Luzon Cordilleras Travel Guide

Read on for a comprehensive guide to Luzon Cordilleras, including must-visit places, hiking and biking routes, best things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, culture and customs, safety and health tips, and transportation options.


A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Luzon Cordilleras

If you’re planning to explore the beautiful province of Luzon Cordilleras in the Philippines, you’re in for a treat. With its stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and adventurous outdoor activities, this destination has something for every traveler. Here is a comprehensive travel guide to help you plan your trip to Luzon Cordilleras.

Introduction to Luzon Cordilleras

Luzon Cordilleras is a mountain range in the northern region of Luzon in the Philippines, comprising six provinces - Abra, Apayao, Benguet, Ifugao, Kalinga, and Mountain Province. The region is home to numerous indigenous communities who still practice their unique traditions and have preserved their cultural heritage for centuries. The stunning landscape of Luzon Cordilleras features terraced rice fields, lush forests, waterfalls, and mountain peaks, making it one of the most beautiful places to visit in the Philippines.

List of Places to Visit in Luzon Cordilleras

Here’s a list of the top places you should add to your itinerary when visiting Luzon Cordilleras.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Banaue Rice Terraces - a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most iconic landmarks of the Philippines, the Banaue Rice Terraces are worth a visit.
  • Sagada - a charming town known for its hanging coffins, cave systems, and traditional weaving.
  • Tam-Awan Village - an open-air museum that showcases the traditional Ifugao village lifestyle and Cordillera art.
  • Museo Kordilyera - located in the heart of the University of the Philippines Baguio, this museum features exhibits on the culture, arts, and natural history of the Cordillera region.

Natural Attractions of Luzon Cordilleras: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Pulag National Park - the highest peak in Luzon, Mount Pulag is a popular hiking destination, offering views of the sunrise above a sea of clouds.
  • Sagada Cave Connection - a challenging cave exploration for thrill-seekers, featuring underground rivers, rock formations, and cave pools.
  • Hanging Bridge in Marag Valley - a scenic walk on a hanging bridge that overlooks a deep ravine and a waterfall.
  • Kabayan Mummy Caves - a glimpse into the ancient burial tradition of the Ibaloi people with a visit to the caves that house the mummified remains.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Luzon Cordilleras

Luzon Cordilleras provides an opportunity for trekking and biking enthusiasts an exhilarating experience with trails that pass through picturesque landscapes, mountains, rice terraces, and villages. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes to explore:

  • Mount Ulap Eco-Trail - a scenic hiking trail that offers views of several peaks, hills, and plains of Northern Luzon.
  • Batad Rice Terraces - offers breathtaking views and is frequented by hikers who enjoy challenging trails.
  • Kibungan Circuit - newly developed trails featuring three mountains, picturesque waterfalls, serene rice terraces, and the Tublay Hot Springs.
  • Dalupirip-Tineg Trail - features stunning views of mountain ranges, waterfalls, and the promise of rare wildlife sightings.

Best Things to Do in Luzon Cordilleras: Activities and Tours

Here are some activities and tours that will make your trip to Luzon Cordilleras unforgettable.

  • Coffee Farm Tour - visit the Cordillera coffee farms and discover the history, culture, and process of coffee-making.
  • Heritage Walk in Vigan - stroll around the World Heritage Site of Vigan and learn about the architecture, culture, and history of the town.
  • River Rafting in Kalinga - experience the thrill of river rafting through the stunning landscapes and mountain scenery of Kalinga.
  • Ifugao Cultural Show - watch traditional Ifugao dances, music, and performances and learn about their culture and beliefs.

Week-Long Itinerary for Luzon Cordilleras

Here is a suggested week-long itinerary that will allow you to make the most of your Luzon Cordilleras trip:

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrival in Baguio City, visit Tam-Awan Village, and check-in to hotel
Day 2 Explore Baguio City’s Parks and Museums
Day 3 Trek in Mount Ulap Eco-Trail and visit strawberry farms
Day 4 Travel to Sagada and visit Sumaguing Cave
Day 5 Trek to Bomod-ok Falls and Banaue Rice Terraces
Day 6 Visit Batad Rice Terraces and Tappiya Falls, enjoy the view
Day 7 Visit Kalinga and enjoy river rafting, then return to Manila

Food and Drink Scene of Luzon Cordilleras

No trip to Luzon Cordilleras is complete without trying the local delicacies and drinks.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pinikpikan - a dish made from a native chicken that is beaten to death with a stick and is cooked without removing its feathers.
  • Chicharon - fried pork rinds that come in various shapes and flavors.
  • Pinikpikan Salad - a salad made of shredded pinikpikan, vegetables, and vinaigrette.

Local Beverages

  • Basi - a native wine made from sugarcane, fermented in earthenware jars.
  • Arak - a type of rice wine from the mountainous regions of the Philippines.
  • Cordillera Coffee - a must-try for coffee lovers, made from beans grown in the Cordillera region.

Where to Stay in Luzon Cordilleras: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Here are some of the best places to stay when you visit Luzon Cordilleras:

  • The Manor at Camp John Hay - a luxurious mountain resort located in Baguio City.
  • Sagada Guest House - a budget-friendly guest house located close to the town center.
  • Batad Transient House - offers stunning views of the rice terraces and mountain ranges.

What to Buy in Luzon Cordilleras: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some souvenirs and local products that you should bring home from Luzon Cordilleras:

  • Handwoven Fabrics - intricately designed fabrics from the Cordillera region that come in a variety of patterns and colors.
  • Wood Carvings - beautifully crafted wooden figurines and statues that showcase the unique Cordilleran culture.
  • Coffee - the Cordillera region is known for its high-quality coffee beans, which make for an excellent local product to bring home.

Local Culture and Customs of Luzon Cordilleras

When visiting the Cordillera region, it’s essential to learn about the local culture and customs:

  • Respect Indigenous Customs - always ask permission before taking photos or touching anything in the area.
  • Wear Conservatively - dress modestly and appropriately, especially when visiting places of worship or cultural heritage sites.
  • Observe Taboos - avoid singing, shouting, and loud noises when near a tomb or burial site.

Best Time to Visit Luzon Cordilleras

The best time to visit Luzon Cordilleras is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is pleasant, perfect for outdoor activities, and visiting destinations like Banaue Rice Terraces and Sagada Cave Connection. However, expect crowds and higher prices during the peak season. For fewer crowds, visit during the off-season from May to October.

Do’s and Don’ts of Luzon Cordilleras

Here are some do’s and don’ts when exploring Luzon Cordilleras:

Do:

  • Plan Ahead - since Luzon Cordilleras is a remote area, plan ahead to ensure proper accommodation, mode of transportation, and tour guides.
  • Respect the Environment - minimize your impact on nature by leaving no litter and not disturbing the flora and fauna.
  • Try the Local Cuisine - Luzon Cordilleras offers a unique culinary experience that you shouldn’t miss.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect Local Culture - avoid behaving inappropriately or defacing any cultural heritage sites in the area.
  • Dismiss Safety Precautions - while the region is generally safe, it’s still crucial to practice caution and adhere to safety standards.
  • Ignore Weather Patterns - sudden weather changes can occur, so it’s essential to check the weather forecast and prepare accordingly.

Safety and Health

Here are some things to consider regarding safety and health when visiting Luzon Cordilleras:

Safety in Luzon Cordilleras

  • Stay Alert - be aware of your surroundings and take care when traveling alone.
  • Protect Your Belongings - keep your valuables secure and be cautious against pickpockets and street vendors selling counterfeit goods.
  • Use Common Sense - avoid going out alone at night, and always follow safety standards when participating in outdoor activities.

Health in Luzon Cordilleras

  • Drink Bottled Water - always drink bottled or purified water to avoid water-borne illnesses.
  • Bring Medications - bring any necessary medications as they may not be available in the area.
  • Protect Against Mosquitoes, Ticks, and Other Insects - use insect repellent and wear long-sleeved clothing to minimize the risk of mosquito-borne diseases.

Getting to Luzon Cordilleras: Transportation Options and Logistics

Here are the different transportation options when getting to Luzon Cordilleras:

Airports Near Luzon Cordilleras

  • Loakan Airport - located in Baguio City, serves domestic flights.
  • Laoag International Airport - located in Laoag City, serves domestic and international flights.
  • Clark International Airport - located in Pampanga, serves domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Luzon Cordilleras

  • Cubao Bus Terminal - has buses going to Sagada, Banaue, and Mountain Province.
  • Victory Liner Terminal - has buses going to Baguio, Sagada, and Bontoc.

Other Options

  • Private Car Rentals - you can rent a car with a driver for more comfort and convenience.
  • Jeepneys and Tricycles - traditional modes of transportation that can get you around the area.

How to Get Around in Luzon Cordilleras

When visiting Luzon Cordilleras, you have various transportation options:

  • Jeepneys and Tricycles - the most common mode of transportation in the area and a cheap option to get around.
  • Chartered Vehicles - a more comfortable and convenient option for group tours.
  • Hiking and Biking - a unique and eco-friendly way to explore the area.

Where to Go Next from Luzon Cordilleras: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some places you can visit from Luzon Cordilleras include:

  • La Union - a province located along the west coast of Northern Luzon, popular for its beaches, waterfalls, and surfing spots.
  • Zambales - known for its beautiful beaches, coves, and islands.
  • Vigan - a city in Ilocos Sur, famous for its unique Spanish colonial architecture and cultural heritage.

Conclusion

Luzon Cordilleras is a magical destination that offers a unique and authentic experience for travelers looking to explore the Philippines. With this comprehensive travel guide, you now have all the information and insights needed to plan the ultimate Luzon Cordilleras adventure. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, book your transport, and head on a journey through one of the most beautiful regions in the world.

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    Benguet
    Bontoc