeaky sound while you walk. They made me feel like I wasn’t in the Philippines.

Yohgurt House also offers authentic mountaintop coffee . 

Go to the second floor and stay on the balcony for a cold breeze of the air while sipping your hot coffee.

14. Sagada Lemon Pie House

Do you plan to stay in Sagada for more than 3 days? Spend some relaxing time in Sagada Lemon Pie. Whether you are a group or a solo traveler looking for a “me time,” Sagada Lemon Pie has got you. 

Their restaurant has tables for both group and solo travelers where you can hang out, enjoy the cozy vibe and savor the taste of their special juicy sweet lemon pies . When you come, match the lemon pies with a coffee. It is a perfect snack combination and a foodie experience unique to Sagada.

I also put Sagada Lemon Pie House in the last part of my foodie things to do in Sagada for one reason: their lemon pies are an excellent takeaway and pasalubong for your friends and family at home .

Sagada Lemon Pie’ pies are extremely famous pasalubong . Their pies sell out fast! Make sure you come to their store in the morning.

15. Rice Terraces of Sagada

A trip to northern Luzon, especially in the Cordillera region, is without a doubt incomplete if you missed seeing the rice terraces . It is one of the few places in Asia where you can find such marvels. 

Believe me, they’re really spectacular . 

And whenever I see these rice terraces, I can’t help but applaud the ingenuity and hard work of the Filipinos who built them. Can you imagine how they carved the mountains ?

If you plan to stay in Sagada for much longer, I suggest you hike, relax, and admire one of the rice terraces surrounding Sagada. The panoramic view and the fresh mountain air should soothe you so well. 

I believe they will make you forget all your problems, worries, and negative thoughts. 

As far as I know, you can find five rice terraces in Sagada:

• Bangaan Rice Terraces (Northern Sagada)
• Aguid Rice Terraces (Northern Sagada)
• Ankileng Rice Terraces (Southern Sagada)
• Balungan Rice Terraces (Southcentral Sagada)
• Kilong Rice Terraces (Eastern Sagada)

The name of the rice terraces depicts the Barangay they are found in.

You can ask Sagada Municipal Tourist Information Center to give you instructions on how you can visit each of these rice terraces. 

However, if you want to see the best rice terraces in the Philippines, Maligcong is the best place you must go. Maligcong is one jeepney ride away from Bontoc, which is also one jeepney ride away from Sagada. 

Here’s my guide to Maligcong .

16. Orange Picking at Sagada Rock Inn & Café

Do you want to feel like you have your own estate or the orange plantation? Try the orange picking activity at the Orange Orchard of Sagada Rock Inn and Cafe. You can pick and eat unlimited oranges within 30 minutes for 50 pesos . 

They will teach you how to pick oranges from their branches correctly.

By the way, don’t pick and harvest too many oranges. The orchard caretakers will charge 100 pesos per kilo for the oranges harvested but not eaten.

Orange picking is not available all year round. The best time to come here is during the harvest season, typically from November to December. Please inquire first about Rock Inn & Cafe’s Facebook page before going.

17. Ambasing Bus Ruin

Ambasing Bus Ruin is perhaps one of the most Instagrammable places in Sagada . The artsy bus with a wall of pine trees in the background will definitely capture your attention to take photos. 

I suggest not climbing to the top of the bus , but if you want to take a risk for a fantastic photo, it’s all in you. When we were there, the bus was already rusty and would seem to collapse if two or three people climbed the roof simultaneously.

Ambasing Bus Ruin is a 20-minute walk or 6-minute drive from the town center. 

It’s an excellent shortstop before and after you eat in Gaia Cafe and Crafts. Ambasing Bus Ruin and Gaia Bus Ruin are only 3 minutes away on foot. 

We spent 30 minutes in the Ambasing Bus Ruin. After we took photos, we hung out under trees beside the bus and admired the mountain views from a spot a few steps from the bus. 

18. Lake Danum

Another picture-perfect place in Sagada is Lake Danum . If the weather is perfect, you’ll love the mesmerizing reflections that the calm lake shows on its surface. This small lake lies near the Sagada-Besao (West) Road, a 10-minute drive from the town center. 

Bring a small chair or a mat where you can lie down while you take long exposure shots of the lake. 

Lake Danum is also an excellent place to relax, pitch a tent, and spend time with your friends. As far as I know and according to our guide, you can camp here overnight and make a bonfire .

What makes Lake Danum an exciting place to spend a night at? The folk tales and the legend of Lake Danum . You can ask your guide about it or just read this post from Yzagada (I suggest not reading it until you visit Lake Danum).

I do not recommend visiting Lake Danum to watch the sunset on the weekend.

It is the time when Lake Danum is packed with tourists. You would barely feel the tranquility and see the profound beauty of the lake.

19. Forest Bathing

For me, Sagada is a sanctuary for people who seek inner peace and healing. The mystic atmosphere, tranquil path, fresh air, and serene nature won’t forget to cleanse not only your lungs but also your mind.

If you have a lot of time, I suggest you commune with nature like the Japanese people do. They call the activity “shinrin-yoku,” or forest bathing .

Basically, forest bathing, according to National Geographic , is a psychological exercise to offer an eco-antidote to tech-boom burnout and to inspire residents to reconnect with the forests. It’s a simple hike in the forest mixed with meditation to cleanse your mind .

There is no specific place in Sagada where I can recommend forest bathing. You can do it along the hike between Marlboro hills and Blue Soil or wherever there are a lot of trees around you.

How to Go to Sagada?

There are several ways you can go to Sagada; you can use public transportation, drive your own car, or join a travel group. If you plan to commute , you can start from Baguio or Manila, where the bus terminals to Sagada are located . 

Below is more information to guide you get to Sagada:

Commute from Manila to Sagada (direct bus)

Coda Lines is the only bus line company with direct bus rides from Manila to Sagada. It is the easiest and most convenient way to come to Sagada from the metro .

Begin your trip by booking a ticket from the website of Coda Lines . Do not forget to book a return trip to the metro if you plan to return to Manila after your trip to Sagada. After your reservation, Make your way to the bus station.

See it from Google Maps . Do not be confused if you see “ HM Transport Bus Terminal .” Inside the terminal, you shall find buses in purple and white colors. When you do, you have found your bus to Sagada.

Coda Lines buses going to Sagada pass through Banaue and not Baguio.

The total travel time would be 12 hours , depending on the traffic situation. If you worry that you will need a restroom, these buses will have several stops where you can pee or poop in case you need to.

Another option is to book a more expensive “ Super Deluxe ” bus. It is a bus with a restroom inside. With that, you won’t have to worry about your bladder when it gets full.

Commute from Manila to Sagada via Baguio

Baguio City is one of the cities nearest to Sagada. It is also a tourist destination you must visit, especially if you want to explore a city with pleasant weather.

If you do, you can follow these steps:

• Book your tickets going to Baguio ahead of time. Victory liner is the biggest and most trusted bus company going to Baguio. They have 5 terminals in Metro Manila; you can book what’s nearest to you. 
• Hop on the bus an hour or 30 minutes before your departure time. You shall arrive at Victory Liner Terminal in Baguio about 4.5 hours after leaving Metro Manila.
• When you arrive in Baguio, take a taxi and head to GL Trans terminal in Baguio Dangwa Terminal. Do not forget to tell the driver that you are heading to Sagada. The driver must bring you to a new terminal if the buses are moved into a new location.
• As you arrive at the GL trans terminal, go to the counter immediately to buy tickets heading to Sagada.

Essential notes for Manila-Baguio-Sagada Commute

• The taxi fare should not pass more than 100 pesos.
• The fare should cost 220 pesos. 
• The Buses going to Sagada leave the terminal every hour from 5:30 in the morning until lunch. The last bus leaves at 1 in the afternoon.
• You must arrive early in Baguio to buy tickets to Sagada. Tickets are sold starting at 5 am. The buses get full quickly, especially during weekends. 
• There are no reservations and advanced booking. Tickets are sold first-come, first-served. 
• As you might notice, the buses have a “Besau” signboard. Sagada is not their final destination but only a stop on their route. The travel time to Sagada is about 6 hours. With that long, most of us tend to fall asleep. You must be awake before reaching Sagada, or you’ll end up in Besau instead. So, it’s better to set the alarm on your phone 5 hours after departure from the terminal.

You can take the buses parked near the Church of Saint Mary to return to Baguio from Sagada. 

You should be able to spot the buses every day. They depart at 5 am, 10 am, 1 pm, and 5 pm .

If you see these buses parked, I recommend you ask the driver or the bus conductor about the departure time for your last day in Sagada. Sometimes, the schedule changes without prior notice.

Driving your own car to Sagada

You could use Waze to direct you to Sagada. But definitely, it is going to be a long and tiring drive . You should also have experience driving in the Philippines, most importantly, in mountainous regions.

The roads to Sagada are mostly zigzag , and you will encounter enormous trucks along the way. It could be dangerous if you are not extremely careful, especially when driving at night .

Important things to know when bringing your own car to Sagada:

• You could only use your vehicle when going to Sagada. On your arrival to Sagada, you must park your car on a pay parking site or inside the premises of your hotels. 
• It is prohibited to park your vehicle along the road .
• You cannot use your vehicle when going to the attractions in Sagada. Only local transport shall be allowed to ferry tourists to tourist sites, restaurants, and souvenir shops.

Important Thing To Do As Soon As You Arrive To Sagada

On your arrival in Sagada, head straight to Sagada Tourism Office and register.

You need to pay a small amount of P50 for the tourism and environmental fee. Then, proceed to the office of Sagada Genuine Guides Association (SAGGAS) to book your tours.

Always bring the receipt you receive after paying as you need to present them to enter attractions in Sagada.

IMPORTANT: You must get a guide to visit attractions in Sagada. 

How do I move around Sagada?

For locals, the most convenient way to explore Sagada is by joining a group tour organized by social media communities. 

International tourists who want to try it may find it a great way to meet local travelers. Search for the “ DIY Travel Philippines ” Facebook group and ask to join. In the group, you can find posts from organizers offering tours to Sagada at a very affordable price !

You may also search for Malaya Travels on Instagram or Facebook. They are one of the best travel groups that organize trips to the northern Philippines, like Sagada, Maligcong, and Mount Pulag.

For DIY travelers, you can explore Sagada by walking, renting motorbikes, or booking tours offered by SAGGAS.

Sagada is only a small town, and you can go around by just walking. Besides, Sagada is a hiking destination, and the weather in Sagada is fantastic! You should not worry about sweating a lot.

You can explore Sagada through motorbikes . Hotels like Yellow House Sagada offer motorbike rentals, so you can explore Sagada at your own pace. However, you must not forget to coordinate with SAGGAS if you decide you want to use the motorbikes.

If there is a town in the Philippines with one of the most organized tourism programs, it’s Sagada. SAGGAS and its guides are the ones who will arrange everything for you, including your transportation.

You can ask your guide for a vehicle if walking isn’t your choice to explore Sagada. However, the vehicle fee is excluded from your guide fee.

When is the Best Time to go to Sagada?

The Philippines has only rainy and dry seasons. But unlike the rest of the country, Sagada enjoys a milder climate thanks to its elevation.

According to the graphs below, you should visit Sagada from November to March for clear skies and cooler temperatures, which are perfect for hiking.

However, December is the holiday month and peak travel season in the Philippines. 

Most Filipinos spend 2 weeks of vacation visiting different tourist attractions around the country. With the desire of Filipinos to experience a mild climate, you should not doubt why Sagada is one of our favorite destinations.

You might experience heavy traffic and overcrowding in some attractions in Sagada. Therefore, the ideal months to go here are during November, January, February, and March . 

Best Month for Sea of Clouds

Visit Sagada in March for a higher probability of witnessing a sea of clouds in Kiltepan and Marlboro hills. It is when the precipitation is near the lowest level. Thus, a clearing (less fog and rain clouds) is more likely to happen.

March is also the month in the Philippines when very few to no storms enter the country . You can expect a more successful trip (being able to visit all the attractions and see all the spectacular views).

However, before you expect too much that you can witness a sea of clouds, bear in mind some science behind it: Clouds are condensed water in the air. If the environment is dry, clouds are not likely to appear. 

This is why seeing a thick sea of clouds in Sagada is more likely if there is rain/drizzle the night before sunrise.

March was also when I went to Mount Pulag —the most beautiful mountain in the Philippines, several kilometers south of Sagada. There I first witnessed the magnificent sea of clouds. Read my hike about Mount Pulag.

Save it on Pinterest .

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10 MUST SEE SPOTS IN SAGADA YOU SHOULDN’T MISS

Sagada has come a long way. From being a quaint little town that only the bravest soul searching travelers did explore to becoming a primary tourist hubspot in the North. A lot of things have definitely changed in this once offbeat destination. The thick pine forest of its land were now slowly being replaced by inns and restaurants but there are things which remained the same and those were the gems only this amazing town can offer. If you are visiting Sagada for the first time, here are 10 Must See Spots You Don’t Wanna Miss On Your Visit.

1. The Hanging Coffins

Price:  P300/Guide as part of the Eco Valley Tour

One of the remaining pieces of evidence of the rich culture that once thrive in the Cordilleras is the Hanging Coffins. It showcases the Kankanaeys’ ancient tradition of burying their ancestors which they have practiced for hundreds of years and continued to do so until the 2000’s.

2. Kiltepan Peak

Price: P500/Van/10Pax

Featured in the movie “That Thing Called Tadhana”, Kiltepan Peak wasn’t the first to introduce Sagada’s beauty to the world but it certainly put it on the map. A sunrise witnessing the sea of clouds in Kiltepan Peak is one kind of experience you surely don’t wanna miss but unlike in the movie you don’t have to be heartbroken just to truly feel how enchanting it is.

3. Marlboro Hills

Price: P1200/2-Way Transpo/5pax | P1800/Guide/5Pax inc a tour to Blue Soil Hills

Marlboro Hills is another spot where you could witness a spectacular sunrise over a sea of clouds. Although Kiltepan Peak is the more popular choice at this category, in my opinion, however, Marlboro Hills is better. Not only that it offers a 360-degree view of the sea of clouds, but it also is less crowded and is a great spot for sunsets too.

4. Lake Danum

Remember that scene of Piolo and Juday in the movie “Don’t Give Up On Us” in 2006 where they were in front of a lake. That was the first time I saw Sagada. And that lake surely made me fall in love. And Oh boy, never had any idea that was Lake Danum. Not only that it is a dramatic spot for movies but it is a great place for sunsets too. Those towering pine trees turn orange and yellow during sunset reflected by the lake is one memory you’d like to embed in your mind forever.

5. Lumiang Cave

Price: P500 for 4 | P600 for 5 | P1000 up to 9

Lumiang Cave is more known as the “Burial Cave” and the most popular burial site in town where more of Sagada mummies are found inside their wooden caskets. It has a beautiful cave system that is connected to the more popular Sumaguing Cave. This tour can be challenging which involves trekking along rugged terrain but it’s nothing no ordinary travelers can’t manage.

6. Bokong Falls

This is normally part of the Eco Valley tour and the perfect day ender before witnessing the sunset in either Marlboro Hills or Lake Danum. Bokong meaning “small” is the alternative for waterfall chasers if you are not yet up to the challenge of Bomod-Ok Falls. Getting here is through a long descent from the main road leading to a vast vegetation where this gem is hidden beyond several unstable bridges you needed to cross.

7. Sumaguing Cave

Price:  Cave Connection 3-4Hrs P800 for 2 pax and P400 for each additional heads | Short Course P500 for 4 | P600 for 5 | P1000 up to 9

The most popular cave in Sagada is Sumaguing yet it is the most challenging. To experience this gem needs you to have not only the courage but the strength and motivation to endure exploring it that should take up to four hours. As a reward, you will get to marvel at one of the most beautiful caves in the country boasting of beautiful rock formations.

8. Bomod-Ok Falls

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jonah Chavez – Ranchez (@jonahstravel)

Price:  P500/Guide up to 10 pax | 2-Way Transpo – P650

Arguably one of the most gorgeous waterfalls in the Cordilleras is Bomod-Ok Falls. Getting to this falls will challenge you to so many levels but it is definitely worth it especially if you are an avid waterfall chaser.

9. Orange Picking At Rock Inn Cafe

Price:  P50/Person

Tucked several kilometers away from town is the humbly Rock Inn Cafe which is home to an amazing restaurant and a vast orange orchard where you can go picking for a minimal fee of P50. If you loved picking strawberries in Baguio, you would surely enjoy orange picking in Rock Inn. Know that you can pick as much oranges as you can but whatever you pick should be consumed within the orchard otherwise you’ll be paying for the oranges by the kilo.

10. Blue Soil Hills

Price: P1200/2-Way Transpo/5pax | P1800/Guide/5Pax inc a tour to Marlboro Hills

Sagada is home to some of the strangest things found in our country and the Blue Soil Hills is no exception. Imagine a roll of hills in a dreamy color of baby blue hidden in the mountainous terrains of Sagada where it is surrounded by pine trees. It truly is one spectacular spot to spend some time away from the crowded town to unwind and to simply be with nature.

There you have it lovelies. There’s definitely more to see in Sagada but for starters, these 10 spots should make your visit a great one. If you would like to see more of the Cordilleras, our 5-Day Budget Itinerary should give you an awesome idea. If you need a more comprehensive Sagada Guide , I’ve written a separate post just for you. Hit the comments below for questions, suggestions or to simply show me some love. Until next time and don’t forget to share. Ciao!

BLUE SOIL HILLS: Travel Guide To The Other Side Of Sagada

5 best eats in sagada, related posts, camp eleaga: budget travel guide + everything you need to know, tuka marine park: budget travel guide + everything you need to know, maitum white water tubing: travel guide + useful tips.

thank you so much for your blog, this help me plan for my itinerary road trip to Sagada, very informative

Hi Leony! Ure welcome! Enjoy Sagada 😊

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Sagada travel guide: 11 things to do in sagada (tourist spots, attractions and things to do and experience).

Looking for Sagada Travel Guide Blog with list of Tourist Spots, Attractions and Things To Do and Experience? What are the travel requirements to visit Sagada ?

[ click here to see the list of hotels in sagada ], here are some of my must-do activities for first-timers visiting sagada., 1. view the sugong hanging coffins.

2. Visit Lumiang Burial Caves

3. Marvel on the Beauty of Kapay-aw Rice Terraces

4. Spelunking at Sumaguing Cave

5. Hiking at Mt. Ampacao

6. Zip lining over Kapay-aw Rice Terraces

7. Visit St. Mary the Virgin Episcopal Church

8. Trek to Echo Valley

9. Visit to the Hanging coffins

10. Take an Enriching tour at the Ganduyan Museum

11. Savor on the Flavors of Sagada

I can't wait to visit Sagada again to try and discover other things it offers. 'Til the next time!

HOME STAYS, TRANSIENT HOUSES & HOTELS IN SAGADA

• Isabelo's Inn and Cafe √ See room rates & availability
• Kanip-aw Pines View Lodge √ See room rates & availability
• Coffee Heritage House & Hostel √ See room rates & availability
• Shamrock Tavern Inn √ See room rates & availability
• Sagada Heritage Village √ See room rates & availability
• Kenlibed Inn √ See room rates & availability
• Masferre Country Inn & Restaurant √ See room rates & availability
• Grandma’s Yellow House √ See room rates & availability
• Sagada Salt and Pepper Inn & Restaurant √ See room rates & availability
• Sagada Blue Mountain Cabins √ See room rates & availability

HOW TO GET TO SAGADA

Follow my adventures on youtube @pinoyadventurista, 22 comments :.

What I miss most about Sagada is the yogurt! Yummy!!

some say that sagada is already a little overrated but i have not been there yet and i can see from your post that it's an interesting destination. will plan on a visit soon.

wah gusto ko na rin pumunta dyan!

ganda nmn dame option sa gagawin nice thanks for sharing

thanks! as always, the best ka tlg pagdating sa mga travel tips... will plan a tour to Sagada... hopefully, soon...

Ang tagal ko ng gustong pumunta dito. Makailang beses na rin ako nainvite ng bagets tapos mga classmates ko nung highschool tapos yung kelan lang hindi pa rin pwede may trabaho kasi sagabal ang trabaho sa lakwatsa hahaha

Its so nice at Vincents Cafe, we had a great evening there the food was delicious, mmmm the fish and salad was perfect. This place is a hidden gem.

This I never got to do. Never thought Sagada can this be interesting. :)

pupunta kami jan sa sabado

How do we get a tour guide in Sagada? We'll go there on Feb 21.

Sagada is really a nice destination that draws you closer to nature.

Can we pitch tent at kiltepan peak?

hi... I was raised in sagada... other places you could go to are tabyay-ew falls, bumayeng falls, kakaonge falls, Lake danum, langsayan, balangagan cave, fidelisan rice terraces, bokong falls....

Wow andami ko pa pala hindi napupuntahan!

Hello, Can anyone refer me a good transient house in sagada? we prefer a house away from the town if available. Thanks! Nice blog btw. Our family is planning to go there (its our first time).

Gold pricing... I was surprised as I bought a coffee while waiting for the sun to be raise. The 3 in 1 coffee here in Manila worth only 7 Php, if you buy at sari-sari store but there 30 pesos, Oh my G. But anyway its full of enjoyment. You never regret if you been there.

Any suggestion po for a guest house or Inn near the village of Apo Whang Od?

we will go there!

Did you visit Whang Od?

Any suggestion po for a guest house or Inn overnight near the village of Apo Whang Od?

Looking for Budget Travel Guide Blogs, Hotel Reviews, and Sample DIY Itineraries? Welcome to Pinoy Adventurista, "Your Next Ultimate Adventure Starts Here!" Pinoy Adventurista is one of the Top Travel Blogs in the Philippines and the World. In 2013, he visited all the 81 provinces in the Philippines.

THE 5 BEST Sagada Tours & Excursions

Sagada tours.

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1. 5 Days Sagada Banaue Batad Discovery (PRIVATE GROUP TOUR Max 6 Travellers)

2. Embark on a 7-Day Banaue-Sagada Adventure of a Lifetime

3. 11 days tour in Central and North Luzon/group up to 4 people

4. 7 days Banaue-Sagada Adventure from Manila***

5. Explore the northern mountains of Sagada 3days 2 nights from Manila ***

6. Banaue rice terraces and Sagada

7. Luzon Island Route. From Manila to Banaue

8. 8 Days North Luzon PRIVATE TOUR Mt.Pinatubo,Banaue,Batad, Sagada,Vigan,Pagudpud

9. Banaue - Batad - Sagada rice terraces

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Batad Guided Tour

3 Days Adventure in Banaue Ifugao

What travelers are saying.

• 5 Days Sagada Banaue Batad Discovery (PRIVATE GROUP TOUR Max 6 Travellers)
• Explore the northern mountains of Sagada 3days 2 nights from Manila ***
• 8 Days North Luzon PRIVATE TOUR Mt.Pinatubo,Banaue,Batad, Sagada,Vigan,Pagudpud
• Banaue - Batad - Sagada rice terraces
• Luzon Island Route. From Manila to Banaue

The Red Square and beyond: a guide to Moscow’s neighbourhoods

Apr 23, 2019 • 6 min read

The Red Square, Kremlin and St Basil's Cathedral in Moscow at night © Mordolff / Getty Images

One of the world’s largest cities, Moscow is a true metropolis whose ancient neighbourhoods are interspersed with newly built high-rises, inhabited by people from all over the former Soviet Union.

It’s also the city of rings: the innermost is the Kremlin itself; further away are the former defensive rings, Boulevard Ring and Garden Ring; still further are the Third Ring Road and the MKAD, which delineates the city’s borders. There’s an ongoing joke that Moscow Mayor is the Lord of the Rings. Most sights are contained within the Garden Ring, although for some more authentic neighbourhoods one has to venture further out. To help you explore Moscow’s diversity, we picked our favourite ’hoods – but this list is by no means exhaustive.

The Red Square and around

It can be argued that Moscow, or even the whole of Russia, starts at the  Red Square  – it’s an absolute must-see for any visitor. After standing in line to check out Lenin’s granite  mausoleum , go to GUM , Moscow's oldest department store. Full of luxury shops, it’s famous for the glass roof designed by one of Russia’s most celebrated architects, Vladimir Shukhov. Apart from architectural wonders, GUM has several places to eat including the Soviet-style cafeteria Stolovaya No 57 where you can sample mysterious-sounding delicacies such as the ‘herring in a fur coat’.

On the opposite side of GUM, Kremlin ’s walls and towers rise above the Red Square. Walk through the Alexander Garden  and past the grotto to the Kremlin’s entrance. It’s a treasure trove for any art and history lover: ancient gold-domed churches, icons galore and the resting place of Moscow tsars.

On the other side of the Red Square is Moscow's symbol,  St Basil's Cathedral with its multi-colored domes. Right behind it is the newly built Zaryadye Park , which showcases flora from all over Russia; another attraction is the floating bridge jutting out above the embankment and the Moscow river. A glass pavilion nearby hosts Voskhod , a space-themed restaurant with dishes from all 15 former Soviet Union republics. It’s a perfect spot for a classy evening meal and there’s often live music.

Patriarch’s Ponds

The Patriarch’s Ponds (aka Patriki) is a historical neighbourhood, celebrated in Mikhail Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita . Located right off Tverskaya street, Moscow’s main thoroughfare, Patriki recently became the city’s most happening quarter. It has some of the most elegant architecture, including several buildings by art-nouveau genius Fyodor Shekhtel. Narrow streets here have a cozy feel, with recently widened sidewalks and bike lanes. In the summer it becomes party central.

Start by checking out free exhibitions or one of the cutting-edge performances at the experimental theatre Praktika . But make no mistake, the neighbourhood’s main attraction are its bars and restaurants. Patriki’s residents are well-off Russians and expats, so it’s no wonder that  Moscow’s recent culinary revolution started here. Uilliam’s , one of the pioneers of this foodie movement, still rules over the scene with its floor-to-ceiling windows. Also try AQ Chicken  for everything chicken-related, Patara  for a taste of Georgian cuisine, and Cutfish for some great sushi. Finish your gastronomic tour with original cocktails at Pinch or the Moscow outpost of NYC restaurant Saxon+Parole .

Around Kursky train station

For a long time, Kursky train station was surrounded by semi-abandoned factories and the area was best avoided. It all changed in the late 2000s, when a dilapidated wine factory was turned into Winzavod , a mecca for fans of contemporary art. Today these red-brick buildings are occupied by some of Moscow’s leading galleries. After taking in all the art, pop in the small wine bar Barrell  for a glass from burgeoning wineries of Russia’s south or grab a bite at Khitrye Lyudi  cafe.

Right next to Winzavod is Artplay , another refurbished factory full of design and furniture shops and large exhibition spaces.  It’s also home to  Pluton , one of the latest additions to Moscow’s dance scene. Other Pluton residents are the multimedia art gallery Proun  and another lunch option,  Shanhaika , with authentic Chinese cuisine.

A short walk away is Arma, where a cluster of circular gas holders has been turned into offices, restaurants and clubs including Gazgolder  (it belongs to one of Russia’s most famous rappers, Basta). Apart from hip-hop concerts, Gazgolder organises regular techno parties that sometimes go non-stop from Friday to Monday.

If you’re interested in religious architecture, Taganka is the place to go. First of all, see the old Moscow at Krutitskoye Podvorye – one of those places where nothing seems to have changed in centuries. The monastery was founded in the 13th century, but in the 16th century it became the home of Moscow metropolitans and most of the surviving buildings are from that epoch. Take a tour of the grounds, and don’t miss the interior and icons of the Assumption Cathedral.

Your next stop is the Rogozhskoe settlement of ‘old believers’, a branch that split from Russian Orthodoxy in the 17th century. The settlement is dominated by an 80m-tall bell tower. The yellow-coloured Intercession Church, built in neoclassical style with baroque elements, has an important collection of icons. Next to the church grounds is the popular Trapeznaya cafeteria, with Russian food cooked using traditional recipes – a perfect spot for lunch.

A short ride away is Andronikov Monastery, which today houses the Rublyov Museum  in the old monks’ quarters. There’s a great collection of ancient Orthodox icons although none by Andrei Rublyov, who was a monk here in the 15th century. The main attraction at the monastery is the small Saviour’s Cathedral, considered the oldest surviving church in Moscow.

Finish the day at the craft-beer cluster around Taganskaya metro station. Varka offers both Russian and imported labels, with the Burger Heroes stand serving arguably the best burgers in town. Craft & Draft looks more like a respectable old-fashioned pub, with decent food, 20 beers on tap and a hundred types of bottled brews.

Khamovniki is Moscow’s ancient textile district, named after the word kham  (a type of cloth). Two main thoroughfares, Ostozhenka and Prechistenka, cut through the neighbourhood parallel to each other. The former turned into the so-called ‘Golden Mile’ of Moscow in the 1990s, with the highest real-estate prices and some of the best examples of new Russian architecture, while the latter is still mostly lined up with impressive 19th-century mansions.

Khamovniki is somewhat of a literary quarter, as several museums devoted to Russia’s best-known writers – among them  Leo Tolstoy , Alexander Pushkin  and Ivan Turgenev – popped up here during the last century. There’s also plenty to see for an art lover. The  Multimedia Art Museum regularly hosts exhibitions by some of the best photographers from all over the world, as well as contemporary art. Several galleries, including RuArts  and Kournikova Gallery , have also found home in Khamovniki.

When you’ve had your fill of literature and art, stop by Gorod Sad on Ostozhenka, an outpost of a local health-food chain, and order dishes such as pumpkin soup or grilled vegetables salads. Afterwards, head to Dom 12 , which is located just off Ostozhenka street. This restaurant and wine bar is frequented by the city’s intellectuals and its schedule includes lectures, book presentations and film screenings, while in the summer guests migrate to a lovely courtyard.

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The trains and stations of the Moscow Metro

2 Comments · Posted by Alex Smirnov in Cities , Travel , Video

The Moscow Metro is the third most intensive subway system in the world after Tokyo and Seoul subways. The first line was opened on May 15, 1935. Since 1955, the metro has the name of V.I. Lenin.

The system consists of 12 lines with a total length of 305.7 km. Forty four stations are recognized cultural heritage. The largest passenger traffic is in rush hours from 8:00 to 9:00 and from 18:00 to 19:00.

Cellular communication is available on most of the stations of the Moscow Metro. In March 2012, a free Wi-Fi appeared in the Circle Line train. The Moscow Metro is open to passengers from 5:20 to 01:00. The average interval between trains is 2.5 minutes.

The fare is paid by using contactless tickets and contactless smart cards, the passes to the stations are controlled by automatic turnstiles. Ticket offices and ticket vending machines can be found in station vestibules.

Tags:  Moscow city

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The views of St. Petersburg from the TV tower >>

Tomás · August 27, 2012 at 11:34 pm

The Moscow metro stations are the best That I know, cars do not.

Alberto Calvo · September 25, 2016 at 8:57 pm

Great videos! Moscow Metro is just spectacular. I actually visited Moscow myself quite recently and wrote a post about my top 7 stations, please check it out and let me know what you think! :)

http://www.arwtravels.com/blog/moscow-metro-top-7-stations-you-cant-miss

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Moscow International Business Center (Moscow City)

• Guide to Russia

What can you do at Moscow City?

• Dine in style: Moscow City is home to 100+ cafes and restaurants, including Europe’s highest restaurant and ice-cream shop
• See Moscow like never before: Ascend to one of Moscow City’s observation decks for an unparalleled panorama of Moscow
• Admire world-class architecture: Each of Moscow City’s skyscrapers has distinctive architecture and design
• Learn something new: Visit the Museum of High-Rise Architecture in Moscow or the Metro Museum

Moscow City is a multifunctional complex in the west of Moscow, which has come to represent the booming business of Russia’s capital. Its skyscrapers enrich Moscow’s skyline, contrasting the medieval cupolas and Stalinist high-rises. Visitors to Moscow City can enjoy entertainment high in the sky, as the complex is home not just to offices, but to restaurants, cinemas, viewing platforms, and museums.

Photo by Alex Zarubi on Unsplash

History of Moscow City

Moscow City was first conceived in 1991 by honoured Soviet architect Boris Tkhor, who proposed to construct a business center in Moscow. It would be complete with gleaming skyscrapers rivalling those of New York and London, to reflect the new life and growing ambitions of post-Soviet Russia.

The chosen site was a stone quarry and disused industrial zone in western Moscow, in between the Third Ring Road and Moskva River. Initially, the territory was divided into 20 sections arranged in a horseshoe shape around a central zone. The skyscrapers would increase in height as they spiralled around the central section, with shorter structures built on the waterfront to give the taller buildings behind a view of the river. 

Architect Gennady Sirota, who contributed to iconic projects such as the Olympic Sports Complex on Prospekt Mira, was selected as the chief architect, and many other world-famous architects were attracted to Moscow to realise their visions in Moscow City.

What can you see and do at Moscow City?

Where Moscow’s cityscape was once dominated by Stalin’s Seven Sisters skyscrapers , this is no more. Moscow City is home to eight of Russia’s ten tallest buildings, six of which exceed 300 metres in height. More buildings are still under construction there today, including the One Tower (which will be Europe’s second-tallest building). Once completed, Moscow City will comprise more than 20 innovative structures.

Each of Moscow City’s skyscrapers was designed by its own architect, lending the cluster of skyscrapers a unique appearance. Aside from being a site of architectural wonder, Moscow City is a place for leisure and entertainment with over 100 cafes and restaurants, exhibition spaces, cinemas, viewing platforms, and more.

Photo by Nikita Karimov on Unsplash

Federation Tower

• East Tower: 374m, 97 floors; West Tower: 243m, 63 floors
• Completed in 2017
• Architects: Sergey Tchoban and Peter Schweger

The East Federation Tower is the tallest building in Moscow, and the second-tallest building in Europe after the Lakhta Centre in St Petersburg. Visitors can enjoy a luxurious meal of seafood, truffles or steak at restaurant ‘Sixty’ on the 62nd floor of the West Tower, or visit Europe’s highest observation deck, ‘Panorama 360’, on the 89th floor of the East Tower.

Did you know? The ice cream and chocolate shop on the 360 observation deck are the highest in the world!

• South Tower: 354m, 85 floors; North Tower: 254m, 49 floors
• Completed in 2015
• Architect: Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP

The South OKO Tower is the third-tallest building in Russia and Europe. Here, you can visit ‘Ruski’ to dine on hearty Russian cuisine cooked on a real Russian stove, and have a drink in the ice bar. Alternatively, visit restaurant, nightclub and performance space ‘Birds’; the restaurant is the highest in Europe, situated on the 86th floor roof terrace alongside an observation deck. The OKO Towers are also home to karaoke club ‘City Voice’.

Did you know? Underneath OKO Towers is the largest underground parking in Europe, with 16 levels and 3,400 parking spaces.

Mercury Tower

• 339m tall, 75 floors
• Architects : Mikhail Posokhin, Frank Williams, Gennady Sirota

Another multifunctional skyscraper, which was designed as the first truly ‘green’ building in Moscow. The Mercury Tower has a distinct geometric shape and copper-coloured glazing, and was the tallest building in Europe upon completion. Visit ‘More i myaso’ (Sea and meat) on the first floor of the tower to enjoy European and Mediterranean cuisine whilst surrounded by greenery. On the 2nd and 40th floors a modern art gallery, the ‘ILONA-K artspace’, has just opened.

City of Capitals

• Moscow Tower: 302m, 76 floors; St Petersburg Tower: 257m, 65 floors
• Completed in 2009
• Architect: Bureau NBBJ

The unique geometric design of the City of Capitals towers resembles stacks of rotating blocks, and is rooted in Constructivism of the early Soviet period (many Soviet Constructivist buildings can be found in Moscow). Visitors to the Moscow Tower can enjoy a range of cuisines – traditional Italian dishes on the summer terrace of ‘Tutto Bene’, Panasian cuisine in the tropical luxury of the ‘Bamboo Bar’ on the 1st floor’, and poke or smoothie bowls at ‘Soul in the Bowl’ cafe on the 80th floor.

Tower on the Embankment

• Tower A: 84m; Tower B:127m; Tower C: 268m, 61 floors
• Completed in 2007
• Architects: Vehbi Inan and Olcay Erturk

After completion, the Tower on the Embankment was the tallest building in Europe, and is now the 13th tallest. It houses the headquarters of several large Russian and international  companies, including IBM and KPMG. There are two cafes located on the 1st floor of Tower C – self-service café ‘Obed Bufet’ (Lunch Buffet) and Bakery Chain ‘Khleb Nasushchny’ (Daily Bread).

Evolution Tower

• 255m tall, 54 floors
• Architects: Philip Nikandrov and RMJM Scotland Ltd

Evolution is Moscow City’s most recognisable tower, and the 11th tallest building in Russia. Its façade is a true architectural marvel, comprising continuous strips of curved glazing spiralling high into  the sky. According to the architect, Philip Nikandrov, the spiral shape of the tower honours centuries of architectural design in Russia, from the onion domes of St Basil's Cathedral to Vladimir Shukhov’s Tatlin Tower, a masterpiece of Constructivist design. Outside the Evolution tower is a landscaped terrace and pedestrian zone descending to the Presnenskaya Embankment, which was also designed by Nikandrov.

Did you know? Moscow’s largest wedding palace was supposed to be built on the site of the Evolution tower, though the project was abandoned.

• 239m tall, 60 floors
• Completed in 2011

Imperia’s interesting design has a curved roof and an arched glass façade. Inside the tower are various cafes including ‘City Friends’ for all-day breakfasts and light lunches, ‘Mama in the City’ for simple meals of Russian cuisine, and ‘abc kitchen’ for European and Indian-inspired dishes. Alternatively, visit ‘High Bar’ on the 56th floor for cocktails with a view. In Imperia you’ll also find the Museum of High-Rise Construction in Moscow (suitably located on the 56th floor), and the Camera Immersive Theatre.

Did you know? Inside Vystavochnaya metro station is the Metro Museum , dedicated to the history of the beautiful Moscow Metro!

• 130m tall, 26 floors
• Completed in 2001
• Architect: Boris Tkhor

Tower 2000 was Moscow City’s first tower. It stands on the opposite bank of the Moskva River, and houses a viewing platform from which visitors can admire an unparalleled panorama of Moscow City. The Bagration Bridge reaches across the river from the tower to Moscow City, and underneath are piers from where you can take boat trips.

Photo by Alexander Popov on Unsplash

Afimall is Moscow’s largest entertainment and shopping complex, home to 450 shops, cafes and restaurants, a cinema, and a virtual-reality game park. The shopping centre is located in the central section of Moscow City, and a cinema and concert hall are currently under construction there.

What’s nearby?

Sechenov Botanical Gardens: The botanical gardens of the First Moscow State Medical University was created for students’ training and research in 1946. Today it is open for free visits, and is home to a large arboretum.

Park Krasnaya Presnya: This park belonged to the Studenets estate of the Gagarin princes. It is a monument of 18th and 19th century landscaping, with Dutch ponds, ornate bridges, and tree-lined alleys. There are also sports facilities, sports equipment rental, and cafes.

Photo by Akkit  on Wikipedia

Essential information for visitors

Website: https://www.citymoscow.ru/

Email: [email protected]

Phone: +7 (495) 730-23-33

Nearest metro: Mezhdunarodnaya (closest to the skyscrapers), Delovoy Tsentr (underneath Afimall), Vystavochnaya (closest to Expocentre)

Related Tours

Moscow - St. Petersburg 3-star cruise by Vodohod

This is our most popular cruise covering Moscow and St. Petersburg and all of the significant towns between these 2 cities. Besides the Two Capitals, you will visit the ancient towns of Uglich, Yaroslavl and Goritsy, the island of Kizhi, and Mandrogui village.

Cruise Ship

Two Capitals and the Golden Ring

This tour covers the best sights of Moscow and St. Petersburg along with a trip to the Golden Ring - a group of medieval towns to the northeast of Moscow. Ancient Kremlins, onion-shaped domes and wooden architecture is just a small part of what awaits you on this amazing tour.

Accommodation

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Classic Moscow

This is our most popular Moscow tour that includes all the most prominent sights. You will become acquainted with ancient Russia in the Kremlin, admire Russian art in the Tretyakov Gallery, listen to street musicians as you stroll along the Old Arbat street, and learn about Soviet times on the Moscow Metro tour.

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