Sagada: This Mountain Town Will Show You Why Cliffs And Caves Are Better Than Beaches

One of the places you can visit when you head up north in Luzon is Sagada, a small town located in the province of Mountain Province that’s about 275 kilometers (171 miles) north of Manila.

From the zigzagging roads to the breathtaking mountain landscapes you’ll see on the way, the journey to Sagada alone is already an adventure.

If you’re seeking cool weather, adventure, culture, and plenty of nature, Sagada is the perfect gateway. For those who are tired of the usual Baguio summer vacation, Sagada is an excellent alternative option.

Things to Do in Sagada

If you find yourself planning for a trip to visit “Mountain Province’s Pride,” here’s a list of places you should make sure to visit.

Hanging CoffinsStaunton Rd., Sagada, Mountain Province, Philippines

The Hanging Coffins in Sagada are a sight to behold, and is one of its main attractions. Not to be macabre, the hanging coffins show the unique culture of the Philippines’ mountain ethnic groups.

Hanging Coffins, Sagada by Gino Mempin

The people of Sagada believe that a person’s burial ground is determined by the cause of his or her death. People who reach a ripe old age when they died were given the honor of burial in the cliff of the hanging coffins. People who suffered from unnatural causes of death such as disease, accidents, or murders are buried in Calvary Hill. Coffins hang off the cliff because the people of Sagada also believe that it brings one closer to heaven and their gods.

Cave ConnectionLumiang and Sumaguing Caves
Sagada, Mountain Province, Philippines

The cave connection connects two caves: the Lumiang and Sumaguing Cave. Lumiang Cave is unique because its entrance is lined with coffins. The entrance of the cave served as a burial site for the indigenous groups living in the area. The cave connection is the perfect thrill ride for the adventurous at heart, one misstep and you will fall into a crevice inside the cave. If the guide tells you to step on any part of his body, you better do it… it may actually save your life.

Sumaguing Cave, Sagada by jaya on flickr

The cave connection takes you through the breathtaking system hidden under Sagada. The gem of the cave connection is Sumaguing Cave. You will see many formations (formed for thousands of years) that take on different shapes and sizes. From towers to chandeliers to cakes, the caves in Sagada are worth the visit. The Cave Connection takes approximately 4 hours, depending on the pace of your group.

Kiltepan PeakKiltepan Rd., Sagada, Mountain Province, Philippines

A trip up Kiltepan Peak rewards visitors with breathtaking views of Sagada’s landscape.

Sunrise at Kiltepan Peak by Arlene on flickr

The sea of clouds slowly moving over the landscape is picturesque. The best time to go to the peak is during sunrise, where the sun’s rays wrap the landscape with its golden light.

Bomod-Ok FallsPide, Sagada, Mountain Province, Philippines

The most visited waterfall in Sagada is Bomod-Ok. The falls drop several meters down into a pool where visitors can swim in after a tiring 4.2 kilometer (2.6 miles) trek through rice fields. Make sure to bring your cameras with you as you’ll be seeing the beautiful Fidelisan Rice Terraces.

Fidelisan Rice Terraces, Sagada from enroutethechroniclesofawayfarer.blogspot.com

After about 1 to 2 hours of trekking, you will reach Bomod-Ok Falls. Its height of 200 feet combined with its mountainous landscape and surrounding jagged rocks make it a great spot for nature lovers.

Bomod-Ok Falls, Sagada by jaya on flickr

Pongas FallsBauko, Sagada, Mountain Province, Philippines

For those looking for more adventure, Pongas Falls is another noteworthy destination while in Sagada. Although not as popular as Bomod-Ok falls, its hidden wonder is nothing short of majestic.

Pongas Falls, Sagada by Theofrenz Cayambas

The trek to Pongas Falls takes visitors through local villages, a hanging bridge, rice fields, streams, and breathtaking views of Sagada’s mountains.

Sagada Lemon Pie HouseSouth Rd., Sagada, Mountain Province, Philippines

Lemon Pie from Sagada Lemon Pie House from Yvette M.’s looloo review

You can’t leave Sagada without tasting its scrumptious lemon pie. This tangy dessert is the perfect remedy to a tired day of trekking, caving, or hiking. Take some home to enjoy with friends or family. You can buy a slice or box of lemon pie in Sagada’s Lemon Pie House.

How to Get to Sagada

The most popular route to get to Sagada is via Baguio.

Via Baguio

Ride a Victory Liner Bus for ₱460 from their Pasay or Cubao station; the trip lasts for 6 to 8 hours. There is a bus that leaves every hour.

Once you get to Baguio, ride a cab to Dangwa Bus Station. Look for the Lizardo Transit Station, and purchase a ticket for ₱220; the trip takes 6 to 7 hours. The first bus leaves at 6:30 AM and the last bus leaves at 1:00 PM.

Via Banaue

There is only one bus company, Ohayami, which travels from Manila to Banaue. There is only one trip per day during the entire year, except during peak season wherein a second trip leaves Manila. The bus leaves its Sampaloc, Manila station at 10 PM and at 9 PM during peak season. The bus fare is approximately ₱470 one way and lasts for approximately 9 hours.

Once in Banaue, ride an Immanuel Bus Line to Bontoc for approximately ₱100 and alight at the Bontoc Municipal Hall. Once in the municipal hall, ride a jeep bound for Sagada for approximately ₱35.

Where to Stay in Sagada

There are plenty of inns and affordable guesthouses scattered throughout Sagada.

One of the places you can stay in is Residential Lodge. Since the weather is cold in Sagada, you won’t have to use an electric fan or air conditioning. Residential Lodge offers rooms for ₱250/head/night for a room with common bath and toilet. You can get a room for ₱300/head/night with private bath and toilet. You can contact Residential Lodge through +63 919 672 8744 or +63 929 625 7419.

Alternatively, you can stay in Rock Inn & Café while in Sagada. The inn offers bunk rooms good for 6 to 8 persons for ₱450/head. There are mini executive and executive rooms that can accommodate 3 to 4 people for ₱1,500 to ₱1,800 per night. You can contact Rock Inn & Café through therock_sagada@yahoo.com.ph or info@rockfarmsagada.com and +63 928 213 1149 or +63 905 554 5950.

5 Must-Visit Adventure Parks in Pampanga

Growing up in Pampanga, I watched the province rapidly urbanize. We don’t just have one or two big malls, but five. From SM to Ayala to Robinsons and even S&R, we no longer have to go to a metropolis like Manila to get our shopping fix.

Pampanga has more to offer than just retail therapy though. Visit San Simon, San Fernando, Angeles or Porac and you’ll find hotels, resorts and even adventure parks to make your visit to the Culinary Capital of the Philippines worthwhile.

If you’re looking to spend more time outdoors, below is a list of what I think are the five must-visit adventure parks in Pampanga. Spend a few days in the city to hit up all five spots or pick one or two for a full day tour!

Dinosaurs Island

C.S. Lewis fans might liken entering Dinosaurs Island to finding the secret door to Narnia. Although you won’t get to meet Aslan or any other talking animals inside, the sheer number and size of the dinosaurs you’ll see here is still enough to make you feel like you’ve entered a different world – one that existed millions of years ago.

Photo taken by Elle Caravana

With over 30 life-sized animatronic dinosaurs roaring while you follow the Dino Trail, don’t be surprised if you see some kids crying and screaming out of fear.

If you want an even closer encounter, hop on the Jurassic Safari Ride to experience what it’s like to have dinosaurs popping their heads inside your tramcar.

Aside from the animatronic dinosaurs, they also have a Fossils Museum where you’ll find dinosaur skeletons and other types of exhibits to give you a preview of life in the Mesozoic Era.

Entrance fee costs Php 350 per person.

Paradise Ranch

Managed by a non-profit organization to help provide jobs for individuals affected by the Mount Pinatubo eruption in 1991, Paradise Ranch has become both a tourist attraction in Pampanga and a self-sustaining facility in just 6 years.

Head up to the Little Baguio section of the ranch and be reminded of the famous Mines View Park all while enjoying the fresh air and the lush green picturesque view that overlooks the plains and nestled hills of Tarlac, Arayat, Clark and Angeles.

Photo from paradiseranchphilippines.com

For animal lovers, you can fish feed, check out the Butterfly Kingdom and walk through their aviary to get a closer look at peacocks, ostriches and even the so-called “Ibong Adarna.”

Zoocobia Fun Zoo

Start your visit to this 50-hectare zoo theme park by catching their animal show featuring tricks performed by a poodle, a monkey and a pot-bellied pig. After that, you can pet and feed different kinds of birds and wild animals (like the bearcat)!

Perfect for kids, they even have a barn that features horses, pigs, camels and even the famous llama.

Don’t leave Zoocobia without trying the Zooc ride! The first and only gravity car in the Philippines, it has a unique steering and braking system that allows it to continuously move down the 400-meter track. It sounds easy to maneuver although some might find it a bit challenging – but fun nonetheless!

Photo from zoomanity.com

Other activities at Zoocobia include the Superman Zipline and their new ATV rides.

Miyamit Falls

If the explorer in you is ready to face all the hurdles and inconveniences of trekking, Miyamit Falls is where the wild meets beauty—a place of adventure where the Aetas teach you their ways in the wildlife.

To behold the beauty at the peak requires more than four hours of walking and discomfort.

Photo from Certified Lagalag

ATVs are available, but walking through the trail rewards you with a different view and experience, more than just being a spectator in the ride all the way to the top.

Located in Porac, Pampanga, trekkers who have been here recommend that a) first-timers bring tons of water, b) ascent should start before dawn or much earlier, and c) they keep the good vibes.
Summer is the best the time to visit Miyamit Falls for a refreshing swim and trek.

Deca Wakeboard Park

Deca Wakeboard Park is where extreme sports meets fitness enthusiasts and swashbuckling wakeboard experts. For the wakeboarding n00b, the enormous pool with ramps and cable wires will quickly make you ask yourself, “What have I gotten myself into?”

Face your fears and go with the flow. That’s probably the best advice I can give to anyone who wants to try wakeboarding. Depending on the package, operators and instructors on site will provide basic 2-hour tutorials at the beginners’ pool, which includes gear.

Photo from My Life on Board

“It’s all about balance,” according to my friend, Cony. “You must be teachable and listen to the instructions until you master the position.”

You’ll first learn how to ride on your knees on the kneeboard. As you become more comfortable, you switch to the slipper board, which requires a standing position.

For first timers, expect to experience muscle pain afterwards. But it’ll all be worth it.

Instead of going to Nuvali or Davao, Deca Wakeboard Park is the closest place in the North to learn how to wakeboard and meet new friends (mostly yuppies) at the same time.

Beach Bum on a Budget? Try Magalawa Island in Zambales!

With the unbearable heat the metro has been experiencing lately, don’t you wish you were lounging on the beach with a cold drink instead?

If you answered yes, then let me introduce to you this little pristine island in Palauig, Zambales called Magalawa Island.

Photo taken by Gino Mempin

If you’ve been to Anawangin, Capones or Nagsasa and loved your experience, then you’ll definitely enjoy Magalawa Island. Magalawa might be small but it offers a peaceful retreat and one of the best sunsets I’ve ever seen.

Don’t fret as a trip to Magalawa is budget-friendly and will give you several options to choose from to minimize your spend yet maximize your experience.

Getting to Magalawa Island

The trip to Pangolinan, Palauig, Zambales takes around 5-6 hours by bus and 4-5 hours by car. When you get to Brgy. Pangolinan, your drop-off point will be somewhere along Veritas Road. After that, prepare for a bumpy 30-minute ride to get to Port Luan. This is where your boatman will pick you up to take you on a 10-minute boat ride to the welcoming island of Magalawa.

You will reach the shores of Ruiz Resort where if you were lucky like we were, the owners will welcome you warmly. I did say that you have options to spend less right? That’s what we did. We opted to go camping.

You can bring your own tent or rent from the resort. If you’re not the camping type, there’s nothing to worry about as they have very basic cottages available as well.

After settling down, you’ll need to recharge, a.k.a eat! I highly suggest that you bring your own “baon” as Magalawa only has a basic sari-sari store. You can also drop by a wet market before heading to the island and ask the resort to have your meals cooked for you for a minimal fee. A little note though, Magalawa only has electricity in the evening so better charge up. Or better yet, leave the electronics at home and use the weekend to go on a technology detox.

Exploring Magalawa

Magalawa Island is pretty small so you can go around it all in about an hour and just spend the rest of the day beach bumming. Just bask in the sun and be taken in by the nature that surrounds you.

There are also other activities you can do such as snorkeling, rafting and also starfish hunting which are very abundant in Magalawa. You can then end the day with watching the sun set – a marvel to behold. And not to mention romantic!

The sunrise the following morning was also a treat so you might not want to miss that one as well!

So what are you waiting for? Put Magalawa Island on your travel list this summer! Not only will you get to bum around the beach (on a bum’s budget!) but you’ll also be able to immerse yourself in the nature and serenity that Magalawa brings.

Discover These 5 Hidden Beaches in the Philippines Before Everyone Else Does!

As an archipelago with 7,107 islands, you’ll never run out of beaches to explore in the Philippines. Boracay may get mentioned a lot when it comes to Philippine beaches due to its long stretch of powdery white sand but there are other wonderful beaches to see. It just takes a bit of effort getting to them.

If secluded beaches boasting pristine white sand and a gradient of sapphire and emerald water interest you, then prepare yourself for a rugged journey and don’t forget to pack camping gear as well. These hidden paradises may be difficult to reach, but as the saying goes…sometimes the best things in life don’t come easy.

Casapsapan Beach, Casiguran, Aurora

Photo taken by Ian Limbonis

Situated 4-5 hours away from Baler, Aurora, the sleepy town of Casiguran boasts of a long stretch of white sand beaches that gives Boracay a run for its money.

The rough journey to this secret paradise involves a steep trail and a river crossing which you can do in a small vehicle like a tricycle. However, once you set your eyes on the azure water and sink your feet into the powdery sand, you can really tell yourself that the trek was all worth it.

Most of its areas still remain untouched although there are talks about developing this virgin beach. Now is the time to take the opportunity to visit before it gets commercialized.

Calaguas Island, Vinzons, Camarines Norte

Photo taken by Allan Ascaño

The straight-out-of-the-magazine landscape of Calaguas Island will definitely leave you breathless. The fine sand, crystal clear water and absence of mass tourists and cellular signal definitely makes this island the perfect place to detach from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Calaguas is a group of islands in the province of Camarines Norte. The island of Tinaga, where the famous Mahabang Buhangin Beach is located, is probably the most visited part where happy campers and backpackers spend the night under the stars due to the absence of hotels.

Malamawi Beach, Isabela City, Basilan

Photo from Scud in Real Life

Basilan may have a bad reputation but if you are up for a one-of-a-kind adventure to visit a beautiful beach paradise, then heading to this small island in Mindanao is worth the risk.

Just an hour’s travel from Basilan’s capital, Isabela, all your fears will be washed away once you’ve set your foot on this untouched beauty. However, just to be on safe side, be sure to have a local tour guide come with you.

Sibang Cove, Calayan, Cagayan Valley

Photo taken by Harly Limlingan Marcuap of Akrosdayunibers

Most people don’t think the Babuyan Islands are even inhabited. But there’s actually a hidden gem called Sibang Cove, that’s on one of the five islands of Babuyan.

Calayan Island, the largest of the five major islands of Babuyan, can be reached via Claveria in Cagayan province using a lampitaw or outrigger boat. Travel time from Claveria to Calayan Island takes up to 5 hours and water can sometimes be rough so the roller coaster ride is not for the faint hearted.

For smoother sailing, the best time to travel are between the months of April and May. This secluded beach on a remote island does not have any resorts, restaurants or even beach huts so be prepared to experience being a cast away like Tom Hanks.

The turquoise water, white sand beaches surrounded by limestone cliffs and rock formations are reminiscent of Palawan’s El Nido. Aside from Sibang, when it’s low tide, you can also walk to the other two coves, Caniwara and Cababaan.

Sta. Cruz Island, Zamboanga City, Zamboanga

Photo taken by Rojae Braga

If other beaches boast of their white sand, Zamboanga’s pride is their pink sand from Pink Beach.

Sta. Cruz Island is a small, inhabited island, a 10-minute boat ride from Paseo del Mar. The color of the sand comes from the pulverized red organ pipe coral that’s mixed with white sand, giving the sand a pinkish color. The clear, blue green water and very fine sand is actually very impressive considering that Pink Beach is just a few meters away from the city.

There are no restaurants on the island so best to bring your own food and drinks. Tables and cottages can be rented for as low as P200 for a whole day stay or if you’re a real cheapskate, you can simply find shade in one of the flowering trees.

5 Provinces in the Philippines You’ve Probably Ignored But Should Visit

The Philippines has a total of 81 provinces, how many of them have you visited?

Are you the type to stick to the trail and go to the places where tourists usually go, or are you the kind of person who would rather choose adventure, deviate from the norm and take the roads less travelled?

For the curious and adventurous traveler, we put together a short list of Philippine provinces that seriously need more attention.

Surigao del Sur

One of Surigao del Sur’s prides is the Enchanted River in the town of Hinatuan. This entrancing river continues to fascinate tourists and residents alike not just because of its crystal clear water but also because of the many unexplained mysteries that surround it.

It may be reminiscent of Coron’s Kayangan Lake but with its widely spread stories of mystical creature sightings to beautiful fish that can’t seem to be caught, this river has a whole lot of reasons to call itself “Enchanted.”

Not a fan of otherworldly stories? How about this: rivers are generally bodies of fresh water but the Enchanted River has salt water flowing through it. What’s interesting is that there is no visible source of where that salt water is coming from.

While it’s been reported that the river is about 25 meters deep, many still claim that no one has ever reached the bottom of the Enchanted River.

Photo taken from Adrenaline Romance

Another spot that should not be missed when in Surigao del Sur is the Philippines’ “Little Niagara Falls” called Tinuy-An Falls. This three-level white water curtain in Bislig has the widest waterfalls in the Philippines. It’s also said that a rainbow always appears in the area between 9:00 AM to 11:00AM. Definitely another grandeur to behold.

Photo taken by Rawen Balmaña

 The easiest route to get to these places in Surigao del Sur from Manila is via a 1.5 hour flight to Butuan City, Agusan del Norte. From Butuan City you can get to either Hinatuan or Bislig by bus with both destinations taking approximately 4 to 5 hours of travel time.

Antique

You’ve probably passed by Antique on your way to Iloilo or Boracay but have you ever stopped to check out what this place has to offer?

The province of Antique is often referred to as the place “where the mountains meet the sea” because of the short distance between its mountains and coast which is really a pleasant sight to see especially if you are a nature lover.

If you’ve already tried the water rafting in Cagayan de Oro then you must experience the river kayaking in Tibiao, Antique. Unlike the white water rafting in CDO, you get to ride and navigate the kayak alone from start to finish.

With whitewater rafting grades of up to 3 (intermediate level with medium-sized waves and 3 to 5-foot drops) and 4 (advanced level with large waves, considerable drops and sharp maneuvering needed), it’s no wonder theDepartment of Tourism has been promoting it as a whitewater kayaking destination.

Photo taken by Rupert Quitag

If you are a fan of waterfalls, then trekking to the falls of Bugtong-Batoshould top your list. The 1.3 kilometer trek will give you a nice scenic view of three out seven waterfalls of Tibiao.

For a unique and relaxing experience, do not miss the Kawa Hot Bath from the same town. The over-sized woks serve as a tub to give travelers a therapeutic sauna-like experience.

Photo taken by Melo Villareal

Here are some ways to get to Antique: You can take a 17-hour Philtranco bus ride to Tibiao, Antique from Cubao, Quezon City.

 Take an hour flight to Caticlan and get to Tibiao from the airport within 2 hours by car or van.

 Fly from Manila to Iloilo City (1-hour flight) and take a 2 to 3-hour bus or van ride to Tibiao.

Capiz

If you are a seafood lover, then Capiz is the perfect place for you. It’s not called the “Seafood Capital of The Philippines” for nothing. Fresh seafood is very abundant and affordable in Roxas City, Capiz’s capital.

This tiny province in Visayas may have an unpleasant reputation because of “aswangs” or shape shifting mythical creatures that are said to be thriving here, but visiting this captivating place and discovering its secluded waterfalls, well-preserved churches, and rivers will prove the folklores wrong.

Take the relaxing Panay River Cruise or the Palina River Cruise on a cabana and have the river all to yourself as you spot mangroves, fishing boats and fishing villages that will give you a peek of the daily life of the locals.

Photo taken by Nonoy Espina

After the cruise, you can visit the Pangilatan Falls, regarded as the most beautiful falls in Western Visayas.

 There are daily flights (1 hour) from Manila to Roxas City, Capiz.

Marinduque

Marinduque, dubbed as the “Lent Capital of the Philippines,” is not only worth your time during Holy Week. In fact, the best time to experience the natural wonders of this small heart-shaped island is during off-peak seasons. Marinduque has lots of places waiting to be explored but unfortunately, people only go here to see the famous Moriones Festival.

The town of Sta. Cruz, Marinduque is home to the Bathala Caves, a complex network of seven caves but only four of which have so far been explored.

If you are into mountain climbing, then trekking the summit of Mt. Malindigin the town of Buenavista, should be included in your itinerary. It is said that on a clear day, Mt. Mayon is visible from its summit.

Photo taken by Rome Diwa

If you are up for some swimming, visit the 1-kilometer long, fine white sand beach of Poctoy. This beach has a magnificent view of Mt. Malindig and its coral reefs and clear water makes it an ideal spot for snorkeling.

 Air Asia Zest no longer has direct flights to Marinduque. You can instead take an 8 to 10 hour direct trip via the JAC Liner bus.

Siquijor

Siquijor, they say, is a mystical island that only brave souls would dare set foot on. Lore has it that Siquijor is a place of sorcerers or mangkukulamwhich unfortunately, is enough reason for some people to avoid visiting this province.

Obviously, these are all just rumors as the only thing that’s supernatural on this small island is its rustic beauty.

If you are up for an adrenaline rush andknow how to swim, prepare to walk down 130+ steps so you can jump off Cambugahay Falls Tarzan-style (using a rope strung on a branch or baging). With its multi-level cascaded falls, you’ll end up jumping anywhere from 8 to 12 feet high.

Photo taken by Trish Lim

For a taste of Siquijor’s history, checking out the 400-year old giant Balete tree can get a bit creepy but it’s a definite must-see.

Photo taken by Joshua Berida

 Get to Siquijor from Manila by taking a 1-hour flight to Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental and then taking another 1-hour ferry ride to Siquijor from the Dumaguete Port.