sagada trip 2022

Dive Into Philippines

⛰️Perfect Sagada Itinerary For 1-3 Days [2024]

Heading to Sagada and looking for the perfect itinerary for Sagada? Perfect! We can help in this Sagada itinerary blog post.

Come spend a few days in crisp mountain air, surrounded by pine trees and scenic views, dining on fresh produce and enjoying excursions led by friendly guides. Not to mention some fantastic adrenalin activities, epic mountain treks, rice fields, waterfalls, plus the early morning world-famous “sea-of-clouds”… and those weird and wonderful Hanging Coffins of Echo Valley!

Sagada is a unique Philippines destination, away from the coast and far from crowded cities. Similar to Sapa in Vietnam, you’re transported high above sea level to lush covered mountains, to small villages where local people still tend their rice fields by hand, and fully immersed in nature. Every waking moment is spent savouring the healthy fresh air and peaceful views.

Often paired with a trip to Banaue, you’re sure to fall in love with the beauty of Sagada.

Below, you will find the ultimate itinerary: Sagada! We walk you through options whether you have just a day in Sagada or are looking for a full Sagada itinerary 3 days 2 nights. You can simply stop following our itinerary in Sagada if your trip finishes in less than 3 days when you hit the number of days you have or pick the days that sound best from the itinerary below.

We also have a complete list of what to do in Sagada, Philippines so you can decide if the stops in our itinerary are perfect for you. You will find all the options for Sagada activities below.

Finally, we also recommend some top places to stay in Sagada depending on your budget and some tips for visiting Sagada with kids.

Table of Contents

Full Sagada Itinerary 2024

Remember, this is a full Sagada 3 days 2 nights itinerary. If you have less days, simply pick the days that most appeal.

This can be either a Sagada budget itinerary or a more expensive one – you can pick the quality of accommodation and activities to suit your budget.

Sagada Itinerary 1 Day: Historic Sagada, with the Hanging Coffins

Wondering what to do in Sagada 2024? Well, here we go with your Sagada tour itinerary, and there’s a lot to fit into your first day. Don’t dally on breakfast as this itinerary makes the most of your stay and you’re ticking off some prime Sagada attractions today!

• First stop is the Sagada Municipal Tourist Information Centre to book guides, where needed or mandatory, for your excursions to the Sagada tourist attractions
• Spend an hour at the Ganduyan Museum
• Take a short stroll to explore the cemetery at Calvary Hill
• On to Echo Valley – one of our favourite Sagada places to visit -and through to the viewing point for the Hanging Coffins
• Back in town and refresh
• Mid-afternoon stroll to Danum Lake, possibly with a picnic, and await the sunset or hang around longer for the stunning starlit sky – definitely one of our favourite places to go in Sagada

Sagada Itinerary 2 Days: Sagada Sea-of-Clouds, Treks and Caves

If time is short and you’re enjoying a Sagada Itinerary 2 days 1 night, this is your last day. However, if you’re staying for the full three days… lucky you! Either way, it’s a pre-dawn start today.

• Join your jeep and guide at 4 am to start your journey to perhaps the best place in Sagada, the Marlboro Hills
• Catch the first rays of sunrise and photograph – weather permitting – the gorgeous sea-of-clouds before taking the 2-3 hour Trek to the Blue Soil Hills (a highlight of any Sagada 2 days, 1 night itinerary)
• Return to town, grabbing a locally-made coffee and early lunch
• Next up, Spelunking adventure at Sumaguing Caves
• …and drop by nearby Lumiang Cave on your return to Sagada
• Early evening, visit Demang for a glimpse of old Sagada and local life – a great way to end your Sagada 2 days itinerary

Sagada Itinerary 3 Days: Sagada Full On: Waterfalls or Rafting

Following our full 3 days itinerary? Great, as there are still lots of beautiful places in Sagada to discover. We’re giving you two options today, dependent on the season and/or your preference… but both promise an exhilarating final day!

• Full day trek, with picnic lunch, to the beautiful Bomod-ok Falls
• An early morning start again, this time heading to another of our favourite places to see in Sagada, Mt Kiltepan for your second Sagada-famous sunrise!
• Back to town for a late breakfast and refresh
• Join a tour for rafting or kayaking experience at the Upper Chico River

Click here for a Sagada and Cordillera Mountain Range tour option and discounted tickets.

Complete List Of Best Things To Do In Sagada, Philippines

Don’t forget that for many activities within our Sagada trip itinerary it is mandatory to have a guide. Thus the best start to your stay is to head directly to the Tourist Office, planning out your days and tours.

Hanging Coffins In Echo Valley

Locals believe that the higher coffins are placed, the nearer to heaven they are… hence the unique Hanging Coffins at Echo Valley, perched halfway up a cliff.

This old-world burial site (supposedly dating back almost 2000 years) of the Igorot indigenous people, is just a short walk from Sagada’s main road. You’ll soon come across a view of sharp cliffs with coffins suspended along one edge – making this Sagada’s most popular attraction.

The majority of the coffins – hollowed from logs and usually carved by the elderly Igorot themselves before they die – are centuries old, whilst others have only been there a few years, with the last placed around 2008.

They are actually so high up that it almost defies logic how they were erected!

Echo Valley Lookout

You’ll find the Hanging Coffins in the magnificent Echo Valley, which offers splendid views of Sagada’s rocky village and the coffins. A small ravine along the highlands – near to the town’s centre – it’s apparently one of the few places in the world where shouting is allowed. Echoes reverberate around the valley, shaped like a large megaphone.

Visitors flock here to enjoy the beauty of the surroundings that lead the way to the coffin’s viewing point… and, perhaps more importantly, to scream out their names waiting on the fun echo!

Calvary Hill

On your way to Echo Valley and the Hanging Coffins, you’ll also pass by the town cemetery, known as “Calvary Hill”. This is the newer version of the Sagadan’s burial site, replacing the cliffside coffins with a more traditional style of burial.

At first glance, this seems a typical cemetery, until you learn that burials are planned not on a lot or family plot basis, but by the type of death. This comes about due to the Sagadan’s believing that the spirits of their deceased are the highest forms of supernatural beings. Therefore, they are particular about where they are buried. Macabre as it is, there are areas for deaths such as childbirth, suicide, dying unmarried (!), etc. For example, suicides are buried within the deepest parts of Echo Valley to stop them returning to haunt those left behind…

There are many interesting rituals surrounding the burials in Sagada and it’s well worth discussing this with a local or joining with a tour guide.

Also, take time to search out one tomb of note – that being of Sagada’s adopted son, Dr William Henry Scott. An anthropologist/historian, Dr Scott spent most of his life studying the people of the Cordillera and wrote many books about the prehispanic Philippines.

Marlboro Hill to Blue Soil Trek

There are many hikes on offer in the mountains around Sagada (and you should be aware that the majority need a guide, easily arranged from within the village). One of the top treks is this highly rated trail that leads from the splendid Marlboro Hills, along a rugged terrain to the Blue Soil Hills.

Most visitors choose to experience sunrise and the renowned sea-of-clouds at Marlboro Hills (see more below), before tackling this two-to-three hour trek (from where you’ll need a transfer truck (approx 700php) back to the town centre.

Arrange a mandatory guide – from any of the operators within Sagada town – and take a jeep ride 30 minutes up to the drop off point, and a further twenty minutes trek to the Marlboro Hill lookout point.

Clean air, crisp weather (sometimes very cold, so pack well) and silent countryside abounds, with rice paddies in the upper valleys, pine trees covering the mountainsides, and wild strawberries underfoot with a sea of white clouds usually hiding the lower valleys. This is some seriously beautiful countryside.

Set off on the trail through colourful mountain wildflowers, passing unusual rock formations, all set to the splendid mountain backdrop. Tall, proud pine trees reach to the sky, emitting a fresh, fragrant scent. Your senses feel alive!

Not a difficult trail, even suitable for children (just ensure sensible footwear and clothing), this is a lovely trek through the colourful countryside with unique plant life. Your final destination doesn’t disappoint either, with the Blue Soil Hills (or Kaman-utek Hills as they are locally known) delighting with their bluish-green colour – due to the high copper sulphate content of the soil. A quite unique natural wonder!

Sumaguing Cave

With over 60 caves discovered underneath the town of Sagada, Sumaguing Cave is perhaps the most famous. Noted as “The Big Cave”, it has the largest chamber of all the caves and is filled with countless rock formations, slowly shaped by nature over thousands of years.

Some of the formations call to mind animals and have been nicknamed such: elephants, turtlehead, bear and, the non-animal but equally unique, Chocolate Cake. These unusual formations, along with dramatic stalagmites and stalactites, are some of the highlights of spelunking adventures on offer at the cave.

A man-made staircase from the roadside leads you into the interior of the cave, an initial easy walk down. However, it soon becomes apparent at the challenges that lay ahead!

Divided into three areas, spelunkers enjoy a great “Descent”, the rock formations, and then The Tunnel, where it’s time to get wet as you squeeze into narrow openings and soak in cold waters! There is also a 10ft boulder to climb up (with the help of ropes) to find your way out of the cave.

Guided throughout your 2-hour exploration, this is a thrilling activity and a firm favourite for tourists visiting the area. Wear sturdy shoes, with a good grip, and ideally bring a flashlight. Wear lightweight clothing, as you’re going to get wet, but there’s a shower area at the end of the tour if you need to change. Have fun!

Lumiang Burial Cave

South of the main village, only 10-15 minutes walk toward Ambasing, you’ll find the well signposted Lumiang Burial Cave. Steep steps lead you down to a massive cave where more than 100 coffins are stacked high at the entrance.

With pinewood coffins dating back almost 500 years, this is yet another ancient burial site. Elaborate designs are carved into the coffins, including images of lizards (symbols of long life and eternity). Buried in the fetal position – as Sagadan’s believe that we came out of our mothers in this position and thus should leave the world in the same position – the coffins are surprisingly small.

If you’re up for a real adventure and have more time – perhaps following your own Sagada DIY Itinerary 2024 – check out the 4-5 hour Cave Connection course, starting here at Lumiang and ending at Sumaguing. Epic.

Marlboro Hills

A guide is mandatory but is well worth the cost, so is the hassle of reaching this rather offbeat location. An alternative to the more well-known sunrise spot of Kiltepan (more on that later), Marlboro Hills promises a similar unobstructed 360-degree view of sunrise across a sea-of-clouds… Totally mesmerizing!

You’ll need to head out around 4 am, taking a jeep/4×4 with your guide up to the viewing point, walking the last 20-30 minutes to the rocky outcrop. And then… wait for the sun to aim its rays over the mountains, seeming to wash the world with a golden glow. As the sun rises, your surroundings take shape, coming into view – plants, flowers, rice fields, pine forests and the ever-present mountains. What a great start to your day!

It’s also a lesser known fact that the sunsets are equally dramatic from this viewpoint and stick around for stunning milky-way views. If you have the time, camping overnight is highly recommended.

Located to the west of town, near the town of Besao, Danum Lake is a peaceful at-one-with-nature setting, surrounded by the Ampacao mountains.

Trek 4km from Sagada town centre – approx 1h10m walk – along Sagada’s West Road, aiming to arrive about an hour before sunset to capture the setting at its best.

A small lake (more of a pond, in fact), the beauty is in the surrounding pine trees reflected in the still waters, and the relaxing atmosphere. A lovely end to any day, this is a firm favourite camping location for Sagada visitors.

If you’re staying longer in Sagada, walk just 200 metres to the smaller Lake Banao, the jumping off point for the long trek to the summit of Mt Ampacao, the highest peak in the area.

Ganduyan Museum

Your visit to Sagada is not complete unless you drop by here. A privately owned museum, maintained by family members, it’s almost directly opposite the Tourist Information Centre in the middle of town and offers a fantastic overview of the beginning of Sagada.

Listen as the curator tells stories of Sagada’s history, culture, art and its people, especially their beliefs and traditions. The small museum is packed with an anthropologist’s dream of sculptures, jewellery and other Kankanay (including Sagada Igorot) artefacts.

To the south of Sagada you’ll find an old village called Demang. Once the original “Sagada”, the village is today still the true cultural heart of the area. You might be lucky enough to witness celebrations or fiestas – always a loud and fun affair!

Bomod-ok Falls

This is the Philippines countryside at its best: an impressively high waterfall (200m), surrounded by rice terraces and breath-taking views. Instagram-worthy pictures guaranteed!

The falls can be reached by a challenging 3-hour trek from Sagada, passing through communities, down and up a mountain, and through rice fields with steep steps at almost 70-degrees. Not for the faint of heart, with 3 hours there and back, it’s fair to say that the exciting part is the journey itself, not the final destination.

Take it slow, pack well, and pencil out a full day to really enjoy the experience. Pack water and a picnic lunch too, though you will find a few local stores along the route selling drinks and basic snacks.

An hour or so into your trek, at the “staging area”, you’ll need to register and take a tour guide through to the Bomod-ok Falls. This is actually great, as the guides have a fountain of knowledge about the area and the places that you pass through.

Once at the falls, it’s time to cool off with a well-earned swim before, alas, facing the return trek. There are a couple of routes back, both taking the same time but one slightly easier so ensure to discuss this with your guide.

Though tiring this is a wonderful trek, totally worth it in our opinion!

Mt Kiltepan

Best explored in the early hours, you’ll need to leave Sagada before the crack of dawn to reach here as it’s again all about catching the dramatic sunrise!

Another popular spot to view the famous Sagada sunrise, with the sea-of-clouds laid out below, you’ll also have panoramic views of the Kilong Rice Terraces.

Located around 40-minutes walk (or 10 minutes drive) from the town, don’t be surprised to find throngs of fellow tourists heading up here at 4.30 am. Fog-allowing, it’s all worth it… As the first rays of the sun breakthrough in a blaze of light and colour!

Probably the most popular viewing spot for the famous Sagada sunrise, if you’re lucky with the weather this is a unique experience and well worth the early start. Wrap up warm as this will be a chilly trip, with your breath smoking from your mouth in the cold mountain climate.

Kapay-Aw Rice Terraces

Sagada’s own version of the rice terraces of Banaue, with variations of greens and patterns spread out over the valley. Take an easy stroll here to see the lush agriculture cultivated by the locals and capture some stunning photos.

Climb up through the rice-terrace levels for a majestic view across the valleys of the Sagada province.

Rafting And Kayaking On The Chico River

Time to get wet and have some fun at the Upper Chico River, high in the mountains. Rated as some of the best white water rafting in the Philippines, six sections of the Upper Chico are accessible from Sagada giving different water conditions, with the season usually running from late June to early January. Experienced kayakers also have a choice of scenic challenging runs, some almost 9km long.

Try The Local Coffee

Fair to say that the Philippines is not renowned for its cuisine or drinks, yet Sagada is definitely an exception when it comes to coffee. Thanks to the high altitude and cooler mountain temperatures, coffee grows very well here. Cafes offer the premium local coffee, with some even roasting the beans themselves.

What To Do In Sagada Map

On this Sagada map, tourist attractions available in this area are all noted.

Best Places To Stay In Sagada

When it comes to the best hotels in Sagada, there isn’t a huge range. The good news is that the accommodation in Sagada is generally good value and budget hunters will feel at home. However, people that prefer more upper midrange and luxury accommodation may be disappointed.

Below I’ve listed a few different places to consider.

Coffee Heritage House & Hostel Review

Looking for peaceful accommodation, surrounded by lush greenery? The Coffee Heritage House & Hostel ticks the boxes.

The first coffee-themed accommodation, aiming to share their passion about Philippine artisanal coffee whilst aiding the local farmers, it’s located on a hill approx 6km outside of town. A family welcome awaits you here, with tasty local and western food cooked to order. And as much fresh coffee as you want!

Views are spectacular, pine-tree scents fill the air, dogs and chickens entertain you, and the dramatic mountain weather of Sagada presents changing views. Oh, and the night sky… You should be easily spotting the milky-way from this remote, rural area.

Beds are comfortable and clean, and the common shared area is spacious – with an open fire for those mountain-crisp evenings. Rooms are varied: 5-bed mixed dorm with Queen, 5-bed mixed dorm with Single, 3-bed mixed dorm Single, Deluxe Queen and Deluxe Triple rooms. Do note that washroom facilities are all shared.

A favourite of visitors enjoying a Sagada backpacking itinerary 2023 offers, the inconvenient location is not ideal for everyone. However, if you’re looking for tranquillity, scenic views and a relaxed atmosphere, this is the spot for you.

Click here for the latest prices

Isabelo’s Inn and Cafe Review

Known for its family-friendly welcome and proximity to some good restaurants within the village, this is a great mid-market accommodation option.

Free internet access, on-site coffee shop and complimentary breakfast are offered. Less than half a mile from the Hanging Coffins, this is a great base for exploring the area.

With two floors, you’ll find the reception on the 1st floor, along with a small living room (with cable tv) and the breakfast-dining area. Upstairs there are 10 various room choices: standard double with private bathroom, twin room with shower, double queen with shared bathroom, triple and family rooms.

The convenient location, friendly welcome and comfortable facilities make this an ideal place to stay for families and couples, or anyone looking to maximise their time for excursions and activities.

Kanip Aw Pines View Lodge Review

Approx 8-minutes walk from the centre of the village, Kanip Aw Pines View Lodge is another ideally located accommodation option.

Various room options include 2 double beds, 1 single, 1 double, family and queen standard. Most have mountain views and a couple have a small balcony/terrace area. WiFi is available in the public areas, a vending machine and a shared lounge/TV area.

A popular choice for backpackers or those looking for a cheap base, not planning on spending too much time in their accommodation.

Find our full list of the best places to stay in Sagada here .

Visiting Sagada With Kids

With its cooler climate and out-doors lifestyle, caves, rock formations, forests and mountain views, children love Sagada! Rough-and-tumble younger children do well here, with lots of space and few vehicles around, climbing rocks, collecting flowers, and basically revelling in the outdoors lifestyle.

Older children appreciate the scenic views and thrill at the early morning jeep rides up to mountain viewing points for those pre-sunrise excursions. Needless to say, the hanging coffins are a winner too, and when you add in rafting, kayaking and spelunking… The kids might not be ready to leave after only 3 days!

Thus, all this makes Sagada a favourite for families with unique cultures and traditions helping to make a stay here not just great fun, but educational too. Don’t forget, that you’re guided by the welcoming and caring Filipinos, who especially enjoy sharing the sights and thrills of their home country with enthusiastic families.

With many things to do in Sagada with kids, this is one destination the whole family will enjoy.

How To Get To Sagada

Reaching Sagada is a fairly lengthy journey, whichever route you take.

Most visitors fly into Manila and take the new Coda Lines bus from Cubao, Quezon City, Manila, straight to Sagada in 12 hours (with a few stops for the restroom along the way). You’ll find a couple of choices – Super Deluxe with 35-seats and restroom, or a more reasonably priced Semi Deluxe 45-seater. This overnight service helps you avoid wasting a full day whilst travelling to Sagada.

Nearer still is Baguio, with a domestic airport 5km outside the city: Loakan Airport. From Baguio, Sagada is only 6 hours by road and there are a couple of bus companies that operate this route.

To see all the latest flights and prices, click here . For the bus routes and rates, click here .

Final Words

Theodore Roosevelt said, “Nothing in the world is worth having or worth doing unless it means effort…”. Reaching Sagada might seem like a lot of effort, but we assure you there will be no regrets!

One of the most relaxing travel spots in the archipelago, the beautiful town, indigenous culture and unbelievable scenery will blow you away. Hire a guide and explore, explore, explore!

We hope you enjoyed this Sagada sample itinerary and the complete list of places to visit in Sagada Philippines. You can find more information in our complete guide to Luzon here .

Related posts:

By Julia Rolph

Julia first discovered the Philippines in 2011, eventually settling in beautiful Bantayan Island, Cebu, with her daughter and Filipino partner.  The family spend every vacation exploring the Philippines, and Julia enjoys helping others discover this wonderful destination. When she's not sharing her vast Philippines knowledge here, she works as a travel planner planning trips for people who want to visit the Philippines

2022 SAGADA TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

by thepinay solobackpacker | May 25, 2022 | Mountain Province , Sagada , TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS | 0 comments

Over the years, the municipality of Sagada in the Mountain Province has attracted tourists especially on weekends. Travel agencies from Manila started offering inexpensive group tours during weekends that led to overcrowding in top Sagada tourist spots.  But then the pandemic arrived, and Sagada temporarily closed its borders to tourists in order to protect its residents. But, with the closure of Sagada, many residents who work in the tourism industry, such as local guides, café and restaurants owners, homestay owners, and weavers, have lost their livelihood. Late last year, Sagada finally opened its doors to tourists after a long hiatus. And early this year, new rules were imposed. If you are planning to visit Sagada soon, here’s the list of Sagada travel requirements for 2022.

TRAVEL BLOG CONTENTS

SAGADA TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS FOR TOURISTS

Here’s the latest Sagada travel requirements for 2022. Both vaccinated tourists and partially and unvaccinated tourists can now enter Sagada. Children 11 years old and below are exempted from the following requirements:

SAGADA TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS FOR VACCINATED TOURISTS

1.BOOKED ACCOMMODATION. All travelers must book at least 1 night accommodation from DOT-accredited and LGU-certified establishments. Your accommodation should provide you with an access code that you need to proceed with the online registration. See next requirement below.

You can check out the room rates and book  your Sagada accommodation through the link below. Or check out the list of Sagada accommodations below.

Important: Bookings must be made at least 2 days prior to arrival.

  2.UMALI KAYO QR CODE. Sign up at Umali Kayo Registration  –> HERE. Register at least 2 days prior to your travel date. You must present the QR Code / registration confirmation in Umali Kayo registration system. Your code should contain the letters CN, followed by 6 numbers (e.g CN 345678). Each code will accommodate up to 2 persons.  For example, you are 4 in a group, then you need 2 codes.

Important: The registration portal is only open from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily.

3.VACCINATION CARD.  Vaccinated tourists must present a vaccination card showing you are fully vaccinated.

SAGADA TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS FOR UNVACCINATED TOURISTS AND PARTIALLY VACCINATED TOURISTS

1.BOOKED ACCOMMODATION.    You must book at least 1 night accommodation from DOT-accredited and LGU-certified establishments. Your accommodation should provide you with an access code that you need to proceed with the online registration. See next requirement below.

  2.UMALI KAYO QR CODE. Sign up at Umali Kayo Registration. Register at least 2 days prior to your travel date. You must present the QR Code / registration confirmation in Umali Kayo registration system.

3.NEGATIVE RAPID ANTIGEN TEST RESULT. All partially vaccinated and unvaccinated tourists must present a negative Covid test result valid up to 1 day from the date of release.

• Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) may be conducted at the Pegeo Border Control Point in Sagada for ₱600 ($11) per test. Open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM only.
• If you’re taking the Rapid Antigen Test outside Sagada, it must be with an official receipt (OR) from any of the following:

Any medical government office (RHU, City Health Office, MHO, PO)

Any Philippine Hospital.

4.REGISTRATION FEE. After undergoing triage on your arrival in Sagada, all tourists must pay the ₱100 ($2) registration fee at the Tourism Information Office or Tourism Hub in Sagada. You will be provided a tourist kit which includes informative documents that may aid in your travel in Sagada. Also, you will be provided a tourist ID for identification purposes, carry this with you at all times when exploring and visiting Sagada tourist spots. It will serve as your pass to be able to enter sites included in your Sagada itinerary or Sagada tour package.

IMPORTANT: All tourists arriving must present the accomplished Sagada travel requirements stated above, e.g.QR Code, Vaccination Card, Covid 19 Negative Test Result, and booked accommodation confirmation.

All tourists must undergo triage.

Currently, day trips aren’t allowed in Sagada. You must stay for at least 1 night in Sagada.

If you are an APOR traveling to Sagada , please select APOR as your purpose of visit when you register at Umali Kayo website. Don’t forget your travel order. Also, you won’t be allowed to tour.  If you plan tour Sagada while you are there, you have to register as a tourist and comply with the Sagada travel requirements for tourists.

HOW TO GO TO SAGADA

Tourists visiting Sagada by private vehicles and public transportation are now allowed.

  Sagada by Private Vehicle

Below are your Sagada route options, depending on when you are coming from.

1.Manila -> Baguio – >Halsema Highway -> Sagada Route

For detailed  direction from Manila to Sagada via Baguio, refer to Google Maps, CLICK HERE.

If you are only coming from Baguio to Sagada , CLICK HERE for directions.

If you’ll be using this route and will only be passing through Baguio and Benguet, you are required to register HERE .

If you’ll be staying in Baguio before traveling to Sagada or you’ll be staying in Baguio after Sagada. Check out my Baguio Travel blog below.

ALSO READ : BAGUIO TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by gael | thepinaysolobackpacker (@thepinaysolobackpacker)

2.Tagudin -> Cervantes -> Sabangan -> Dantay -> Sagada Route

If you’ll be using the Tagudin route, check directions HERE.

3.Nueva Ecija -> Nueva Vizcaya -> Ifugao ->  Mountain Province Route

If coming from Nueva Ecija, use this route HERE .

Tabuk Mountain Province Route

  If coming from the Northern Regions, take this route HERE .

Travel Reminder:

• Plan your trip accordingly to make sure your arrival in Sagada is around 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM , otherwise, you will not be allowed to enter since the triage and the Tourism Hub that will check the Sagada travel requirements is still closed. You will wait until the next day when the triage is open.
• Sagada travel requirements will be checked at Pegeo border control . Then you will be referred to the Sagada tourism hub after.
• At the Sagada Tourism Hub, you will be provided tourist ID and tourist kit, which you need to wear or carry with you when you enter major Sagada tourist spots. Registration fee is ₱100 ($2).
• All tourists will undergo triage.
• To avoid delays, all tourists entering Sagada are advised to take the Dantay-Sagada Road and Sagada South Road when exiting.

Sagada by Public Transportation

Tourists arriving by private vehicles and public transportation are now allowed in Sagada.

Manila  (Cubao) – Sagada

1.Ride a Coda Bus from Manila to Sagada via Banaue and Bontoc.

Coda Bus terminal is located at Monte de Piedad Street in Cubao, Quezon City.  The bus leaves daily from Cubao. Bus fare starts at ₱760 ($15) to ₱980 ($19).  Travel time is roughly 12 hours. You can book online at their official website: codalinesph.com

MANILA TO SAGADA BUS: BOOK HERE

Here’s the Coda Bus Line Bus Schedule:

2.  Manila – Baguio – Sagada Route  

*Schedules are subject to change without prior notice.

• CODA LINES Terminal Quezon City
• HM Transport, INC
• Monte de Piedad corner Maryland Street, Cubao Quezon City
• Contact #: +63 927 559 2197 / +63 929 521 3229

  Alternatively, you can also reach Sagada via Baguio. However, if you are passing through Baguio, you need to accomplish the Baguio travel requirements for Passing through travelers.

1.Ride a bus to Baguio. There are several bus lines that travel to Baguio, such as Victory Liner, Joy Bus (Executive Coach Bus by Genesis Transport), Dangwa Transit, Philippine Rabbit, Dagupan Bus, Saulog Bus, etc. Travel time from Manila to Baguio is roughly 5-6 hours, depending on traffic.

Manila to Baguio Bus: BOOK HERE

2.Take a cab to Baguio Dangwa Terminal and ride a GL Bus Trans Line. Buses depart to Sagada and ends in Ambasing (Sagada), or Besao (Mountain Province). Travel time is approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes. First trip is around 5:30 AM and last trip is 1:00 PM, so make sure to catch the last bus.

Alternatively, you may also catch a cab to Slaughter House. Lizardo Bus has daily trips from Baguio to Sagada, first trip is around 9:00 AM.

Important : Sagada isn’t the last stop of the bus, you can ask the driver or verify with other passengers if the stop-over is already Sagada.

SAGADA TOUR PACKAGE

Take note that upon arrival in Sagada, all tourists are required to pay the ₱100 ($2) registration fee, a tourist kit and tourist ID will be provided.  The tourist ID will serve as a pass when entering the tourists spots in Sagada. Some sites like Sumaguing Cave requires a local guide. When hiring a guide, remember that 1 guide is good for up to 5 persons, so, you can save if you are traveling in a group. You can hire a guide at Saggas or at Sagada Tourism Office.

If you’d like to avail of the Sagada Tour Package, here’s the current Saada tour package rate as of 2022. The tour package includes 1 guide, good for up to 5 persons. Meaning, the tour rate below is good for 5 persons already.

WHERE TO STAY IN SAGADA

At least 1 night stay is required when traveling to Sagada, because you need the code from your accommodation to register online as part of the Sagada travel requirements.  And you need to book in advance (at least 2 days before your trip) and get a code to register at Umali Kayo website.  Make sure to book only at DOT-accredited and LGU -certified accommodations. You can book through the link below and contact the  Sagada inn/homestay/guesthouse after you’ve book to get the tourist code.

• Isabello’s Inn and Café
• Location: Sagada Central
• Kanip-aw Pines View Lodge

Here’s a list of DOT-accredited and LGU-certified Sagada Homestay and Inns:

DIY SAGADA ITINERARY

Here’s a sample Sagada itinerary.  I used the public bus here for future reference. But if you’re using a private vehicle, you can just refer to the estimated departure time below.   All tourists spots in Sagada are now open including Sumaguing Cave, Lumiang Cave, Bomod-ok Falls, Pongas Falls, and Lake Danum.

TRAVEL REMINDER:

• Those who choose to travel are strongly advised to check the LGU health protocols regarding Covid-19 and take health conditions and personal comfort levels into consideration before departure.
• The Sagada Travel Requirements information above may change without prior notice. Please double check with the respective LGU.   
• Please don’t touch coffins and burial sites.
• Please refrain from asking locals to wear their traditional clothing just for photos.
• As much as possible, please ask permission from taking photos of locals especially elders.
• Please avoid joining any rituals without permission from elders.
• Please refrain from making noises in the community especially on burial grounds, and other religious and sacred places.
• Dispose your trash properly.
• Leave what you find – rocks, plants, etc.

BAGUIO TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

Zambales travel requirements, bohol travel requirements, dumaguete travel requirements, legazpi + albay travel requirements, pangasinan travel requirements, san vicente palawan travel requirements, puerto princesa travel requirements, related posts.

2022 Baler Travel Requirements

2022 PUERTO PRINCESA TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

2022 EL NIDO TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

2022 ZAMBALES TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

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Sagada travel requirements for tourists & visitors.

Planning a trip to Sagada, Mountain Province? What are the requirements to enter Sagada this new normal 2022? Here are the latest Sagada travel requirements, updated entry protocols, and travel guidelines for tourists and visitors.

Traveling to sagada this 2022 let me share to you the updated sagada tourism guidelines as posted by municipality of sagada facebook page., updated sagada travel requirements & guidelines.

• Accomplished registration in the UMALI KAYO online registration system - www.umali-kayo.sagada.gov.ph . The registration portal will only be open from 8AM to 4PM daily.
• Negative RT-PCR test result (swab test from accredited laboratories or RT-PCR saliva test from the Red Cross) valid 48 hours since date of release. OR
• Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) with Official Receipt (OR) from a medical government office or hospital institution. RATs will have 1 day validity. Tourists may opt to take their RAT at the Pegeo border control point in Sagada at Php 960.00 per test.
• Vaccination card/certificate indicating full vaccination. Those aged 11 and below are exempted from this provided that they are accompanied by a parent or guardian.
• Minimum of 1 night booking in a DOT-accredited and LGU-certified accommodation establishment. Bookings must be made at least 2 days prior to arrival in Sagada. A list of authorized establishments may be found at https://lodging.sagada.gov.ph. √ Click here to see the list of DOT-accredited accommodation establishments in Sagada!
• Tourist travel via public transportation is temporarily suspended. Those onboard personal/private vehicles shall be allowed.

LGU-CERTIFIED & DOT-ACCREDITED ACCOMMODATION ESTABLISHMENTS IN SAGADA

• Isabelo's Inn and Cafe √ See room rates & availability
• Kanip-aw Pines View Lodge √ See room rates & availability
• Shamrock Tavern Inn √ See room rates & availability
• Kenlibed Inn √ See room rates & availability
• Masferre Country Inn & Restaurant √ See room rates & availability
• Grandma’s Yellow House √ See room rates & availability
• Sagada Blue Mountain Cabins √ See room rates & availability
• Sagada Heritage Village √ See room rates & availability
• Big Dipper Sagada √ See room rates & availability

Search for Hotels and Resorts in Sagada!

To help you plan your trip to sagada, you may check out these posts:.

• Top Best Things to Do in Sagada - I shared here some of the best things to do in Sagada, tourist spots and best places to visit. You could also use this as your guide in creating your own Sagada itinerary.
• How to get to Sagada? - In this blog post, I shared a detailed instruction on how to get to Sagada from Metro Manila.
• Where to Eat in Sagada? - I shared here some of the best places to eat and restaurants to try when in Sagada.
• More Sagada Blog Posts - Check out my other Sagada and Mountain Province blog posts here!

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE:

• Philippines Travel Requirements for Foreign Tourists and Balikbayans
• Banaue Travel Requirements for Tourists
• Baguio Travel Requirements for Tourists
• Pangasinan Travel Requirements for Tourists
• Ilocos Norte Travel Requirements for Tourists
• Ilocos Sur Travel Requirements for Tourists
• Subic & Zambales Travel Requirements for Tourists
• Bataan Travel Requirements for Tourists
• La Union Travel Requirements for Tourists
• Baler Aurora Travel Requirements for Tourists
• San Juan, Batangas Travel Requirements
• Puerto Galera Travel Requirements for Tourists
• Boracay Travel Requirements for Tourists
• Cebu Travel Requirements for Tourists
• Bohol Travel Requirements for Tourists
• Siargao Travel Requirements for Tourists
• Camiguin Travel Requirements for Tourists
• Coron Travel Requirements for Tourists
• El Nido Travel Requirements for Tourists
• Negros Occidental & Bacolod Travel Requirements
• Negros Oriental & Dumaguete Travel Requirements

SAGADA TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS Updates as of January 7, 2022

Sagada travel requirements and entry protocols, below are the updated tourism guidelines in the municipality of sagada as of december 16, 2021..

• Tourists must book at least a one-night stay in a DOT-accredited and LGU-certified accommodation establishment. Bookings must be secured at least 2 days prior to arrival. A list of accommodation establishments authorized to operate may be accessed at www.lodging.sagada.gov.ph .
• All tourists must be registered in the Umali Kayo Online Registration Portal which may be accessed at www.umali-kayo.sagada.gov.ph . The portal will only be opened from 08:00 AM to 04:00 PM daily and online registration must be accomplished at least 2 days prior to arrival.
• All tourists are advised to take the Dantay-Sagada road when entering Sagada and the Sagada South Road when exiting. Tourists are advised to plan accordingly for their ETA to be between 8:00 AM and 05:00 PM to avoid delays in the checking of entry requirements.
• All tourists entering Sagada must present a vaccination card or vaccination certificate indicating completion of a vaccine regimen (i.e. full vaccination). Those aged 11 and below shall be exempted from this requirement provided that they are accompanied by a parent or a guardian.
• All tourists entering Sagada must present any (at least one) of the following COVID-19 test results :
• Negative Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) result issued by a medical government office (MHO/PHO) or a hospital institution, accompanied by the official receipt (OR) of the COVID-testing transaction. RATs will only be valid until the day after the date of testing (1-day validity);
• Negative RT-PCR test result from a DOH-accredited licensed testing laboratory valid 48 hours since date of release;
• Negative RT-PCR saliva test result from the Red Cross valid 48 hours since date of release
• All tourists will have the option to enter Sagada via personal/private vehicles or public transportation . Public transportation groups or corporations shall take the responsibility of checking if a tourist has complied with all requirements imposed by the Sagada LGU prior to boarding. They shall additionally take full responsibility in providing the needs of tourists who are denied entry due to lack of requirements.
• All tourists shall undergo triage at the Pegeo border control point . Symptomatic tourists shall be immediately subjected to RAT. RAT-positive tourists shall have the option to be confined in an isolation facility within Sagada or to return home immediately. If a tourist onboard a public transportation vehicle tests positive, all other individuals onboard the same vehicle shall be treated as close contacts.
• All tourists completing border control requirements are advised to undergo orientation at the Tourism Hub located at the corner of Staunton Road and Kiltepan Road. Tourist kits and official tourist IDs will be distributed after the orientation.
• Tourist sites open to tourist entry shall be specified in the Umali Kayo Registration Portal. Tourists found to have faked or falsified requirements shall be referred to the Sagada Municipal Police station for the filing of appropriate charges.

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Home » Southeast Asia » Philippines » Sagada

The ULTIMATE Sagada Travel Guide (2024 • updated)

Exactly like a mangy stray after a bath, a pedicure and a long visit to the veterinarian, Sagada is currently getting a lot more love than it used to.

And it is DESERVING!

It is a welcome break from the infallible exhaustion of gorgeous sandy beaches, offering clear mountain air , fascinating cave systems, and, of course, the echo valley hanging coffins.

In my top tier S agada travel guide , I’m going to be exposing all the info you need to ensure an action-packed and mostly problem free visit. I might even tell you how to save a bit of money too…

Let’s get into it!

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

Why Visit Sagada?

A sample 3-day itinerary for sagada, top things to do in sagada, backpacker accommodation in sagada, sagada backpacking costs, sagada travel guide budget travel tips, the best time to visit sagada, staying safe in sagada, sagada travel guide to getting around, working and volunteering in sagada, nightlife according to my sagada travel guide, faqs about travelling to sagada, final thoughts.

If my spectacular introduction has not yet convinced you that my Sagada Travel Guide holds some crucial (and juicy) knowledge, you and I are going to have some serious words later ( ED : or more likely, you and me).

Anyway, Sagada is an awesome location to add to any Philippines trip ! Especially if you are one of those beautiful people who loves varying their experiences and getting off the beaten path. Mountains? Caves? Limestone cliffs decorated by coffins? Legendary …

Why else should you visit Sagada (and utilise my epic Sagada travel guide)?

It is seriously cheap. The cost of living in the Philippines is low, and this means that you can send it up a mountain, explore the tastiest places and stay at surprisingly lush accommodations for pennies on the dollar.

The people (as with most places in the Philippines), are super friendly and generous, making Sagada a fantastic place for better exploring local culture. Beaches are cool, but they can sap the exoticism from a place, in the form of multiple little stars…

So what does a trip here look like? For starters, you have to remember to register online and book a single night’s accommodation at a trusted location. You need this to get through the border!

There are increasing amounts of red tape to account for the number of tourists. It’s worth double-checking what is and isn’t allowed. However, I do know that you must stay for at least one night! So why not try 3…?

Day 1: The Tourist Office, Sumaguing Cave, Lake Danum

There’s no way anyone is taking part in a sunset hike on day 1. But that doesn’t mean that things won’t get done! Head to the Sagada Tourism office to book your tours (and the mountain sunrise on day 2). Yes, you may part with a significant cash sum, but there is an ATM in the town, and this will be one of your biggest expenses.

The Ganduyan Museum is worth an hour, and grab a delicious breakfast at any of the local cafes nearby.

Next, we’re going to get stuck into the Sumaguing Cave , one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area. It is a caving experience, so get ready to climb through some tight spaces and see weird cave stuff. The whole activity takes 2 hours, with transport either way.

You’re likely to be pretty tired after caving, so we’ll head to Lake Danum for gorgeous sunset views, and maybe a picnic if you’re pragmatic enough. You’ve got an early start tomorrow, so don’t overdo it at the local bar…

Day 2: Mountain Sunrise, Blue Soil Hill and Hanging Coffins

4:30 am start to catch some stunning views. Head to the Marlboro Hills (incl. Kamanbaneng) to stick your head above the clouds and experience the magic of the morning. There are various vendors in the area, so you can grab a snack and a drink if for some reason you are awake enough to eat.

Next, we’re going to embark on a hike to Blue Soil Hill . It takes around 2 hours to trek there but is predominantly downhill, and there is a range of other awesome viewpoints to take advantage of. The blue soil is pretty amazing too.

When you get back, grab a super tasty/amazing brunch and chill out in the city centre. You could take the time to hike to the cemetery at Calvary Hill if you want something free and local to do. That is a top Sagada travel guide recommendation right there.

Next up are the Hanging Coffins . The whole tour takes about an hour, but it is super interesting. Head for dinner at Log Cabin for a super tasty dinner. You can have a beer or five tonight.

Day 3: Bomod-ok Falls, Balangagan Cave

Heading to the Bomod-ok Falls is a top thing to do in Sagada. The largest of the three local waterfalls, touring here involves a mountain trek, followed by some sensational photo opportunities and the chance to swim in the pool at the base. There might even be a little surprise for you when you get there.

Head back to town for lunch, as you will be starving!

For your second caving experience of the trip, jump into Balangagan Cave . It is less visited than Sumaguing and is a little less user-friendly. If you back your caving skills, then challenging yourself here can be fun and rewarding. It has the prettiest cave formations in Sagada.

If that’s not enough for you, head to Demang to experience another side of the local culture. Sometimes, wild celebrations and activities are conducted, so count yourself lucky if you manage to see them!

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

Being one of the most beautiful areas of the Philippines , there is a boatload of cool stuff to do in Sagada. My Sagada travel guide has got all the best ones, including intricate cultural oddities, paradisical nature, and some saucy bonuses!

1. Marvel at the Unique Hanging Coffins

One of the main reasons a lot of people make the trek up to Sagada is to see the iconic hanging coffins. The Igorot people of Sagada have traditionally ‘buried’ their dead in colourfully painted coffins clinging to the sides of limestone cliffs, or piled up at the entrance of caves.

They believe these methods of burial provide an easier path for the spirits to reach the great beyond, as well as keep wild animals from their remains. These days it is more common for locals to bury their dead in cemeteries – although there are still a few locals who choose to be buried in the traditional way.

You can reach some of the coffins independently or a visit can be included in an Echo Valley tour booked through the Tourist Information Centre. This is a must-see on any Sagada itinerary.

2. Go Spelunking in Massive Cave Systems

If adventure is your middle name, and you’re backpacking the Philippines, then spelunking may very well be the perfect activity for you. The most popular spelunking adventure is the Cave Connection tour, which takes you from Lumiang Cave through to Sumaguing Cave .

Exploring the underground cave system involves wading through chilly rivers, rappelling down waterfalls, and squeezing yourself through tiny openings.

It is like being birthed again, except this time you are old enough to be aware of it. Definitely not for the claustrophobic! There are also stacks of wooden coffins located at the mouth of Lumiang Cave, which is always an interesting sight.

Tour Guides are required for this 3-4 hour adrenaline rush of an activity, and you can pick them up from the Tourist Information Centre. If this sounds too extreme, you can do a shorter caving course in Sumaguing Cave. There is also an option to explore Balangagan Cave which is a 4-hour adventure and has some of the most beautiful rock formations of all the caves.

3. Hike in the Lush Mountainous Surroundings

There are many hikes on offer in the mountains around Sagada, some that can be done independently and a larger number that require a guide (all very affordable) Echo Valley is one of the most popular hikes in a Sagada itinerary, and on half-day hiking, you will see rice terraces, an underground river, hanging coffins, and a waterfall, along with lots of gorgeous scenery.

If you feel like a challenge, you could climb the highest peak in Sagada – Mt Ampacao – or hike to one of the waterfalls mentioned below. There are a large number of hikes available with local guides from the Tourist Information Centre, where you can pick up a free map and guide with the hikes listed.

4. Swim under a waterfall

It can get pretty hot during the day up in the mountains and what better way to cool off than in a deep, cool pool under a cascading waterfall? I can’t think of any!

There are numerous waterfalls around Sagada that can be visited independently or as part of a tour. Visit Bokong Falls for its deep, perfectly shaped rock pool close to town, Bomod-Ok Falls for its impressively high falls surrounded by rice terraces, and Pongas Falls for an adventure, with a challenging trek of slippery trails, and a sheer drop-off to reach it.

5. Try all the excellent eateries

The Philippines is not known for its cuisine but it doesn’t mean there aren’t delicious food destinations – Sagada is definitely one of them. For such a small town there is a ridiculously high number of eateries, and the crazy thing is – almost all of them serve incredible food.

Sagada is known for its lemon pie, but there are so many other delectable dishes that are done so well here – wood-fired pizza, Korean dishes, fried chicken that Colonel Sanders would be proud of, traditional Pinoy dishes such as chicken adobo, handmade Italian pasta dripping with cheese, and so much more.

You won’t go hungry in Sagada, in fact, you may come away with a few joyfully earned extra pounds. Check out the restaurant list further down this guide to start planning your meals now and make sure to include at least some of them when planning your Sagada itinerary.

6. Try the local coffee

As with its cuisine, the Philippines is also not generally known for having great coffee, but Sagada is definitely an exception. Due to the higher altitude and cooler mountain temperatures, coffee grows exceptionally well in this mountainous corner of the Philippines and a lot of the local cafes not only serve the premium local stuff, some even roast the beans themselves onsite. They also grow tea in the area so try to pull yourself away from the glorious coffee to try the mountain tea as well. They also grow tea in the area so try to pull yourself away from the glorious coffee to try the mountain tea as well.

If you have ever wanted to try the infamous civet coffee, a.k.a. Kopi Luwak, the most expensive coffee in the world – then you can find it here. However, the method of harvesting this coffee bean requires the s ystematic abuse of the endangered civet . Civets are kept in cage farms where they are fed and harvested for the half-digested coffee beans they excrete (yep – that’s the source of Kopi Luwak).

Think hard before you spend your dollaridoos: The Broke Backpacker doesn’t engage with animal tourism , and neither should you. (The other coffee is fine though.) 🙂

7. Go for a leisurely stroll around town

The surrounding mountains of Sagada offer gorgeous spots for hiking and adventure, but the town itself is beautiful and also definitely worth exploring. There are pine-covered mountains surrounding you everywhere you look, and once you head in any direction from the main street of town, you will very quickly come across the lush and verdant countryside with mountain views, rice terraces, and a whole lot of peace and quiet.

There are a few destinations that are worth visiting on the outskirts including the Sagada Weaving Cooperative where you can buy quality woven items and clothing while also seeing the talented weavers at work, Gaia Cafe – a crazy-looking hippie treehouse/vegetarian restaurant, and Misty Lodge – a painfully quaint wooden lodge with a restaurant serving the most amazing pizza. Make sure to add these to your Sagada itinerary.

8. Try your hand at rock climbing

If you have ever wanted to give rock climbing a try but have been put off by high prices, then now is your chance. Rock climbing in Sagada is relatively cheap and with a low difficulty level, it is the perfect place for beginners.

You can either just show up, it is located behind the cemetery in town and the attendant is usually there, or ask for more information at the Tourist Information Centre. All the gear is provided.

Wondering where you should stay in Sagada ? Sagada is the perfect destination for backpackers and home to some of the best accommodations in the Philippines!

There are plenty of budget options in and surrounding the town, but it’s almost impossible to book anything in advance, so you need to just rock up and see. If that isn’t your style, you can book a hotel…

You have to book at least one night online, but after that, feel free to search for much better and cheaper accommodation options. The Sagada tourism office wants you to spend money, but they also understand that backpackers are travelling on a shoestring.

Accommodation is usually more expensive during the peak tourist season. Try heading over between October and April when the tourists are away!

Remember that Sagada is still a little out of the way. You’re not going to find too many places that can offer the whole package. It is a perfect backpacker destination, however!

Best Places to Stay in Sagada

These are the top places to stay in Sagada, according to my EPIC Sagada travel guide:

If you want to be a little more off the beaten track, then look for somewhere to stay in Kilong. You’ll find mostly private Sagada accommodation options in this area as well as a wealth of natural features.

Ambasing is located south of the center of Sagada and close to the Lumiang and Sumaguing Caves. This makes it a great choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Sagada on a budget.

Patay is one of the largest neighborhoods in Sagada and is pretty much the center of the town. This is where you’ll find the tourist center where you can get information on the best activities and sites.

We should all have been gallivanting through the Philippines for long enough to know that 100PHP = $1.80. Or (a more useful approximation) $1 = 50PHP. Using this will keep your budget in line!

You generally don’t have to worry too much about costs, unless you are taking some seriously expensive tours, or staying at plush hotels. Most tours are worth it though!

Tour prices are generally set without regard to the group size. If you can get together with the right number of people, the prices are much lower individually. Sadly, every tour has a different bloke in charge, so having a flexible group will drop prices.

When you explore further afield, you are required to have a guide. Don’t be a dick and slip off alone, THEY WILL CATCH YOU. A workable daily budget is probably $10-$30 .

The town itself is walkable, and eating street food is a great way to slash costs. Water is weirdly expensive here too, so buy a big 10L thingy and refill your water bottle from there.

As always, the most expensive parts of your day should be tours and accommodation. You want to get out there, and you need a place to sleep! Public transport to Sagada is about $15 each way by bus.

A Daily Budget in Sagada

Need some more info? Here’s a breakdown of a stereotypical daily budget in Sagada…

Below I have listed a few key travel tips for visiting Sagada!  

• Register with the Tourist Information Centre when you arrive and pay the environmental fee, you will need the receipt to book any tours and to do any hiking in the area.
• You don’t generally need to book accommodation in advance (unless it’s a holiday period), just turn up and ask around until you find a place where the price is right. It is perfectly acceptable to haggle (if you know how) .
• The Internet is pretty spotty in Sagada and most cafes either don’t offer it or it is so bad that it’s not worth using. Try getting a guesthouse with internet or pay to use the internet at the internet cafe on the top floor of the shopping centre, next to the Tourist Information Centre.
• There is an ATM in the Tourist Information Centre
• If you want to travel during holidays such as over Christmas, New Year’s or Easter – make sure to book your buses in advance as they fill up quickly.
• Most importantly: be respectful of the local people and their culture.

Top Tips for Broke Backpackers

To keep your spending to an absolute minimum and travel cheaply whilst backpacking in Sagada I recommend sticking to the three basic rules of budget backpacking …

• Camp : With plenty of gorgeous natural places surrounding Sagada, why not carry a tent and camp to cut down on costs? If not camping then why not a local experience? Make sure to check out Airbnb or Couchsurfing for a local taste of Sagada.
• Cook your own food: To save money on food, carry a pocket rocket stove on your backpacking trip so you can cook meals on the fly. Another option is to make simple salads and sandwiches – no cooking required. It will save you a ton of money.
• Hitchhike : Thumb a ride! People in the Philippines are kind and generous so there’s no harm in giving hitching a shot. Getting around by hitchhiking is a great way to keep your transport costs in Sagada down.
• Pack a travel water bottle:  Ditch plastic – save money AND the planet every day!

Why You Should Travel to Sagada with a Water Bottle

Plastic washes up on even the most pristine beaches… so do your part and keep the Big Blue beautiful

You aren’t going to save the world overnight, but you might as well be part of the solution and not the problem. When you travel to some of the world’s most remote places, you come to realise the full extent of the plastic problem. And I hope you become more inspired to continue being a responsible traveller .

Plus, now you won’t be buying overpriced bottles of water from the supermarkets either! Travel with a filtered water bottle instead and never waste a cent nor a turtle’s life again.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

The best time to visit Sagada is generally considered to be between November and February. A lot of tourists go at this time, especially in January and December, which can make it more expensive than usual. Sagada is generally humid and hot and has two seasons; the dry season and the wet season.

The dry season runs from December until May, which means that you are less likely to be obliterated by a torrential downpour. Visiting June to November in the wet season will earn you some pretty epic rainstorms.

Average temperatures hover between 25-30 degrees Celsius and are pretty consistent within this range. Because of the humidity, it can feel hotter. However, when you head up the mountains for a glorious sunset, it can get pretty chilled. Take a coat?

What to Pack for Sagada

Here are a few essentials I wouldn’t miss when heading out on the trail. Add ’em to yo packing list man!!

Osprey Daylite Plus

Any city slicker needs a SLICK daypack. In general, you can never go wrong with an Osprey pack, but with its array of awesome organisation, durable materials, and a comfy build, the Daylite Plus will make your urban jaunts buttery smooth.

Grayl Geopress Filtered Bottle

Save $$$, save the planet, and save yourself the headache (or tummy ache). Instead of sticking to bottled plastic, buy a Grayl Geopress, drink water no matter the source, and be happy knowing the turtles and fishies thank you (and so do we!). 🙂

OCLU Action Camera

Wait, it’s cheaper than a GoPro and… better than a GoPro? The OCLU action cam is the cam for budget backpackers that want to immortalise all their wildest adventures – including that time you dropped it off a Himalayan mountain – WITHOUT breaking the bank.

Solgaard Solarbank

Resourceful travellers know how to find power outlets anywhere on the road; smart travellers just pack a solar power bank instead. With 4-5 phone cycles per charge and the ability to top up literally anywhere the sun is shining, there’s no reason to ever get lost again!

Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

ALL travellers need a headtorch – no exceptions! Even in the hostel dorm, this beauty can save you in a real pinch. If you haven’t got in on the headtorch game, DO. I promise you: you’ll never look back. Or at least if you do, you’ll be able to see what you’re looking at.

Sagada is generally super safe. Operating as a relatively isolated mountain town, everyone knows everyone and tourists are generally treated very well (for obvious reasons).

Crime is extremely rare, but you should stay on top of your possessions and not do silly stuff. Take normal precautions and you should have no trouble.

Sustaining injury from adventuring is a much more likely occurrence. There are a host of active occupations to take part in, and accidents do happen. However, the chances of this happening are still low.

Especially since you are accompanied on active tours by an experienced guide (e.g. caving, climbing, rafting, hiking), the extent of problems that may arise is relatively narrow. However, healthcare is not superb, so try not to puncture a lung 🙂

Sex, Drugs, and Rock ‘n’ Roll in Sagada

Like the rest of the Philippines, alcohol is as free-flowing as a mountain stream. You can pick up local brews, cheap shots, and even head to some pretty western bars.

However. Local rules and customs mean that most bars shut around 10 pm, which means there is no crazy wild nightlife. Your best bet is to make some friends and try and work out if anything is going down under the radar. Or have some beers around a fire and leave it at that.

This is definitely not the place for super wild partying!

There are two ways to reach Sagada from Manila: via the mountain city of Baguio, or via the smaller town of Banaue, which is a popular destination in itself (for its rice terraces).

There are several bus companies that run regular buses, usually hourly, between Manila and Baguio. You can also catch buses overnight. Victory Liner is one of the main companies and they run buses from Cubao, Pasay and Monumental Main Terminal in Caloocan City. The trip takes between 4-6 hours and you can choose a basic or deluxe bus service.

On arrival in Baguio, you will need to get from the main bus station to Dangwa Station, a short taxi ride away, to catch the GL Trans bus to Sagada. You can also choose to stay in Baguio if you’d prefer to explore the town before heading to Sagada.

Buses leave on the hour from 6 am to 1 pm and take about 5-6 hours to reach Sagada. These buses are basic, with tiny seats and no air-conditioning. A word of warning: prepare for a hot and bumpy ride!

For buses to Sagada from Manila via Banaue, you can take Autobus and Dangwa Tranco which both leave their respective terminals in Sampaloc at 10 pm for the nine-hour journey.

On arrival in Banaue, there are jeepneys, and sometimes minibusses or vans that can take you the last 3-4 hours to Sagada. Just ask at the Information Centre although it is likely you will have drivers waiting where the bus drops you off. Alternatively, take the 9 am jeepney to Bontoc and transfer there to the bus to Sagada.

Both ways take about the same amount of time and also cost approximately the same amount. You could break up the long journey with time in either Baguio or Banaue if you don’t want to bang it all out in one go.

The working and volunteering scene in Sagada is almost nonexistent unless you are somehow able to magic a project from your back pocket.

In general, for the Philippines, all foreign nationals are required to fill out a work visa if they intend to earn in the country. If you want to volunteer though, you won’t need a visa unless you plan on sticking around longer than six months! How cool is that!

In general, I am a massive fan of Worldpackers , which connects you to volunteering and work opportunities all over the globe. If you’re looking to travel for a while, this is one of the best ways of extending your stay , and contributing to local communities too!

Worldpackers opens the doors for the top work opportunities in hostels, homestays, NGOs, and eco-projects around the world.

Worldpackers: connecting travellers with  meaningful travel experiences.

As previously said, there is little to no nightlife, considering bars close at 10 pm. There is occasional live music though, and you can have a few beers in the daytime with no trouble. Don’t expect a big party scene, but you might be able to link up with some other travellers for a few beers.

Food in Sagada

As mentioned above, the options are almost endless for amazing food in Sagada. Sagada’s street food is delicious, but don’t take my word for it. Check out this awesome video guide to the best street food in Sagada .

Here are a few tried and tested favourites:

• Bana’s Cafe – One of my favourite spots, hanging over a leafy gorge. Bana’s serves awesome local coffee which they brew themselves onsite, including civet coffee, as well as some of the best-tasting food in Sagada. The breakfasts here are the best in town, their chicken curry is the best I have eaten in the Philippines and the honey and broccoli chicken is to die for. Don’t miss this place.
• Yogurt House – A cosy two-storied log cabin, Yoghurt House is famous for – you guessed it: Yoghurt. They have some killer yoghurt and fruit lassis here but the mains are also pretty good – try the pasta and chicken with potato rosti.
• Strawberry Cafe – Hidden away down an alley off the main street, Strawberry Cafe has simple but delicious breakfasts that are very budget-friendly, and their coffee is awesome.
• Gaia Cafe and Crafts – Gaia Cafe is a hippie spot serving organic vegetarian and vegan dishes along with local crafts. The unusual treehouse structure has the best views in town, overlooking a scenic valley of rice terraces. It’s about a ten-minute walk out of town and isn’t always open when it says it will be but it’s definitely worth trying your luck for.
• Misty Lodge Cafe – On the outskirts of town, Misty Lodge Cafe is a peaceful spot to enjoy some of the most amazing pizza in the Philippines, which is made from scratch. Misty Lodge is also well-known for its great breakfasts at affordable prices.
• Sagada Lemon Pie House – The best spot in town for the world-famous Sagada lemon pie. Seating is Japanese tea house style – on cushions on the floor around low tables. Make sure to try the iconic lemon pie or their equally as good egg (custard) pie, washed down with a steaming cup of mountain tea or local coffee.

Being a Responsible Backpacker in Sagada

Travelling is the best, however, travelling can be one of the most AMAZING opportunities for personal growth and development. Provided you travel well.

Backpacking in Sagada can be one hell of a crazy party at times. Take it from me, it can be easy to get carried away. It is important to keep in mind that you are an ambassador for your country, which is awesome. We can make a positive impact on people when we travel and get rid of any ugly stereotypes that may be associated with your country.

If you visit indigenous villages or small communities in the rural areas always ask before taking photos. The people who live in these villages are not exhibits in a museum. They are normal folks just living their lives.  Always show them the complete respect that they deserve.

I know it can be hard, but do your best to use the least amount of plastic water bottles that you can. Refill the ones that you do buy! Use a Grayl Geopress .  Refill at your hostel! There are plenty of ways to reduce plastic!!!

Show the world around you some gratitude and help to make a positive impact on it. Be a good traveller , smile, laugh, and show the world your best side. Most of all have the time of your life and spread the love!

I hope that this Sagada Travel Guide has been helpful to assist in planning where to stay, how to get to Sagada, what to eat and, the top things to add to your Sagada itinerary.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Sagada

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Here’s what people usually ask us about visiting Sagada, and what they wanted from my Sagada Travel Guide.

What are the Top Tourist Spots in Sagada?

The best tourist spots in Sagada are: 1. The Hanging Coffins 2. Sumaguing Cave 3. The Kapay-aw Rice Terraces 4. The Marlboro Hills 5. The Blue Soil Hill 6. Mount Ampacao 7. The Bomod-ok Falls 8. Mount Kiltepan Viewpoint (check if open) 9. Balangagan Cave 10. Cave Connection

How to get to Sagada?

From Manila, find the HM Transport Cubao Terminal and jump on a Coda line bus. It’ll cost around 700PHP and take 12-13 hours. They are regularly scheduled in the morning. From Baguio, find the GL trans station at the Dangwa Terminal. The cost is around 200 PHP and it will take around 6 hours. From Bontoc, grab a jeep from in front of the Walter Clapp Hotel. Less than an hour, and 50PHP. Easy!

What are the Best Sagada Caves?

The most popular cave in Sagada is the Sumaguing Cave. There is a two-hour caving experience here that is very popular. With some extra time, you can travel between the Sumaguing and Lumiang caves via the cave connection tour. Balangagan Cave is best known for having the best geological formations in the region.

What are the Best Attractions in Sagada, Philippines?

There are a ton of great attractions in Sagada, but checking out the mountain dawn at the Marlboro Hills or on top of Mount Ampacao has got to take the crown. The hanging coffins are pretty spectacular too, and take the time to go caving in Sumaguing Cave! Checking out the Bomod-ok Falls is ok too I guess.

Sagada is a fantastic place to head to, especially if your Philippines trip has become too beachy. The rice paddies, mountain air and bizarre culture are all massive drivers of tourism in the region. However, that doesn’t mean that it has become overcrowded. Whilst you will undoubtedly meet other tourist groups, the Philippine travel authority keeps a sharp eye on tourism in the region. So don’t worry!

You’re going to need that adventurous spirit because Sagada is probably one of the strangest and most brilliant places you will ever go to. I hope you enjoyed my Sagada travel guide!

Abe out. 22/04/2023

Guest Poster

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22 Comments

I am in Sagada now and am not impressed with the town it self and not with most of the food either. We have a budget hotel for 40 dollars a night. Its a dump. I agree with a lot about you wote but the tone is too idyllic for me. We booked for 7 days so we can relax in the mountains. Sagada is wonderful to be active but the town it self is very noisy. Traffic, building, sawing metal. The whole night dog barking dogs, and roosters going for it at all hours. We travel extensively so we have been in places like this so often. But based on all the positive vibe information we decided to stay longer than normal. That is why I also want to tell the other side of Sagada.

Cool!!! really great information! From Altadena, Ca – LAX to manila. Then driving straight to visit Vigan city on mid-Jan. 2024. Definitely, now we will add to visit Sagada and take the Haselman hi-way. Cheers!

How about drones? Do I need to ask for a permit or pay?

Flying drone can be problematic in some countries and could therefor land you in a spot of unintended trouble. There are a bunch of amazing sites out there such as droneregulations.info or drone-made.com that would be a great place to start research into this.

Sagada is literally so far away from the hustle and bustle of the city. I’m still thinking of the perfect date to file my leave at work and finally go there. I like these kind of places and I have hiked Indian Himalyas a few times and Sagada is giving me that kind of vibe ,see you soon echo valley.

Hi Keith,good for you,I dare you to visit that special place( I’m a proud sagadian-contact me if you need more information)

What time is the last trip of sagada to baguio?

This just confirmed that Sagada is our next destination. Been a road trip from Bataan to Iligan City, to Cebu, Bohol, Samar, Leyte, Iloilo, Baler, Pagudpod, Baguio, Alaminos and Bolinao. Can’t wait for our next family road trip!

Congrats! Let us know how Sagada goes for you!

Just came across this site and honestly I enjoy reading your posts especially about my hometown Sagada..??. Thank you for sharing.

Your ideas are very interesting and these places are also looking very cool. I loved your post. Keep updating!

Thanks, Mike!

Such a Wonderful information. I usually get some good information whenever i read your post. Thanks for the information. Am eagerly waiting for your next post.

Wow, so much information. After reading i think Sagada is best for travelling in nature. the houses are so nice. BTW the pictures are well too

I’ve been thinking of going to Sagada lately since I think Sagada is the best place to unwind. It’s literally so far away from the hustle and bustle of the city. I’m still thinking of the perfect date to file my leaves at work and finally go there!

I am super psyched about sagada thanks for the insights

Bravo..thats the magic of sagada that I know..thanks Katie for your post…pure blooded sagadian here..

Sagada is the perfect place for nature lover. Thanks, Katie for explaining everything in detailed. I would visit Philippines next year. This will help me a lot.

Definitely, Sagada is a must visit here in our country the Philippines. And so nice of you for sharing such an informative post about it. Can’t wait to go to Sagada again, it’s definitely worth it place to go to if I want to go out of the town. Amazing post!

Never heard of this place and that too in Philippines. It seems Sagada is full of new adventures to explore.

Wow, so much detailed from information here. I grew up in Zamboanga, Philippines and then lived in Cebu City until I got married and moved to the U.S. I would love to go on the Sagada adventure. I am on a budget so these will help me when I go back to visit my family if I can afford to go. Thanks 🙂

Wow… Ultimate indeed! Not a place that was on my radar until now, cheers!

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2022 Sagada Tourist Requirements + Guidelines

• Post author: escapemanila
• Post comments: 0 Comments
• Post last modified: June 12, 2023

Good news to those who are planning to visit Sagada! The popular tourist destination in the north will start accepting domestic tourists with complete travel requirements. The entry requirement is pretty straightforward. Here are the guidelines to help you plan your future visit to Sagada in the new normal.

This guideline is updated as of 22 March2022.

• Tourists must book at least one-night stay in a DOT-accredited and LGU-certified accommodation establishment. A list of accommodation establishments authorized to operate may be viewed here .
• All tourists must be registered in the Umali Kayo Online Registration Portal which may be accessed at https://umali-kayo.sagada.gov.ph .
• Unvaccinated Tourists must present a Negative Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) with Official Receipt (OR) from a medical government office or hospital institution. RATs will have 1 day validity. Tourists may opt to take their RAT at the Pegeo border control point in Sagada at Php 660.00 per test (only from 8AM to 5PM daily).
• All tourists will have the option to enter Sagada via personal/private vehicles or public transportation. Public transportation groups or corporations shall take the responsibility of checking if a tourist has complied with all requirements imposed by the Sagada LGU prior to boarding. They shall additionally take full responsibility in providing the needs of tourists who are denied entry due to lack of requirements. Check bus schedule from Manila to Sagada

Tourists found to have faked or falsified requirements shall be referred to the Sagada Municipal Police station for the filing of appropriate charges.

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SAGADA TRAVEL GUIDE with Budget Itinerary

When I think about Sagada, I think about my friend Tonet.

“Let’s go to Sagada,” she said one time at film school. Back then, I didn’t know much about Sagada other than as a setting of a Juday-Piolo movie. Tonet wanted to make her own romantic comedy too, maybe set in Sagada; she wasn’t sure. But she wanted to just go, see, and perhaps be inspired by it.

Over the years, she would constantly, randomly squeeze Sagada into conversations. “I really want to go there,” she would mumble. Every time, I would answer, “Sure, when we find the time and money.”

The time and money eventually came just after Christmas nine years ago. Tonet was a humble script supervisor with nothing but big dreams in her pockets. Finally, she was in the presence of Sagada and she embraced every tiny moment of it. She walked up and down its terraced mountains, went deep into its caves, and at a bonfire party, danced drunk with locals with reckless abandon. I thought that was it, that it was the end of it. It turned out, it was just the beginning.

She would return again and again, each time with different companions and carrying a different piece of her. She’s now been to Sagada as a wild dreamer, as a loyal friend, as a broken lover. But one day, she set foot in Sagada as somebody she was destined to be — a movie director. It wasn’t until I saw her film, shot in Sagada, that I realized that her affair with this town wasn’t just a simple fascination or infatuation or even obsession, it was something more powerful and transcendental. It was that thing called tadhana.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

UNDERSTANDING SAGADA

For younger travelers, Sagada is one of the filming locations of the romantic comedy That Thing Called Tadhana . But the truth is, Sagada was already pretty popular among backpackers even before the movie hit the theaters. I’ve been there multiple times before the movie and there already was a considerable increase of visitors year after year. As it became easier to access, as tours became more organized, and as a new wave of travelers sought more places to explore, Sagada was already on the path to becoming mainstream.

Located in the Mountain Province, Sagada is a fifth class municipality with only 11,000 residents as of 2015. Think of it as a small, slightly developed village at the heart of the Cordillera. Life here is simple. Agriculture is the primary driver of the economy, but tourism has been contributing significantly.

The town’s three major roads are flanked by inns, guesthouses, and restaurants catering to tourists. It has a generally chilly climate year-round, much colder than Baguio, something that attracts domestic tourists. Aside from the cooler temperature, it also has a lot to offer to adventurers, sightseers, and history buffs alike. It’s best known for the hanging coffins, waterfalls, and a network of caves. The good news is, the local government and the residents themselves are environment-conscious and have enforced certain regulations.

Here are more bits about Sagada:

• Location: Mountain Province, Philippines.
• Language: Kankana-ey. But most locals, especially tourism workers, are also very fluent in English and Tagalog.
• Currency: Philippine peso (PHP, ₱). PHP100 is around USD 1.90, EUR 1.69, SGD 2.57 (as of April 2019).
• Modes of payment: CASH is still king (and queen) in Sagada.

WHERE TO STAY IN SAGADA

First of all, let me just say this: There are no luxury hotels in Sagada. If you’re looking for a well-appointed suite with a gazillion of amenities, you’re not gonna find one here. Almost all available accommodations in Sagada are inns, guesthouses, and homestays. It’s quite common for guests to share toilet and bathrooms with other guests or with the residents. If the room has a private toilet and bath, it’s usually very small.

Now that we got that out of the way, you need to be familiar with the layout of the town proper. It’s easy to remember. Think of Sagada as a giant letter Y. There are three main roads that meet at the center of the poblacion area. This junction is the main bus stop of the town. It’s also where you’ll find the tourism office, the police station, and the municipal hall. The town’s church is also just a short stroll away from this. You can use this junction as your reference point.

Now, going back to the Y. Here are the three roads that compose it.

• Staunton Road (North/East). If you’re coming from Baguio, Bontoc or Manila, this road that you’re taking to reach Sagada. This also leads to the access roads to Bomod-ok Falls, Marlboro Hill, and Kiltepan Viewpoint.
• West Road. Aka Sagada-Besao Road. This road will take you to Lake Danum and Sagada Pottery. When viewed from the junction, this is an uphill road.
• South Road. This leads to Barangay Dagdag and Demang, where most well-known inns and restaurants in Sagada are located. It’s also the only way to Lumiang Cave and Sumaguing Cave. From the junction, this road runs downhill.

You’ll find plenty of inns and guesthouses flanking any of these roads. But I prefer staying along the South Road because most of my favorite restaurants in Sagada are here.

A twin or double room usually costs P1200-P1400 per night so this is a good estimate. You can also find a single room or bed for P600 per night.

Here are the hostels and inns that you can book via Agoda.

• Isabelo’s Inn & Café. Check Rates & Availability!
• Masferre Country Inn & Restaurant. Check Rates & Availability!
• Grandma’s Yellow House. Check Rates & Availability!
• Kanip-aw Pines View Lodge. Check Rates & Availability!
• Kenlibed Inn. Check Rates & Availability!
• Sagada Heritage Village. Check Rates & Availability!
• Shamrock Tavern Inn. Check Rates & Availability!
• Coffee Heritage House and Hostel. Check Rates & Availability!
• Rocky Valley Inn. Check Rates & Availability!

I have tried George Guesthouse and Residential Lodge along South Road, and Ligaya’s Inn and Cottages .

We have a list of all accredited accommodations with contact numbers here: SAGADA HOSTELS, INNS & HOMESTAYS!

Search for more Sagada Hotels!

How to get to sagada, manila to sagada by direct bus.

You can now travel directly from Cubao to Sagada! Operated by Coda Lines , this bus can take you straight to Sagada in 12 hours , with a few restroom stops along the way. It takes the Banaue route (not Baguio).

There are two types of buses:

Super Deluxe, 35-seater bus with restroom onboard. Fare: P980. Semi-Deluxe, 45-seater bus without restroom. Fare: P760.

All buses leave Cubao in the evening and then drive through Banaue (not Baguio) to reach Sagada overnight. What I like about this is that you’re not wasting a day on the road. You’ll arrive in Sagada in the morning, hopefully ready to do some mild sightseeing.

Here’s the Coda Lines Cubao-Sagada timetable:

To book, visit www.codalinesph.com .

Manila to Sagada via Baguio

It is also possible to reach Sagada via Baguio. This involves a change of bus and terminal in Baguio City.

A number of companies offer bus services to Baguio, but two of the most popular are Victory Liner and Joy Bus.

Victory Liner has terminals in:

JoyBus has terminals in:

If you can, choose a late night bus so you’ll arrive in Baguio in the early morning because the last Sagada-bound bus leaves Baguio at either 11:30am or 01:00pm.

Once in Baguio, follow the steps in the next section.

Baguio to Sagada by Bus

Sagada is 6 hours away from Baguio. There are two bus companies that operate this route: GL Trans and Lizardo Trans. GL Trans is more highly recommended by my local friends because they said the buses are in better conditions. I also haven’t tried Lizardo so we’ll be focusing on GL Trans in this post.

If you’re coming from Victory Liner/JoyBus station, hail a cab and ask to be taken to GL Trans Terminal. Taxi fare: around P80.

At the GL Trans terminal, approach the counter and buy a ticket immediately. Fare: P220 .

Here are the schedule and routes as of this writing:

• 05:30 am – Sagada > Besau
• 08:30 am – Sagada Ambasing
• 09:30 am – Sagada > Besau
• 10:30 am – Sagada > Besau
• 11:30 am – Sagada Ambasing
• 01:00 pm (last trip) – Sagada > Besau

You’ll notice that most of the buses depart Baguio before noon, so if you’re coming from Manila, you must arrive in Baguio in the early morning in order to catch a ride. Otherwise, you’re gonna have trouble looking for one.

In our recent trip, we arrived at the GL Terminal before 10am but the 11:30-bus was already fully booked. Fortunately, there was still another bus slated for a 1pm departure that day. We were actually surprised to learn about it because most online sources tag the 11:30-bus as the last trip. But the lesson here is, be early , especially if you’re traveling on a weekend.

Here are other reminders:

• Sagada Town Proper isn’t the final stop of any of these buses. Don’t fall asleep when you’re nearing Sagada. You might miss your stop and end up in Besau.
• Reservations and advance bookings are not accepted. They issue tickets for trips scheduled on that day only.
• They start selling tickets at 5am. First come, first served.
• The bus makes at least two stops.
• If you get hungry while waiting for your bus, there is a Good Taste branch near the terminal. Good Taste is a popular local restaurant in Baguio.

HOW TO GET AROUND SAGADA

When it comes to public transportation, your options are very limited. You won’t see that many jeepneys around town. Here are your options.

As for attractions located outside poblacion, you can easily book a tour.

• To get to attractions within town center: Walk! Thankfully, the town center is quite small and very walkable. Most restaurants, cafes, inns, and souvenir shops are located not too far from one another. There are some hilly parts, but a stroll around town is generally comfortable.
• To get to attractions outside the town center: Book a tour! Tourism operations in Sagada are very organized. Visitors are required to have a guide when they explore. Your guide can also arrange your transportation to get to any destination. Vehicle fee is charged on top of guide fee.

For more information about the tours, read the next section.

SAGADA TOURS

The local government imposes fixed and uniform rates on tours and requires visitors to have a guide when exploring. Whether you want to see Kiltepan, Lake Danum, Sumaguing Cave, Bomod-ok Falls or even Echo Valley, you MUST have a guide .

Hence, before you start exploring, the first thing you should do is drop by Sagada Tourism Office to register, pay the P50 tourism/environmental fee, and make some arrangements. If your inn is near South Road, you can also go straight to the office of SAGGAS (Sagada Genuine Guides Association) to book your tours. They can also handle the registration and payment of tourism fee for you.

After registration, you should be given a receipt and you must keep it with you at all times during your stay. You will be asked to present it upon entry to certain attractions.

Also note that vehicle fee is separate from guide fee and entrance fees.

Anyway, here are the tours and corresponding rates.

Sumaguing Cave

Underneath Sagada is a network of more than 60 caves, the biggest of which is Sumaguing Cave, earning its nickname “The Big Cave.” Inside are countless rock formations slowly shaped by nature over thousands of years. These rock formations mimicking familiar shapes are the highlight of this spelunking adventure. Some of these formations include the bear, elephants, turtle head, chocolate cake, and pregnant woman. It is perhaps these shapes (and the overall experience) that tourists keep coming back to Sagada for. Sumaguing Cave is probably the most popular of all tourist attractions in town.

Prepare to be wet and get physical. Although it looks daunting, it’s not as difficult as you might be thinking. Just follow the instructions of your guide and you’ll be fine.

The whole activity lasts around 2 hours.

• 1-4 pax : P800 (1 guide)
• 5 pax : P900 (1 guide)
• 6-9 pax : P1600 (2 guides)
• 10 pax : P1800 (2 guides)
• 11-12 pax : P2400 (3 guides)
• 13 pax or more: P200 per person

Two-way transportation fee (optional): P350

➡️ MORE INFO: OUR SUMAGUING CAVE EXPERIENCE

Cave Connnection (Lumiang Cave to Sumaguing Cave)

Cave Connection is much more challenging than Sumaguing Cave. It’s so called because it connects two of the most well known caves in Sagada. The Cave Connection Tour starts at Lumiang Cave , a burial site where hundreds of coffins are stacked as part of the local tradition. After 3-4 hours, you’ll emerge out of Sumaguing Cave.

Guide Fee: P1000 (good for 1-2 pax). P500 per additional person

Two-way transportation (optional): P400

➡️ MORE INFO: OUR CAVE CONNECTION EXPERIENCE

Bomod-ok Falls

Sagada has three waterfalls that are open to tourists: Pongas, Bokong, and Bomod-ok. Of the three, Bomod-ok is the largest and tallest, which is why it’s nicknamed “Big Falls.”

You’ll walk across mountains to reach it. The getting there is quite a challenge but this 200-ft cascade will deliver. You’ll be balancing on the edge of the terraces while wallowing in the gorgeous scenery. You may also opt to take a dip at the pool at the base of the waterfall. You might find yourself doing something new — vomit air — so bring lots of water and energy.

Guide Fee: P500 (good for 1-7 pax)

Barangay Fee: P10

Transportation Fee: P500-650

➡️ MORE INFO: OUR BOMOD-OK FALLS EXPERIENCE

Echo Valley and Hanging Coffins

The Echo Valley is where you’ll find Sagada’s famous hanging coffins. It lies just next to the town center. It’s a short walk away from the Church of St. Mary the Virgin and through the new cemetery. The trail from the cemetery to the coffins has been made safer for hikers.

There are three trails that you can take. All these will allow you to see the hanging coffins, but the last two will take you to more natural attractions.

• ECHO VALLEY HANGING COFFINS TOUR. From the church, you’ll go on a short hike to the view point and then down to the valley to see the coffins up close. Guide fee: P300 for 1-10 pax; P400 for 11 pax; P600 for 12-20 pax. Duration: 1 hour.
• ECO TOUR. This will take you from the church to the hanging coffins to the underground river entrance to Bokong natural swimming pool through canyons and rice fields. Guide fee: P800 for 1-10 pax; P1600 for 11-20 pax; P2400 for 12-30 pax. Duration: 3 hours.
• ADVENTURE TRAIL. From the church, this trail will lead you to the hanging coffins, Sagada Underground River, and Bokong Waterfall. Guide fee: P1000 for 1-10 pax; P100 per additional person. Duration: 3 hours.

Kiltepan Viewpoint (Temporarily closed)

Kiltepan Viewpoint is the most popular spot to catch the romantic Sagada sunrise. The fading darkness reveals a sea of white clouds blanketing the hills and the valleys below. As the sun inches from the horizon, the clouds part and reveal the magnificent terraces underneath.

The site was made even more well-known by the movie That Thing Called Tadhana . It’s evident in the number of tourists screaming their feelings out on top of Kiltepan, reminiscent of one of the movie’s most affecting scenes.

If you want to catch the sunrise, you must leave at 4:30am and drive for 15 minutes. A short hike will take you to the viewpoint.

Two-way transportation fee: P500 for 1-10 pax; P50 per additional person.

Note: Kiltepan is closed for now .

Marlboro Hill and Blue Soil Trek

Because Kiltepan is currently inaccessible, Marlboro Hill has become the go-to sunrise-viewing spot. It’s funny because I was just there last week and there were still tourists shouting their feelings at the top of their lungs a la That Thing Called Tadhana even though we were on a completely different mountain peak.

To catch the sunrise and the sea of clouds, you must leave at 4:30 am or earlier and drive to the jump off point. From there, you will be hiking for about 20 minutes to reach the viewpoint. There are also kiosks selling champorado, sopas, and arroz caldo on site.

Most visitors would just watch the sunrise, take photos, and then hike back to where they came from. But what we recommend is to continue the trek to the Blue Soil Hill, locally called Kaman-utek. Along the way, you’ll pass by several scenic sites including more spectacular viewpoints and limestone cliffs. It’s a downhill trek so it’s not that difficult. Then, you’ll reach Blue Soil Hill, which gets its powder blue color from the high amounts of copper sulfate in the soil. You can take a rest here and have a quick bite.

The trek takes around 2 hours, depending on your pace. But the whole activity from pick up and Marlboro sunrise to the end of the trek lasts 4-5 hours.

MARLBORO HILL ONLY Guide Fee: P600 for 1-10 pax. Two-way transportation fee: P650 (optional)

MARLBORO HILL + BLUE SOIL HILL Guide Fee: P1,600 for 1-5 pax; P1300 per additional person. Two-way transportation fee: P1,350 (optional)

Orange Picking at Rock Farm

This isn’t really a guided tour, but it’s a fun activity. When oranges are in season, you can visit Rock Farm and go ponkan-picking.

Situated east of the town center is a lodging and dining complex composed of Rock Inn and Cafe Bodega. Of all the food places in Sagada, Cafe Bodega, hands down has the best ambiance. We usually have lunch here when we’re in Sagada, and while waiting for our order, we would go to the orange plantation next to it for a meet-and-greet with the poster fruit of Vitamin C!

I’m not sure how much the entrance fee is now, but as of 2017, it was P50. While inside the premises, you can eat as many oranges as you want. (That’s part of the P50 fee.) Then if you decide to have some for take out, that’s another P50 per kilo.

Other Sagada Attractions

• Balangagan Cave. Located 30 minutes from poblacion, this is another cave for fun spelunking adventure. Guide fee: P650 for 4 pax, P800 for 5 pax, P1300 for 6-9 pax. Transport fee: P650.
• Pongas Falls. Requires a 1-hour hike. Guide fee: P600 for 1-10 pax. Transport fee: P650.
• Lake Danum. A good sunset-viewing spot 20 minutes from the town proper. Transport fee: P550 for 1-10 pax.
• Mt. Ampacao. A 3-hour traverse from the poblacion to Lake Danum to Mt. Ampacao. Guide fee: P1200 for 1-10 pax.

WHERE TO EAT IN SAGADA

We’ll be creating a separate post for this very soon!

SAMPLE SAGADA ITINERARY

Because tours in Sagada are organized and well-regulated, it’s easy to build an itinerary. Yes, there are a lot of activities to try, but you can group them into three major types: spelunking, waterfall chasing, and trekking. What I recommend is to pick one from each category.

It is also important to note that most of these tours can be exhausting. Mind your pace. If you can, just do one tour per day, preferably in the morning so you don’t need to worry about the sun too much. Then, spend your afternoon just chilling at a cafe and strolling around town. You can also add a visit to the Hanging Coffins to any day’s schedule since this is an easy and hike.

Here’s our sample Sagada itinerary. Note that this assumes the following:

• You’re a group of 4, splitting tour and transportation costs.
• You have a lodging budget of P700 per person per night. A twin or double room usually costs P1200-P1400 per night so this is a good estimate. You can also find a single room or bed for P600 per night.
• You’re coming from Manila and taking a Coda Lines semi-deluxe bus. Fare is P760.

As always, feel free to make adjustments to this itinerary according to your taste and whatever other considerations you have.

DAY 1: SUMAGUING CAVE 08:00 am – Arrival in Sagada, Bus fare: P760 08:15 am – Pay Tourism Fee, P50 08:45 am – Hotel check in or bag drop 09:15 am – Breakfast at Salt and Pepper, P200 10:15 am – Leave for Sumaguing, Jeep: P87.50 (P350/4pax) 10:40 am – Sumaguing Cave, Guide: P200 (P800/4pax) 01:30 pm – Lunch at Gaia Cafe, P300 03:00 pm – Freshen up, rest, recharge 06:30 pm – Dinner at Sagada Brew, P300 08:00 pm – Back at inn

DAY 2: BOMOD-OK FALLS 06:30 am – Leave for Bomod-ok, Jeep: P162.50 (P650/4pax) 07:00 am – Bomod-ok Falls, P125 (P500/4pax) + P10 access fee 12:00 pm – Lunch at Yoghurt House, P250 03:00 pm – Echo Valley Tour: P75 (P300/4pax) + P10 access fee 05:00 pm – Shop for souvenirs 07:00 pm – Dinner at Log Cabin, P300 08:30 pm – Back at inn

DAY 3: MARLBORO + BLUE SOIL HILLS 04:30 am – Leave for Marlboro Hill, Jeep: P337.5 (P1350/4pax) 05:00 am – Start Trek, P400 (P1600/4pax) 06:00 am – Breakfast at Marlboro Hill, P70 06:30 am – Trek to Blue Soil Hill 09:30 am – Back to inn, shower, pack, check out 11:00 am – Brunch at Lemon Pie House, P200 01:00 pm – Try yoghurt and chill at Yoghurt House, P120 03:30 pm – Walk to junction, wait for bus 04:00 pm – Bus to Manila, P760

The itinerary above will set you back around P6300 (USD 122, SGD 165, EUR 108) per person, excluding tips/gratuities and shopping expenses. Again this is based on the assumption that you’re a group of four.

The biggest chunk of the cost above was spent on restaurants, which can be expensive. A meal at a tourist-targeted resto plays within the P200-300 range per meal. But if you stay at an inn with a kitchen, you can cook your own meal.

If you limit your food expenses to P300 per day and remove the restos, the itinerary above will cost you P5700 (USD 110, SGD 149, EUR 98) per person.

MORE TIPS FOR THE POOR TRAVELER

• Stay at an inn or homestay with an open kitchen. This way, you can cook your own meals on some days and reduce food expenses. We once shared a floor with a family who would always cook their meals. Go try restaurants every once in a while, but if you money is tight, go prep your own food.
• Try street food. This is another way to reduce food expenses. Barbeque and isaw are available for P10-15 per stick. Delicious homemade yoghurt is sold at P35 per cup.
• Form a bigger group. Tour rates depend on how big your group is. Normally, the bigger your group, the smaller the per-person cost because you have more members to split it with. If you’re a small party and you’re on a budget, you can join or merge with another group to reduce cost. For example, the guide fee for Bomod-ok Falls Tour is P500 for 1-7 pax. If you’re a party of 2, that’s P250 per person. But if you merge with other travelers and form a group of 7, the cost per person is lowered to only P72.
• Buy a gallon of water on your first day in Sagada. Ideally, bring your own water bottle, but note that restaurants in Sagada wouldn’t allow you to refill it with their water. So just buy a big container of water, bring it to your room, and refill from there.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

When is the best time to visit sagada.

November to April. This is the driest and coolest period, which is suitable for all the outdoor activities. However, expect quick, passing showers in late afternoon even in the dry season.

Bonfire Festival. A great time to visit is the week between Christmas and New Year. On one day of that week, you can join the Bonfire Festival where you get to meet other tourists and even locals while partying Sagada-style. There’s buffet and overflowing local wines.

However, that week is peak period, so if you don’t like sharing Sagada with big throngs of other tourists, you might want to pass up. Stay away from Holy Week, too.

June to September are the wettest months. The rain can make touring and trekking in Sagada difficult, so avoid this period too.

Is Sagada safe?

Yes, very safe.

The number of crime incidents per year is only at a double-digit level and most of them are about damage to vehicles that are parked along the road. Index crimes are very rare in Sagada. According to our guides, the municipal prison is empty, but I wasn’t able to confirm this.

However, Sagada is an adventure destination so you must take extra care especially when spelunking or trekking. You’re in the highlands, so expect a lot of cliffs and ravines.

Here are important numbers to keep:

• Sagada Police: +63 908 225 8115
• Sagada Hospital: +63 917 629 6084
• Emergency Response Team: +63 906 822 0044, +63 999 994 3282

What type of power plug / socket is used in Sagada?

Electricity Info: 220V, 60Hz. Plug and socket Type A.

What is the tipping custom in Sagada?

Just like in other places in the Philippines, tipping is not mandatory in Sagada. Tip only if you really enjoyed the service.

However, I encourage you to tip your guides, especially the spelunking guides. What they do every day isn’t easy. You’ll understand this after you’ve done it. It doesn’t have to be money all the time. You can invite them to join you for lunch.

Are there ATMs in Sagada?

YES. We’ve spotted a DBP ATM at the Police Station near the junction. I’m not sure if there are others, but there’s at least one.

To be sure, make sure you have enough cash before arriving in Sagada. Best to withdraw or, if you’re carrying a foreign currency, exchange money before you leave Manila or Baguio.

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This was very helpful! Thank you!

No prob! :)

very helpful.. very detailed.

Looking forward to the blog for Sagad Restaurants! Thanks for this blog.

Hi King! Yep, we’ll try to publish within the month. :)

Hi i am planning to do a travel around all Philippines on July. your post was so helpful but the prices of bus are kind of expensive. I heard that in Phillipiines is usuaul to rent a vehicle to move around. I heard about some companies to do that as a book2wheel.com but I am not sure about that option because in my country is kind of risky. Is it safe this option? do you know if this one is nice or do you another company which do that because i want to be sure that all is fine but withouth expend to much money

great! thanks for the detailed information! ;)

No prob! Enjoy Sagada!

First of all, I want to thank you that you wrote such a good post for us. Like you, I have a lot of interest to travel around the world. Like every travel lovers, there is a desire in my heart to see all the places in the world and therefore I have been travilng around some places of the world. Last month I went to the US and I have seen a lot of places and now I am thinking that I would go to see the new 7 wonders. I have heard many times about these , but so far could not see the seven wonders. If you have any suggestions about this, then definitely guide me.

Thank you..

Amazing blog about Travel.Thanks for providing information about different places..

Hello, what is the wi-fi situation in Sagada? Im planning to visit on a long-term basis and will be brining my work with me. Thanks, Really find your guides detailed and helpful. Keep up the good work!

Hi Psyche, some inns have free-wifi. (Ours didn’t.) But I usually just use my phone’s data hotspot anyway.

This is very useful especially like me who really wanted to travel with a low budget. God bless you!

is it possible to do outdoor activities even when it’s raining?

Hi King, sa experience namin, kina-cancel nung guide namin ung tour pag umuulan. Minumove sa hapon or pag di tumitigil talaga, kinacancel na lang.

Mas okay pag umaga magschedule kasi madalas sa hapon umuulan.

Hi my friends and I would like to visit Sagada for a day this coming October after out tour in Baguio City. Do you have any suggestion for our travel especially for the bus schedule in Sagada? Thank you

Hi Gege, parang mahirap ang day tour ng SAGADA from Baguio because Sagada is 6 hours away.

Yung bus schedule from Baguio to Sagada, nasa post naman sa itaas. Pabasa na lang po.

Ang goal ko po sana ay yung marlboro country lang, allowed po kaya ako na magtrek mag isa? Allowed po din kaya akong mamasyal na walang tour guide, i am comfortable w/o tour guide kasi, gusto ko po sana matuto hehe sslamat

kasi balak ko po sana na ako lang magisa ang magtravel.

Thank you so much for this. very helpful. and im excited to go there this november. alone :(

I think you can still enjoy Sagada even if you’re alone. :D

Hi! If I use codalines bus from Manila to Sagada, will they drop me off near South Rd, Sagada?Or do i still need to ride a jeepney to go to that place? Will the place of drop off be the pick up point as well when I am going back to Manila? thanks!Thanks! :)

1. No, the bus won’t take the South Road. Hanggang junction lang talaga.

2. What’s your inn? Most inns are within walking distance from the junction.

3. Yes, same lang yung drop off and pick up point nung bus. :)

Sobrang thank you po, first time ko maglalakwatsa ng magisa. laking help po nito.

Kaya yan! Enjoy Sagada!

How much po kaya ang total expenses if I’m planning to go there alone? Kahit estimated amount lang po. Thank you!

I have two sons aged 13 and 6, who are excited to visit Sagada, do you think its ok to bring them along?

Hard to say. Most of Sagada’s main attractions are very physical — caves, trek to the waterfall, etc. I’m not sure if may age limit.

I haven’t tried traveling to Sagada with kids, but I know that if I did with the kids in my family, they would have enjoyed the hike — Bomod-Ok, Blue Hills, Kiltepan. But I wouldn’t have them join the spelunking (cave) tours. But that’s just us.

Hello, Whe you said,

“Sagada Town Proper isn’t the final stop of any of these buses. Don’t fall asleep when you’re nearing Sagada. You might miss your stop and end up in Besau.” – so where is the drop off?

The bus makes a stop at drops off passengers at Sagada junction.

The final stop of most buses is in Besau.

Hi po, ask ko po yung Transportation Fee like sa Bomod-ok eh roundtrip po ba yoon and good for ilang tao? Thank you po.

Hi Jayson, yep, two-way din ung sa Bomod-ok.

Di ko alam ilan kasya exactly pero maliit na jeepney yun. :)

How long will it take to hike to LUMIANG CAVE?

From the road to Lumiang Cave entrance? It was a very quick walk, around 5 minutes, if I remember correctly.

Hi! May I know is there a certain date before I can book the bus? eg: only 1 month in advance? I am going in March and I already tried booking but it’s all ‘There is no available bus’. I am kind of worried as I am not from Philippines and I already booked my flight. Thank you so much! Happy New Year!

Hi Kimmy, I’m not sure. I tried booking but it looks like only trips until Feb 29 is available for booking for now.

Hi! Do you know why the Kiltepan is closed? And Is it open now?

This was probably the reason: facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=352071655364129&id=100016838910305

NICE BLOG!!! I LIKE IT! <3

HI! Are the guide fees stated from the group tour you mentioned? thanks

Hi ! Dalawa lng po kme magtatravel this coming end of the month, would it be possible to join other groups there po ?. Inaallow po ba nila un? Thanks po in advance

Yep, pwede ka mag-request sa SAGGAS na imerge kayo with other groups. Pero syempre dapat pumayag yung ibang groups.

Hi, just want to know

May Bus ba or any public transport going to buscalan from Sagada :) para sulit ang trip sa north kc plan ko from sagada to buscalan ^_^ kay Apo Wang ood :)

Unfortunately, di pa kami nag-Kalinga. :(

Hi were planning to spend our christmas and new year 2020 in sagada with my family, relatives and friends. gusto namin ma-try yung bonfire fest and the other tours. may mai-recommend ka bang travel and tour guide for private tour. thanks!

Hi Belle, when you reach Sagada, you can go to SAGGAS. It’s the tour guide association in town. They organize the bonfire fest, and they have private tours too. You can try contacting them in advance.

Hi, until when is the suspension of the trips to sagada? And btw, regarding with the fee for example the fee is 800P for 1-4pax is does that mean if we are only 2 we needed to devide that into 2 and we have to pay 400 each? Thank you in advance. Nice blog tho.

Yep, P400 if dalawa lang kayo. :)

And if we travel the bus at 4PM from sagada to MNL what is the ETA? Thankyou again.

Wow! Such a great resource for a wonderful Sagada trip our family is planning next year. Thanks for this, very informative indeed. Hope all’s well by next year so we could visit the place.

wish that all Sagada activities will resume soon and we shall enjoy life – short as it is.

Hi – with that itinerary you provided, what is the estimated budget allowance?

Thank you, very helpful

Very informative… Hoping to visit Sagada the soonest…

hi, there is a bus from the junction to manila?

Hi Lyka, in our exprience the CodaLines bus (direct to Manila) waits for passengers near the junction. But best to book in advance.

Hi, thanks for the very detailed info. Just want to ask though if this itinerary is child-friendly? Or would you recommend other travel spots that we can bring a kid? Me and my wife is planning to go to Sagada with our 11 y.o. son this September. Thanks in advance.

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2022 Top Places To Visit In Sagada, Mountain Province (Itinerary + Expenses)

You know it’s Sagada when the trail is covered with pine needles and pine cones. Ahh Sagada, one of the provinces that has the most unique and diverse culture in the Philippines. When you talk about the hanging coffins, complex caves, waterfalls, magnificent sea of clouds, lemon pies and lakes, Sagada is the place to see. (Top Places To Visit In Sagada)

It’s not my first time in Sagada. I’ve visited Sagada 7 years before as part of our school trip back in college. Although it’s been quite a long time, the memories are still crystal clear. I can still remember a small quiet town filled with fun things to do and a diverse culture I can never forget.

So fast forward to today, my boyfriend and I went to Sagada as part of our North Loop itinerary. Here are the top places to visit in Sagada updated as of 2022 for your reference! Continue reading below.

Table of Contents

2022 Sagada Travel Requirements

• Successful booking from an accredited accommodation in Sagada. A special code will be provided by the establishment upon booking your stay.
• Obtain a QR code from Umalikayo website using the special code given by the establishment you booked your accommodation with. Take note will not obtain the QR code from Umalikayo website if you don’t have the special code from an accredited establishment. In addition, obtaining QR code is only allowed 2 days before your visit.
• Vaccine card
• Negative antigen result within 24 hours only (with receipt). Antigen is available for PhP960.00/person in the checkpoint upon entry.

Where to Stay in Sagada?

Shamrock Tavern Inn – Php950.00/night good for 2 person.

RedDoorz @ Sagada Sunrise View Homestay – Php1,100.00/night good for 2 person. I highly recommend Reddorz for budget travelers like me!

Sagada Guesthouse by GoSagada – Php1,250.00/night good for 2 person.

Top Places To Visit In Sagada + Expenses

Here is the list of the top tourist destinations to visit when in Sagada and the updated expenses too. Check every photo caption to know if the destination is open or closed. (Updated as of January 2022)

Furthermore, all caves and falls are closed to the public until further notice.

SUMAGUING CAVE

Destination: Closed Price: PhP 900.00 tour guide fee (good for 4 people)

If you’re looking for a unique adventure, you might want to try going to a spelunking adventure in Sumaguing Cave. There are about 60 caves in Sagada and of all these caves, Sumaguing is the biggest. Inside the cave you can expect rock formations that seem to portray familiar figures like a bear, elephant, etc.

The spelunking will last for 3-4 hours and this is probably the most famous tourist destination in Sagada. It mights sound scary to go inside a humongous cave but as they say “You’ve never been to Sagada if you didn’t try Sumaguing Cave”.

BUMOD-OK FALLS

Destination: Closed Price: PhP 500.00 tour guide fee

Best time to visit Bumod-Ok falls is in the afternoon when the sun is high. The trek to the falls takes approximately 1-1.5 hours depending on your pacing. Going to the falls is easy since it’s going down. But going back up is the tricky part. Make sure to wear comfy clothes like a sun visor cap to protect your face from the heat of the sun. Bring water too!

MARLBORO HILLS + BLUE SOIL

Destination: Open Price: PhP 3,100.00 includes accredited tour guide and shuttle service (good for 5 pax).

A hike to Marlboro Hills takes almost an hour. And if you want to get a dope sea of clouds shot like the photo below, best to hike early in the morning around 4:30am. Just a word of advise, it’s super cold! Bring extra jackets, hand gloves and any bonnets to keep you comfy .

ECHO VALLEY + HANGING COFFINS

Destination: Open Price: PhP 1,200.00 includes accredited tour guide and shutte service (good for 5 pax).

One of the reasons why the culture of Sagada is considered one of a kind is because of a unique burial ritual — the hanging coffins. Instead of being placed and buried to the ground, the coffins in Sagada are hung to the caves or cliffs is because of their belie that the higher the coffins are, the greater the chance of their spirits reaching a higher nature in the afterlife.

Destination: Closed Entrance Fee: N/A

Lake Danum is accessible to the public. One of the best sunsets is in Lake Danum where the sun mirrors to the lake as it starts to set. Moreover, if you’re looking for a place to chill which is accessible, this is the place for you.

WRECKED BUS

Destination: Open Price: FREE

Open to the public and is accessible just by the main road. This is also very instagrammable ! Perfect for your IG feed.

LEMON PIE HOUSE

The best lemon pie in town! Make sure to try lemon pie in Sagada, one of the best delicacy they offer. The price range differ from which store you buy, But expect a price range from PhP 250.00 – 400.00.

Destination: Open

SAGADA WEAVING

SAGADA POTTERY

Destination: Open Price: PhP 850.00 includes accredited tour guide and shuttle service (good for 5 pax).

Sample 2 Days 1 Night Itinerary

This is assuming that you will arrive early in the morning. (Top Places To Visit In Sagada)

Day 1: 7:00am Breakfast at Cafe By The Coud (Upside down house) 8:00am Echo Valley and hanging coffins 8:00am Wrecked bus 9:00am Sagada Weaving and Sagada Pottery 11:00am Trek to Bumod-Ok falls 3:00pm Lemon Pie House

Day 2: 3:30am Wakeup time 4:30am Start of trek to Marlboro Hills and Blue Soil 5:30am Sunride and sea of clouds at Marlboro Hills 10:00am Chill at Lake Danum 1:00pm Spelunking at Sumaguing Cave

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2 thoughts on “ 2022 top places to visit in sagada, mountain province (itinerary + expenses) ”.

Very informative. I also exploring sagada. Thank you for sharing.

Thank you Caroline! Have a safe trip. 😊

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Updated Sagada Travel Requirements

As the Philippine COVID-19 infection rate slows down and the entire country’s alert level is lowered, more tourists destinations are starting to open up including the highland town of Sagada which has been strictly off-limits to tourists since March of 2020. Sagada is a small and tranquil town of Mountain Province where nature, culture and adventure beautifully intertwine to form a place like no other.  The town finally reopens to tourists. According to Sagada Tourism Office , tourists may now visit the town provided that they comply with the following Sagada travel requirements.

Sagada Travel Requirements

As of October 18, 2022, Sagada has relaxed its travel requirements. Tourist will just have to pay P100 environmental fee.

Accredited Accommodations in Sagada

Make sure to book your accommodation from accredited establishments only. The complete list of accredited accommodations in Sagada is listed in lodging.sagada.gov.ph

Top-Rated Accredited Accommodations in Sagada

CHECK OUT OTHER ACCREDITED ACCOMMODATIONS IN SAGADA

Sagada Travel Guide

Check out Sagada Travel Guide  for more information.

As Sagada Reopens to Tourism, Listen to These Reminders from Locals on How to Be a Respectful Traveler

Ready to go for a road trip up north? by Ina Louise Manto | January 04, 2022

Where do broken hearts go? Sagada. Kidding aside, Sagada has long been a popular destination in the northern region for its cool weather all year round, scenic mountains for the best sunrises, cuisine, and more. It’s made even more popular when it was featured in the movie That Thing Called Tadhana in 2015 and after closing its borders due to the pandemic, the travel destination is slowly reopening to tourists again this year.

But just like the other new places we travel to; we have the responsibility to respect and live like locals to make the most out of the travel experience. As the popular local destination slowly reopens to the public, an old tourism campaign by Sagada Municipality has started to recirculate again. Though originally shared in 2019, these reminders are still relevant today:

On taking photos and videos

Today’s internet culture has alarmingly made taking photos and videos of strangers the norm (which shouldn’t be). Remember that the natives, especially those dressed in traditional clothing aren’t doing so for your satisfaction; they aren’t artifacts for display. They’re simply living their way of life. Instead of posing with the elders, just appreciate the destination; in case they need to be included in the photo, always ask for permission.

The same goes for its community.

On your safety

We all have that adrenaline from the revenge travel , making us feel invincible and up for any adventure when on holiday. But Sagada is surrounded by cliffs, caves, and forests, making it prone to accidents. No one wants that during vacation! Sure, you can DIY your itinerary but don’t forget to get a guide; they’ll make your experience both safe and enjoyable too.

Traveling with a partner? Sure, the Sagada weather will make you feel cuddly, but save that for when you’re in a private space. Many tribes remain conservative until today, and they keep it that way. And if you’re looking for some fun , know that Sagada isn’t the place for that. Soak in nature, appreciate the culture, and reflect – there’s no wonder why the municipality is known for soul searching.

On public transportation

While where on the topic of soul searching, it’s best accompanied by walking a.k.a. the best way to see the beauty of Sagada. There are just places you get to appreciate more when you simply blend in and contemplate. Nature is your playground in Sagada; make every step count! Also, after being crammed in a car for the long drive up north, wouldn’t you be too tired to sit in a vehicle again during your trip?

On conserving water

Sagada is the home of rice terraces and farms; these aren’t just tourist destinations but the livelihood of natives.

Many popular tourist destinations around Sagada are tied to the natives’ culture, just like the Hanging Coffins. When told not to touch or disturb sites, simply don’t .

Most importantly, be kind

Tourist or not, it’s the most decent thing you can do every day. Remember that as a tourist, you’re simply passing by and your actions and choices will leave marks on natives even long after your trip. Practice patience and kindness, and you’ll make your much-needed vacation more memorable.

Sagada Travel Requirements

Ready to go on a drive to Sagada? Here are the important documents to take note of:

• Book a minimum of a 1-night stay in a DOT-accredited and LGU-certified accommodation establishment. Once the booking is confirmed, the accommodation will provide a passcode to be used for online registration. Guests must book at least 2 days before the date of arrival.
• Register at the UMALI KAYO portal at least 2 days prior to arrival. https://umali-kayo.sagada.gov.ph/
• Present a vaccination card or certificate indicating full vaccination. Individuals aged 11 and below shall be exempted from this provided that they are accompanied by a parent or guardian.
• Present at least one of the following:
• Negative Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) result and Official Receipt (OR) of the transaction. The test must be taken at a medical government office or hospital institution.
• Negative RT-PCR swab test result from a DOH-certified testing laboratory valid 48 hours since the date of release.
• Negative RT-PCR saliva test result from the Red Cross valid 48 hours since the date of release.

RAT is also available at the Pegeo Border control point at P960 per test.

Guidelines for Tourists

Tourists must take the Dantay-Sagada Road when entering Sagada and the Sagada South Road when exiting. The advised ETA for arriving tourists is between 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM to avoid delays in the checking of requirements.

Upon arrival at Pegeo Control Point, tourists are to:

• Present QR code or registration confirmation in the UMALI KAYO registration system
• Present vaccination card and negative RT-PCR test or RAT result
• Undergo triage

Once cleared, tourists may proceed to the Tourism Hub for orientation and receive their tourist kit. Tourists may proceed to their accommodation after.

For more information and regular updates, visit Sagada Tourism’s Facebook page . Travel safely and responsibly! 

Ina Louise Manto

When she’s not writing, Ina’s busy curating playlists that will save her when words don’t work, reading, annoying her cat, or thinking of her next meal.

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The First-Timer’s Travel Guide to Sagada, Philippines

Posted on Last updated: May 1, 2024

EDITOR’S NOTE: Please be advised that this Sagada travel guide hasn’t been updated in 2024. Prices and travel guidelines may no longer be accurate so it’s important that you verify any information before proceeding.

I’ve been to Sagada a total of six times. The first was in 2002, and the most recent was in December of 2018.

Much has changed over those sixteen years. I remember visiting Sagada in 2015 and noticing how much more developed it was compared to my previous trip from ten years before. Though it still looked and felt like a remote mountain town, it’s tourism infrastructure had come a long way. There were more guesthouses and restaurants, and steep trails that were once dirt paths were now paved and made more tourist-friendly with steps and metal railings. Clearly, Sagada wasn’t just for hikers and hippies anymore. It was for everyone.

I won’t lie. I do miss the old Sagada. It had an allure unique to places that are left untouched. But as much as it’s changed over the last two decades, one thing remains the same – it’s still the blissful mountain enclave that made me want to escape to it so many years ago. I still do.

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GUIDE TABLE OF CONTENTS

Travel restrictions.

Because of the current global situation, travel guidelines have been changing very often. Our friends at SafetyWing created a website that lists detailed information on travel restrictions around the globe.

Before planning a trip to Sagada, be sure to check the Flatten the Curve website for information on travel restrictions to the Philippines.

WHAT’S IN SAGADA?

Sagada is a municipality in Mountain Province, Philippines. Apart from its hanging coffins, it’s known for its caves, waterfalls, limestone mountains, and hill-tribe atmosphere. Due in part to its remote location in the Central Cordillera Mountains, it was left relatively untouched by conquistadores during the Spanish era. A Spanish mission wasn’t founded in Sagada until 1882, resulting in one of the few places in the Philippines that’s preserved its indigenous culture with little Spanish influence.

BEST TIME TO VISIT SAGADA

Like the rest of the Philippines, Sagada has two seasons – rainy (May-Oct) and dry (Nov-Apr). Being a mountain town, it enjoys milder weather with year round temperatures at around 18°C (64°F).

NOV-FEB: The best time to go to Sagada is from November to February. The weather is cool and dry with average temperatures at around 15-17°C (59-63°F). However, December is also peak season. We were there in late December 2018 and the crowds (and traffic) would become unbearable at times. For that reason, it may be better to go in November or January.

MAR-APR: From March to April is when the rice terraces in Sagada are at their greenest. However, it also gets warm and dusty during these months. Like anywhere in the Philippines, Holy Week is the busiest time in Sagada so avoid that time if you dislike crowds. On top of that, Sagada has been known to experience water shortages during dry and peak seasons.

MAY-JUL: Though it isn’t hot compared to the rest of the Philippines, these are the warmest months of the year in Sagada with average temperatures at about 19°C (66°F). The rains begin to fall more regularly during this time as well. Typhoon season in the Philippines typically begins in June.

AUG-OCT: From July to August is the height of typhoon season in the Philippines. Landslides are more frequent at this time so it’s best to avoid these months if you can. On top of that, it would be dangerous to enter Sumaguing Cave during rainy season since water levels can rise very quickly during a storm. Typhoons become less frequent in September and October though the rain doesn’t taper off until November.

I’ve been to Sagada several times. I’ve been there more than once in January and also in May and December. Unless it’s peak or typhoon season, there’s really no bad time to go to Sagada in my opinion. With that said, I do believe that November, January, and February are ideal . Sagada is a mountain town so its best to experience it when it’s cool and tranquil.

Climate: Annual Monthly Weather in Sagada

I created the average temperature and annual rainfall graphs below to help you better understand the weather in Sagada . Suggested months to visit are highlighted in orange.

HOW TO GET TO SAGADA FROM MANILA

Sagada isn’t the easiest place to get to. It entails going on long bus rides on mountain passes that are twisty and often very bumpy.

Up until a few years ago, there weren’t any direct buses to Sagada so travelers had to go through either Banaue or Baguio to get there, which is fine because Sagada is often paired with trips to those destinations as well. The entire trip will take around 11-13 hours.

This guide assumes you’ll be coming from either Manila, Banaue, or Baguio, but if you’re coming from somewhere else, then you can check Bookaway for route options available to you. You can click on the link or use the widget below.

To help you get your bearings, I’ve included the map below borrowed and edited with permission from the Bisayang Manlalakbay blog.

Direct from Manila

Thanks to Coda Lines , trips to Sagada are now much easier. As far as I know, they’re the only bus company offering direct trips to Sagada from Manila and back. You can book your ticket through Bookaway . It’s a popular transportation website that services many destinations in Southeast Asia.

If you’d like to visit Banaue first before continuing on to Sagada, then the first leg of your trip will be a 9-10 hr overnight Ohayami Trans or Coda Lines bus to Banaue. You can book tickets through Bookaway as well.

From Banaue, you have three options to get to Sagada (ranked from cheapest to most expensive):

OPTION 1: You can take a 2-hr van to Bontoc for PHP 150. I’ve only done the opposite route (Sagada-Bontoc-Banaue) so I don’t know what time and from where the van leaves in Banaue, but you can ask around and people will direct you to the stop. From Bontoc, you can then take a public jeep to Sagada. The 45-min ride costs PHP 45 each way with jeeps leaving every half hour or so from 8:30AM until 5:30PM.

OPTION 2: I’ve read that there are vans which take you directly to Sagada from Banaue. Soon as you arrive in Banaue, you’ll be approached by locals asking if you’re interested in van transfers to Sagada. The van leaves at 9AM near the Banaue Tourism Office and the fare costs PHP 300 each way. I believe the van makes quick stops at one (maybe more) tourist spots along the way.

OPTION 3: If there are enough people in your group, you can hire an entire jeep to take you straight to Sagada from Banaue. I did this over 10 years ago and it cost PHP 4,000 to rent the entire jeep. I believe it still costs PHP 4,000 today. A straight 3-hr journey, this is the fastest and most convenient way to go if you can divide the cost between enough people.

If you’d like to go back to Banaue from Sagada, then please refer to my Batad Travel Guide for more information.

Many bus companies take you to Baguio from Manila, but I prefer Victory Liner . They have buses leaving for Baguio throughout the day from their four terminals in Manila (Manila, Pasay, Cubao, Caloocan). It’s about a 4.5 hr trip. Buses get full, especially during peak seasons, so be sure to reserve your ticket in advance to guarantee yourself a seat. You can visit the Victory Liner website for terminal and reservation information.

From the Victory Liner station, take a taxi to the GL Liner Station in Baguio Dangwa Terminal . The taxi fare should run you around PHP 70. Be sure to tell the driver that you’re taking a bus to Sagada in case the terminal has moved.

Buses to Sagada leave every hour from 6:30-11:30AM, with the last bus departing at 1PM. Roughly a 6-hr ride, the fare is PHP 220 each way. If you can catch the 6:30AM, then you should arrive in Sagada in time for lunch.

To go back to Baguio from Sagada, you can catch the bus from the lot near St. Mary’s Church. Buses depart every hour on the hour from 5AM till 10AM, with the last buses leaving at 1PM and 5PM. Please be advised that bus schedules are subject to change without prior notice so it’s best to confirm departure times soon as you arrive.

Though the roads to and from Sagada have improved greatly over the years, it’s still a long and tiring drive. I wouldn’t recommend it unless you have an SUV or truck and have a lot of experience driving in the Philippines. You can use Waze to find the quickest route to Sagada from Manila.

On our most recent trip, we hired two large vans with drivers from Aero Global Travel & Tours . Each van could fit up to thirteen people. This may be an option if you’d like to go in a private vehicle but would prefer not to drive. You can contact them via their Facebook page for more information.

WHERE TO STAY IN SAGADA

As described, I’ve been to Sagada many times. These are the hotels I can recommend based on my previous travel experiences. None of them seem to be listed on Booking.com or Agoda so you’ll need to contact them directly via the links provided.

If you’d rather book a hotel through one of those big hotel booking platforms, then you can check these links for alternate listings in Sagada: Booking.com | Agoda . Be sure to check both sites to find the best deal.

St. Joseph’s Resthouse

Much may have changed in Sagada but there’s one constant – St. Joseph’s Resthouse. As far as I know, it’s the oldest guesthouse in Sagada. We were looking at a map of the area drawn up in the 60s and St. Joseph’s was already there. It’s the first place I ever stayed at in Sagada and it’s where my family and I booked accommodations this past December 2018. Prices have gone up over that time, but everything still looks pretty much the same, which is a good thing.

What sets St. Joseph’s apart are its manicured gardens. Unlike most other guesthouses in Sagada which are basically just standalone buildings, St. Joseph’s is comprised of several buildings and cottages set in an oasis of well-maintained lawns and flower beds. Set on a hill, it’s the closest thing to a resort you can find in Sagada. It also has its own parking lot, making it one of the most convenient places to stay if you’re bringing a car. Parking in the area is limited so it can be expensive, around PHP 50 an hour if I remember correctly.

Misty Lodge & Cafe

I haven’t stayed here but we were so impressed with this place that we’ll definitely be staying here on our next trip to Sagada. Aside from being relatively fresh and new, they also serve the best food I’ve ever had in Sagada. More on that in the WHERE TO EAT section of this guide.

Pictured borrowed from the Misty Lodge and Cafe Facebook page

Lodge Labanet

THINGS TO DO IN SAGADA

Soon as you arrive in Sagada, the first thing you should do is register at the tourism office and pay the PHP 50 environmental fee. They’ll give you a receipt which you should keep with you during your entire stay in Sagada. You may be asked to present it before entering any of the sites listed below.

Listed below are the most popular activities in Sagada. For the complete list of attractions with guide and transportation fees, then you can check out this list of Sagada tours borrowed from the Sagada Tourism Facebook page .

1. Go Spelunking in Sumaguing Cave

Far and away the most frequented destination in Sagada, Sumaguing Cave is an awe-inspiring cave system that will simultaneously amaze and test you. Popular for its stunning rock formations and promise of danger, this cave is an absolute must-do for any first-time visitor to Sagada.

Sumaguing Cave is a lot of fun but be warned that it can be dangerous so it should NEVER be attempted without a guide. It’s pitch black and many of the rocks are very slippery. Losing your balance and hurting yourself is a real possibility. Apart from keeping your balance and watching your step, it isn’t physically demanding but it does have its challenges (ie rapelling up and down a 10-ft rope).

To go, register at the tourism office and hire a guide for PHP 500 (up to 4 pax). The entire caving experience will take at least 2 hrs. You’ll be wading through chest-high waters so be prepared to get wet. Flip-flops are recommended.

For the more adventurous and physically fit, you can do the advanced Lumiang-Sumaguing cave connection route for PHP 800 (up to 2 pax, +PHP 400 for each additional guest). This is a 4-5 hr test of endurance and flexibility that will take you much deeper into the cave system.

Estimated Time Needed: 1.5 – 2 hrs / Fitness Level: Moderate / Guide Fee: PHP 500 (up to 4 pax)

2. Visit the Hanging Coffins of Echo Valley

After Sumaguing Cave, the hanging coffins are the second most popular attraction in Sagada and another must-do for first-time travelers. It’s pretty amazing to see them up close, especially the ones perched high up on the side of the rock!

You used to be able to visit the hanging coffins on your own, but now you have to go with a guide arranged through the tourism office. If all you want to do is see the hanging coffins from up close, then the cost is PHP 200 for up to 10 pax plus a small PHP 10 environmental fee per person.

Estimated Time Needed: 45 mins – 1.5 hrs / Fitness Level: Low / Guide Fee: PHP 200 (up to 10 pax)

3. Go on an Echo Valley Trek

If you want to trek deeper into Echo Valley after visiting the hanging coffins, then you can go on one of two walking tours. To be honest, I don’t know what the difference is between the two but we went on the Adventure Trail tour. It’s a 3-hr trek that takes you to St. Mary’s Church, the hanging coffins, the underground river, and Bokong Waterfalls.

Estimated Time Needed: 3-4 hrs / Fitness Level: Moderate / Guide Fee: PHP 1,000 (up to 10 pax)

4. Go for a Swim at Bomod-ok Waterfalls

Bomod-ok Waterfalls is awesome and in my opinion, another must-visit in Sagada. Known locally as the “Big Falls”, you need to first make your way to the information center in Barangay Banga-an. You can either walk there (about an hour) or arrange for a van at the tourism office for PHP 500 round trip.

Estimated Time Needed: 4-6 hrs / Fitness Level: Moderate / Guide Fee: PHP 500 (up to 10 pax) / Transportation: PHP 500 roundtrip (optional)

5. Watch the Sunrise at Kiltepan Viewpoint

Kiltepan Viewpoint is a terrific way to start your day in Sagada. The highest point in the area, it’s known for its breathtaking views of the sun rising from behind the Cordillera mountains over an ocean of clouds. The spot was made famous by a local movie so it’s been flooded with tourists in recent years.

Estimated Time Needed: Around 2-3 hrs / Transportation: PHP 500 roundtrip (up to 10 pax) Photo by Kamille Stanger via Shutterstock

NOTE: Kiltepan Viewpoint was closed till further notice in December 2018. According to the people at the tourist center, it’s because a building in the area burnt down. They didn’t give an estimate on when it’ll be open to tourists again.

6. Go Hiking at Marlboro Hills

We haven’t done this but I’ve heard it’s one of the most scenic hikes you can do in Sagada. It’s a 4-5 hr hike that takes you through a landscape of lush forests, rice terraces, and limestone formations. During the hike, you’ll trek through a hilly area with copper-sulfate-rich soil, turning it a unique bluish green color that intensifies with the rain.

Estimated Time Needed: Around 4-5 hrs / Guide Fee: PHP 1,800 (up to 3 pax) / Transportation: PHP 1,350 roundtrip Photo by SNUduwela via Shutterstock

7. Play Tomb Raider at Lumiang Burial Cave

Lumiang Burial Cave is located just a few meters before Sumaguing Cave. At its mouth is a pile of stacked coffins that are different from the ones you see hanging in Echo Valley. Apart from the big pile on the ground, many are wedged high up in cracks that run along the cave’s walls. It makes you wonder how on earth the locals got them up there!

Estimated Time Needed: 30 mins – 1 hr / Fitness Level: Low / Guide Fee: None

8. Go Orange Picking at Rock Inn

Orange picking at Rock Inn & Cafe is another popular activity in Sagada. From September to February, you can pick and eat as many oranges as you like within 30 minutes for PHP 50.

Estmated Time Needed: 30 mins – 1 hr / Cost: PHP 50 (30 mins) Photo by patsrg via Shutterstock

9. Watch Weavers at Work at Sagada Weaving

WHERE TO EAT IN SAGADA

With Sagada being so remote, supplies are limited. Many of the restaurants offer the same things so don’t expect too much variety. With that said, food is cheap and decent, and often served in big portions to satisfy hungry trekkers. Expect to spend around PHP 300 per meal with drinks .

If you want to try a local delicacy, then I suggest trying etag. Etag is an indigenous dish of smoked or sun-dried salted pork. A slab of pork is cured in salt for about a week or longer, then air-dried or smoked for several weeks, even months. Almost every restaurant we went to served some sort of etag dish. Follow the link to read more about etag .

1. Misty Lodge & Cafe

2. Coffee Heritage House

Coffee Heritage House is another gem. They serve award-winning coffee and some of the best yogurt in Sagada. Unfortunately, we only had coffee and dessert here after having lunch at Misty Lodge and Cafe, but many of their savory items look delicious too like their handmade pizzas , pasta, and breakfast dishes. They even have danggit lamayo (sun-dried, butterflied rabbitfish) which is one of my all-time favorite breakfast dishes! Be sure to try the affogato for dessert.

3. Yoghurt House

4. Log Cabin

5. Salt & Pepper Diner

6. Masferre Country Inn & Restaurant

7. Sagada Grill

8. Moon House

POINTS OF INTEREST IN SAGADA

I created the map below to help you visualize where everything is. All of the places recommended in this guide are pinned on this map.

HOW TO GET AROUND SAGADA

Sagada is a tiny town with just two main streets so it’s easy to get around on foot. Some of the more remote sites like Marlboro Hills and Bomod-ok Waterfalls can be accessed by van which you can arrange for at the tourist center. With the roads into town getting better, more and more people seem to be driving to Sagada. This has been causing much traffic, particularly during peak seasons. If you can, try to get around on foot as much as possible. It’s a hiking destination anyway.

HOW MANY DAYS TO STAY / SAMPLE ITINERARY

Though you’ll only need a few days to visit all of its attractions, Sagada is one of those places where you can stay for weeks doing little more than soaking up the cool mountain air. It’s inexpensive, even by Philippine standards, so you can pretty much stay as long as you like. I stayed for a week and a half once just reading and aimlessly walking around. I enjoyed every minute of it.

If you don’t have a lot of time, then 4 days is enough to see the major sights at a leisurely pace. As previously mentioned, Sagada is often paired with a trip to Banaue, Baguio, or Bontoc, so you may want to plan your trip with those other destinations in mind.

Here’s a sample 4D/3N Sagada itinerary to help you plan your trip.

TRAVEL TIPS

1. rent a pocket wifi device.

If you’re a foreigner traveling through the Philippines, then having a steady wifi connection will be very helpful. You’ll need it to navigate, check email, and do last minute research. Many public places have wifi but the connection isn’t as good nor as stable. Plus, it’s good to be able to connect to the internet whenever you need to.

You can stay connected in the Philippines by getting a sim card or renting a pocket wifi device. Personally, we prefer the latter but either way is fine. Between the two, buying a sim card is cheaper. Assuming you’ll be entering the Philippines through Manila, you can arrange for either in advance and pick them up from Ninoy Aquino International Airport or have them delivered to your hotel. Follow the links to buy a sim card or rent a pocket wifi device through Klook.

2. Get Travel Insurance

If you’re a non-Filipino, then I think it’s a good idea to get travel insurance before your trip to the Philippines, especially if you’ll be visiting less developed places like Sagada or Batad. The fact is, you never know what can happen. In Sumaguing Cave for example, you can easily lose your footing and hurt yourself so having travel insurance will be a godsend.

We get travel insurance from SafetyWing. They’re a popular travel insurance company used by many digital nomads. You can follow the link to get a free quote from SafetyWing .

3. Register & Hire Guides Only from the Tourism Office

As previously advised, the first thing you should do upon arriving in Sagada is to register at the tourism office and pay the one-time environmental fee of PHP 50. This will go towards the preservation of the environment.

By law, tourists are required to hire guides only through the tourism office. That way they have a record of where you are to better ensure your safety. If I understand correctly, the guides here are on a rotation basis to make it fair for everyone. Don’t mess up their system and put yourself in danger by hiring unregistered guides. Because if something happens to you, then they may have no way of helping you if they don’t have a record of your whereabouts.

4. Bring Enough Cash

Sagada is a small town with no money changers and just one ATM. As far as I know, no establishment accepts credit cards so be sure to bring enough cash to last you for the duration of your trip.

5. Prepare Properly for Sumaguing Cave

Do not, I repeat DO NOT, enter Sumaguing Cave unguided. As described earlier in this post, it’s very dangerous to attempt on your own so be sure to register and get a guide at the tourism office. You’ll definitely get wet so wear flip-flops and shorts. Anything valuable like your wallet or cellphone should be kept in a Ziploc bag so they don’t get wet. For your safety, it’s best to have both hands free since many parts of the cave are slippery.

6. Be Back Before Sunset

Be sure to start your treks as early as possible so you can make it back before nightfall. Curfew in Sagada is at 10PM. There are no lightposts along these roads and trails, making them difficult and even dangerous to walk on at night.

7. Please Don’t Eat Pinikpikan

A Cordillera delicacy, the word pinikpikan stems from the Ilocano word pikpik , which means “to hit repeatedly”. It entails slowly beating a live chicken with a stick to break its bones and clot its blood before dismemberment. Known colloquially in English as “killing me softly” chicken, the practice is said to tenderize the meat and make it tastier.

I went camping with a pair of Thai filmmakers I had met in Sagada once, and this was one of the dishes that their local guides prepared. To me, it tasted no different than regular chicken. I understand that pinikpikan is a local custom, but it’s also a brutal practice that inflicts much suffering to the animal. I’m an advocate for the humane treatment and killing of animals for food, so tradition or not, this isn’t a dish that I can easily stomach.

8. Be Respectful, Don’t Litter, Do Conserve Water

When visiting the hanging coffins, caves, or waterfalls, please keep your voices down and pick up after yourselves. Many of these sites are sacred to the locals so always be respectful. And speaking of the locals, don’t take pictures of anyone without their permission. They aren’t animals in a zoo. Duh.

Sagada has seen a massive influx of local tourists since that Tadhana movie. While great for the local economy, it hasn’t been so good for the environment. It’s heartbreaking and infuriating to see how many tourists just leave their trash everywhere, even inside Sumaguing Cave! Enjoy Sagada but please do so respectfully and responsibly. We Filipinos need to start taking better care of our environment.

Lastly, water is often scarce in Sagada, especially during dry and peak seasons. If you’re visiting during that time, or any time for that matter, then please be mindful of the water situation and use only what you need.

I’ve been to Sagada many times but I still don’t know everything. I’m only sharing the things I’ve learned from all of my trips there. If you have any suggestions, then please feel free to let us know in the comment section below.

Thanks for stopping by and I hope you fall in love with Sagada, much like I did sixteen years ago.

This guide contains affiliate links which will earn us a small commission if you make a booking at no additional cost to you. We only recommend products and services that we use ourselves and firmly believe in. We really appreciate your support as this helps us make more of these free travel guides. Thank you!

Found this article useful? Help us help other travelers by sharing it!

Sunday 20th of August 2023

Hello! Would you know my options when I'm travelling the other way - from Sagada to Banaue? I understand I'll just have to follow the instructions the opposite way. But I'm wondering if you maybe know the van and jeepney schedules? Thank you so much in advance for any help!

William Ding

Tuesday 3rd of January 2023

Thank you for the very informative write up. I am from sarawak Borneo and together with my wife intend to visit Sagada at end of Jan 2023. I really appreciate reading your exeperience visiting there. Thanks again William Ding

Monday 12th of December 2022

Great blog & vert informative. Noticed you updated your blog recently (Dec 8 2022) , though most of the queries are back in 2019. Also, good to find a resource in the web, that's not on FB since I dont use FB & would appreciate if you dont post my details (name & email).

Any idea on the road condition this December 2022? Is it possible & safe for a front wheel drive sedan? I have experience going on long road trip & have driven to other mpuntainuous areas, probably a little less than a decade ago, but never had the chance to drive to Sagada yet & would like to do so.

Any recommendations? What time is the best & safe time for the ascent?

For long road trips from Manila, I always try to get at least 4-5 hrs sleep, then leave before midnight.

Saturday 13th of August 2022

Hi JB, thank you for this very helpful blog. May alam po ba kayong ordinary bus to Sagada? Gusto ko kasi sana yung open window feels na byahe sa Mountain Province either from Baguio or from Banaue? Thank youuu!

JB & Renée

Saturday 20th of August 2022

Hi Bea, yung bus na galing Banaue ganun, open windows talaga. Enjoy Sagada!

Thursday 31st of March 2022

Own car or bus to sagada?

@Jamie: Definitely bus for me. Less danger, less hassle.

Sagada Travel Guide for First-Time Visitors

Sagada in the Philippines is a must-visit destination on your itinerary. Sagada is one of the top eco places known for wonderful nature and tasty coffee, but also for caves, waterfalls, adrenaline adventures, and last but not least hanging coffins. Read our travel guide for first-time visitors on the best things to do in Sagada and tips on where to stay and what to pack.

If you want to escape Manila's heavy, polluted air, don't have mood for lazing on the beach, and rather think of spending your time in a place where it is possible to enjoy the mountain breeze, amazing views, and many outdoor activities, you should put Sagada, a small and until recently isolated town, firmly on your Philippines travel itinerary.

Sagada offers a wide range of the best things to do, and there is a reason why many first-time travelers often turn into regular visitors returning to the destination every year or whenever they can.

It is true, Sagada has been changing though. Once a remote town nestled in the valley in the Cordilleras in Mountain Province, has become a popular destination where travelers, both local and international, seek for a laidback atmosphere, great coffee, tasty cuisine (in case until now you were not somehow stunned by Filipino dishes, head to this town), adventure activities, indigenous culture, traditions of Igorot people, picturesque limestone cliffs or photogenic rice fields.

That all can be found in Sagada, and we could go on and on with words of praise.

But what has not changed is the character of the mountain village. The main source of economy is still agriculture, and although tourism is becoming a more and more important part of everyday lives, the quaint little town in the North Luzon region will steal your heart by its authenticity and slow rhythm.

Sagada has so many things to offer, that you would need months to explore both the best places and try the top activities, but in case you are just passing by, make sure you will stay in the town at least for two days.

During this time, you will have a chance to do more than scratch the surface.

BEST THINGS TO DO IN SAGADA

For backpackers like us, Sagada was heaven on earth.

Every must-see place was easily accessible, we did not have to pay for activities unless we did not want to, accommodation was cheap and decent (we even stayed nearby local market) and food was better than in other parts of the Philippines.

Here's our list of the highlights and the best things to do in Sagada every first-time visitor should not miss.

When you arrive in Sagada, remember to stop by in the tourist office, where you must pay 50 PHP environmental fee, which is a really small contribution when you consider how attractive the area is.

SPELUNKING IN THE CAVES

Sagada is famous for the underground cave systems, so one of the most popular things you can do when in the town is to reserve a spelunking tour which will safely take to the cave maze.

Most of the visitors usually head to Sumaguing Cave which is also nicknamed Big Cave and offers amazing views of variously shaped stalagmites and stalactites.

For your safety, you should always hire a guide (500 PHP up to four people), and never go inside the cave when it rains or shortly after rain as the cave system can get flooded (guide should always evaluate the situation).

For more adventurous travelers seeking adrenaline and more challenging activities, there is a possibility to do a four-hour-long cave connection hike during which a guide will take you from Sumaguing Cave to Lumiang Cave.

This is an ultimate experience not for faint of heart travelers - be ready for harsh conditions and walking on a slippery surface.

EXPLORE RICE TERRACES

No, Sagada cannot match with absolutely wonderful rice terraces in Banaue and Batad , but as we had visited this place before we headed to Ifugao province, we were very happy with what we saw.

The area has naturally many rice terraces and rice fields because locals still work in agriculture, and you will for sure see many real rural photography opportunities when walking around Sagada.

Always make sure it is possible to walk across the rice terraces (it usually is), but we had to take a detour several times to avoid water bulls.

In case you want to explore rice fields more thoroughly, hire a local guide who grew up in Sagada.

ORANGE PICKING

A seasonal activity in Sagada available from December to February is orange picking. A small accommodation connected with a restaurant Rock Inn & Cafe has an orange plantation on their premises, and it became one of the best fun and budget activities to do in Sagada during the three months mentioned above.

Orange picking is also a great thing to do for families with kids or elderly, who cannot participate in more challenging actions, and we must admit it is also a great marketing idea how to bring more people to the restaurant which almost everyone visits after picking.

The picking costs 50 PHP per thirty minutes, and during this time you can eat as many oranges as you can, in case you want to take some home, you must pay additional 60 PHP per a kilogram.

HANGING COFFINS

Before you decide to skip Sagada as you can think there are many other places around the world where it is possible to do for example caving or water rafting, you should learn about Sagada's highlight and the main reason why travelers from all around the world want to visit this area.

The reason is hanging coffins. The attraction is close to the town in Echo Valley (you can walk there easily on own in twenty minutes, walk past the town's cemetery), and you can visit it either on own or with a guide if you wish (200 PHP up to ten people).

How it happened that we can until now find coffins hanging on limestone cliffs in Sagada? The native Igorot people started the tradition a long time ago as they believed, this way of burying provide dead's spirits easier path to the great beyond.

Although nowadays, most of the people bury their family members regularly in the cemetery, some of them still hold the tradition, and it can happen that if you'll visit Sagada again in the future, you might find here brand new hanging coffins.

TREK TO ECHO VALLEY

Hanging coffins are easy to spot in the mouth of Echo Valley.

In case you want to do a half-day trek in the valley which got its name because every sound is echoing loudly there, hire a guide to enjoy a hike through gorgeous scenery, and you will even have a chance to see more coffins every now and then.

There are several worthwhile waterfalls near Sagada, but the most awe-inspiring one is Bomod-ok waterfall (alias Big Falls) which is 200 meters high.

It is not possible to get to the falls on own as it is required to take a guide (600 PHP for group up to ten people and 10 PHP tourist fee).

On the other hand, you will have a chance to explore more thoroughly Filipino rural landscape as the trail leads via rice paddies, small villages and you will even cross a swing bridge.

The trek should take you 1 or 1.5 hours one way, depending on the pace of your group. It is possible to swim in the pool created by the waterfall, but note that the water is freezing cold.

If you want to get away from crowds but still want to enjoy waterfalls, head to Pongas Falls or Bokong Falls, another impressive, but not that heavily visited natural sights.

SAGADA WEAVING

In case you are looking for an authentic souvenir, visit one of many Sagada weaving shops, where you can find many woven original products in a good quality such as wallets or backpacks.

GO INSIDE BURIAL CAVE

Lumiang Cave, the one which is connected with Sumaguing Cave is also known as Burial Cave, for one simple reason.

You will find here many coffins inside the cave, either simply standing alone on the ground, or there are also many of them piled up on each other.

The cave and coffins are centuries old, and you will find it on the southern end of the town when a series of steep steps will take you to the cave. It is possible to explore the cave as long as you can (it is a good idea to bring headtorch), but do not wander too far.

TASTE FRESHLY BREWED COFFEE

Sagada is a coffee region. Although you probably do not have the country of the Philippines connected with this article, coffee does exceptionally well in the area thanks to a higher altitude and milder weather.

Some of the coffee houses in Sagada own coffee plantations and they even brew their beans, so hanging in coffee shops is a must-do activity in case you fancy a cup.

SATURDAY MARKET

One of the things we love the most when traveling around the world and South East Asia, in particular, are local markets and Sagada is no exception. Merchants set up they stalls every Saturday on the main street selling fresh vegetables, meat, clothes, souvenirs, handicrafts, and other commodities. If you happen to visit Sagada on this day, don't skip it. Also buying stuff from the vendors is good for the local economy.

ENJOY FILIPINO CUISINE

We love Southeast Asian cuisine, but we must say it aloud, that we found Filipino dishes the least tasty, and at the end of our month-long trip we had a feeling we won't make it if we will eat one more chicken adobo.

You can disagree with us, but Filipino cuisine was somehow plain, in comparison with super-tasty food we could sample in other countries in the region. That all is true for one exception, and that was Sagada, where the food was miraculously much better.

One of the reasons could be that we were always hungry after actively spent days, so we were more forgiving, but we know that other travelers we met on the road confirmed our suspicion that Sagada's cuisine is really better, despite the fact supply is a bit limited because of its remote location.

There are several restaurants and bars worth noticing, some of the best places to eat are Yoghurt House or Salt & Pepper.

A Practical Guide to Island Hopping Tour A in El Nido, Palawan Bohol Guide: Experience Island Adventure In Philippines

CLIMB UP KILTEPAN PEAK

Those of you who like to start the day early can head to Kiltepan Peak, the highest mountain in the area, to watch the spectacular sunrise over the clouds.

The viewpoint was featured in a local popular film, so the place became fairly crowded, so do not expect to be there alone and avoid disappointment.

The viewpoint was temporarily closed in 2018 because of extensive fires, but when researching for this post, we could read online that some travelers visited the peak already this year (2019).

Either way, it is for sure better to ask in the tourism office in Sagada how's the current situation. It is possible to arrange a van one day before (500 PHP) you want to get to Kiltepan Peak, but you can also walk uphill with a guide since the top of the mountain is only four kilometers from the town.

If you are looking for more hiking inspiration in the region and heading to Banaue, check out our favorite Batad to Pula to Banaue trek .

MOUNTAIN BIKING

The terrain around Sagada must tempt every experienced biker to rent a bike and cycle uphill on dirt paths, and then enjoy a thrilling ride down.

Sagada Mountain Bikes rent bikes for 100 PHP per hour, and as this activity is still not that popular as hiking because it requires a higher level of fitness and some skills, come early in the morning because the number of rental bikes is limited.

ROCK CLIMBING

Limestone cliffs in Sagada's Echo Valley are very photogenic, but in case you are seeking action, it is possible to sign up in the tourist office for rock climbing.

Although it is always better to have some experience, on the other hand, you will hardly find a place with cheaper rates which makes Sagada a great destination where to start with your rock climbing lessons.

The guide usually costs 800 PHP, and the rate also includes equipment.

Travel Insurance

We never leave home without travel insurance that was designed to cover our expenses if something goes wrong during the trip.

Travel insurance protects against theft, flight delays, injury, illness, cancellations, and much more.

World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers to cover their trip essentials, including sports and adventure activities.

SafetyWing is affordable travel insurance for backpackers, long-term travelers, and digital nomads.

Travel smarter and safer!

WHERE TO STAY IN SAGADA

Sagada is a place where you can easily spend several days doing many activities, so choose wisely when booking your accommodation.

You can find several cheap or mid-range priced hotels and hostels in Sagada, but do not expect anything fancy.

We've handpicked three hotels where you will get the best value for your money.

Budget | Agape Log Cabin and Restaurant - As the name suggests, the hotel is made of wood, and you will find here clean and comfortable rooms in a very convenient location.

Mid-range | Coffee Heritage House and Hostel - Well-rated hotel is the best value for money you can get in Sagada. This hotel is a perfect place to disconnect from the outside world, and enjoy cozy rooms.

Mid-range | Banga-an BnB and Coffee House - This hotel is a bit farther from the center but is for everyone seeking a quiet environment. All coffee lovers should stay here as you can taste a coffee which grows in the backyard.

HOW TO GET TO SAGADA

Despite the fact Sagada once has been a remote village, nowadays, it is not that hard to get there, even when traveling independently without a tour.

It is possible to get to Sagada with a direct overnight bus from Manila , the capital of the Philippines quite easily. When traveling from other destinations, you will most likely have to switch buses in Baguio, an unappealing city which serves for many travelers as a transportation hub.

We traveled to Sagada from colonial town Vigan , and there was no other option on how to get there than via Baguio.

Although Vigan is not that far from Baguio, the roads are winding and not in best conditions, so it took us more than six hours to get to Baguio, and we decided to stay in the city one night and continue the next day.

If you are traveling the same direction, try to take a morning bus from Baguio to Sagada, as the mountain views are beautiful (sit on the right side), and also, the last bus usually leave around 11:30 AM.

Also, pack warm clothes, as it was pretty cold on board.

From Sagada, we continued to Banaue, we only had to take another bus in Bontoc, but overall it was very easy to arrange it.

WHAT TO PACK FOR VISITING SAGADA

Most of the travelers including us arrive in Sagada to spend most of the time outside, and you should pack according to it.

Sagada has pleasant mountainous weather with mild temperatures all year round.

The rainy season lasts from May to October, with precipitation in their highest between July and September. If traveling between this period, remember to pack water-resistant clothes and equipment, and be more cautious as landslides and cave floodings can occur.

Here are five essential things you should pack with you when visiting Sagada.

Trail Walking Shoes for Him & for Her | Although there are not that many hiking trails in Sagada, you should pack quality walking shoes as the best way how to get around is on foot.

Rain Poncho | It can rain from time to time even during dry season.

Fleece Jacket for Him & for Her | As mornings and evenings can be chilly, a warmer layer is a must.

GoPro | For all outdoor activities it is always better to have an adventure camera.

Ultralight Packable Daypack | Recently, we've found very useful light packable daypacks for an easy short hikes or time spent outside.

Travel Resources

Here you can find links to all the travel resources we use and which you might find helpful when planning your next holiday.

Accommodation : When looking for accommodation, we usually search hotels via Booking.com or Hostelworld .

Tours : Although we love to travel independently, some places are better to visit with a guided tour.

We prefer GetYourGuide for its easy-to-use interface and solid reputation. Another great alternative is Viator .

Rental Cars : When going on a road trip, we always use Rentalcars.com , a reliable site for booking a rental car in advance.

Flight Tickets : When looking for flight tickets, you can search Skyscanner to find the best price.

Travel Insurance : World Nomads and SafetyWing cover against risks of travel.

SAGADA: Travel Guide, Budget, Itinerary & Useful Tips

Sagada is probably on everybody’s bucket list. This sleepy little town in the middle of the Cordilleras has been a travelers’ magnet even before we Filipinos ourselves learned of its existence. It may not seem a lot in plain sight but it truly is a magical place. From the warmth of its people to the limestone cliffs, captivating sunrise and breathtaking sunsets, burial caves, hanging coffins, to its mountains towering in the distance, and to the rich culture its people have upheld through the challenges of time, there is something about Sagada that makes it simply irresistible. Its charm is otherworldly so as the hospitality of its people. Its cool temperature along with the locals’ usual wardrobe consists of trench coat and fleece jackets completed with bonnets and gloves are not something usual to a tropical country such as the Philippines which is notable for hot summer days and beaches but yes such place exists up in the mountains. So the next time you’ll crave a taste of winter, look no further, Sagada is where you should be.

During recent years, Sagada has become one of the go-to places of people from Metro Manila who are looking for a quick respite out of the hustle. I have seen a rapid growth of tourists in this once quaint little town. Some travel at their own pace but a Sagada Tour Package is what most travelers are looking for especially if they barely have the luxury to do the planning themselves. Nevertheless, this post aims to help anyone learn all there is to Sagada and how they could make the most of their trip.

HOW TO GET THERE

• From Manila Direct  – Ride a Coda Lines bus from Manila to Sagada (P750). They only have 1 nightly schedule which is at 9PM. Kindly check their website for reservation or text these mobile numbers: Globe: 0927 559 2197 &  Smart: 0929 521 3229. 
• From Manila Via Baguio – Ride a bus in Cubao to Baguio (P455). In Baguio, ride a cab going to Dangwa then a bus going to Sagada (P220). Travel takes 7 hours with trips starting as early as 5AM departing every hour until 1PM.  Coda Lines  also has trips via this route. Kindly check their website for updated schedule.
• From Bontoc – The easiest access to Sagada is Bontoc whenever you are coming from places further north. From Bontoc, simply ride a jeep to Sagada. Travel time is 45 minutes and fare is P45.
• From Banaue – Ride a bus or a van going to Bontoc (P120). From Bontoc, ride a jeep going to Sagada (P45). You can also take this route from Manila riding an Oyahami Bus in Sampaloc (P450).  Coda Lines  also has trips via this route. Kindly check their website for updated schedule.

WHERE TO STAY

Accommodation in Sagada are well regulated so hotel prices are pretty much the same with little to no difference at all. Here are some mid-range to budget hostels/inns which are recommended by frequent travelers.

Isabelo’s Inn and Cafe Address: South Road, Sagada, Mountain Province Phone: 0928 951 7153 Book now at a discounted rate with Agoda

Kanip Aw Pines View Lodge Address: Kinlibed, Sagada, Mountain Province Phone: 0926 609 2960 Book now at a discounted rate with Agoda

Shamrock Tavern Inn Address: Makingking, Demang, Sagada, Mountain Province Phone: 0908-6114-683 | 0999-5534-847 Book now at a discounted rate with Agoda

Misty Lodge and Cafe Address: Staunton Rd, Sagada, Mountain Province Phone: 0926 123 5240 Book now at a discounted rate with Agoda

WHAT TO SEE AND DO

The town of Sagada is a perfect avenue for bringing out the adventurer in you that a day or two is not enough to explore all there is to this enthralling place. From caves to waterfalls, beautiful terrains and scenic sunsets, name it, Sagada has it all covered. So here are the things you shouldn’t miss while you are there.

• Shout your heart out in Echo Valley – Let out all your “hugots” and laugh at the amazing echos in Echo Valley.
• Go see the sacred burial caves and hanging coffins –  Burying the dead in caves or hidden places is one of the most sacred practices in Sagada. Be in awe and wonder how a small wooden casket was placed on an entry of a cave several meters above the ground.
• Go spelunking in Sumaguing and Lumiang Caves – If you think you are fit enough then explore the beautiful rock formations in 2 of Sagada’s famous caves.
• Chase Bokong, Bomod-Ok and Pongga Falls – A hike to Bokong Falls is one perfect ender to your adventure but if you prefer more challenging terrains then go extreme and see Bomod-Ok and Pongas Falls.
• Witness the sunset in Lake Danum – Our country has one of the most panoramic sunsets and among these, some are found in Sagada.
• Hike Mt. Ampacao, Marlboro Country and Blue Soil Hills – Conquer the town’s highest peaks and reward yourself with a remarkable view at their summits.
• Spend the night drinking ice cold beer over a bonfire and music session  – Nights in Sagada are never old that you wouldn’t want to just sleep through them until morning. One way to enjoy them is to sing over a bonfire with a bottle of beer in tow..
• Go orange picking in Rock Inn Cafe – Have as much orange as you want when you go pick your own oranges in this wonderful farm few kilometers away from the town.
• Marvel at the spectacular sunrise in Kiltepan Peak – Kick off your day with a memorable view of the sunrise atop dreamy white clouds.
• Taste the flavors of Sagada on a food hunt – There is no better way to know a place than to taste its flavors. Don’t miss the local specialty, Pinikpikan.

WHAT ARE THE TOURS AND RATES

Whenever you are in Sagada, the first thing you should do is pay a visit to their local tourism office where you will need to pay a 1-time environmental fee of P35. This is also the only place where you can have your tours arranged. So here are the list of tours they offer and the corresponding costs.

SUMMARY OF EXPENSES & SAMPLE ITINERARY FOR 2D2N VIA BAGUIO

This trip to Sagada was part of our 5-Day Baguio-Sagada-Batad Adventure   wherein we spent a total of P8365 per person for everything. If you wish to follow our itinerary then check out my post thru this link .

SNAPS FROM THE “LAND OF HUGOTS”

Our visit to Sagada may have been brief but it certainly gave us reasons to see it once again.

There you have it lovelies. If you have questions, feel free to drop them on the comments box below and I promise to get back to you the soonest. Be super awesome and share this post too. Ciao! 🙂

BAGUIO-SAGADA-BATAD: 5-Day Budget Travel Guide & Itinerary

Batad: travel guide, budget, itinerary & useful tips, related posts, baguio: how to travel to the city of pines during pandemic, bontoc: travel guide, tourist spots + trip schedules & accommodation, northern blossom: travel guide, budget, & useful tips.

It’s fun reading your Sagada Exp. So, my question is… How is internet in Sagada? I plan to do my “Work from Home” there #Freelancing (US Client) -say 7 days, I guess. What is you recommended internet provider?

Hi. The last time I was there was in 2020 and I observed that internet signal is weak even in places with wired connection. I’m not sure what’s the status now. Could have improved due to the emergence of Starlink. I see lots of places with weak coverage opting for it so maybe Sagada has done the same.

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BAGUIO to SAGADA: via GL Trans Bus, Lizardo Trans, etc.

Here is your complete travel guide from Baguio to Sagada via bus. This article is based on a local’s lens and experience. 

Sagada in Mountain Province is one of the leading ecotourism sites in the Philippines. It may not have the beaches which the country is known for. But what you’ll find here are attractions that will gratify your quest for fun, thrill, and adventure rolled into one. 

Mystical Caves? Check. Cascading waterfalls? Check. Scenic mountain views? Check. Rich and authentic culture? Check. Sea of clouds? Check. These are just among the eco-cultural tourist spots awaiting you when you visit Sagada.

Although there are now direct trips to Sagada from Manila, especially via Coda Lines and van-for-hire, most tourists prefer taking the trip to Baguio before catching a ride to Sagada. In that way, they can first explore tourist spots in the country’s summer capital. 

If you’re also planning to travel from Baguio to Sagada, here is a comprehensive guide to help you out. 

Baguio to Sagada via GL Trans Bus

GL Trans is the only bus company with a regular operation to Sagada from Baguio City. Its station is at Dangwa Terminal at the back of Center Mall and near the famous Good Taste restaurant. 

If you’re coming from Victory Liner Station or North Genesis Bus Station, ride a taxi and tell them to drop you at GL Trans. The fare should be less than Php 100, and travel time is 5-10 minutes. If you ought to stretch some muscles, you can walk your way. From Victory Liner, that takes 20-30 minutes. From North Genesis station, trekking time is just around 10-15 minutes.

Upon reaching GL Trans station, proceed to the counter to get a ticket. They don’t have an online reservation, so you have to claim your ticket there personally. Fare is Php 220 per person, and travel time takes 5-6 hours. 

There will be two stop-overs along the way. The first stop-over is at Sayangan, Atok where there are restaurants, a convenient store, and souvenir shops. The second stop-over is at Sadasadan, Bauko where you’ll find a vegetable stall, a snack shop, and a viewing point.

GL Trans Sagada Trip Schedules 

• 5:30 AM – Sagada > Besao (Besao is a municipality next to Sagada)
• 8:30 AM – Sagada > Ambasing (Ambasing is a barangay of Sagada)
• 9:30 AM – Sagada > Besao
• 10:30 AM – Sagada > Besao
• 11:30 AM – Sagada Ambasing
• 1:00 PM – Sagada > Besao (last trip)

During weekends and holidays, scheduled trips can change as a bus leaves to Sagada once filled to capacity. For example, the 8:30 AM trip can leave as early as 6 AM once it’s full.

That is why arrive at the station and get your ticket the earliest time you can. Even during weekdays, it is advisable to be at the station at least an hour before your planned departure. In that way, you’ll minimize hassles and stress. 

Baguio to Sagada via Lizardo Trans

If you want to reach Sagada at the earliest possible time from Baguio City, check out Lizardo Tran’s bus. The station is at the Slaughterhouse in Brgy. Lower Magsaysay. So if you’re coming from Victory Liner or North Genesis Station, ride a taxi. The fare should be around Php 100 to Php 120 or even less. Travel time is 10-15 minutes.

There is only one scheduled trip daily for Lizardo Trans. That is 2:30 AM. Since seats quickly sell out, especially during weekends and holidays, it’s best to get your ticket here a day before the departure time. Ticket fare is Php 220, and travel time also takes 5 hours. 

They also don’t have online booking, so proceed to the station to claim your ticket. 

Since the bus leaves by 2:30 AM, you can sleep, and when you wake up, you’re already in Sagada!

During weekends and holidays, Lizardo Trans usually add buses to accommodate more passengers. 

Baguio to Sagada via Rising Sun

There are possibilities that you’ll run out of bus trips to Sagada during your scheduled day. If that happens, you can have this alternative option, Rising Sun. This is also stationed at Slaughterhouse in Brgy. Lower Magsaysay. 

Choose the Rising Sun bus that is bound to Bontoc, the capital town of Mt Province. Upon reaching Bontoc, proceed to the station of jeeps bound to Sagada. These are stationed in front of the Walter Clapp Hotel. It’s just some minutes of walk from the GL Trans station in Bontoc. You can always ask the locals for directions. Jeep travel from Bontoc to Sagada takes 30 minutes, and the fare is Php 45 per person. Daily trips are 8 AM, 10 AM, 1 PM, and 2 PM. Be at the station an hour before your planned departure.

Rising Sun has an hourly trip to Bontoc, which starts from 5:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

If you want to catch the last jeep from Bontoc to Sagada (2 PM), choose the 5:00 AM trip of Rising Sun. If you’re not able to make it, you can stay in Bontoc for the night and catch a morning jeepney trip to Sagada. 

Rising Sun fare from Baguio to Bontoc is Php 235, and travel time takes 6 hours.

Manila to Baguio City

There are three major bus companies operating from Manila to Baguio City namely, Victory Liner, Genesis Bus/Joy Bus, and the Solid North P2P Bus.

Victory Liner

• Terminal Location: Pasay, Cubao, Caloocan, and Sampaloc.
• Fare: Php 480 (Regular); Php 800 (First Class)
• Time of Departure: 12:00 am to 11:00 pm

Genesis Bus /JoyBus

• Terminal Location: Cubao, Pasay, and Avenida
• Fare: Php 480 (Regular); Php 600 (Semi-Deluxe); Php 720 (Deluxe): Php 740 (Premier)

Solid North P2P Bus

• Terminal Location: Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX), Reaches Baguio via TPLEX
• Fare: Php 760 (Luxury Bus); Php 525 (Super Deluxe)

Note: If you wish to travel to Baguio and catch the trip to Sagada on the same day, choose the earliest trips. The last bus from Baguio to Sagada leaves either at 2:30 p.m. If you miss that, you’ll have to spend the night in Baguio. Take note also that the schedules and fares could change depending on the situation. Thus, always check their official website for updated information.

Insider Tips and Reminders

• Be at the bus station at least an hour prior to your scheduled departure.
• The selling of ticket starts at 5:00 AM for GL trans. For rising sun, proceed immediately to a vacant seat to reserve it. Ticket will be given during the trip. For Lizardo Trans, you can book a ticket a day or two before your scheduled trip.
• There are restaurants near the bus stations. So if you did not make it to your trip or arrived too early, why not try eating on these to enjoy local cuisines.
• Bring some snacks and drinks with you.
• The buses are non-aircon. Hello. You’ll be experiencing the cold weather of Cordilleran highlands. So make sure to wear jackets especially when you’re in higher elevations.
• One of the perks of traveling from Baguio to Sagada is, you’ll get breathtaking views along the Halsema Highway including the Highest Point. Sometimes, you can chance on a sea of clouds.

Sagada to Baguio Guide

Once you’re done exploring Sagada, you have two options when going back to Manila. Either you take the direct route via Coda Lines bus or take the trips to Baguio and catch a ride there to Manila.

GL Trans Schedule (Sagada to Baguio)

If you miss any of that, you can take the Lizardo Trans bus which departs by 5 PM.

Fare is also Php 220 and travel time takes 5-6 hours.

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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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SAGADA TRAVEL GUIDE 2024: DIY Itinerary, Things to do + How to get There and more

Everything you need to know about sagada, philippines.

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UPDATED 2024 DIY Budget Travel Guide to Sagada, Philippines

Table of Contents

S agada, Philippines — Sagada is definitely a place one cannot forget. Whether it is the long and challenging trip, the cold temperature and geography, or the close-to-nature way of life, Sagada is one place everybody should visit at least once in their lives.

Sagada is one of the ten municipalities of Mountain Province in the Cordillera Administrative Region. Sagada lies in a small valley at an elevation of 5,000 feet above sea level in the Cordillera mountain range of Northern Luzon, 415 km. from Manila via Baguio and 18 km. from Bontoc, which is situated in a larger valley beside the Chico River.

This beautiful, mountainous place is ultimately known for its natural tourist destinations, hanging coffins, and all-year-round cold climate, and knowing the following information will let you make the best out of your trip to Sagada:

Sagada Travel Guide for First-Timers

Best Time to Visit Sagada

Although much colder, Sagada has a subtropical highland climate, like Baguio City . This means that it is generally cool all year round, with a generally high frequency of precipitation.

The best time to visit Sagada is its coldest, which begins at the end of October until late February. Hiking, trekking, and other similar activities would be ideal.

If you plan to visit the hanging coffin and limestone caves, avoid the rainy season, which generally occurs from late May to September. The local government forbids visiting tourist hotspots like Samaguing Caves and Mt. Ampacao during this season for safety purposes.

How to Get to Sagada

From manila:.

Very few bus lines offer direct trips from Manila to Sagada. One of these is Coda Lines Bus in Cubao, Quezon City, which provides a daily trip starting at Php990 . Note that the schedule of all bus companies are subject to change, so make sure to inquire beforehand.

Buses leave from their terminal at Cubao, Quezon City at 9PM daily. The route passes through the provinces of Bulacan, Pampanga, Nueva Ecija, Nueva Vizcaya, and Ifugao.

For bookings, you can contact:

• Coda Lines: Telephone – 0927-559-2197 or 0929-521-3229.

From Banaue:

If you cannot book the direct Manila-to-Sagada trip due to a conflicting schedule, you may take the Manila to Banaue to Sagada route. Many people visit Banaue first before heading off to Sagada, where there are relatively more trips to the former.

One Manila-based bus line that offers Banaue-bound trips is Ohayami. From Banaue, you can ride one of the many local vans that would take you to Sagada for as low as Php 300.

Ohayami Manila to Banaue Daily Bus Schedule (Bus Station located in Lacson Avenue near Espana)

• 21:00 MANILA – BANAUE *
• 21:30 MANILA – LAGAWE/KIANGAN
• 22:00 MANILA – BANAUE * peak days only Bus Fare: Php 490.00

Manila Office Address: Cor. Fajardo St., Lacson Ave, Sampaloc, Manila Telephone: 09276493055 (632) 5160501 Website: http://ohayamitrans.com/

From Baguio City:

You can also stop over at Baguio and then hop on a different bus to take you to Sagada from Manila. There is an abundance of Sagada-bound trips from Baguio, and each trip costs as low as Php 220. These buses can take you to Sagada as short as 5 to 6 hours from Baguio.

From Ilocos Sur:

If you are from or in Ilocos Sur, you can go to Sagada by traveling to Baguio. This is the best option because Baguio has many Sagada-bound bus lines, but it can be time-consuming, especially for those not living in central Vigan.

Alternatively, you can take a trip to Ilocos Sur municipality Cervantes, where vans can take you to barangay Abatan in Buguias. You can take a bus from there to Bontoc, where, like Baguio, has many Sagada-bound trips. This can cost up to Php 500 but is 3 hours shorter than the Ilocos Sur to Baguio to Sagada route.

Also Read: Travel Guide: How to Get to Sagada from Metro Manila

Getting Around Sagada

The main modes of transportation in Sagada are jeeps and vans, but these are limited and travel less frequently than typical jeepneys in Baguio. It is best to hire a tour guide to work on the transportation schedule and visit the most destinations in a day.

On the other hand, if you are a hiker or fitness enthusiast, you will love the generally rough terrain of Sagada. Some destinations are possible to reach by foot.

Language in Sagada

The People of Sagada speak a language called Kankana-ey. They are generally referred to as Igorots (people from the mountains). They are sturdy and industrious.

Learn a Few Kankana-ey Words

• Gawis ay agew mo [Good Day to you!]
• Gawis ay agsapa [Good Morning.]
• Gawis ay masdem [Good Afternoon]
• Gawis ay labi [Good Evening]
• Nalpuam [Where did you come from?]
• Umayam [Where are you going?]
• Entako. [Let’s Go.]

Source: Benguet Culture

Best Places to Stay In

Unlike most tourist destinations, Sagada is mostly unexploited. Its accessibility and geography contribute to the fact that there are no high-rise hotels in the municipality. Because of this, travelers have a variety of very cheap accommodation options. Interestingly, here, hostels are the more expensive options, as opposed to the fact that they are usually cheaper in more urbanized cities. The accommodation types that offer the lowest rates are lodges and inns.

Misty Lodge and Café

Location: Staunton Rd, Sagada, Mountain Province

This is one of the very few lodges that have an in-house restaurant. This place is located at a distance from the center of town, so mornings can get really cold and misty, which is perhaps why it is named this way!

Kanip-aw Pines Lodge

Kanip-aw Pines Lodge is ideal for both solo and group travelers. The rate includes complete access to the kitchen, where you can prepare your own meals. This is your home away from home.

Location: Kinlibed, Sagada, Mountain Province Price: Php 832 via Agoda.com

Coffee Heritage House and Hostel

Imagine being surrounded by pine trees, with the scent of Sagada coffee trees every morning. This is what it’s like in Coit’s Heritage House and Hostel.

Location: Sitio Nadatngan, Barangay Madongo, Mountain Province, Sagada, 2619 Price: Php 1,455 via Agoda.com

Isabelo’s Inn and Café

Isabelo’s Inn is just across from the local tourist information office and town center. Despite their ideal location in town, their room rates stay very affordable. The rooms are clean and chilly, and the accommodation includes breakfast.

Location: South Road, Sagada, Mountain Province Price: Php 999

• SAGADA VILLAGE BEDS Traditional House [ Check Rates and Availability ]
• Baey Bogan Homestay [ Check Rates and Availability ]
• Rusty Nail Inn [ Check Rates and Availability ]

Also See: St Joseph Resthouse in Sagada

Where to Eat in Sagada

Yoghurt House

Although this restaurant is named Yoghurt House, it is actually a restaurant that has a wide-ranging menu. Dishes include vegetarian meals, pasta, breakfast, and snacks.

Sagada Lemon Pie House

Owned by Joseph Daoas, this Lemon Pie House is famous for its Lemon pie and Sagada mountain tea. The recipe for its famous pie and tea was perfected through the years.

Gaia Café and Crafts

Gaia Café and Crafts serve muffins and cookies, sandwiches, vegetable salads, and lots and lots of tea. The good part? All ingredients are fresh and organic. The best part? The marvelous view out the terrace.

Bana’s Café

If Bana’s accommodation you chose does not offer complimentary breakfast, consider stopping by Bana’s RestauraBana’sey provides a really excellent, homely breakfast menu and the best Sagada coffee, which has earned them international recognition recently.

Experience Sagada Cuisine with a French twist. The dinner buffet is usually packed, so don’t forget to reserve. The buffet dinner costs P500 per person.

Internet Access in Sagada

Most lodges, hostels, and inns offer free Wi-Fi connections in common areas. However, do not expect super-fast upload or download speeds. The stability of the connection may also be an issue. Download maps, travel guides, and other information before arriving in Sagada.

Best Things to Do in Sagada

Buy Sagada fruits from the market.

The mild climate of Sagada makes it the perfect fruit, among others. Don’t miss your chance to buy Sagada oranges, strawberries, or blueberries to your heart’s content.

Have a picnic at Lake Danum.

This picturesque, small lake is a grassland often overlooked because of its neighboring Mt. Ampacao. Although typically used as a jump-off point, Lake Danum is just as much a must-see as Mt. Ampacao. The open skies, fresh air, and trees make it the perfect place to go on a picnic. Just make sure to leave no trash behind!

Visit St. Mary the Virgin Church

The Church of St. Mary the Virgin in Sagada Mountain Province is the main Episcopalian church in the area built in 1904 by American missionaries.

Visit the Echo Valley

An area in Sagada with lush greenery and trails leading to the famous Sagada hanging coffins. Definitely a must-visit and one of our favorite Sagada tourist spots.

Catch the sunrise at Kiltepan.

If you want to truly see the beauty of nature, catch the sunset (or sunrise) at the Kiltepan view deck. Marvel at the rice paddies below before seeing the clouds roll before you to unveil the sunset. This destination is so beautiful that it was featured in a famous Philippine movie.

Drink Sagada coffee.

Aside from its heavenly appeal, Sagada has the best coffee beans ever. This isn’t just popular in the Philippines. In fact, the coffee beans from here are so delicious that Sagada coffee beans are also sold in Paris!

Other Places of interest in Sagada

• Sumaguing and Lumiang Caves
• Bomod-ok and Bokong Falls
• Rice terraces
• Kiltepan Tower
• Underground River
• Hanging Coffins
• Pongas Falls
• Mount Ampacao
• Marlboro Mountain
• Fortune Express
• Latang and Matang Caves
• St. Mary the Virgin Church
• Top Things to do and See in Sagada for First-Time Travelers
• 3 Days Sagada Adventure Itinerary

Best Places to Shop in Sagada

Sagada Weaving

Locals from the region are extremely talented when it comes to weaving. This is very evident in Sagada Weaving. Do not be fooled by the shop’s old interior. Inside are the best-woven slippers, bags, and apparel.

Sagada Collections Souvenir and Gift Shop

Located just across Sagada Weaving, from a t-shirt to keychains, they have all Sagada Souvenir items.

Sagada Weekend Market 

Aside from buying fruits, take home mountain tea, etag or smoked pork, and coffee beans. This market only opens on Saturdays, thus the name.

Also Read: Sagada Weekend Market

Sagada Pottery 

This souvenir shop is also an attraction. Aside from selling clay pots, they also offer pottery lessons, which is a souvenir in itself.

Also Read:  Sagada Pottery – Craftsmanship at its Best

• Sagada Pottery
• Shopping in Sagada: Where to Buy Souvenirs in Sagada?

Sagada Travel Tips

• All tourists who arrive in Sagada must pay Php 70 for the tourism fee at the tourism office. They will issue a receipt, which you should keep with you to access tourist destinations like Samaguing Cave, which requires a guide.
• Bring your own pocket Wi-Fi. Internet access is not too stable, and sharing Wi-Fi with other people (i.e., in the lodge or hostel of your choice) further slows down the speed.
• If you are more of a card person, get used to bringing along paper money. All establishments here (souvenir shops, restaurants, accommodation) only accept cash for payment.
• Conserve water. Like Baguio, the water supply in mountainous Sagada is limited and expensive.
• Bring your own water bottle. Let’s help our Let’sonment by minimizing the consumption of beverages in plastic bottles.
• Do not go out too late at night. Some roads are not installed with lights, and the rocky terrain will make it difficult and very dangerous to walk around.

Did you like our Sagada Budget Travel Guide? Please follow #TeamOutofTown on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , and Pinterest for more travel ideas.

• Hanging Coffins of Sagada: A dying Igorot tradition
• Spending Holy Week in Sagada
• 5 Reasons why you should visit Sagada
• Sagada Travel Guide: 10 Things you should know about Sagada
• Besao Travel Guide

Do you have a Pinterest account? Please pin this Sagada Blog post.

Written by Melo Villareal

Melo Villareal is the Online Publisher of Outoftownblog.com. He is an Accountant by profession who left the corporate world at the age of 23 to explore his beautiful country and the rest of the world. Today, Melo works as a part-time Social Media Manager for local and international clients. His full-time work focuses on discovering interesting culture, explore different cuisines and take memorable photos from local and international destinations he's visiting.

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Sagada Travel Guide: An Excellent Guide to the World

• by traveledictorian
• October 27, 2022 April 21, 2024

This Sagada Travel Guide helps you make the most of your three days in Sagada. It features a well-thought-out travel itinerary and a detailed budget for the trip.

Disclaimer: Some information in this Sagada Guide changes too often. If you continue reading this article, you agree to cross-check information with concerned authorities. Please read the site’s full Terms .

Introduction

I face challenges and hardships like many other people do. Hence, I embraced early on that life may be difficult and demanding.

Our parents separate when I was six. My mother went to work abroad and my father moved out to start a new family. I was nine years old when I had a near-death experience and endured the endless bullying.

In addition, I spent a difficult year by myself when I was twelve years old and experienced severe migraine that lasted ten years. Moreover, I was unable to get into the university of my dreams and turn down numerous times by corporate. I was deeply in debt at thirty, with no savings, no assets, and a mountain of debt.

I sought solace in the mountains of Sagada, a secluded and relaxed village in the northern-central Philippines. This tranquil setting helped me rebuild and heal after I went through my life’s most challenging times.

Sagada Travel Guide Contents

Quick fact about sagada, visa in the philippines, standard time in sagada, climate in sagada, best time to visit sagada, language in sagada, currency in sagada, modes of payment in sagada, ways of getting to sagada, getting around sagada, areas to stay in sagada, internet in sagada, power adaptor in sagada, sagada travel guide itinerary, budget for sagada trip.

• Sagada Guidebook Resources

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. And I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you for the purchases made through these links. Thank you! Please read the site’s full Disclosure .

Sagada has a distinct burial practice where the corpse of their departed locals hung in coffins. They believe it brings the souls of the dead closer to heaven.

Holders of foreign passports intending to visit the Philippines should contact the Embassy of the Philippines regarding entry requirements. Otherwise, consult iVisa.com , a reputable and trusted visa service provider.

Travelers to the country must undergo stringent immigration procedures. Please read the article, ‘How to Avoid Getting Offloaded at Philippine Immigration?’

The Coordinated Universal Time, or UTC, in the mountains of Sagada is UTC +08:00.

Thus, Sagada is four hours ahead of Dubai, six hours ahead of Paris, and seven hours ahead of London. Also, Sagada is twelve hours ahead of New York City. Conversely, Sagada is an hour behind Tokyo and three hours behind Sydney.

The Philippines has a tropical climate, which is warm, wet, and humid throughout the year. However, mountainous areas like Sagada have a more temperate climate than the rest of the country. 

Sagada, much like Batanes , is a perfect escape to avoid the scorching heat of the summer. It has a milder temperature that is best suited for outdoor activities.

March to May

The summer season begins in March and lasts until May. These months may experience a pleasantly warm climate, thus, one of the ideal times to visit Sagada. 

June to October

The months from June until October mark the start of the wet season in Sagada. It is prone to downpours and typhoons that may likely result in landslips. Nevertheless, visiting Sagada during the rainy season is still good since rainfalls and typhoons don’t persistently occur.

November to February

The best time of the year to visit Sagada is from November to February. Visitors may experience a drier and colder atmosphere during this season. Thus, wearing outerwear is advised to keep you warm from the cold weather.

Kankana-ey is the language spoken in Sagada. Aside from their native tongue, the ‘Igorots or Kankana-eys also converse in Ilocano, Tagalog, and English.

Here are the essential Kankana-ey words and phrases to learn before your trip to Sagada, Mountain Province.

• Gawis ay agsapa – Good morning
• Kas-ano ka? – How are you?
• Gawis ay masdem – Good afternoon
• Sino di ngadan mo? – What is your name?
• Gawis ay labi – Good evening
• Nalpuam? – Where are you?
• Pakada – Goodbye
• Umayam? – Where are you going?
• Entako – Let’s go
• Awni kod – Please wait
• Danan – Way
• Salodsod – Question

The Philippine peso, abbreviated as PHP, is the official currency in the Philippines. Exchange rate as of October 28, 2022: PHP 57.86 or USD 1.

Sagada remains a cash-centered economy where most transactions are in cash. For withdrawals, Sagada Information Center has a cash dispensing machine found inside their office.

Sagada Travel Guide Tip: Bring enough money to cover the entire length of your trip. The only ATM in Sagada will likely run out of cash and is sometimes offline.

Roughly 400 kilometers from Metro Manila, the remote town of Sagada is only accessible via inland travel. This long drive will take around eleven hours from Metro Manila. Otherwise, spend some time in Baguio or Banaue before heading to Sagada.

Metro Manila to Sagada via Baguio

Provincial buses like Victory Liner, Joy Bus, and Solid North have daily trips from Pasay, Manila , Cubao, and Caloocan Terminals to Baguio. The travel length from Metro Manila to Baguio is about 4-6 hours.

From the bus station in Baguio, hail a taxi to Dangwa Bus Terminal and pay around PHP 100.00 or USD 1.73. Embark to Besao bound buses like GL Liner or Lizardo Bus, which collect PHP 220.00 or USD 3.80 per way. It will take around six hours to reach Sagada from Baguio.

Sagada Travel Guide Reminder:  The final bus call from Baguio to Sagada is 1:00 pm. To catch the last departing bus to Sagada, take an evening trip to Baguio. 

Metro Manila to Sagada via Banaue

Ohayami Trans and Coda Lines are provincial buses that operate the Metro Manila to Banaue route. From their bus stations in Sampaloc and Cubao, it will take roughly nine hours to reach Banaue.

Moreover, spend around one hour on the road from Poblacion, Banaue to Bontoc, and another 45 minutes to Sagada. Transports like jeepneys and vans bring you toward these destinations. 

Metro Manila to Sagada

Coda Lines Bus in Cubao has direct trips from Metro Manila to Sagada . The entire travel will take about eleven hours, but there are journey breaks on the way.

Sagada Travel Guide Tip: Alternatively, reserve an organized Sagada tour with Banaue and Baguio side trips. It covers van transfers, lodgings, entrance fees, and meals.

While some areas within Patay (Poblacion) are walkable, Sagada has a few transportation options like jeeps and multicabs. Moreover, ride a tricycle or motorcycle for close distances if you don’t have the stamina to match Sagada’s sloppy terrain.

Jeepneys and Multicabs

These multi-seater transports are for outside the Sagada town proper, such as the Lamagan and Blue Soil Hills. For adventure seekers, opt for a top-load ride. Riding on a moving jeep while firmly seated on its roof racks offers a thrilling Sagada experience.

Sagada is a laidback community nestled in a valley. This sleepy locale offers many decent accommodations found along Sagada’s main thoroughfares. Although no high-end hotels are in Sagada, there are wide-range guesthouses, hostels, and inns to stay in for a multi-day vacation.

Alongside the South Road heading towards Lumiang and Sumaguing Caves are multi-story sleeping accommodations, restaurants, and retail. South Road is a well-liked area famous for its diners and cafés. Some are the Yoghurt House, Salt & Pepper Diner,  Sagada Brew, and Sagada Lemon Pie House. 

Sagada-Besao Road

To get nearer to the Sagada Pottery, spend the nights at homestays and hostels along Sagada-Besao Road or West Road. Like South Road, accommodations are multi-story buildings with attached restaurants and bars.

Staunton Road

This sprawling section of Sagada, the Staunton Road, has lodges and is home to the Sagada Weaving. It also serves as a service road to remote spots such as Kiltepan Viewpoint and Bomod-Ok Falls.

Despite being a mountain town, the internet connection in Sagada is relatively good due to its improved cell site infrastructures.

Sagada operates on a 220 V supply voltage with a frequency of 60 Hz and has one type of power adaptor:

• A or has two flat parallel pins

Day 1 - Central Sagada

09:30 pm – 08:30 am Travel to Sagada

08:30 am – 08:32 am Arrival in Sagada

• From Sagada Bus Stop
• Walk toward Tourist Information Center

08:32 am – 09:00 am Register and pay a tourism fee of PHP 100.00 or USD 1.73 (keep tickets), and book tour packages.

Below are the arranged tours offered at the Tourist Information Center as of September 2022:

Mission Compound with Echo Valley PHP 320.00 or 5.53 Maximum of 4 pax Inclusion: a tour guide

Paytokan Walk: Mission Compound with Echo Valley and Bokong Falls PHP 1,000.00 or USD 17.28 Maximum of 7 pax Inclusion: a tour guide

Sumaguing Cave PHP 1,200.00 or USD 20.74 Maximum of 5 pax Inclusion: a tour guide and shuttle service

Bomod-Ok Falls PHP 1,400.00 or USD 24.20 Maximum of 7 pax Inclusion: a tour guide and shuttle service

Lumiang – Sumaguing Cave Connection PHP 1,900.00 or USD 32.84 Maximum of 3 pax Inclusion: a tour guide and shuttle service

Nabas Ang Ampucao PHP 2,000.00 or USD 34.57 Maximum of 7 pax Inclusion: a tour guide and shuttle service

Lamagan and Blue Soil Hills PHP 2,950.00 or USD 50.99 Maximum of 7 pax Inclusion: a tour guide and shuttle service

Sagada Travel Guide Reminder: The cost for each head relies on the number of participants joining a specific tour.

09:00 am – 01:00 pm Confirm reservation and check-in at Kanip Aw Pines View Lodge , have breakfast and lunch, and nap

Yoghurt House

The Yoghurt House is one of Sagada’s well-known casual dining restaurants along South Road. It is a two-story building with an upstairs balcony serving buttermilks, breakfast meals, drinks, and sandwiches.

Yoghurt House is open, from Monday through Sunday, from 08:30 a.m. to 08:30 p.m.

01:00 pm – 03:00 pm Walking tour at Patay (Poblacion)

• From Sagada Tourism Office
• Walk to the Church of Saint Mary the Virgin

St. Mary the Virgin Church

The Church of Saint Mary the Virgin is an Episcopal church built under the headship of Reverend John Staunton. Constructed in the early 1900s, it is considered the oldest church in the Cordilleras and the center of American missionary works.

Sagada Travel Guide Reminder: There is an access fee to the Mission Compound amounting to PHP 10.00 or USD 0.17 per head. This amount is payable at the site entrance.

Echo Valley

A few meters from St. Mary, the Virgin Church is a spot with a view of limestones covered in lush greeneries. It produces reverberating sounds when someone screams.

Sagada Hanging Coffins

A visit to Sagada would not be complete without seeing the hanging Coffins. These coffins hung on the surfaces of cliffs are ancient practice that has existed for over 2,000 years.

According to the locals, it is a belief that the upraised caskets with corpses will bring their spirits nearer to heaven. Or may prevent the remains from wild animals.

03:00 pm – 03:45 pm Visit the Sagada Weaving

• From the Echo Valley
• Hike back to the town proper
• Walk toward Sagada Weaving

Sagada Weaving

Established in 1968, the Sagada Weaving is a workshop and store that produces and sells Sagada’s finest woven fabrics. It has a collection of hand-made products like apparel, bags, and other souvenir items.

There is no entrance fee.

03:45 pm – 08:00 pm Head back to lodging, take some rest, freshen up, and have dinner 08:00 pm Sleep

Day 2 - East and West Sagada

03:30 am – 04:30 am Wake up, take a bath, and prepare

04:30 am – 05:45 am Head to Lamagan for the sunrise viewing

• From the lodge
• Take the shuttle service
• Alight at the drop-off point in Gimpeng, Eastern Sagada
• Hike toward Lamagan

Sagada Travel Guide Tip: The entire trail entails around 4-5 hours. So, bring energy bars and your drinking water to keep you hydrated. Also, don’t forget to bring your headlamps and flashlights. 

05:45 am – 10:45 am Trek at Lamagan and Blue Soil Hills

Sunrise chasing is one of the most popular things to do in Sagada. To catch the rising sun, climb to Lamagan or Marlboro Hills – one of Sagada’s incredible sunrise viewing spots.

Perfect weather allows spectators to witness the peeping sun over the Cordillera mountains and the ocean of clouds.

• From Lamagan
• Trek downhill to Blue Soil Hills

Blue Soil Hills

Trek about three kilometers from Marlboro Hills to reach Sagada’s Blue Soil Hills, locally called ‘Kaman-utek.’ It has a distinct pale-bluish color due to the high amount of copper sulfate in this area enclosed with Pine trees.

10:45 am – 11:05 am Head to Poblacion

• From the exit point in Madoto, South Sagada
• Alight at Poblacion

11:05 am – 02:00 pm Take some rest and have breakfast and lunch 02:00 pm – 05:00 pm Explore the West Road

Ganduyan Museum

Situated closer to Sagada Town Hall, Ganduyan Museum is a privately-owned museum that exhibits indigenous artifacts like weapons, wares, textiles, etc. The local behind this gallery, Christina Aben, aims to preserve the town’s cultural heritage through these valuable pieces of Sagada.

There is no entrance fee at Ganduyan Museum, but a donation is accepted.

Sagada Travel Guide Fact: Ganduyan is the former name of Sagada.

Sagada Pottery

Located alongside Sagada-Besao Road, Sagada Pottery is a workshop with a gallery displaying various types of earthen crafts. There is a demonstration about the basics of pottery for PHP 100.00 or USD 1.73 per session. Moreover, resident artisans offer guided actual pot-making for PHP 100.00 or USD 1.73.

The Sagada Pottery is open from Monday until Sunday, from 10:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m.

05:00 pm – 08:30 pm Head back to the lodge, take some rest, and have dinner

08:30 pm Sleep

Day 3 - South and North Sagada

05:00 am – 07:15 am Wake up, prepare, have breakfast, and head to Lumiang Cave

• Alight at the Lumiang Burial Cave

Sagada Travel Guide Reminder: Activities like the cave connection are not advisable for children, seniors, and those with health problems.

07:15 am – 11:15 am Caving at Lumiang and Sumaguing

Lumiang Cave

The 4-5 hour spelunking through the cave connection usually begins at the Lumiang Cave. From the cave entrance, visitors will notice stacks of wooden coffins, including Sagada’s oldest casket, about 500 age-old.

Sumaguing Cave

From Lumiang Cave, enter Sagada’s enormous cavern – the Sumaguing Cave. This underneath cave network offers adrenaline-fueled activities that will test one’s stamina, like rappelling.

Inside the Sagada’s ‘Big Cave’ are striking rock formations resembling an elephant, a pregnant woman, and even a cake.

11:15 am – 11:30 am Head to Poblacion

• From Sumaguing Cave

11:30 am – 01:30 pm Take a rest and have lunch

01:30 pm – 05:00 pm Explore Bomod-Ok Falls

• From Poblacion
• Alight at the drop-off point in Bangaan
• Trek downhill towards Bomod-Ok Falls

Sagada Travel Guide Reminder: There is access fee to Bomod-Ok Falls amounting to PHP 10.00 or USD 0.17 per head. This amount is payable at Barangay Fidelisan.

Bomod-Ok Falls

The Bomod-Ok Falls are perhaps Sagada’s most striking waterfalls. The ‘Big Falls’ is the highest among the falls in Sagada, the Pongas, and Bokong.

Visitors must surpass the uneven terrains to reach these 200 feet falls in Sagada’s northernmost village. You will pass through rice paddies and rivers for an hour before reaching the town’s tallest falls. 

• From Bomod-Ok Falls
• Trek to the pick-up point in Barangay Pide

05:00 pm – 08:30 pm Head to the lodge, take some rest, and have dinner

Sagada Lemon Pie House

Located alongside South Road, Sagada Lemon Pie House is a specialty restaurant known for its signature recipe, the lemon pie. This food house also serves meals that are best with homemade lemonade.

The Lemon Pie House is open from Monday to Sunday, from 06:00 a.m. until 08:00 p.m.

Day 4 - Banaue

05:00 am – 07:00 am Wake up, take a bath, have breakfast, lodge check out 07:00 am – 07:15 am Walk toward Sagada bus station 07:15 am – 08:30 am Travel to Bontoc, Mt. Province 08:30 am – 09:45 am Head to Banaue, Ifugao

In 2022, I spent P 6,010.00 for three days and three nights in Sagada. However, costs may still vary based on your travel lifestyle. Please read ’ 35 Excellent Tips to Save Money on Travel .’

Below is the Sagada Travel Guide budget for your reference. 

Pre-Departure

• Bus fare, from Metro Manila to Sagada, PHP 960.00
• 3D3N lodging, PHP 3,780.00/2, PHP 1,890.00
• Sagada Tourism Fee, PHP 100.00
• Breakfast and lunch, P 210.00
• Mission Compound with Echo Valley Tour, P 320.00/2, PHP 160.00
• Lamagan to Blue Soul Tour, PHP 2,950.00/5, PHP 590.00
• Cave Connection Tour – from Lumiang Cave to Sumaguing Cave, PHP 1,900.00/3, PHP 640.00
• Bomod-Ok Falls Tour, PHP 1,400.00/5, PHP 280.00
• Mission Compound Access Fee, PHP 10.00
• Dinner, PHP 160.00
• Breakfast and Lunch, PHP 160.00
• Ganduyan Museum, PHP 50.00
• Pottery demonstration, PHP 100.00
• Breakfast, PHP 160.00
• Lunch, PHP 160.00
• Bomod-Ok Falls Access Fee, PHP 10.00
• Dinner, PHP 210.00

Sagada Travel Guide Resources

To help you with your travel plans, I’ve gathered a checklist of carefully chosen travel resources. These are the trusted online marketplaces that I highly endorse because of their excellent deals.

Looking for an easy-peasy solution to process your visa application and other travel documents? Consult iVisa !

SafetyWing is your safeguard for travel medical and health insurance while away from home. 

The sky is the limit with Skyscanner if you are looking for better and cheaper flight options for your next trip.

Reserve a room on one of the largest online hotel booking platforms, Agoda . It offers unbeatable hotel deals!

Explore the world with HostelWorld ! Make a reservation and share a space with newfound buddies. 

Drive your way to undiscovered places! Book a car via Discover Cars and experience hassle-free road trips. 

Would you like to visit your favorite museum and theme park? For discounted attraction tickets and tours, look for Klook !

For transfers from point A to point B, go for 12Go ! It has an extensive coverage of ground transports and ferries, too.

Sagada Travel Guide Question : What is the former name of Sagada? Please drop your answers or messages in the comment section. Thank you, and see you on the road!

About the Author

J. Sac is the author of ‘Sagada Travel Guide: An Excellent Guide to the World.’ He is also the founder of Traveledictorian – a travel blog that publishes well-thought-out travel content.

His passion for writing, photography, and travel fueled him to explore Asia and the rest of the world. He also plans to undertake humanitarian work in his travels. Read his inspiring story and follow him on social media!

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Russian Foreign Minister Visits Guinea on Africa Influence Tour

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov arrived on Monday in Guinea, his ministry said , marking his first trip to the West African country since 2013. 

Moscow, which has seen its relations with the West plummet since invading Ukraine in February 2022, has in recent years sought to boost its influence in Africa.

Russia's Foreign Ministry announced Monday's visit on Telegram with a photo of Lavrov at Conakry airport but did not provide further details on the trip.

The state-run TASS news agency reported that  Guinea would be part of a larger tour of African countries but did not specify what other nations on the continent Lavrov plannet to visit. 

Russian media outlets reported that the foreign minister may also travel to Chad and Burkina Faso during the tour.

In July, Russian President Vladimir Putin invited African leaders to a summit in St. Petersburg where he said they agreed to promote a multipolar world order and to fight neocolonialism.

Putin hailed the "commitment of all our states to the formation of a just and democratic multipolar world order" during a statement to the media following the summit.

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Russia's Lavrov Gets Controversial Welcome in South Africa

French ‘spy’ detained in Moscow

Russia has claimed it arrested a French foreign agent in Moscow on Thursday on suspicion of gathering information about the activities of the country’s military.

A criminal case has been launched against the unnamed Frenchman, who was seen being loaded into the back of a van by masked officers, for violating Russia’s law that labels many foreign workers as agents and restricts their activities. Russia’s investigative committee said the man was involved in the “targeted collection of information in the field of military [and] military-technical activities of the Russian Federation”. “Such information, if obtained by foreign sources, may be used against the security of the state,” it added.

According to the committee, the man had repeatedly visited Russia for several years and held meetings with Russian citizens.

The man could face up to five years in prison. The French Foreign Ministry in Paris is yet to comment. 

It comes as French authorities accused an ex-Russian soldier of plotting a bomb attack on Western weapons suppliers in France.

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Ukraine orders evacuations from parts of Donetsk region

Ukraine on Thursday announced it was ordering the evacuation of children and their guardians from several towns and villages in the eastern Donetsk region, where fighting with Russia is intensifying.

Volodymyr Zelensky has said Russian firepower is now concentrated on the Donetsk region, which the Kremlin claimed to have annexed in 2022, despite not having full control over it.

Vadym Filashkin, the Donetsk regional governor, said on social media.“This is an important decision designed primarily to save the lives of our children,” 

“The security situation in the region is constantly deteriorating, and the intensity of shelling is increasing.”

He listed the town of Lyman, which was briefly held by Russian forces before being recaptured, as well as several other villages near the front line, including the hamlet of Progres.

Zelensky discusses Ukraine summit with Modi

Volodymyr Zelensky discussed the Ukraine summit in Switzerland with Narendra Modi, India’s prime minister, on Thursday.

“We rely on India’s participation at the highest level. I also invited prime minister Modi to visit Ukraine at a convenient time,” Mr Zelensky said on X.

He congratulated Mr Modi on the election victory and wished a speedy formation of the government.

Biden says US ‘will not walk away’ from Ukraine

Joe Biden said Thursday that the United States would “not walk away” from Ukraine.

“We will not walk away because if we do Ukraine will be subjugated and it will not end there,” Mr Biden said during commemorations of the 80th anniversary of D-Day in Normandy. 

“Ukraine’s neighbours will be threatened, all of Europe will be threatened,” he added, describing Vladimir Putin as a “tyrant bent on domination”.

Pictured: Destruction in Kherson

In this photograph, Raisa Abramtseva, 68, stands in her heavily damaged house in the village of Novovorontsovka, Kherson region.

Ukraine prolongs outages after power plant strikes

Kyiv on Thursday said it would maintain emergency blackouts across the country and import electricity from Europe to ease the fallout from Russian strikes on its power plants.

Attacks on Ukraine’s thermal and hydroelectric plants in recent weeks have forced authorities to take sweeping measures to keep the grid from total collapse.

“Restrictions on household and industrial consumers are being applied throughout the day, throughout Ukraine,” the energy ministry said in a statement.

It has called on households and private businesses to limit consumption and recently increased imports from neighbouring countries to maintain supplies.

Authorities in the capital Kyiv are aiming to guarantee residents between four and six hours of electricity everyday, according to schedules published online.

Businesses have reverted to generators to keep the lights on and doors open to customers during scheduled and unscheduled emergency outages.

Nato nations ‘need to build more’ military equipment

Nato nations “need to build more” military equipment to face up to the growing threat from Russia, the alliance’s top general Christopher Cavoli told AFP on Thursday.

“When it comes to military equipment... we need to build more, we need to expand our industrial base,” Supreme Allied Commander Europe Mr Cavoli said at D-Day 80th anniversary commemorations in Normandy.

But he added that Nato “is ready to do collective territorial defence”, pointing to a vast exercise dubbed Steadfast Defender 24, which involved 90,000 allied troops across multiple European countries from January to May.

“We’ve shifted our focus entirely over the last couple of years, we used to do out-of-area operations, now we’re focused on defending the territory of the alliance,” Mr Cavoli said.

Pictured: Firefighters battle flames caused by Russian attack

Firefighters have been battling flames at the site of a household items shopping mall hit by a Russian military strike in Kherson, Ukraine.

Ukraine seeks damages for Russia’s destruction of dam

Ukraine’s Ukrhydroenergo, which administers many major hydro power plants along the Dnieper and Dniester rivers, said on Thursday it had initiated international arbitration seeking damages for Russia’s destruction of the Kakhovka Dam and power station in June 2023.

The state-run hydro-electric company estimated the damage at 2.5 billion euros, it said.

Nato has ‘no plans to deploy forces to Ukraine’

Nato chief Jens Stoltenberg on Thursday said that the alliance had no plans to deploy forces to Ukraine, despite many of its members supplying Kyiv with weapons since Russia’s invasion.

“Nato has no plans to deploy forces to Ukraine,” Mr Stoltenberg said during a visit to Finland, adding that the alliance was seeking “long term financial commitment to ensure that we stand by Ukraine for as long as it takes”.

“Over the last months, we have seen some gaps, some delays in the provision of military support to Ukraine,” Mr Stoltenberg said, adding: “we need to ensure that that doesn’t happen again.”

Listen: Ukraine The Latest

Listen to yesterday’s episode of Ukraine: The Latest below. 

Ukraine destroys Russian tugboat off Crimea

Ukraine destroyed a Russian tugboat on Thursday, Ukraine’s GUR military intelligence agency said, part of continued efforts to deny Russia use of the Black Sea.

The agency said on the Telegram messaging app that one of its units had struck and destroyed the “Saturn” (or “Proteus”) tugboat off the coast of Russian-occupied Crimea after successfully breaking through the defensive barriers.

Ukraine has launched multiple long-range attacks on targets on and near the Crimean peninsula during Russia’s 27-month-long full-scale invasion, seeking to destroy Moscow’s military capabilities and force its fleet to pull back from the Black Sea.

Hungary will attend Ukraine peace conference in Switzerland

Hungary will attend a Ukraine peace conference in Switzerland on June 15, its Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto said on Thursday at an economic forum held in Saint-Petersburg.

“Hungary will be represented at the conference at foreign minister level,” Mr Szijjarto said.

Russia ‘could use nuclear weapons’

Despite his comments denying the possibility of attacking Nato countries, Vladimir Putin cautioned the West that Russia could use “all available means” to defend itself if its sovereignty or territorial integrity were threatened.

He said that Russia’s nuclear doctrine permits its weapons to be used in response to several threats.

“For some reason, the West believes that Russia will never use it,” Putin said. 

“We have a nuclear doctrine, look what it says. If someone’s actions threaten our sovereignty and territorial integrity, we consider it possible for us to use all means at our disposal. This should not be taken lightly, superficially.”

Russia ‘could provide long-range weapons to others to strike Western targets’

As he criticised the West’s delivery of long-range weapons to Ukraine, Vladimir Putin argued that Moscow could respond “in kind” by deploying similar arms to other countries to attack Western targets.

Putin warned that the use of Western weapons would “mark their direct involvement” in a war against Russia.

Putin said that because using such Western weapons for striking Russian territory involves military personnel of the respective countries controlling the missiles and selecting targets, Moscow could take “asymmetrical” steps.

That could include giving such weapons to others to target facilities of respective countries elsewhere in the world, he explained. 

“If they consider it possible to deliver such weapons to the combat zone to launch strikes on our territory and create problems for us, why don’t we have the right to supply weapons of the same type to some regions of the world where they can be used to launch strikes on sensitive facilities of the countries that do it to Russia?” he said.

“We will think about it,” he said

Western arms deliveries to Ukraine are ‘very dangerous step’

Vladimir Putin warned that Western arms deliveries to Ukraine were “a very dangerous step”, especially if donors are “controlling” the use of the weapons.

“Delivering arms to a warzone is always bad. Even more so if those who are delivering are not just delivering weapons but also controlling them. This is a very serious and very dangerous step,” Putin told reporters.

Several countries, including Germany and the United States, have in recent weeks given the green light for Ukraine to use Western-supplied weapons to strike targets inside Russia in response to a new offensive launched by Moscow in northeast Ukraine last month.

Putin says Ukraine’s war losses ‘higher than Russia’s’

Vladimir Putin said that Russian losses in Ukraine were “several times less” than Ukraine’s.

Putin did not disclose Russia’s numbers of dead and wounded, which Ukraine and Western military analysts believe are significantly higher than Ukraine’s.

He said, without providing evidence, that Ukrainian casualties amounted to about 50,000 servicemen a month, claiming the toll was five times higher than Moscow’s.

“If we talk about irrecoverable losses, irrecoverable losses specifically, the ratio is one to five,” Putin said. 

EU could back US plans to issue loan underwritten by seized Russian assets to Ukraine

The EU could back US plans to issue a $50 billion loan underwritten by seized Russian assets to Ukraine.

The bloc’s finance ministers, sources said, appeared to favour Washington’s scheme, when they held virtual talks on Wednesday, ahead of a meeting of G7 leaders in Italy.

The plan would involve money being distributed to Kyiv that would be backed by the frozen assets held in the West and paid for using profits from cash.

Before the plan can be operationalised, President Joe Biden wants the support of his fellow G7 leaders and the EU to extend its sanctions against Moscow indefinitely.

About $300 billion belonging to the Russian central bank has been frozen in the West, with about 70 per cent of that held in Belgium’s Euroclear security depository.  

Putin warns Germany

Vladimir Putin warned Germany that the use of its weapons by Ukraine to strike targets in Russia would mark a “dangerous step”. 

He said that if German missiles hit Russia, relations between Berlin and Moscow would be “destroyed” and that it is “strange” that none of its leaders “defend the interests” of the country. 

“Now if they use missiles to strike facilities on the Russian territory it will completely ruin Russian-German relations,” he said.

Russia does ‘not expect’ US election to result in policy change towards Russia

Vladimir Putin said that Russia did not expect the outcome of the US presidential election in November to result in a policy change towards Moscow, but did not rule out such a shift.

Putin, speaking to media editors at an economic forum in St Petersburg, said it was hard to say if Donald Trump would make any changes towards Russia if he won.

“For the most part, we do not care (who wins the U.S. election),” he said.

“To say - I am speaking quite sincerely - that we believe that after the elections something will change towards Russia in American policy, I would not say so. We don’t think so. We think that nothing really serious will happen.”

Fire extinguished at Russian refinery

A fire has been extinguished at the Novoshakhtinsk oil refinery in Russia’s Rostov region which had been attacked by a Ukrainian drone, regional governor Vasily Golubev reported. 

Putin speaks on Trump’s guilty verdict

During his three-hour-long press briefing, Vladimir Putin spoke about Donald Trump, touching upon the upcoming election and his recent guilty verdict. 

Putin said that by finding Trump guilty in the ‘hush money’ trial, officials had ensured that the former US president would see an increase in his popularity. 

“It is obvious all over the world that the prosecution of Trump... is simply the utilisation of the judicial system during an internal political struggle,” he said.

Putin added that accusations of espionage against Trump, in which people have claimed he is a Russian spy, is “nonsense”. 

Pictured: Putin holds St Petersburg International Economic Forum

Vladimir Putin was photographed at the Lakhta Center multifunctional complex in St Petersburg during the 27th St Petersburg International Economic Forum.

‘Nothing will change’ regardless of US election outcome, says Putin

Speaking to international journalists on Wednesday, Vladimir Putin said that nothing will change in terms of Russia-US relations regardless of who wins the US election.

“We will work with any president the American people will elect,” Putin said.

The Russian president added that Joe Biden is an “old school” leader.

Putin takes questions from international media outlets

Vladimir Putin took questions from international media outlets on Wednesday, the first time he has done so since Russia invaded Ukraine. 

The roundtable session took place on the sidelines of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum.

The Russian leader has used the annual forum as a showcase for touting Russia’s development and seeking investors.

Ukraine downs 17 out of 18 drones used in Russia’s overnight attack

The Ukrainian air force shot down 17 out of 18 Shahed-type drones over four regions during Russia’s overnight attack on Thursday, according to the military.

Russia’s attack caused a fire at an infrastructure facility in Khmelnytskyi region, where one drone was shot down, the regional governor said. The emergency services worked to put out the fire on Thursday morning with no casualties reported by local authorities.

Ukrainian military shot down eight drones over the southern region of Mykolaiv with no damages reported by the regional governor. Drones were also shot down over Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions.

Russian forces also used two Iskander-M ballistic missiles to attack Dnipropetrovsk region, the military said. No details on damage from the missile attack were immediately available.

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Why travel to Moscow

Contrasts: 12th century monasteries and some of the tallest skyscrapers in Europe can be found side-by-side in this complex and captivating city. The diversity of this mega-city is astounding. Only a few steps away from the solemn red facade of the Kremlin and the sounds of righteous church bells, a buzzing night scene and alternative-fashion boutiques can be found.

Culture: In Moscow only the best goes. Be it a theatre, restaurant or gallery, the standards are certain to be world-class. The Bolshoi ballet company is reputed to be even better than the Mariinsky’s and “MMOMA” (Moscow’s museum of modern art) exhibits works of art as profound as any that could be found in the famed MOMA.

Convenience: Unlike the rest of Russia, it’s easy enough to get by with just English in Moscow and, driving excepted, it is surprisingly safe: the murder rate is lower than in some of America’s major cities.

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It would take more than two days to walk around the perimeter of the biggest city in Europe, Moscow. Many of its inhabitants barely know what’s beyond the few blocks around their flat and there are so many attractions that it’s almost impossible to know where to start. If there is such a thing as an antidote to boredom, Moscow City is it. The mind-boggling range and diversity of things to do, places to eat, parks, historical monuments and more means that a vacation in Moscow has a wealth of activities to offer for every type of traveler, from young families to retirees.

Reasons to Vacation in Moscow in 2022

The Bolshoi theatre is familiar to almost everyone as Russia’s grandest theatre, but what people don’t know is that there are many more bolshoi (big) sites in Moscow that are worth travelling all the way to Moscow to see. For more than 100 years, the world’s biggest bell has been hidden behind the Kremlin’s walls and inside Moscow’s main park (which is bigger than some countries!) there is the world’s largest outdoor ice-rink. Travelers that visit Moscow can stay at the Izmailovo, Europe’s biggest hotel, then eat at the largest and most historic McDonald’s in Europe and after that have fun at the largest European indoor theme park!

Ancient Past & Stunning Architecture:

As those who travel to Moscow will see, just because Moscow is a city of record-breaking, glitzy high-rises doesn’t mean that there is no history. On the famous Arbat street, time-worn, wooden storehouses and century-old churches are squashed up against grey, soviet blocks which are then towered over by 21st century office-blocks. Unlike its much younger sibling, St Petersburg, Moscow’s roots stretch way back to the 12th century. Within the walls of the Kremlin, the city’s oldest building the Cathedral of Assumption can be admired in all its 500+ years of age.

Culture & Convenience

For a foreigner who has never visited Russia, Moscow is the perfect stepping stone into this great land of mystery. From the country’s best classical ballet troupes to snow-white troikas trotting through the parks, all the highlights of Russian culture can be had in Moscow without any of the complications that would be expected in other, less developed regions of Russia.

Cheap as Caviar

In Moscow, everything is bargain when with the current foreign exchange rates being what they are. Even caviar doesn’t seem so dear when the exchange rate is at 60rub to the dollar, so go on indulge yourself! Take your 2022 vacation in Moscow and have the best of both worlds, with European luxury at very affordable prices.

Lena, our guide in Moscow was excellent. She was very knowledgable and could answer any question we had for her. We liked that she could pick up on our interests and take us places we might not have thought of to go. When we realized that one of the places we had chosen to see would probably not be that interesting to us, she was able to arrange entry to the Diamond Fund and the Armoury for us. Riding the Metro with Lena was a real adventure and a lot of fun. In Saint Petersburg we found Anna well versed in the history of the Tsars and in the Hermitage collection. Arkady in Veliky Novgorod was a very good guide and answered all of our questions with ease. Novgorod was perhaps a long way to go for a day trip, but we did enjoy it. Vasily was a great driver to have and kept us safe with good humour and skill. We enjoyed ourselves so much, my daughter says she is already planning to return. We would both have no hesistation to recommend ExpresstoRussia to anyone we know.

Just wanted to let you know that My grandson Bruno and I couldn´t have been more pleased with our week in Moscow (6/15 - 6/21). We were absolutely enchanted with the whole experience, including getting lost a couple of times in the Metro during our free time. Although both our guides (both Eleanas) were excellent, I would particularly commend the first one (she took us to the Tatiakov, the KGB tour, and to that beautiful cemetery where so many great Russian artists, authors, composers, musicians, militarists, and politicians are buried). Her knowledge is encyclopedic; and her understanding of today´s Russia as a product of its past was, for us, truly enlightening. I will be taking another tour in Russia, with my wife, within the next two or three years. I will be in touch with you when the time comes. Meanwhile, I will refer you to other potential visitors to Russia as I meet them.

We had a great time both in Moscow and St Petersburg. Your travel agency was excellent in coordinating the whole trip. Everything worked like clockwork. The guides assigned to us were very nice and friendly. They had a great knowledge of their subjects. The cars and the drivers were great. The hotels were good and the itinerary was good. All in all, it was a wonderful experience. It was nice dealing with you and your company. Thank you very much for a great Russian experience. Have a great future ahead

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Moscow Could Target Countries Supplying Weapons to Ukraine, Putin Says

President Vladimir V. Putin said that since Western governments were allowing long-range missiles to be used on Russia, it could do the same.

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By Neil MacFarquhar

President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia warned on Wednesday that Western nations supplying Ukraine with long-range missiles and allowing them to be used to attack inside Russia was a “dangerous step” that could prompt Moscow to reciprocate against Western targets.

“If someone thinks it possible to send such weapons to a war zone to strike our territory and create problems for us,” Mr. Putin said at a news conference , “then why do we not have the right to send our weapons of the same class to those regions of the world where strikes can be made on sensitive facilities of the countries that do this against Russia?”

Mr. Putin singled out Germany, saying that its supply of battle tanks to Ukraine had been an initial blow to Russian-German relations, but its permission to use missiles in Russia was even worse.

“Now, when they say that some missiles will appear that will strike targets on Russian territory, this, of course, is ultimately destroying Russo-German relations,” he said.

Mr. Putin was speaking to senior editors from at least 15 news agencies from around the world that were invited to meet with him on the sidelines of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum. Mr. Putin had skipped the tradition since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, but this year the invitation was extended to Western outlets such as The Associated Press, Reuters and various European agencies including Agence France-Presse, DPA from Germany, ANSA from Italy and EFE from Spain.

Mr. Putin’s spokesman, Dmitri S. Peskov, told reporters that representatives from “unfriendly countries” were included because “it is very important for them to get to know Putin and understand Russia firsthand,” according to Russia’s official news agency, Tass.

Western business executives largely avoided the forum, while China had a significant presence, including a presentation of a bulletproof limousine that retails for more than $560,000 in China, Tass reported.

Mr. Putin answered questions on a wide range of topics, but many of the queries focused on the war in Ukraine. Although Russia invaded Ukraine after it had begun destabilizing the Eastern regions in 2014 by supporting separatists, Mr. Putin again portrayed the war as the fault of Ukraine and its Western allies.

Countries that are supplying weapons to Ukraine risked being dragged into a war with Russia, he said.

It was not clear where Mr. Putin possibly planned to position Russian weapons in other regions. Troops and armaments have been deployed in Belarus, possibly including nuclear missiles, during the war. Belarus borders Europe more closely than Russia, as does the Russian enclave of Kaliningrad on the Baltic Sea. Russia also has forces in Syria near bases where the United States operates.

In terms of relations with Washington, Mr. Putin said that he did not think the looming presidential election would change much as long as the United States continued to pursue “greatness.”

Asked about the recent conviction of the former president, Donald J. Trump, Mr. Putin said that the United States was burning itself from within. “It is obvious all over the world that the prosecution of Trump, especially in court on charges that were formed on the basis of events that happened years ago, without direct proof, is simply using the judicial system in an internal political struggle,” he said.

On the subject of Evan Gershkovich , the American reporter from The Wall Street Journal who has been imprisoned in Russia on espionage charges for more than a year, Mr. Putin said that the United States was taking “vigorous steps” toward his release. Mr. Gershkovich, The Journal and the U.S. government have all denied the charges.

Such issues “should only be resolved on the basis of reciprocity,” Mr. Putin added. “The relevant U.S. and Russian agencies are in contact with each other on this issue.”

Milana Mazaeva contributed reporting.

Neil MacFarquhar has been a Times reporter since 1995, writing about a range of topics from war to politics to the arts, both internationally and in the United States. More about Neil MacFarquhar

Our Coverage of the War in Ukraine

News and Analysis

President Biden observed the 80th anniversary of D-Day on the beaches of Normandy by asserting that the allied effort to stand up to Russia  is a direct extension of the battle for freedom that raged across Europe during World War II.

President Vladimir Putin of Russia warned that Western nations supplying Ukraine with long-range missiles and allowing them to be used to attack inside Russia could prompt Moscow to reciprocate against Western targets .

The decision by the Biden administration to allow Ukraine to strike inside Russia  with American-made weapons fulfills a long-held wish by officials in Kyiv  that they claimed was essential to level the playing field.

Zelensky Interview: In an interview with The New York Times, President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine challenged the West  over its reluctance to take bolder action.

Tug of War:  Fueled in part by the Ukraine war, tensions have been mounting in former Soviet states like Georgia and Moldova , pitting those favoring closer relations with Russia against those orientated more toward Europe.

Fleeing a War Zone: A 98-year-old Ukrainian grandmother stumbled past corpses and bomb craters  to escape Russia’s attacks.

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