Heritage of the Cordillera: Banaue, Batad, Sagada

The Cordillera is the most mountainous and the only landlocked region in the Philippines. In a country of coastlines, it stands out because of its unique geography and cultural tradition. In this adventure, you will immerse yourself in the mystique of its nature and its people. Be awed by the ingenuity of the Ifugaos as you trek through ancient rice terraces carved into mountainsides. Take in the beauty and tranquility of Sagada, a quaint town in the clouds. Get into the heart of the mountains as you explore an extensive cave system.

Activities and trip highlights:

• See the famous Banaue Rice Terraces
• Learn the customs and traditions of the ancient people of the mountain region
• Trek to and spend a night in Batad, a village within an amphitheater of rice terraces
• Trek to spectacular waterfalls and dive into their lagoons
• Traverse a beautifully alien quartz and limestone cave system
• See the unique hanging coffins of Sagada

 download detailed itinerary 

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Day 1: Travel to Banaue
The group assembles in Manila in the evening and we get some shut-eye while we travel through winding mountain roads. When we wake up we will be in Banaue, home of the famous rice terraces, often referred to as the eighth wonder of the world.

Day 2: Batad
We trek to Batad, a village within an amphitheater of rice terraces. We hike amidst the rice paddies to a spectacular waterfall and spend the night in the village.

Day 3: Travel through Bontoc to Sagada
We take the scenic road to Sagada. We stop at Bontoc where we learn about the customs of the indigenous people of the mountain region. In Sagada we do a preliminary tour of the village and its picturesque surrounds.

Day 4: Sagada highlights
Today we do plenty of hiking to see the many attractions of Sagada. These include a sacred waterfall, hanging coffins, an underground river and local handcrafts shops.

Day 5: Sagada caving
We've saved arguably the best for last. We spend an exhilarating day underground traversing a bizarrely beautiful cave system.

Day 6: Visit Baguio and travel back to Manila
Sadly our adventure is at an end and it's time to head back to Manila. On the way we stop by the mountain city of Baguio, known as the summer capital of the Philippines because of its popularity among local tourists.

Departures are guaranteed once two people sign up for the trip. If you are the only person to sign up for a scheduled departure, you have the option of getting a full refund, rescheduling to a guaranteed departure, or doing a private tour for an additional $280.

INCLUSIVE DATES	SLOTS REMAINING

If you'd like to go on this adventure but these dates don't suit your schedule, please contact us, and we will set up a group departure date for you. You can also do this trip as a Private Tour.

US$ 480  (VAT* inclusive) per person

Included:

• All land transportation for the duration of the trip
• 4 nights accommodation at village inns
• All fees associated with the specified activities
• Guiding service

Not Included:

• Airfare to Manila
• Food and beverage. We will dine at inns and restaurants that your trip leader has pre-selected for their quality, and he will suggest local specialties. To give you the most flexibility however, we will let you order and pay for what you wish to eat. Allocate around P3500 (about USD $75 — don't forget to change your money beforehand!) for food and drinks for the entire trip.
• Travel insurance
• Tipping: Tips to restaurant waiters, local guides, etc. are not expected but appreciated. Your trip leader can suggest an appropriate amount. Also, if you are happy with the service of your Trip Leader, a tip at the end of your adventure will be greatly appreciated. 200 pesos (about 5 US dollars) for every day of service is plenty.

* VAT = Value Added Tax

• Yellow fever vaccination is required for entry to the Philippines if you are coming from a yellow-fever infected country; if you are not, this vaccination is unnecessary. The following vaccinations are recommended:
• Hepatitis A and B
• Typhoid
• Japanese Encephalitis
• Measles, Mumps and Rubella
• You will need a large bag (preferably a backpack) that can hold all of your things for the duration of the trip. You will also need a good pair of hiking shoes or boots and another smaller pack (backpack or shoulder pack). Details on gear requirements and packing recommendations will be sent to you by your trip leader.
• This trip involves a substantial amount of hiking, carrying all of your things to and from vehicles and inns, and spending a rather intense day exploring a cave. If you do not already have a regular exercise routine, it is suggested that you get on one at least 1 month before the trip. Your Trip Leader will get in touch with you regarding a recommended exercise program. Though it is not necessary to be in tremendous shape to enjoy this trip, the fitter you are, the more fun you will have!