Banaue Tourist Spots: Top Things to Do in Banaue, Ifugao
Banaue, Ifugao, is a popular tourist destination in the Philippines known for its stunning rice terraces and rich cultural heritage. The Banaue Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-see attraction that showcases the indigenous knowledge and skill of the Ifugao people, who built the terraces over 2,000 years ago without using modern equipment and tools. The terraces are often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World” and are a testament to the Ifugao’s sustainable agricultural practices.
Aside from the rice terraces, there are many other tourist spots and things to do in Banaue and Ifugao. Visitors can explore the Banaue Ethnic Village and Pine Forest Resort, a cultural village showcasing the Ifugao people’s traditional way of life. The village features a replica of a traditional Ifugao house, a rice granary, and a museum that displays artifacts and tools used by the Ifugao people. Another popular attraction is the Tappiyah Falls, which cascades down a massive rock cliff for more than 75 meters, creating a wide and deep pool with churning waters.
Overview of Banaue
Banaue is a town located in the Ifugao province of the Philippines. It is situated in the northern part of Luzon and is known for its stunning rice terraces, which are a UNESCO World Heritage site. The town is home to the Ifugao people, who have a rich culture and history that dates back thousands of years.
Banaue is a popular tourist destination due to its natural beauty and cultural significance. Visitors can explore the rice terraces hand-carved by the Ifugao people over 2,000 years ago. These terraces are a testament to the ingenuity and skill of the Ifugao people, who created a sustainable agricultural system in a challenging environment.
In addition to the rice terraces, visitors can explore many other tourist spots in Banaue. These include waterfalls, hot springs, hiking trails, and cultural sites. The town is also known for its vibrant market, where visitors can purchase local handicrafts and souvenirs.
Getting There
Banaue is around 350 kilometers from Manila. There are several ways to reach Banaue, with each mode of transportation having its own advantages and disadvantages.
By Bus
The most common way to reach Banaue is by taking a bus from Manila. Several bus companies operate daily trips from Manila to Banaue, with the travel time ranging from 9 to 12 hours. The fare for a one-way trip ranges from PHP 450 to PHP 800, depending on the bus company and the type of bus.
Read: Ohayami Trans Manila and Banaue Bus Schedule
By Van
Another option is to take a van from Manila to Banaue. Vans are faster than buses and can take you directly to Banaue without any stopovers. However, they are more expensive than buses. The travel time is around 8 hours, and the fare for a one-way trip ranges from PHP 800 to PHP 1,000.
Transportation within Banaue
Once you reach Banaue, you can hire a tricycle or jeepney to take you to your destination. Tricycles are the most common mode of transportation within Banaue and can take you to most tourist spots. Jeepneys are also available but are less common.
Weather in Banaue
Expect around 181 rainy days in Banaue, Ifugao, all year. The wettest months are July and August, so ready your boots if you intend to check out the terraces during these months. Regarding weather, expect an all-time low of 13°C and a high of 25°C.
Banaue’s beautiful mountains, captivating hills, spectacular waterfalls, and indigenous culture make this municipality worth visiting. To help you get the most out of your stay in Banaue, we’ve compiled the ten best things to do in this area:
Museums and Heritage Sites
While the Banaue Rice Terraces are the most famous and well-known rice terraces in Ifugao, there are other notable rice terraces worth visiting in the province. These rice terraces are also recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites and showcase the rich cultural heritage of the Ifugao people.
Visit the world-famous Banaue rice terraces.
Banaue Rice Terraces is one of the most popular tourist spots in Banaue, Ifugao. It is a man-made wonder carved out of the mountains 2,000 years ago by the Ifugao people. The terraces are often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World” and have been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Banaue Rice Terraces are a sight to behold. They are made up of layers of rice paddies carved into the mountain slopes. The terraces follow the contours of the mountains, creating a stunning view that is both awe-inspiring and humbling. The terraces are not only beautiful but also functional. They are still used today to grow rice, which is the main source of income for the Ifugao people.
Visitors to Banaue can take a guided tour of the rice terraces to learn more about their history and significance. There are also several viewing decks where visitors can take in the stunning view of the terraces. The most popular viewing deck is at the Batad Rice Terraces, which is a short hike from the town proper.
It is important to note that while the Banaue Rice Terraces are a popular tourist destination, they are also a cultural heritage site. Visitors are expected to respect the local culture and traditions, including not disturbing the rice paddies or leaving trash behind.
Batad Rice Terraces
Visiting the Batad Rice Terraces in Banaue is an experience like no other. The terraces, carved into the mountainside, resemble an amphitheater and are surrounded by lush greenery and waterfalls, creating a breathtaking view for visitors.
This 2000-plus-year-old rice terrace field has been preserved for centuries and was declared a UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) World Heritage site in 1995.
The stone walls of the paddies in Batad give them a neat and stable appearance, unlike other terraces with mud walls. Take a trek to the site and be amazed by the beauty of this ancient engineering wonder!
Bangaan Rice Terraces
Gaze upon the majestic beauty of the Bangaan Rice Terraces, located in Banaue, and experience a sight like no other. Carved into the mountainside, this 2,000-year-old wonder is surrounded by lush greenery and a tranquil river.
Take a trek to the terraces and marvel at the stunning scenery up close, and understand why they were inscribed as one of the 5 clusters that make up the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras in December 1995. Be captivated by its zen-like appearance and the typical Ifugao village in its center.
Banaue Museum
Banaue and Ifugao have a rich cultural and historical heritage that visitors can explore through various museums and heritage sites. One of the most popular museums in the area is the Banaue Museum, which showcases the traditional way of life of the Ifugao people.
Visitors can see a collection of Ifugao artifacts, such as traditional clothing, weapons, and musical instruments. The museum also provides information about the history and culture of the Ifugao people, including their famous rice terraces.
Museum of Cordillera Sculpture
Another go-to museum in Banaue is the Museum of Cordillera Sculpture. This museum displays an impressive collection of Ifugao woodcarvings, showcasing ritual objects, weaponry, fertility carvings, and smoked human skulls attached to carabao horns. Among the books you can peruse in this wondrous museum is the 1912 National Geographic on Ifugao headhunters.
Waterfalls in Banaue
Banaue is home to several stunning waterfalls that attract tourists from all over the world. These waterfalls are a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Here are some of the best waterfalls in Banaue that you should visit:
Tappiya Falls
Adventure-loving travelers flock to Tappiya Falls in Banaue for its stunning views and refreshing waters. Situated in the small village of Batad, the 30-minute hike to the falls is a challenging yet rewarding experience.
Once you reach the top, you can take a dip in the cold and inviting waters or simply admire the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding rice terraces. Although the hike is doable without a guide, obtaining one from the tourist center is best if you’re unfamiliar with the area. For those who are not strong swimmers, you can find shallow areas by the banks where the current is slow and safe.
Cultural Highlights
Banaue is a place where visitors can experience the rich culture and traditions of the Ifugao people. The Ifugao are known for their unique culture that has been passed down from their ancestors. Visitors can witness their traditional practices, beliefs, and customs that have been preserved for centuries.
Visit an Ifugao Hut
One of the cultural highlights of Banaue is the traditional houses found in the surrounding villages. These houses are made of wood and thatch and are designed to withstand the region’s harsh weather conditions. Visitors can explore these houses and learn about the unique architecture and construction techniques used by the Ifugao people.
Aside from traditional houses, visitors can also find artifacts and antiques that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the Ifugao people. These artifacts include traditional clothing, musical instruments, and weapons. Visitors can also witness the traditional practice of pinikpikan, a ritualistic way of preparing chicken for special occasions.
Visit Tam-an Village
Located just 228 steps from the back door of Banaue Hotel, Tam-an Village is the perfect destination for those looking to experience the traditional Ifugao culture. Just a short walk down a steep hill, visitors to Tam-an Village are able to immerse themselves in the unique customs of this native village, making it the most visited in the area.
The Tam-an Village in Banaue offers a unique experience where you can request to see the bones of Ifugao ancestors at a certain fee. The ancestors’ bones are usually bundled and preserved, wrapped in colorful hand-woven blankets. If you’re after distinct experiences, this village has precisely that for you.
Have a taste of the Betel Nut.
Betel nuts, also called moma or nganga, are chewable nuts or seeds. Chewing the betel nut can be done with or without tobacco and could be quite addicting. The nut’s shell is rich in calcium. Hence the betel nut is famed for freshening the breath and strengthening the teeth. Others say that their body feels warmer after chewing a betel nut, considering it an alternative to a cigarette.
When chewed, the nut gives off a bloody red color and tastes bitter to the palette. Nevertheless, locals are fond of chewing betel nuts during their spare time. If you indulge in chewing the betel nut, do so moderately.
Meet the rice idol.
The Bocos Village is also home to the villagers’ most sacred rice idol, the Bulul. The Bulul is exposed only during harvest time. This tradition involves a lengthy ritual where the idol is bathed with animal blood. The viewing of the bulol is only possible with the owner’s consent. Secure yours when possible because the rice idol is unique to Banaue and the Bocos village.
Take part in the Native Scooter Race.
Locals are experts at handcrafting scooters. These finely wood-carved scooters take a long time to create, so do know that their price is worth it. Complementary to the wood carving activity, locals orchestrate a native scooter race to showcase their works to tourists and other locals.
Native scooters are unique and durable. These will be a valuable addition to your collection of scooters and souvenirs.
Learn about the signs of ancestral wealth
In the olden times in Ifugao, you are considered wealthy based on the number of animal skulls you decorate your hut with. An abundance in skulls shows superior wealth. Visiting the Bocos village, you will find amusing huts adorned with heads and skulls of carabaos and wild pigs. If you’re into animal head decors, this village is a must-visit for you!
Participate in the Imbayah Festival
This festival is a part of the cultural pride among Ifugaos. The Imbayah festival is celebrated every three years in Banaue. It is based on an ancient ritual celebrating the ascendancy from being a commoner to becoming a Banaue elite. The word imbayah comes from “bayah”, an Ifugao word that means rice wine. Bayah signifies nobility in the community.
This festival has been celebrated since 1979. It was also celebrated on the 27th of April, 2018. During the festival, rice wine from antique Chinese jars overflows along with a banquet arranged for the mortals and the gods. The festival starts with the whole community gathering firewood and ringing the gongs to signal the beginning of the feast.
Banaue Ethnic Village and Pine Forest Resort
Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Ifugao when you stay at the Banaue Ethnic Village and Pine Forest Resort! This 20-hectare, privately owned resort is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the highway, making it the perfect spot to truly appreciate the traditional huts that the Ifugao are known for. With its stunning location in the “Apar Nga’o” area, your stay at this resort will provide a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
Local Cuisine
Banaue and Ifugao Province offer a unique culinary experience that is worth trying. The cuisine is influenced by the local culture and ingredients found in the region. Some of the popular dishes that visitors should try include:
Try Pinikpikan
Pinikpikan – This is a traditional dish that is unique to the Cordillera region. It is made by beating a live chicken with a stick before cooking to improve the flavor and texture of the meat. It is usually served as a soup or stew and is believed to have medicinal properties.
There are several restaurants and food stalls in Banaue where visitors can try these dishes. Some of the popular ones include:
- Uyami’s Greenview Lodge – This lodge and restaurant offer savory home-cooked meals. Visitors can enjoy their food while taking in the stunning view of the Banaue Rice Terraces.
- Banaue Ethnic Village and Pine Forest Resort – This resort offers a cultural experience as well as delicious food. Visitors can try traditional dishes while learning about the local culture.
- Banaue Homestay – Visitors can also opt for a homestay experience where they can try authentic local dishes prepared by their hosts.
Shopping and Souvenirs
Banaue is known for its unique handicrafts and souvenirs that reflect the rich culture and traditions of the Ifugao people. Visitors can find a wide variety of souvenirs, including traditional clothing, woven baskets, wood carvings, and jewelry.
Buy Souvenirs
One of the best places to shop for souvenirs in Banaue is at the Banaue Museum. The museum has a gift shop that sells a variety of Ifugao handicrafts, such as woven blankets, baskets, and wooden carvings. Visitors can also find traditional clothing and jewelry made by local artisans.
Another popular souvenir shop in Banaue is the House of Ekolife. Located just below the Banaue Museum, this souvenir center and café offers a wide variety of Ifugao delicacies, snacks, and other sumptuous food. Visitors can also find a variety of souvenirs, such as woven blankets, baskets, and wood carvings.
The Tam-an Village is a must-visit destination for those looking for a more authentic shopping experience. The village is home to a number of Ifugao artisans who specialize in weaving and wood carving. Visitors can watch the artisans at work and purchase their unique handicrafts directly from them.
Appreciate the Ifugao handicrafts.
A group called Save the Ifugao Terraces Movement (SITMO) collaborates with local farmers to develop programs that encourage planting rice to preserve the rice terraces and weaving during the offseason.
Traditionally, locals of Banaue weave fabrics once they’re done farming. Through SITMO, locals are assisted with modifying traditional designs to suit the demands of contemporary fashion.
When fashion meets tradition, high-quality fabric and timeless pieces are the by-products. Ensure your OOTD never runs out of timeless clothing from the beautiful Banaue.
Accommodation Options
Banaue offers a range of accommodation options to suit various budgets and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious hotel or a cozy homestay, you’ll find something that fits your needs in Banaue.
One popular choice for tourists is the Banaue Hotel and Youth Hostel. This hotel offers comfortable rooms with stunning views of the rice terraces. It’s also conveniently located near many of the top tourist attractions in Banaue. The hotel has a restaurant that serves delicious local and international cuisine.
Another option is the Hillside Inn, which is located near the Banaue Rice Terraces. The inn offers rooms with private balconies that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The rooms are clean and comfortable, and the staff is friendly and helpful.
If you’re looking for a more authentic experience, you might consider staying in a homestay. Many locals in Banaue offer homestays, where guests can stay in a traditional Ifugao house and experience the local culture firsthand. Homestays are a great way to immerse yourself in the local community and learn more about the Ifugao way of life.
Travel Tips
When planning a trip to Banaue and Ifugao, there are a few things to keep in mind to make the most out of your experience. Here are some travel tips to help you prepare for your trip:
Environmental Fee
Visitors to Banaue are required to pay an environmental fee of PHP 20 per person upon arrival. This fee goes towards the maintenance and preservation of the Banaue Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Make sure to keep your receipt as it may be checked at various checkpoints throughout your visit.
Local Guide
While exploring Banaue and Ifugao, it is highly recommended to have a local guide with you. Not only can they provide valuable information about the area and its history, but they can also ensure your safety while navigating the sometimes steep and slippery terrain. You can contact the local tourism office or book a guide through a tour company like Bahaghari Tours.
Points of Interest
Banaue and Ifugao are home to many stunning natural and cultural landmarks. Some of the must-visit spots include the Banaue Rice Terraces, Batad Rice Terraces, Tappiyah Falls, and Hapao Rice Terraces. In addition, the Banaue Museum is a great place to learn more about the area’s rich history and culture.
Reviews
Before booking any tours or accommodations, it is always a good idea to read reviews from previous travelers. Websites like TripAdvisor and Viator offer a wealth of information and feedback from people who have already visited Banaue and Ifugao. This can help you make more informed decisions and avoid any potential scams or disappointments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some must-see tourist spots in Ifugao?
Ifugao is home to the famous Banaue Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most popular tourist spots in the Philippines. Other must-see attractions include Tappiyah Falls, Batad Rice Terraces, and Bangaan Rice Terraces.
What are some recommended activities to do in Banaue?
Aside from admiring the breathtaking views of the rice terraces, visitors can also go on a trek to the Batad Rice Terraces, take a dip in Tappiyah Falls, visit the Tam-an Village to learn about the Ifugao culture, and attend the Imbayah Festival in April.
How do I get from Banaue to Sagada?
Visitors can take a jeepney or a van from the Banaue town center to get from Banaue to Sagada. The trip takes around 3-4 hours and costs around PHP 250-300 per person.
Where is the best viewpoint to see the Banaue Rice Terraces?
The best viewpoint to see the Banaue Rice Terraces is at the Banaue Viewpoint located along the main road. Visitors can also go to the Batad Rice Terraces Viewpoint or the Bangaan Rice Terraces Viewpoint for a different perspective.
What are some good places to eat in Banaue?
Some popular restaurants in Banaue include Banaue Hotel and Restaurant, Sanafe Lodge and Restaurant, and People’s Lodge and Restaurant. Visitors can also try local delicacies such as pinikpikan and etag.
Why is Banaue considered a great destination for tourists?
Banaue is considered a great destination for tourists because of its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and unique rice terraces. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture, enjoy outdoor activities, and take in the breathtaking views of the rice terraces.
Banaue Travel and Tour Packages
Searching for the best Banaue hotels and affordable flights in the nearby Cities? Check out our complete list of affordable Banaue hotels and resorts via Agoda and Bookings, or you may also see available Airbnb properties in the city.
Want more updates about Banaue Tourist Attractions? Like, Follow, and Subscribe to OutofTownBlog.com on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest, and Team out Of Town on YouTube for more Banaue Tourist Spots.
Read:
- Banaue Travel Guide: Itinerary, Things to do, How to get there and more
- Top 15 Best Things to do in Ifugao Province