Benguet Travel Guide

Discover the top attractions, best things to do, places to stay, and local culture of Benguet, Philippines.


Benguet, a province in the Cordillera Administrative Region of the Philippines, boasts of its natural beauty and unique culture. It is known for its breathtaking mountain ranges, lush vegetation, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you are an adventure enthusiast, a history buff, or a culture lover, Benguet has plenty to offer. In this comprehensive tour guide, we will take you through the top attractions, best things to do, places to stay, and local culture of Benguet.

Introduction to Benguet

Benguet is a landlocked province in the northern part of Luzon island, Philippines. The province is characterized by its rugged terrain, mountain ranges, and abundant natural resources. Benguet has a population of over 446,000 people and is composed of 13 municipalities and 140 barangays. The province is predominantly inhabited by the Igorot people, who have their unique customs, traditions, and way of life.

List of Places to Visit in Benguet

Benguet has a diverse set of attractions that cater to all types of travelers. Here are the top places to visit in Benguet:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Tam-Awan Village - showcases the traditional houses and rich culture of the Igorot people
  • Baguio Museum - features collections of artworks, historical artifacts, and cultural displays
  • Laperal White House - a historical site that dates back to the American colonial period
  • Philippine Military Academy - a premier military institution that offers tours to visitors

Natural Attractions of Benguet: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Pulag National Park - the highest peak in Luzon, offering stunning views and hiking trails
  • Kabayan Mummy Cave - a UNESCO World Heritage Site that houses centuries-old mummies
  • Banaue Rice Terraces - a cultural landmark that showcases the ingenuity of the Ifugao people
  • Asin Hot Springs - a natural hot spring that offers therapeutic benefits and relaxation

Hiking/Biking Routes of Benguet

Benguet is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The province has plenty of hiking and biking routes that offer breathtaking panoramic views. Here are some of the popular routes:

  • Mt. Ulap - a beginner-friendly hike that offers scenic views of the Cordilleras
  • Mt. Timbak - known as the “Mini Pulag,” which boasts of stunning sunrise views
  • Ambuklao Dam - a scenic route preferred by mountain bikers

Best Things to Do in Benguet: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, there are many fun activities and tours to do in Benguet. Here are some of the best things to do in Benguet:

  • Strawberry Picking - a popular activity in La Trinidad, where you can pick your strawberries fresh from the farm
  • Mine Tour - a tour inside the mining tunnels of Benguet, which showcases the history and culture behind Itogon town
  • Camp John Hay - a former US military base-turned-tourist attraction that offers a variety of activities, like horseback riding, zip-lining, and golfing

Week-Long Itinerary for Benguet

Here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Benguet:

Day Activity
Day 1 Tam-Awan Village and BenCab Museum Tour
Day 2 Mt. Ulap Hike and Farm-to-Table Dinner in La Trinidad
Day 3 Visit the Banaue Rice Terraces and Batad Rice Terraces
Day 4 Mt. Pulag Overnight Camping and Stargazing
Day 5 Baguio Sightseeing (Mines View Park, Burnham Park, and Strawberry Farm)
Day 6 Mine Tour and Asin Hot Springs Experience
Day 7 Visit the Philippine Military Academy and Explore Camp John Hay

Food and Drink Scene of Benguet

Benguet is a foodie’s paradise, with a diverse range of dishes that will surely satisfy your cravings. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in Benguet:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pinikpikan - a traditional Igorot dish made of indigenous chicken
  • Ukoy - a crispy vegetable and shrimp fritter served with vinegar dipping sauce
  • Bagiuo Strawberry Taho - a sweet dessert made of tofu and fresh strawberries

Local Beverages

  • Strawberry-Lemonade Juice - a refreshing drink made of fresh strawberries and lemon juice
  • Mountain Brew Coffee - a local coffee grown and produced in the Cordillera mountains

Where to Stay in Benguet: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Benguet has a plethora of places to stay, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Here are some of the best places to stay in Benguet:

  • The Manor at Camp John Hay - a luxurious hotel with a beautiful garden and excellent amenities
  • Newtown Plaza Hotel - a budget-friendly hotel in Baguio city center
  • Sagada Guesthouse - a cozy and rustic guesthouse in Sagada town

What to Buy in Benguet: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring home from Benguet:

  • Strawberry Jam - a sweet and tasty souvenir made of fresh strawberries
  • Handwoven Fabrics - Igorot women weave these colorful and intricate fabrics using traditional techniques.
  • Silverworks Jewelry - a local brand that manufactures and sells high-quality silver jewelry

Local Culture and Customs of Benguet

Benguet’s local culture is predominantly influenced by the Igorot people, who have a rich history and traditions. Some of the cultural practices that you might encounter in Benguet include:

  • Bodong System - a traditional peace pact among the Igorot tribes
  • Sakuting - a traditional dance that showcases the strength and agility of the dancers
  • Hudhud Chant - a UNESCO-recognized oral tradition that tells the tales of Igorot ancestors

Best Time to Visit Benguet

The best time to visit Benguet is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. The weather is cooler and more comfortable, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Benguet

Here are some do’s and don’ts that you should keep in mind when visiting Benguet:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Dress appropriately, especially when visiting religious places and historical sites.
  • Practice responsible eco-tourism and minimize your impact on the environment.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage natural resources.
  • Disrespect the local traditions and beliefs.
  • Take photos without permission, especially in cultural sites and among the locals.

Safety and Health

Benguet is generally a safe and healthy place to visit. However, here are some things to keep in mind:

Safety in Benguet

  • Hire licensed tour guides when going on outdoor activities.
  • Keep your valuables secure and watch your surroundings when in crowded places.
  • Be cautious when trekking, and follow the local guides’ recommendations.

Health in Benguet

  • Drink only bottled or boiled water.
  • Apply mosquito repellent to avoid dengue and other mosquito-borne diseases.
  • Bring essential medicines and consult a doctor if necessary.

Getting to Benguet: Transportation Options and Logistics

Benguet is accessible by air, land, and sea. Here are some of the transportation options and logistics:

Airports Near Benguet

  • Loakan Airport - a domestic airport in Baguio City
  • Clark International Airport - an international airport in Angeles City, Pampanga

Bus Stations Near Benguet

  • Cubao Bus Terminal - a bus terminal in Quezon City that has direct trips to Baguio city
  • Victory Liner Bus Terminal - another bus terminal in Quezon City that also has direct trips to Baguio city

Other Options

  • Rent a car - There are car rental services in Baguio that you can hire for your convenience.
  • Hire a taxi or van - They are available for hire at the airport and bus terminals.

How to Get Around in Benguet

Benguet has various modes of transportation that cater to different kinds of travelers. Here are some of the transportation options:

  • Jeepneys - the most common mode of transportation, which follows designated routes and picks up passengers along the way.
  • Taxicabs - available in most urban areas and can be hailed on the street or through mobile apps
  • Habal-Habal - a motorbike taxi that can take you to remote areas outside the city

Where to Go Next from Benguet: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Benguet serves as a gateway to other provinces in Luzon, where you can explore more natural wonders and cultural landmarks. Here are some of the destinations and excursions that you can visit from Benguet:

  • Sagada - a scenic town known for its caves, waterfalls, and hanging coffins
  • Bontoc - a heritage town that showcases the rich history and culture of the Cordillera region
  • Baguio City - a bustling city that offers plenty of entertainment, dining, and shopping options

Conclusion

Benguet is a gem that is waiting to be discovered. Its scenic natural wonders, unique culture, and exciting adventures make it a must-visit destination in the Philippines. We hope that this tour guide will help you plan your trip to Benguet and experience what this province has to offer.



    La Trinidad