bauko mt province tourist spot

Top Things to Do in Bauko, Philippines

Places to visit in bauko.

• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Budget-friendly
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Mount Data National Park

Coming down from Tadian, one can stop by the municipality of Bauko which is growing in popularity as mother tourist destination area. With the terraces of vegetable gardens in the upper part of the locality, it also earned being called the “Salad Bowl of Mountain Province.” On the other hand, Lower Bauko has trails and mountains that can provide an amazing experience for nature lovers and mountaineering enthusiasts aside from the breathtaking views that come with it. Added to this, the Local Government in its aim to campaign to level up the municipality in terms of tourism and economy tagged it as “Bow ako sa ganda mo Bauko.”

Tourist Spots

Begnas festival.

(March – 2nd Week)

Begnas is an Igorot word that refers to thanksgiving or offering ritual. It is a public celebration that involves feasting, drinking and dancing held at the “at-ato” (village tribal hall) usually done for the purpose of asking for blessings from the almighty and/or as a cleansing ritual due to unfortunate event affecting the whole community. In March 2007 the first Begnas di Bauko was celebrated in lieu of the annual municipal fiesta. The Begnas was institutionalized in 2013 through Municipal Ordinance No. 030-A. this festival carried the goal of promoting the identity, heritage, customs and traditions of the indigenous people of Bauko.

Accommodations

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• Feature Story

Top Things to Do in Bauko - Bauko Must-See Attractions

Things to do in bauko.

• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Budget-friendly
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Mount Data National Park

Highland Reflections: Kaisipan, Karanasan, at Kamalayan

Isang Pagbabahagi ng Aking Karanasan sa Kabundukan (Not a Travel Guide)

Mt. Polis & The Spanish Trail of Bauko

South of Sagada lies the quiet town of Bauko, one of the municipalities in Mountain Province. Although seldom heard among mainstream travel communities, Bauko boasts of hiking spots that every outdoor person should try. The most well-known hiking destination is Mt. Polis, standing at an elevation of 1,847+ MASL (not to be confused with another Mt. Polis in the Ifugao and Mountain Province border). It is an easy 15 to 30 minute climb coming from Barangay Bagnen Oriente, but can also be accessed through a more difficult route coming from Barangay Bila via the Tul-uwan Ridge.

Another hiking destination is the evocative Spanish Trail, which is a historical trail that was carved along the ridges of Mt. Am-o Mountain Range located in the western side of the town. This mountain range long ago served as a great vantage point for Spanish and American colonizers to access the far-flung town. The trail passes through five peaks, namely: Am-o peak 1 & 2, Bato, Mangasil, and Kapowao, with an off-trail to the last and highest peak which is Mt. Nentingle. The characteristic of the trail are as follows:

BAUKO 6 PEAKS via SPANISH TRAIL & MT. POLIS Major jump-off point: Bila, Bauko, Mountain Province Exit point: Bagnen Proper, Bauko Mt. Polis jump-off point: Bagnen Oriente, Bauko Days required / Hours to summit: 1-2 days, 6-8 hours (Spanish Trail to Polis) Specs: Major climb, Difficulty 5/9, Trail Class 1-3, 16km distance (Bila-Spanish Trail-Polis) Features: View of Bauko’s rice terraces, pine forests, mossy forests, community trails

For this 2-day hike which happened in June of 2022, we commenced the hike in Barangay Bila, passing through the Inkadang Rice Terraces, traversing the entire Spanish Trail and exiting towards the other side in Bagnen Proper. We ended our first day by setting camp at Mt. Polis, ascending it via the short trail in Bagnen Oriente.

However, one can also do the reverse: starting form Bila, one can hike up the longer Tul-uwan Ridge trail going to Mt. Polis and setting camp there on the first day. Then the second day can be a hike up the Spanish Trail, entering via Bagnen Proper and exiting towards Bila, thus, forming a circuit trail.

From the house of our guide, Jomar, Mt. Polis was already towering in the northern direction, while the Mt. Am-o Mountain Range stretches on the western side nearby.

We started the hike from Bila at exactly 9 in the morning. From the community in Bila, we descended towards and traversed the Inkadang Rice Terraces, passing through cemented dikes and steel bridges until we ascended towards a muddy trail in the midst of a pine forest.

This trail exits through the Abatan-Bagnen Road, which goes directly to Bagnen Proper, the exit point of the Spanish Trail, located 8 kilometers from that point. Hence, those who are not up for the challenge of hiking the Spanish Trail can just take this long road. During our hike, some of our companions chose the road. But there are those craving for a more difficult adventure, like me, who chose to take the challenge climbing the Spanish Trail located 400 meters above the left side of the road.

The entrance to the Spanish Trail is located somewhere along the side of the road nearby.

The trail coming from the road was a very steep path surrounded by pine trees. The trail can be very slippery as it is carved along a very steep slope. The last assault to the first peak was the steepest part, and is actually akin to the cardiac trail of Mt. Damas with its steepness. We reached the first peak an hour after starting the hike from the road. With three of us in the lead group, we snapped some photos and took some breathers until continuing the hike up to Peak 2.

The trail from Peak 1 to 2 was reminiscent of the pine forests of Mt. Ugo and Mt Ulap, pine trees beautifully scattered along red rolling slopes. Once we reached the bottom of Peak 2’s slope, we decided to take an off-trail that goes directly to the other side of the summit, and waited for our companions there since we didn’t have a guide with us.

Once they arrived, we continued the hike and passed through more wide pine forest ridges. Along the trail is a water source hidden in some shrubs. From here, the trail becomes scattered with thick shrubs complementing the pine trees, where blood-sucking limatiks made their presence felt, biting some of our companions. Fog also caught up, enveloping the area.

The trail to Bato, Mangasil, and Kapowao were actually pretty long along thick shrubs and pine trees. And since we hiked after the immediate reopening during the ‘new normal’, summit markers were still not installed during our hike. Hence, we passed through those three mentioned peaks without stopping by. From Kapowao, the trail transformed into a mossy forest, where we encountered an off trail going to the highest peak, Mt. Nentingle.

Sadly, Nentingle was still closed during our hike because the trail had thick vegetation and still wasn’t cleared. Also, security concerns were cited by our guide. Hopefully, Nentingle would open soon, since, according to some blogs, it provides the best view of Bauko and the neighboring towns!

The last stretch of descent passes through what locals call as “Cotcot Aso” (literally meaning dug by a dog), which seems to pertain to a spring located along the trail. From Cotcot Aso, the last portion of the trail is where the “Spanish Trail” sign marker is located. From here, it only took us a few minutes to reach Barangay Bagnen Proper. A strong rain poured as we reached the barangay.

Once the rain stopped, we walked the ascending road from Bagnen Proper going to Bagnen Oriente. It would probably take at least 30 minutes of walking, so when an empty truck passed through, we hitchhiked up to the trailhead of Mt. Polis at the side of the road. There, our van was waiting for us to pick up our heavy backpacks.

From the trailhead of Mt. Polis, a series of cemented stairs is carved all the way to the summit area. It took me less than 20 minutes of ascent before reaching the summit, where we pitched our tents to camp overnight. Rain poured again as we were setting our tents, making me retire to my temporary home for some long hours. But alas, as the dawn broke, the skies cleared and we had an awesome three hundred and sixty degree view of the surrounding.

To the southwestern direction, one can view the entirety of the town of Bauko, with layers and layers of level rice terraces dominating the entire vista. The entire valley is flanked by mountain ranges. To the right, one can spot the entire Mt. Am-o mountain range, with its highest peak, Mt. Nentingle, saying hi to us pesky neighbors in Mt. Polis. In the northwestern direction are the mountain ranges of Besao, and past that, Ilocos Sur’s Tirad Peak.

In the northern direction, we spotted Sagada and some of the mountain ranges surrounding it, such as Mt. Ampacao. On the western direction is a gigantic, forested mountain, which was none other than the 10th highest summit of the country, Mt. Kalawitan.

With the setting sun to the west and the rain clouds smothering some of the mountain slopes surrounding Mt. Polis, what better way to end an epic hike in this far flung town.

Itinerary Day 0 09:00PM Depart from Manila Day 1 08:00AM Breakfast in Bauko, prepare 09:00AM Start hike 10:00AM Start assault to Peak 1 11:00AM Peak 1 11:30AM Peak 2 12:00PM Water source, lunch 12:30PM Resume hike 02:30PM Cotcot Aso 03:00PM End of Spanish Trail 05:00PM Mt. Polis, set camp Day 2 05:30AM Wake-up call, watch sunrise & breakfast 09:00AM Start descent 10:00AM Bila, wash-up 12:00PM ETD to Baguio 06:00PM Baguio City, dinner

Special thanks to Rabas Outdoors (Win Calleja) for this hike! For more awesome climbs up north, you may contact his Facebook page. Special thanks to Jomar Buclay and Bauko Tourism for this hike.

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Travel Blog

Top Places to Visit in Sagada, Mountain Province

It may seem tiresome with all the long drives, early morning wake up call and thousands of steps up and down the hill or stairs but I must say, Sagada is more than worth it. All the beautiful and scenic distractions it offers along the journey and the priceless view and takeaways at the end of it are all worth it. It truly has a lot to offer and if you wish to explore this charming little town in Mountain Province, here’s a list of the top places to visit in Sagada, Mountain Province to begin with!

Important note : The local tourism office requires the tourists to get a guide for each attraction or tourist spot. Hence, visiting three tourist spots, say in a day, requires three different guides, too. Rates vary depending on the number of guests to accompany and per attraction. Aside from the guide fee, prepare for the shuttle and other additional fees (entrance, helmet rental, etc.) depending on ones’ chosen spot to visit. Shuttle rental is mandatory since the LGU does not allow private vehicles around primarily to systematically regulate the tourist flow.

Places to Visit in Sagada

Ganduyan museum.

If you wish to know more about Sagada and appreciate the town itself, its people, their highly-preserved culture and traditions, Ganduyan museum is the best place to be. Seated at the heart of Sagada town, Ganduyan museum takes you on a walk down Sagada and its people’s memory lane. It features their ancestors’ accessories both of the male and the female’s, kitchenware and other home essentials, textiles, travel essentials, war weapon, bartered items and more. The museum curated by the late Cristina Aben has the most extensive collection of Cordilleran artefacts up to date.

The museum collects an amount of Php 100.00 for its maintenance and upkeeping.

Balangagan Cave

Belonging to the less-traveled attractions in Sagada is this hidden wonder in the south called Balangagan cave. This cave offers interesting formations of stalactites, stalagmites, draperies, flowstones, columns and pillars that the local guides have amazingly weaved into a fiction. Apart from these fascinating formations, you’d also chance upon hanging coffins and ancestral burial jars around the cave. The best way to witness all these is through a guided spelunking activity.

Tourists can hire a local guide at the tourism office. Rate starts at Php 800.00 per guide who can accompany up to five people. It is also mandatory for the tourists to get a local shuttle. Shuttle rental starts at Php 850.00 and it can carry up to 12 tourists. Guests are also wear helmet for safety. Rental fee is at Php 50.00 per head.

Photos courtesy of Jo Serrano and Ted Claudio

Read more about Balangagan Cave: Balangagan Cave: Southern Sagada’s Underground Wonder

Kamangwit Eco Park or South Park

If you wish to mingle with the locals in Sagada, you should visit the Kamangwit Eco Park or South Park. We visited it one Saturday evening and we got a chance to enjoy the local food including Pinikpikan and Etag , witness their courtship and other traditional dances and listen to some modern songs originally composed by a local band! They also have some souvenirs on display. During the holiday season, they would set up lights to make it a Christmas village. During the day, you may opt to visit the nearby hanging coffins.

Sagada Weaving

Apart from the natural and scenic attractions, among the ones that is frequently visited places in Sagada is the Sagada Weaving. It is considered as a pioneer in the town’s weaving industry as it has been running since 1968. They practice both the traditional and ethnic weaving, the backstrap and [upright] loom, using purely spun polyester. They create bags, slippers, tablecloths and runners, purses, ponchos and others that they also sell in the souvenir shop they put up at the entrance.

Take note that Sagada weaving also observes non-working holidays so expect no weavers during such days.

Sagada Pottery

An added variety to our adventurous Sagada itinerary is a visit to the Sagada Pottery.

Sagada pottery does not only sell their very own earthen products but also show the tourists how they initially make one from scratch while explaining the whole process comprehensively, too. Not only that they would let you watch, but you can also try it yourself, too! Behind the amazing earthenware craftsmanship in Sagada Pottery are the women from Applai Kankanaey tribe – Siegrid Bangyay, Tessie Baldo and Ardeth Butic. The products that they have made have been brought and exhibited in various fairs and museums. The humble beginning of pottery in Sagada can be traced back in 1960’s when Archie Stapleton, an American potter came to the town. Stapleton himself taught the women who have been continuing the craft until today.

The demo costs Php 200.00 for a group . If you wish to get your hands mold something amazing, you may also try it out yourself with the guidance of the artisan for only Php 100.00 . You may also buy it, too!

Mt. Polis may not be located in Sagada but it lies just a few minutes away from the southern side of it. It’s actually located in its neighboring town, Bauko Mountain Province. We may have not witnessed it ourselves, but it is said that it is also among the best places to experience a 360-degree view of sea of clouds that is almost touching one’s feet. It took us more or less an hour of an uphill walk on a concrete staircase. The trek started at around 4:30 AM and we reached the summit before the sun has fully risen.

Echo Valley and Hanging Coffins

Among the top favorite places to visit in Sagada are the Echo valley and Hanging Coffins. These offer the best experience to know more about Sagada’s traditional and modern death and burial rituals. This also includes a visit in the Anglican cemetery where one can witness Panagapoy especially during November 1. The trail is beginner-friendly and does not require any advance navigational skills. Most of the path that you’ll walk on is paved and the stairs have safety rails, too. Guide fee is at Php 300.00 for ten persons with an additional Php 10.00 per head for the access fee.

If you’re up for some adventure, you may also opt to go on a longer trail known as the Paytokan Walk which includes the hanging coffins, echo valley, underground river and coffee farm. Guide fee starts at Php 1,000.00 good for ten persons . They also collect an access fee of Php 10.00 in this tour.

Read more: The Hanging Coffins of Sagada, Mountain Province and their Burial and Death Rituals

Bomod-ok Falls

Bomod-ok Falls is probably one of those places where one would say, “it’s all worth it.” Despite the challenging trek, a lot would still visit it as the view is indeed rewarding and worth it. The stunning sight of the terraces and hills would at least compensate the more or less two hours of challenging trail, though. At the end of it anyway is the highest falls in Sagada, about 200-feet high, where one can refresh in its ice-cold waters. If you are up for some adrenaline pump, you may also try jumping off the 20-feet high point down to its cool, verdant basin.

Pongas Falls

Pongas falls is one of the majestic yet less traveled falls in Sagada. This breathtaking 40-meter high twin-like falls can be reached in more or less 30-minute hike. Before Ankileng village, the jump off to Pongas falls, is a hanging bridge with a stunning view. Prepare, though, as past this stunning sight is a literally breathtaking trek with several assaults.

Guide fee is at Php 600.00 for 1 to 10 persons with an additional Php 650.00 for the local shuttle . They collect an entrance fee of Php 30.00 at Ankileng village.

Lamagan (Marlboro Hills)

Marlboro hills, locally known as Lamagan , is popularly known as such due to the presence of wild horses and other wild animals few ages ago like the ones in Marlboro country. Lamagan is located in eastern side of the town. It is one of the best spots in Sagada to witness a breathtaking sunrise rising behind the stark outline of ranges from afar, above the sea of clouds. The trek to Lamagan usually starts at 4:00 AM to get into the summit at around 5:30 AM, just in time before the sun has fully risen. The trail is beginner-friendly but make sure that you wear a pair of comfortable footwear as it is quite a long trek especially if you opt to traverse to Blue Soil.

Guide fee is at Php 800.00 good for ten persons . The shuttle rental starts at Php 650.00 .

Past the seemingly unending pine tree-covered trail is quite a sweet surprise – heaps of blue soil!

One of the unique and top places to visit in Sagada is the Blue Soil locally known as Kaman Utek . According to our guide, the soil in this area contains high copper sulfate resulting to its bluish color. This color becomes more vivid especially after a rain. The best time to visit is early in the morning to witness the bluish color. The color gets lighter as if the blues are fading at midday.

The guide fee in this attraction is at Php 800.00 good for 1 to 5 persons . Shuttle rental is at Php 850.00 and can carry up to 12 persons.

Often times, tourists would opt to take the Marlboro hills – Blue soil traverse trip. The trek may take more or less 5 hours with a guide fee at Php 1600.00 good for 1 to 10 persons . The shuttle fee, on the other hand , is at Php 1,350.00 .

Lumiang-Sumaging Cave

One of the most challenging yet top favorite places to visit in Sagada is the Lumiang-Sumaguing Cave connection located in central Sagada. These two are both burial caves, too, with fascinating formations; one of which is the remarkable King’s curtain (in Sumaguing). The spelunking activity that may take 4 to 5 hours may be physically challenging but is guaranteed to be exciting. It requires going through tight spaces, so it’s a big no for the claustrophobics.

Guide fee is at Php 800.00 for one to a group of five . Shuttle fee, on the other hand, is free if you’ll stay in Bilza.

How to go to Sagada

From Manila to Sagada

From Cubao, take a Coda Lines bus to Sagada. The first trip is at 8:00 PM and the last is at 11:30 PM. The land trip would take you around 13 hours and a ticket costs about Php 1,080.00 for per way a bus without a toilet and Php 1,200.00 if otherwise.

From Banaue to Sagada

Option 1 : From Banaue Bus Terminal, look for jeepneys, vans or minivans that travel to Sagada. The trip may take three hours. Take note though that there’s a minimum number of passengers for it to go. Fare may range from Php 250.00 to Php 300.00.

Option 2 : From Banaue, take a van going to Bontoc. From Bontoc, take a jeep going to Sagada.

From Baguio to Sagada

Make your way to Dangwa Terminal. From the terminal, take a bus going to Sagada. The trip may take 5 to 6 hours with the fare ranging from Php 220.00 to Php 250.00. The first trip is at around 8:00 AM and the last trip departs at 1:00 PM.

Places to Visit in Sagada, In a Nutshell

If there’s one thing that is true about these places to visit in Sagada especially the extremely captivating ones, it is the thought that the best things usually come after all those challenges. In the end, one would say, “It’s all worth it!” It may not be easy going there but one would definitely enjoy the adventure as there are stunning distractions along the way. These would keep one’s mind off the challenge and think that if the journey itself is rewarding already; what more could the surprise waiting at the end be?

Sagada Tour with Travel Now Asia

We visited most of these top places to visit in Sagada with Travel Now Asia . Everything was just smooth from Manila to Sagada. It was all hassle free and fun as well with our tour coordinator, Ms. Ronna and driver, Kuya Marlon. They brought us to the not-so-new BUT soon-to-be the next big thing especially in southern Sagada. For inquiries and booking, you may reach them at:

Anne Elizabeth Gumiran

Anne Elizabeth Gumiran, also known as Queenie, is a 20-something, full-time public school teacher, a part-time travel blogger and a freediver. She started putting her stories of adventures and misadventures into words and pictures in 2017 and continues to do so as she shares her advocacy, Sustainable Traveling.

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THE BEST Bauko Nature & Wildlife Areas

Nature & wildlife areas in bauko.

• National Parks
• Nature & Wildlife Areas
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Budget-friendly
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Mount Data National Park

THE BEST Things to Do in Bauko

Things to do in bauko.

• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Budget-friendly
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Mount Data National Park

Showcasing the Best of Off-Beaten Destinations

• Abra Province Tourist Spots
• Baguio City
• Mountain Province
• REGION I-ILOCOS REGION
• REGION II- CAGAYAN VALLEY
• REGION III – CENTRAL LUZON
• REGION IVA-CALABARZON
• REGION IVB – MIMAROPA
• REGION V – BICOL REGION
• REGION VI – WESTERN VISAYAS
• REGION VII – CENTRAL VISAYAS
• REGION VIII – EASTERN VISAYAS
• REGION IX – ZAMBOANGA PENINSULA
• REGION X – NORTHERN MINDANAO
• REGION XI- Davao Region
• REGION XIII-CARAGA
• Region XII-SOCCSKSARGEN
• BARMM – Bangsamoro
• Work with Me
• Blogging Resources
• Travel Musings

Top 20+ Abra Tourist Spots: Natural & Historical Places to See

What are the must-see tourist spots in Abra, aside from the iconic Kaparkan Falls? Find out more in this detailed guide. We also included the off-beaten destinations and the best things to do.

Abra, just like Kalinga, stands witness to the historic struggle of the people against corporate aggression. During the Martial Law regime, the Tingguian tribes resisted the Cellophil Resource Corporation from logging their mountains.

Despite years of civil unrest and insurgencies, Abra is now rising to the scene as a premier ecotourism destination.

Yes, Abra offers more than its historic churches or cultural sites. Its vast landscape also hosts countless natural wonders waiting to be discovered.

If sustainably managed, these could help boost the local economy while preserving the natural environment and the people’s rich cultural heritage.

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Behold Abra Province Tourist Spots

1. sapilang falls.

Sapilang falls now greets and welcomes every nature lover to its rustic realm. From barangay Sagap, it takes around 30 minutes of quite an easy trek to get here, passing across forested trails.

Oh, you will also be crossing a river so expect your feet to get wet. The falls are called such because they cascade in one place. However, they are not identical.

The first falls to see is tall, thin, and has multi-layers. The second falls, on the other hand, descends on a broad and bare rockface. Sapilang Falls is one of the remotest tourist spots in Bangued.

• Location/Jump-off: Brgy Sagap, Bangued
• Trekking Time: 30 minutes
• Guide Fee: Php 200
• Contact: 092 777 258 56

2. Kaparkan Falls

This is perhaps one of the most famous tourist attractions in Abra. Unlike most popular falls in the country, Tineg is bizarrely unique. It cascades in a terraced-like manner on bare limestone rocks.

According to the locals, the waters do not turn murky even during the rainy months. That is because they emanate from an underground spring. Collectively, the falls measures around 500 meters high and 60 meters wide.

The surrounding forests also add beauty to the sight. No wonder, some locals tag the place as “Mulawin.” By the way, Kaparnakan falls feeds the Tineg River.

• Location/Jump-off: Brgy Caganayan, Tineg
• Best Time to Visit: August & September
• Contact: 09953446934, 09068366056

3. Piwek Rock Formation

It is quite a challenge to get here. But the view and pleasure it gives are simply beyond words’ description. Biyahe ni Andrew once featured this among the tourist spots in Abra.

Similar to Tinipak River in Rizal, Piwek Rock Formations are a cluster of white rocks and boulders along the river.

The turquoise and clear waters of the river makes this even more alluring to visit.  The rock formations are becoming popular jumping spots.

The highest of which is around 11 meters. Well, the locals love jumping from this point. And many tourists tried it already.

• Location/Jump-off: Brgy Alaoa, Tineg
• Guide Fee: Php 200 for 5 persons

4. Tagpew/Tagpao Falls 

Tagpew falls majestically on the face of a massive cliff. It measures around 120 meters high, making it one of the highest falls in Abra province.

To get here, one has to hike for three to five hours from sitio Batayan of barangay Alangtin. Thick pine forests cover much of the trail.

To date, only a few locals and hunters glimpsed of the falls’ pristine beauty. By the way, Tagpao, in the local dialect, refers to a woman’s organ of copulation.

According to the locals, the rock formation at the base of the waterfall resembles the shape of the said woman’s organ.

• Location/Jump-off: Tubo
• Trekking Time: 7 hours
• Guide Fee: Donation

5. Kili Falls 

One of the rising tourist spots in Abra, Kili falls projects a rejuvenating view. It is a small fall, measuring around 15 feet high.

But don’t be deceived. The falls has a huge water volume and a powerful force that it formed a wide and very deep pool.

Oh, this pool is inviting especially in the middle of the day. Its sparkling and crystal-clear waters offer a soothing bath or swim. The rocks surrounding the pool provide good jumping or diving platforms.

There is also a nearby hot spring. Oh, the awesome sight of the falls and the rustic environment simply makes this spot a must-see for every nature lovers out there.

• Location/Jump-off: Brgy Kili, Tubo
• Entrance Fee: Php 50

6. Libtec Crystal Cave 

This is one of the famous tourist spots in Abra. It is also called Quiling Crystal Cave. According to the locals, the cave was already popular among hunters and trappers from a nearby community.

The cave hosts numerous bats locally known as kurarapnit. Unfortunately, their population dwindled due to overhunting.

Inside the cave, you’ll find wonderfully-formed stalagmites, stalactites, straws, drapery, and flowstones. These formations portray the shape of a horse, a bird, a banana blossom, and many more.

Unlike in other caves, spelunking here is relatively easy. You don’t need to wade on water, rappel, or crawl into narrow openings.

• Location/Jump-off: Dolores
• Entrance Fee: None
• Contact: Barangay Chairman- 0926-403-4485

7. Abualan Cave 

You may think of this as an ordinary cave because of the narrow entrance. But beyond this, there are large chambers and columns inside.

Numerous stalactite and stalagmite rock formations can be found. It is somehow similar to Longog cave of Kapangan, Benguet.

According to the locals, the cave provided a safe haven for the residents during World War II. By the way, it is sometimes called Guano cave because of the presence of bat pooping. Yes, numerous bats dwell here.

Up to this date, however, the cave remains largely undeveloped. Hopefully, the local authorities will manage it sustainably as it can help in boosting community development.

The cave is now one of the emerging tourist attractions in Abra province.

• Location/Jump-off: San Juan

8. Manambor Falls 

The falls measures around 30 feet high. Its waters carved a beautiful pool, fit for swimming and cliff jumping.

But did you know that the locals consider it mystical? They say that there is a kingdom underneath the pool of the falls. For that, they say that the kingdom is responsible for the drum-like sound of the waterfall.

• Location/Jump-off: Tineg

9. Mt. Poswey 

Standing at more than 1,546 meters above sea level, Mt. Poswey ranks among the highest mountains of Abra. The trail presents challenges before one can finally assault the summit.

For one, there are steep and uphill parts of the trail. Fallen trees and eroded portions also add to the menace. Further, leeches abound during especially during the rainy months.

However, the views all along are rewarding. What more if one gets to the top? Mt. Poswey is a prime biodiversity area. In fact, the critically-endangered Philippine eagle has been sighted in the area.

This mountain, therefore, must be given attention and protection. Mt Poswey is one of the off-beaten tourist spots in Abra.

• Location/Jump-off: Brgy Bao-ayan, Boliney
• Trekking Time: 3-4 hours

10. Panaclisan River 

This is one of the numerous rivers found in the province, all leading to the famed Abra River. Its waters are crystal-clear. Further, it teems with different marine species such as paliling and igat (river eel).

Paco/pacpaco (wild, edible fern) also thrives along its banks. But what is more interesting about the river is the presence of numerous lagoons and deep pool pockets. It also hides several rapids and waterfalls.

Stunning, white rock formations surround some of these. A more popular one is found at barangay Nalbuan. The falls is similar to Kili falls in Tubo. It measures around 8 feet high but its powerful water volume created a wide and deep pool.

• Location/Jump-off: Licuan-Baay

11. Apao Rolling Hills 

Apao Rolling Hills casts a view of the mountains like the grassy meadows of European hinterlands. From the viewpoint at Vira, one can gaze on wave-like hills as far as the eyes could see.

Grasses and a few shrubs and trees cover these hills. During summer months, the hills appear brown. However, they turn green during the rainy months.

Either way, the views of it are simply breathtaking. Different activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and climbing.

According to the locals, however, vast forests covered these hills. However, they were heavily logged during the Marcos regime. Apao Rolling Hills are now one of the famous tourist spots in Abra.

12. Mt. Bullagao

Mt. Bullagao projects the shape of a woman lying prostrate on her back, her breasts sharply contoured, and her reclined head facing the sky.

From Bangued, provincial town of Abra, the mountain looks like a woman giving birth. That is why the Mt. Bullagao is popularly known as Abra’s Sleeping Beauty.

Near the summit, there is a small plateau, covered in grasses. There are also small patches of secondary forests.

From the top and along the trails near it, one can view the surrounding mountains and plains of Ilocos Sur, Abra, and the mighty Abra River.

• Location/Jump-off: Brgy Malapaao, Langiden
• Brgy Fee: Php 50
• Guide Fee: Php 1000 for a group of utmost 5
• Note: Minimum of 2 guides required for security purpose

13. Kimkimay Lake

Kimkimay lake covers an approximate area of one hectare. A local legend tells that the lake used to be a small community of seven families.

The families, however, were engaged in vices, angering the gods who inhabit the place.

As a punishment, the gods submerged their community into cold water. Today, the lake is a popular picnic and fishing spot among the locals.

To get here, one needs to travel along the 32-kilometer winding Penarrubia-Villaviciosa- Pilar Road.

Within the same municipality, there is another lake called Limbo. Kimkimay Lake ranks one of the best tourist spots in Abra.

• Location/Jump-off: Villaviciosa

14. Tugot ni Angalo

Tugot ni Angalo literally translates to “footprint of Angalo.” Based on a local legend, Angalo was a giant, considered to be the first man to inhabit Abra.

Accordingly, he roamed the Ilocos Region and Abra endlessly in search of Aran, his love. He would sometimes kneel to drink water, causing his footprints to go deeper.

That is why locals claim that the pools atop the famed Pinsal fools are the footprints of Angalo.

The main footprint in San Quintin measures around fifteen meters long, five meters wide and ten feet deep. It can be viewed from a distance during clear, sunny days.

• Location/Jump-off: San Quintin

15. Boliney Hot Spring

Boliney Bani Hot Spring lies at barangay Bani. To get here, one has to ride jeepneys for some 32 kilometers of dirt road from Bangued. The place is a perfect spot for swimmers.

The thermal waters directly flow to a river with cold, and crystal-clear waters. Thus, the place offers a chance for both cold and warm bath.

In addition, the locality offers a memorable experience of surrounding mountain views. In fact, Mt. Poswey can be seen from here.

• Location/Jump-off: Brgy Bani, Boliney

16. Abra River

Abra River is one of the longest and largest in the Philippines. It emanates from the mountains of Mankayan, Benguet as well as the municipalities of Bauko and Tadian in Mountain Province.

Collectively, it has a drainage system of 5,125 square kilometers and a length of 178 kilometers. As it passes along Abra, numerous rivers such as Tineg River and Boliney River join it.

Even before the Spanish invasion, the river already played an important role among the local communities. It teemed with various marine species such as eels and fishes.

Today, however, the operations of Lepanto Mines and commercial farming are causing the gradual degeneration of the river.

Urgent actions need to be done to address the issue and save the Abra River.

Other Abra Tourist Spots to See

17. ikmin river.

• Location/Jump-off: Boliney

18. Mt. Tomoy-ok

19. bandi river.

• Location/Jump-off: Danglas

20. Botik River

• Location/Jump-off: Luba

For Your Information:

If you need further information that may help in setting up your itinerary to the tourist spots/attractions in Abra, do contact:

• ABRAmazing Tours: 09277725856, Dyane Kathleen Molina, Tour Operator

You can also message us on our facebook page namely, Daniel’s Eco-Travels . I will be more than glad and willing to answer them whenever I can:)

Related Articles:

• Top 20 Must-See Tourist Spots in Kalinga
• Benguet: Top 20 Must-See Tourist Spots
• Top 20 Mountain Province Tourists to Visit Now & Best Things to Do
• 20+ Best Ifugao Tourist Spots: Home of the Famous Banaue Rice Terraces
• Apayao: Top 20 Must-See Tourist Spots

Disclaimer:  This is a work in progress. If you are knowledgeable or familiar with the tourist spots/attractions in Abra province, you may suggest additional information. Iyaman!

Share this:

visit also, Mapaso Danglas Hot Spring, Lusuac Dam in Lagayan, Bolibey Hot Spring,, Sipud Sipud Cave in Tineg, Lombo lake in Villavisiona, Sagsagakat Hot Spring in Pennarubia Abra,

Sir hello. Thank you for this informative post since I am interested visiting abra. Just want to ask if these tourist spots are far from each other. Can u recommend a contact person in Abra since we plan to do a DIY visit

Halu po. You can try calling this number: (074) 7528118 (Provincial Capitol of Abra)

Hi Daniel! This is a very thorough and informative list, thank you. I have to admit, Abra wasn’t high on my travel bucket list. But after reading your post, I am convinced that it deserves a higher spot. I am an aspiring blogger and traveler, and I’m hoping I can explore Abra soon.

thank you for your remarks:) yes, there’s countless more worth visiting especially on Abra’s remote locations

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Hi there fellow traveler! My name is Daniel although you can call me Kumafor. That's my indigenous name. I grew on a remote village called Lias in Barlig, Mountain Province.

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Bauko opens eco-park as tourist destination

BAUKO, Mountain Province  – The municipal government recently opened a 25-hectare property in barangay Otucan as an eco-park serving as an added tourist destination for visitor wanting to explore potential spots and the beauty of nature around the province.

Mayor Abraham B. Akilit said the Kalimbatawa nature park has its own picnic groove, trekking area, horseback riding site, venue for big and small gatherings, garden wedding sites and a lot more facilities that will surely entice nature lovers to frequent the locality and enjoy the added value offered to make their stint worthy.

“We were elated over the initial response of the residents and the visitors to the initial offerings available in the proposed eco-park. We just have to continue the implementation of the master plan to complete the conversion of the area into a nature park worthy of spending a break in the town,” Akilit stressed.

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He underscored that the operation and administration of the eco-park will be done in close coordination with the barangay officials and the residents as this can be their major source of income, especially when it will be in full operation once all the planned recreational activities shall have been put in place.

According to him, municipal officials and employees enjoyed the scenery of the eco-park when they held their Yuletide activities in the area and visitors are frequenting the place to witness its potentials once the plans for the area shall have been completed by the local government.

The local chief executive explained the initial development of the Kalimbatawa eco-park was being done to convince concerned government agencies for government to extend assistance for the aggressive development and promotion of other tourist spots around the region aside from existing and established tourist destinations.

He underscored ecotourism is the ultimate means by which the town will achieve sustainable development, generate employment for its residents and enhance economic activities and sources of livelihood for people in the different communities without compromising the state of the environment that provides the raison for them to visit the place.

One of the major programs of the municipal mayor is the empowerment of barangay officials to be the active partners in the development and promotion of identified tourist spots in their areas as tourism can serve as the town’s major economic driver to help move the people out of poverty when Bauko becomes the province’s major ecotourist destination.

Akilit emphasized the local government is open to investors interested in putting up various ecotourism facilities in the different barangays to encourage locals and visitors to visit the various destinations in the municipality.

Akilit asserted that the local government is willing to provide interested investors with the necessary incentives for them to be encouraged to put up their businesses in the locality to contribute in the generation of jobs for residents and contribute in increasing economic activities for the people.

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