1. Batad Rice Terraces
The amphitheater-like rice terraces of the Cordillera region captured the eyes of the world in 1995 as it was included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site List, and Batad Rice Terraces is one of the five spectacular rice terraces of Ifugao. Less than a thousand years ago, the people of Ifugao mastered agricultural practices that included the creation of terraces. This agricultural landscape is proof that the early civilizations already knew how to improve their crops by adapting to natural factors through terracing. READ: BATAD RICE TERRACES
2. Tappiya Falls
From afar, the sound of the rushing and crystal clear waters flowing on the river is very noticeable. Like what I saw online, Tappiya Falls truly describes nature's beauty. It is surrounded by trees and plants, creating a calmer ambiance. The river has boulders and towering limestone, adding excellent shapes to the frames. The pressure of the water falling creates a wide pool on the ground with relaxing cool waters perfect for your tired muscles.
We stayed by the falls for over thirty minutes and left because the rain started showering. That time, returning to the hotel was more challenging because of the stairs and the wet and slippery trails; we even stopped by one of the stores because it was raining hard. We met different people while walking on the trails and were amazed by the spectacular surroundings. READ: TAPPIYA FALLS
3. Banaue Rice Terraces
The next day, before returning to Manila, we passed by Banaue Rice Terraces, another world-class beauty and one of the most scenic in the country. It is one of the UNESCO Heritage Sites in the Philippines and is printed on the back of a twenty peso bill. Like Batad, the rice terraces here are perfectly created; the rice boxes and pathways are parallel. The wind is fresh, and the ambiance is really cool. The ancient people who created this world-class site have advanced thinking about agriculture and how to use the rich soil of the mountains.
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| A photo of the stunning smile of an Ifugao. |
Another factor why Banaue is a must-visit in the Cordilleras is the unique and colorful costume usually worn by the elders. I was starstruck for a few seconds because it was my first time to have a personal encounter with them, so I couldn't leave without photo ops. This place is definitely a must-visit! Everything is just perfect. I can give my two thumbs up to this place. The people are great, friendly, and approachable. To Take Five Outdoors, thanks for this life-changing experience.
Banaue Rice Terraces, Sagada, and Mt. Pulag are three famous tourist spots in the Cordillera region. I have usually seen them on postcards before, but please don't calculate my age. Traveling to these gorgeous spots is a bit challenging because of its location; seven to twelve hours are needed just for transportation. On the contrary, let's explain why you should visit the Cordilleras, especially the province of Ifugao.
How to Get to Ifugao:
- By Land: This travel was organized by Jae from Take Five Outdoors, my Mt. Guiting-guiting buddy.
- Met at the Trinoma and traveled more than nine hours (including stopovers) to Batad, Ifugao.
- After the challenging road trip, it was a twenty-minute sweaty trek to the place we stayed overnight.
- When I exited the van, I was astounded by the surroundings and ambiance; everything was luscious green, with fresh air and cool weather.
- After an hour rest at the hotel, we proceeded to our first destination, the stunning Tappiya Falls. Getting there was certainly fun and adventure because the trail combines forested mountain slopes, so tourists need to trek through jungle trails and walk on the Pilapil. The most challenging part was walking on cemented stairs with more than a hundred steps.
Where to Stay in Ifugao:
- Budget-Friendly, Affordable Place to Stay.
- I used Google Maps and found a few places to stay in the village, such as Simon's Viewpoint Inn, Hillside Inn, Highland Inn, and Batad Transient House. You can contact them via their FB page for reservations.
- Agoda offers exceptional places to stay with a 9.2 rating. Batad Roberto's Abung Inn and Restaurant is highly recommended. To book, click the photo below.
- If you're looking for a more affordable one, Batad Transient House is recommended. Click HERE to book.
