sagada trip

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.

2️⃣0️⃣1️⃣9️⃣ • 4️⃣ • 2️⃣4️⃣

More Tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

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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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Sagada Travel Guide: A Peaceful Mountain Destination

Best Time to Go to Sagada

• How to Get to Sagada

By Private and Shared/Joiner Tours

By private car, where to stay in sagada, what to see and do in sagada, spelunking at sumaguing cave, see the view at kiltepan peak and marlboro hills, walk through history at lumiang burial cave, rise and shine at kapay-aw rice terraces, know the beginnings of sagada at ganduyan museum, forget the blues at blue soil hills, what to eat in sagada, practical information and tips, what to wear, what to bring, sample itinerary in sagada, day 0: travel to sagada, day 1: arrival + cultural tour, day 2: sightseeing + weaving + cave excursion, day 3: museum tour + nature appreciation + souvenir shopping, day 4: departure.

Explore the laid-back town of Sagada in the Mountain Province, known for its hanging coffins. Find out the best time to go, how to get there, the top attractions to visit and activities to try, what to eat, and how to plan your itinerary with this guide. 

If your idea of the perfect vacation is waking up to sunny yet chilly weather with lush natural landscapes as your backdrop, Sagada is going to be your happy place.

Situated in the Mountain Province of Cordillera Administrative Region in North Luzon, around 415 km from Manila, Sagada offers a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. 

Famed for its mysterious and historic hanging coffins, these Sagada tourist attractions are a testament to 2,000 years of Igorot burial traditions that you can marvel at today.

Sagada is known for its scenic and calming mountain valleys, rice fields, limestone caves, refreshing waterfalls, and cliffs surrounded by a sea of clouds. 

See our popular Sagada Tours and Activities

2-day sagada adventure shared tour from manila with hotel & trip to banaue & baguio highlands, scenic 3-day sagada shared tour package from manila with side trip to banaue & baguio highlands, scenic 3-day sagada and buscalan apo whang-od tattoo village package from manila with homestay.

Add to that the friendly Igorot locals, fresh servings of food, coffee, and lemon pies. It’s a destination where you can find the peace and quiet you’ve been yearning for. 

Read on to learn more about Sagada to plan your ultimate getaway. 

Sagada weather is similar to Baguio 's—chilly in both dry and wet seasons. Being in a mountainous region, it’s a haven away from the humidity in other Philippine cities and where agriculture is a booming business of bountiful fresh vegetables and fruits.

The best time to go and discover Sagada is during the wet season (November to February) where you can expect temperatures that drop to as low as 4 degrees Celsius.

The wet season is also the harvest period for fruits and produce, so you can taste the best of Sagada and participate in festivals. The only downside is the crowds, as this is also considered the peak season for travelers.

In fact, specific festivals are held to celebrate the harvest season from October to early January. Rice is also celebrated through Begnas Festival, a sacred thanksgiving tradition that happens three to four times a year.

Panag-etag, a festival native to Sagada, is a tradition that locals do to preserve their ancient culture, encourage ecotourism, and improve the economy. It happens annually from January 30 to February 2 where every visitor can participate and partake in various ceremonies (parades, holy mass, rituals).

If you want to avoid heavy crowds, you can go just in time before the rainy season starts (June to October). You can expect a colder climate than usual due to the rain showers, so it’s important to bring raincoats and umbrellas to keep you warm.

The dry season (March to May) is also known as summertime in Sagada. Expect moderate crowds and warm weather conditions, so dress comfortably.

Depending on your vacation schedule, secure your trip by planning ahead and checking the weather conditions and calendar events to prepare against the weather and crowds.

How to Get to Sagada

What was once a challenging place to visit is now convenient, with multiple ride options bound for Sagada.

Due to the popularity of the place, tour and bus companies have made it possible to enjoy a smooth and streamlined system despite the long hours of travel.

Here are the ways and some tips on how to best visit Sagada:

Bus trips are the easiest way to visit Sagada due to the number of operating companies available in Pasay and Cubao. They’re also the most wallet-friendly way to travel if you don’t mind the longer travel hours and stopovers.

From Manila via Baguio

If you’re coming from Manila, you can buy tickets at Victory Liner , one of the regular bus companies that operate daily to and from Manila to Baguio. They have terminals at Pasay, Cubao, and Caloocan and you can choose from a basic or deluxe riding experience.

Within 4 to 6 hours, you will arrive in Baguio City, where you have to ride a taxi bound for Dangwa Station to ride the GL Trans Bus going to Sagada. Trips are from 6 AM to 1PM and will take you around 5 to 6 hours.

From Manila via Benguet

In Sampaloc, Manila you can ride Dangwa Tranco bound for Banaue. Buses leave at 10PM and take around 9 hours. Upon arrival in Banaue, you can ride jeepneys to Sagada. There are mini buses and vans as well but only on rare occasions.

The entire trip will take 3 to 4 hours, and the road conditions will be the same as the Baguio route, so prepare wisely to have a comfortable journey.

Non-Stop Bus from Manila 

Coda Lines operates non-stop trips from Quezon City to Sagada every 9 PM, with a total of 10 to 15 hours trip (including stopovers). There are also additional trips in super deluxe, deluxe, and VIP service. Apart from the non-stop route from Manila to Sagada and back, Coda Lines also has routes to Bontoc, Banaue, Baguio, and Kiangan.

If you’re looking for a cost-efficient and time-efficient way to travel to and from Sagada, your best option would be to book tour operators.

A lot of tour operators offer transportation, accommodation, entrance fees, activity itineraries, and food, so you won’t have to plan other things and focus on experiencing Sagada to the fullest.

Make sure to find the right tour operator. Do your research, check the comments, ratings, and reviews, compare tour packages and you’re all set!

If you plan to DIY (do it yourself) your entire Sagada trip, you can approach it in two ways: renting a car with a driver or driving on your own.

If you want to explore most Sagada tourist spots at your own pace, having your own car will be the best option. Most areas in Sagada are mobile data / WiFi friendly, so you can use Waze or Google Maps to plan your itinerary.

Here are some tips to help you prepare for the long and challenging ride ahead if you’re up for the task and the experience:

If renting a car/car driver to Sagada:

1. Social media is your friend. A lot of individuals are now offering rent-a-car / van services on different daily rates. Check previous user reviews and make sure to ask everything especially about gas, car limitations, driver rates (if renting one), etc.

2. Save the contact numbers and arrange schedules before your trip. Don’t let stress get in the way of your Sagada getaway.

3. Make sure the rented car is in the best condition and ready to face Sagada’s rough roads.

If driving on your own to Sagada:

1. The roads of Sagada are bumpy, twisty, and extremely challenging. It won’t be an easy ride especially once you arrive at the mountainous roads of Baguio and Sagada, particularly the Halsema Highway (the ‘Mountain Trail’, one of the Philippines’ deadliest highways).

If you’re a city driver, it might take time to adjust to the long ride and road conditions, so prepare ahead. If you’re not confident enough to face the road, renting a driver might be suitable.

2. With the construction of TPLEX (Tarlac - Pangasinan - La Union Expressway), the total ride to Sagada has been reduced to 8 to 12 hours depending on your driving speed and resting times.

To maximize time, you have to go for an overnight drive (around 10 PM) to avoid traffic and rushing crowds, especially during holidays or vacation season.

You have the option to rest at Baguio City and wait until dawn to continue driving to Sagada so you can better manage the road and see clearly. There are gas stations and food stores along the way, so you can rest assured you’ll be covered.

3. While there’s mobile signal and WiFi in Sagada’s main town proper, you might get signal bumps prior to your arrival as you’ll be driving beside mountains where GPS or internet connectivity might get slow or lost.

To prevent this, you can download the offline version of the map to Sagada via Waze or Google Maps. You can also ask locals along the way, but it might be a bit tricky, especially if you’re driving at night.

4. Make sure to get your car checked and ready for the long ride. Experiencing engine failures will eat up your time and make you more tired to continue the journey. Ensure your car is in the best shape so you can have a continuous drive.

5. Take rests if you must! If you have a fellow driver in your travel party, have a shifting schedule. Never drive when you’re sleepy or tired.

Remember: You’re driving along the mountains so there are instances of falling rocks and cliffs. Avoid accidents by being in tip-top shape as well. Bring energy snacks and drinks, be patient, and drive carefully.

You can enjoy a variety of Sagada hotels and other accommodation styles. From Bed and Breakfasts (BNBs), private hotels, hostels, and homestays, you have a lot of options to choose from.

Budget Accommodation

As you’ve probably read and heard from fellow travelers, Sagada is a budget-friendly place, from food and activities to accommodations. Whether you’re looking for a comfortable place to crash the night for a few days or a luxurious stay, you’ have lots to choose from:

Shamrock Tavern Inn

Located at Makingking, Demang, Shamrock Tavern Inn is a cozy room ideal for backpackers aiming for a short-term stay.

The inn offers free internet and parking, dry cleaning and laundry service, room service, a concierge, a sun terrace, and a restaurant bar/lounge. It is also near common spots such as GAIA Café & Crafts, Sagada Brew, and the  Hanging Coffins .

Isabelo’s Inn and Cafe

Isabelo’s Inn and Café provides a place for relaxation and rejuvenation at the heart of Poblacion, Sagada.

Famous for its family-friendly features and proximity to known spots, the inn also offers free internet and breakfast, non-smoking and family-friendly hotel rooms, and laundry service.

Agape Log Cabin and Restaurant

Somewhere at Dagdag, Sagada lies an enchanting cabin that’s made entirely of logs. If you’re looking for a rustic stay, Agape Log Cabin and Restaurant is the perfect pick for you.

What’s more, it comes with free parking and WiFi, non-smoking and family rooms, a restaurant, and laundry service.

Mid-range Accommodations

If you have some budget to spare, you can level up your accommodation preference with these options:  

Coffee Heritage House & Hostel

If you’re a coffee lover, this pleasant hostel in Sitio Nadatngan, Brgy. Madongo, Sagada will pump you up. As the first coffee-themed destination in town, Coffee Heritage House & Hostel is more than just a bed and breakfast.

Here you will meet coffee enthusiasts and specialists as well as partake in coffee-related activities that help promote Philippine coffee.

Apart from the smell of coffee in the morning, there’s also free WiFi and parking, non-smoking and family rooms with multilingual staff, breakfast offerings, laundry servicse, and a restaurant bar/lounge to get you settled.

Treasure Rock Inn

Great views, great atmosphere, great stay. The Treasure Rock Inn at Makingking, Demang, Sagada is a great, valuable find when finding your second home in Sagada.

Warm, cozy, and welcoming, you can also find free WiFi and parking, non-smoking and family rooms, a kitchenette, and a bar/lounge to complete your experience.

Inandako's BNB

A family-owned establishment, the Inandakos BNB situated at Kenlibed, Dagdag, Sagada provides a genuine hostel environment for all, with cozy and comfy beds, social places, a serene atmosphere, and energizing coffee.

Complete your stay with free WiFi, non-smoking and family rooms, and several breakfast offerings.

Luxury Accommodations

While Sagada is not a place to seek exceptional luxury hotels, it still has its own share of high-quality quarters:

Martha’s Hearth

Sheltering travelers since the ‘70s, Martha’s Hearth is a guesthouse where you’ll always feel at home in Dokkos, Sagada. Here, guests are treated as family and will forever be treated as one.

The inn provides a majestic experience with free parking and romantic hotel-style features. 

Nellies Chalet Sagada

A luxury inn found at the quiet streets of Nangonogan Road, Sagada, Aunt Nellie’s Chalet has four comfortable rooms you can call your own for the duration of your stay. Experience peace and quiet as you fully immerse in the surroundings. The chalet also comes with free WiFi and parking.

Rock Inn is a mid-range and quaint hotel in Batalao, Sagada that’s known for its fresh orange and vegetable harvest.

Bask in nature and enjoy raw food from the gardens of the inn, as you relax at the Filipino-style rooms. Also available at the inn are free parking, non-smoking and family rooms, a shuttle bus service, and a restaurant.

While the peace and quiet is an enchanting quality, Sagada offers a multitude of activities for the young at heart, adventurous at heart, and wanderers at heart.

Known as ‘The Big Cave’, Sumaguing Cave has the largest enclosure from the 60 caves found underneath Sagada. Spelunking in Sumaguing Cave is a popular activity when in Sagada as you will see countless rock formations that look like animals, food, and people.

The entire trail is divided into three levels:

Level 1 - Going down the cliffs (caution: it’s slippery and full of bat waste)

Level 2 - Rock formations (reminder: shoes and slippers will be removed)

Level 3 - Get wet in the tunnel (prepare: move through narrow openings and wash in stone-cold waters

Sagada is famous for its sea of clouds sighting at Kiltepan Peak and Marlboro Hills. You can either camp out to wake up to this majestic view or wake up before dawn breaks to rise in time with the sun and clouds.

Plan early; the sea of clouds viewing is one of the most popular things to do at Sagada, and there will be lots of people waiting for the morning to rise. 

Tip: ride the jeepney en route to Kiltepan or Marlboro Hills, topload version. It’s fun and thrilling, and you get to see marvelous sights as you breeze through!

A 30-minute walk from town will take you to Sagada’s ancient sites. This is where the oldest coffin is said to be 500 years old.

You know you’ve reached the cave when you see hundreds of stacked coffins at the entrance, with symbolic markings of life and fertility. The ‘Cave Connection’ challenge starts with the Lumiang Burial Cave.

Kapay-Aw rice terraces are Sagada’s own version of the rice terraces in Banaue. It’s not just a simple walk in the terraces, you can see the lush agriculture life cultivated by the locals to make time for harvest. As you climb and rise through the stairs you will see a majestic view that only the sunshine-y valleys of Sagada can provide.

Ganduyan, the Kankana-ey origin of Sagada’s name is a fitting name for this museum. Listen to Christina Aben (owner of the museum) as she narrates Sagada’s birth and the stories in between.

You can view sculptures, traditional clothes, and Sagada’s rich history inside, however picture-taking is not allowed.

This is an awe-inspiring natural wonder. Best viewed after the Marlboro Hills sunrise viewing or just before sunset, let yourself be transported to a fantasy land once you catch sight of Blue Soil Hills and the towering trees surrounding it.

While the trek to Blue Soil Hills is achievable even for beginners, wear appropriate trekking equipment to avoid injuries.

There are many food and culinary trips you can take in the Philippines, which is why you should try out local food and restaurants during your trip to the beautiful province of Sagada.

Sagada Lemon Pie House

Lemons are an unusual sight in the Philippines. But in Sagada, it’s a different case. The famous lemon pie from Sagada Lemon Pie House is one of the most sought-after treats that will complete your Sagada adventure.

In fact, the rustic feel and interior complement the food you will be consuming: warm, hearty, and memorable.

They also offer other breakfast, lunch, and dinner meals. If you plan to order boxes of lemon pies, make sure to order in advance, as they tend to sell out quickly!

GAIA Cafe & Crafts

It is an atmospheric place to be creative, relax, and connect with nature as you marvel at the lush forests of the Ambasing, Namsung, Balugan / Bugang, Ankilang, and Suyo valleys. 

The best time to eat here is during brunch or merienda to savor their locally-grown delights and coffee and view the Kankana-ey fashion and crafts.

Yoghurt House

Yoghurt House has been voted as the best food house in Sagada. While their yoghurt is a must-try (it’s a different experience than the ones available in the cities) their fresh and local menu leads to a good morning.

After eating, you may view the Sagada photo exhibit, but taking pictures is prohibited.

Tip: the first floor gets crowded easily, so it is best to find a place near the windows (if you don’t mind the jeepney fumes) or find a seat on the second floor or balcony.

Currency 

There are ATMs near the tourism center for you to use. But it’s still best to bring enough cash in case of emergencies.

Pack lightly but wisely. Depending on the season, make sure to bring comfortable and light clothes for layering to counter the cold and activewear for spelunking and trekking. Bring sandals, slippers, and a first aid kit to help you with motion sickness and injuries.

Make sure to bring medicine. The way to Sagada contains lots of twists, turns, and bumps, so you have to arm yourself with remedies to counter motion and altitude sickness.  

Travel responsibly. Refuse single-use plastics and utensils. Bring your own tumblers, lunch boxes, and utensils to reduce trash. Sagada is an eco-friendly destination, and every traveler is encouraged to practice and be a good steward of responsible traveling.

With so many activities and attractions to see in Sagada, how do you schedule them in your trip? We recommend at least 4 days in Sagada for the complete experience. Here’s a sample itinerary to guide you.

09:00 PM - Departure from Manila

08:00 - 09:00 AM - Arrive in Sagada 

09:30 AM - Visit Sagada Tourism Center (registration, tour packages) 

12:00 NN - Lunch at Yoghurt House 

02:00 PM - Hotel check-in 

02:30 PM - Visit Echo Valley, Hanging Coffins, Church of St. Mary the Virgin, and more. It's included in a day tour in Sagada

04:00 AM - Visit Kiltepan Peak. Go sightseeing in Marlboro Hills 

08:00 AM - Visit Sagada Brew

0 9:00 AM - Try Sagada weaving and pottery 

10:00 AM - Cave connection experience . Lumiang and Sumaguing Caves are popular attractions included in Sagada tours

02:00 PM - Visit Sagada Lemon Pie House 

07:00 PM - Dinner 

06:00 AM - Blue Soil Hills 

10:00 AM - Brunch at GAIA Arts & Crafts 

11:00 AM - Ganduyan Museum 

12:00 NN - Lunch 

01:00 PM - Kapay-aw Rice Terraces 

02:00 PM - Sagada Cemetery 

03:00 PM - Sagada orchard (ideal for harvest season) 

04:00 PM - Souvenir shopping 

09:00 AM - Hotel check-out 

10:00 AM - Breakfast 

11:00 AM - Back to Manila

Start planning your trip to Sagada Philippines

If you find yourself going to bed and dreaming of a calming fortress away from the busy concrete jungle, it’s a sign that you have to go to Sagada and explore its tourist spots, stat.

Gather your family, invite your friends, call your special someone, or go on your own. Take this moment to collect your thoughts and reward yourself with a well-deserved break at Sagada.

Bookmark this guide to help you plan your ultimate Sagada getaway. The journey might be long, but it’s going to be worth more than what you see in the pictures and blogs. 

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⛰️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

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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!

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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.

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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!

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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

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23 Comments

Whatever pleasant experiences in Sagada were destroyed by an awful tour of a cave. Clear warnings and preparation information was not made. Sumaging cave has a danger spot. I spoke with the Tourist officer and said I cannot recommend it without a rope in one spot. There is more to this story leading to failure for me. The officer and others were shocked at my being left alone and no assistance in checking a watery rockface. I am leaving a day early due to this disaster.

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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Joan's Footprints

Mermaid born with legs to travel the world

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2024 ULTIMATE GUIDE TO SAGADA WITH DIY ITINERARY & BUDGET: Everything You Need to Know

There’s no way you will not love the place and its people . I can’t remember how many times I’ve visited Sagada. As an adventure junkie myself, Sagada will always have a special place in my heart! So I created this Travel Guide to Sagada with DIY Itinerary & Budget which contains everything you need to know including where to stay in Sagada, where to eat, places to visit in Sagada, etc.

Sagada is a great place to try a lot of things including sea of clouds, trek to Marlboro Hills + Blue Soil , Sagada pottery and weaving, lemon pie, local food etag , spelunking, rice terraces, catching waterfalls, hanging coffins and immersing oneself in Sagada’s culture.

Table of Contents

HELPFUL LINKS

• BOOK BUS TICKET/S FROM MANILA TO SAGADA HERE
• SEARCH FOR TOP HOMESTAY DEALS
• INQUIRE PACKAGE TOURS

RELATED TRAVEL ARTICLES

• LIST OF TOP PLACES TO VISIT IN SAGADA
• BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO SUMAGUING CAVE
• TRAVEL GUIDE TO MARLBORO HILLS + BLUE SOIL
• TRAVEL GUIDE TO BOMOD-OK FALLS IN SAGADA

Getting to Know Sagada

The municipality of Sagada in the province of Mountain Province is popularly known for its rich culture, limestone caves, scenic rice terraces, refreshing waterfalls and sea of clouds.

Did you know? Sagada preserves its culture and destinations by not allowing foreign investors to their land. For instance, you won’t be able to see establishments like Jollibee or McDonald’s in Sagada. Our tour guide Kuya Rafy gladly shared this trivia to us.

• People & Language  – the local residents of Sagada are  Igorots/Kankana-eys  who speak a dialect called  Kankana-ey . Most people can also speak Tagalog and English so don’t worry if you need to ask for directions.
• Currency  – the currency accepted in Sagada is Philippine Peso (PHP). Some establishments like restaurants accept online payments like e-wallet, bank transfer and credit cards.
• Best month to visit  – the coldest month of the year in Sagada is January. Moreover, Sagada has 2 seasons – wet and dry. Hence, the best time to visit Sagada is during dry season from November – April and the lean season is during the rainy months of May – October.

How to get to Sagada DIY way?

I highly recommend P2P Bus from Cubao to Sagada. The time of departure is at 8:00PM and travel time is 12 hours.

• BUY P2P BUS TICKET FOR PHP1,240.00 HERE

Otherwise, you can follow the DIY steps below to get to Sagada.

Step 1:  Manila to Baguio by bus. Ride a bus in Cubao going to Baguio City. The fare is Php550.00 – 720.00 depending on which bus line you will choose. Travel time is 7-8 hours. If you are near PITX, you can also ride a Solid North bus to Baguio City.

Step 2:  Upon arriving in Baguio, take a taxi cab to GL Trans Terminal. Then ride a bus to Sagada for Php220.00 and travel time is about 6 hours. Take note that the earliest schedule is at 5:30am and latest schedule is 1pm. Make sure to be in Baguio before lunch time.

Step 3:  Proceed to the Tourism Office located in the town proper just beside the Police Station. Hire a local guide and pay the registration.

Where to Eat in Sagada?

I highly recommend trying the best lemon pie in town! The Lemon Pie House is located in the town proper of Sagada. Additionally, another favorite go-to restaurant is Sagada Brew which is about 2 minutes walking distance from Lemon Pie House.

For sea of clouds and sunrise viewing, there is no other place to go but the Reversed House . Wait for the sunrise while having a cup of coffee or choco of your choice.

Local food to try in Sagada

I also suggest local food etag and pinikpikan . These 2 local delicacies are famous in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR). To give you a bit of information, etag is the native’s traditional way of preserving pork — a slice of pork cured in salt for weeks and then air-dried under the sun or smoked for weeks.

Moreover, pinikpikan is also a traditional soup dish wish is a combination of chicken and etag . You can also find this dish served in local karinderyas in Sagada.

We also tried the wild berry dirty ice cream ! Love this! It is sold in the streets, so when you see a vendor do not miss this out!

Where to Stay in Sagada?

If you are a DIY traveler like me, here are some of the best options to choose from on where to stay in Sagada.

• BOOK ROOMS AT REDDOORZ SUNRISE VIEW SAGADA FOR PHP1,300.00 GOOD FOR 2

2. BOOK ROOMS AT AJJAA’S PLACE FOR PHP850.00 GOOD FOR 2

3. BOOK ROOMS AT WAGAZ HOMESTAY AND CAFE FOR PHP1,000.00 GOOD FOR 2

If you have budget for accommodation, I recommend staying in Sagada Heritage Village.

4. BOOK ROOMS AT SAGADA HERITAGE VILLAGE

Best Places to Visit in Sagada

Tip : If it’s your first time in Sagada and you’re only staying for a limited time, my top 3 recommended places to visit in Sagada are (1) Echo Valley’s Hanging Coffins, (2) Sumaguing Cave and (3) Marlboro Hills + Blue Soil. And for food, do not miss out Lemon Pie House and sunrise at the Reversed House.

Try Spelunking at Sumaguing Cave

Also known as the The Big Cave in Sagada — Sumaguing Cave is a good place to try spelunking for beginners. The activity will last for 1.5-3 hours depending on your group’s pacing. Explore the limestone cave and check out the mysterious rock formations inside.

Read separate article here: Sumaguing Cave Travel Guide & Expenses

Chasing Waterfalls

Did I mention that Sagada is a complete package? For minor trekking, rice terraces and waterfalls adventure you might want to check out the biggest falls in Sagada which is Bomod-ok Falls. Bathe in its refreshing pool of water after 45 minutes of trekking down.

Read separate article here: Bomod-ok Falls Travel Guide & Expenses

Trek to Marlboro Hills + Blue Soil

One of my favorite destinations in Sagada are (1) Marlboro Hills and (2) Blue Soil. I’ve visited these places twice and I’ll gladly do it again! The trek to Marlboro Hills and Blue Soil is easy and good for beginners. Best time to trek to Marlboro Hills is early in the morning at 4AM so you’ll arrive just in time for sun rise and sea of clouds.

Read separate article here: Marlboro Hills + Blue Soil Travel Guide & Expenses

Check the Hanging Coffins of Echo Valley

You’ve never really been to Sagada if you didn’t see the hanging coffins of Echo Valley. One of the reasons why Sagada is a top visited destination is because of its unique and rich culture and traditions. For instance, the hanging coffins is their traditional way for their dead.

Echo Valley’s hanging coffins are placed high on cliffs while century-old coffins are stacked and piled up in burial sites like Lumiang Cave.

Sunrise and Sea of Clouds at Reversed House

If you’ll stay in Sagada for more than 2 days, I highly recommend breakfast at Reversed House. Like I’ve said earlier in this blog, this is also a good place for sunrise, coffee and sea of clouds.

Try Lemon Pie

If you are a foodie , the lemon pie of Sagada is one thing you should never miss out. I always grab a bite or buy a box of lemon pie whenever I visit Sagada. I just love this pie so much because it’s a combination of sweet and sour taste. Moreover, the Lemon Pie House is located in the town center so it’s easy to find.

Visit the Wrecked Bus

Literally a wrecked bus which every now and then the youngsters of Sagada paints it differently. I can describe it as very similar to a freedom wall where people can vandalize and paint whatever they want. It’s free access and the best time to go here is at 6-7am for better chances of a foggy and dreamy vibe like that of Taylor Swift’s Folklore.

Complete List of Sagada Activity Rates

Below are the updated destination list with entrance fee, guide fee and shuttle fee. Guide fee is good for 5-10 pax. (Updated as of January 2024)

Important note: an additional Php250.00 will be added to the shuttle fee with the accommodations far from the town center.

Sample Sagada with DIY Itinerary & Expenses

Below are sample Sagada DIY itineraries with budget for 2 person . Please take note that some expenses like accommodation and food are only estimated costs. It still depends on where you will choose to eat and stay for overnight. Extra pocket money and transportation within Sagada is not included in the total cost. Prepare Php30.00 each for jeepney transportations around Sagada.

Upon arriving in Sagada, proceed directly to the Tourism Office and pay the fees for the activities you are planning to do. If you are going to follow the suggested itinerary below, make sure to pay all the fees for the activities included on the itinerary.

Sample Day Tour Sagada with DIY Itinerary

TOTAL EXPENSES PER PERSON: PHP2,590.00 excluding other miscellaneous fees Note: expenses are divided into 2 (group of 2 travelers)

Sample 2 Days 1 Night Sagada with DIY Itinerary

TOTAL EXPENSES PER PERSON: PHP5,920.00 excluding other miscellaneous fees Note: expenses are divided into 2 (group of 2 travelers)

Sample 3 Days 2 Nights Sagada with DIY Itinerary

TOTAL EXPENSES PER PERSON: PHP6,810.00 excluding other miscellaneous fees Note: expenses are divided into 2 (group of 2 travelers)

Tips From Joan’s Footprints

• Travel with a group! This way you can minimize expenses because you can split the guide fees. Best to travel with 3-4 friends with you.
• Bring dri-fit clothes for trekking and spelunking.
• Bring flashlights.
• GCASH is widely accepted in many establishments but still bring enough cash with you.
• Bring a humble attitude, do not throw your garbage anywhere.

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Joana Paola Gutierrez

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6 thoughts on “ 2024 ultimate guide to sagada with diy itinerary & budget: everything you need to know ”.

Hi Joana, I do really love your guides and tips. Will be visiting sagada soon. Thank you for this.

Hi Hyacenth! I appreciate your kind words! Thank you. 🙂

Hi Joana. We are a group 10 and planning to visit Sagada for 2D1N. Based from the expenses you mentioned for a group of 2, is it safe if I will just double the rates in your sample rates? For example, Sumaguing Cave guide fee is 800, can I just double that for a group of 10?

Hello Albert! Yes it is possible.

Hello po! Is the shuttle fee listed in the table good charged individually? Like if it’s 650 per person?

Hello Inah! Yes individually. 🙂

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Sagada Travel Guide with DIY Itinerary and Budget 2024

It was 2019 when we decided to go on a North Luzon loop road trip . We were supposed to drive to Ilocos Norte from Cagayan but the road was impassable, so we took a detour. The next thing we know, we’re chilling as we walk down the streets of Sagada one evening in flowy, summer dresses that my mom and I was supposed to flaunt in a dinner by the beach. The next morning, we embarked on an adventure that made us fall in love with Sagada in a heartbeat that we swore to heavens, we’ll definitely come back for it. So I did . As I spend more days in it, the more that I realize that this (literally) cool, lovely town is more than what meets the naked eye. This Sagada travel guide will lead you to the exact same road that made me fall in love with it.

Welcome to Sagada .

About Sagada

Sagada is a landlocked, lone district in the Mountain Province. Nestled in the Cordilleras, this small, peaceful town has been known for its cool climate all year round and its people keeping its indigenous culture.

The language that is widely spoken by the Igorots of Sagada is Kankana-ey. Worry not though as they speak in English and Filipino/Tagalog fluently so you won’t really have a hard time asking around or conversing with them.

Best Time to Visit Sagada

While Sagada can be visited all year round, the most perfect time to visit it is during the last week of February where they celebrate their Etag Festival and/or dry season (December to May) . It may be lovely to visit it especially during the rainy days as it may get really cold but you may not be able to explore the tourist attractions as they would close it on some days for everyone’s safety (i.e. safe from landslide, flashfloods, etc.). Also, there may be landslides along the way going to Sagada.

Amazing Facts about Sagada

• Its real name is Ganduyan .
• The Igorots of Sagada do not allow people from outside their tribe to acquire a property nor start and establish a business in their land.
• The Igorots of Sagada are very much fluent in English (and they really have a good accent!) due to the American colonization.
• The people of Sagada are generally Igorots as they are mountain dwellers but they belong to the Applai-Kankanaey Tribe.
• They have two names as they are baptized twice: the Traditional Igorot way and the Christian way.

How Sagada Got its Name

Sagada is traditionaly named as Ganduyan . People only started calling it as Sagada around 1600s when this farmer who was carrying “sag-ad”, a farm tool, came across Spaniards on his way to the fields. The Spaniards asked him as to what was the place called. However, due to miscommunication, the farmer thought they were asking him as to what he was carrying. He then answered, “Sag-ad ah”. From then on, the place was called Sagada. Despite its new name, the Igorots of Sagada would still dearly regard to their home as Ganduyan.

Places to Visit in Sagada

The places that you can visit in Sagada guarantees a feast for the senses. They are truly stunning and would instantly ebb your weariness from the long walks away. The best thing about it is that, your knowledgeable local guide will tell you more about it that will make you understand the places and its people more. This Sagada Travel Guide includes both the usual and off-the-beaten places to visit in the town. Among those are the following:

• Ganduyan Museum
• Balangagan Cave
• Sagada Weaving
• Sagada Pottery
• Echo Valley and Hanging Coffins
• Bomod-Ok Falls
• Pongas Falls
• Marlboro Hills (locally known as Lamagan )
• Blue Soil (locally known as Kaman Utek )
• Lumiang-Sumaging Cave Connection
• Church of St. Mary the Virgin

For more details (fees, getting there and additional information about these places), read: Top Places to Visit in Sagada, Mountain Province

Things to Do in Sagada

Here are the top activities that this Sagada Travel Guide highly recommends to make the best out of your trip:

• Discovering the history of Sagada . You can learn more about the history and culture of the Applai-Kankana-ey tribe at Ganduyan Museum.
• Trekking to Lamagan (Marlboro Hills) and and Kaman Utek (Blue Soil) . Be amazed by the beauty of sunrise with a chance of sea of clouds and let the blue soil stun you with its beauty with a trek that starts at around 4:00 in the morning. The long trek is WORTH IT!
• Visiting the Hanging Coffins . Learn about their unique death and burial ceremony and tradition as you visit the echo valley and hanging coffins.
• Chasing Waterfalls . Be breathless (literally and figuratively) with a trek to Pongas and Bomod-Ok falls.
• Spelunking . Explore Sumaguing, Lumiang and Balangagan caves through a guided spelunking with the best guides!
• Going on a food trip . Yes, Sagada is also a place for gastronomic adventure! Make sure that you’ll have their etag , pinikpikan , chicken inatep , homemade yogurt, lemon pie and Ate Jane’s homemade wheat bread in your list!
• Joining the locals’ gathering and parties on weekends . Sing and dance with the Igorots at Langtiw and Kamangwit Eco Park on Friday and Saturday nights.
• Trying pottery . Experience pottery first-hand with the notable potters of the Applai-Kankanaey tribe at Sagada pottery.

Where to Eat in Sagada

If you are down for some gastronomic adventure, treat your palate with some Cordilleran meat dishes. Among the ones that you should not miss are their etag – indigenous, cured or preserved slab of meat and pinikpikan – a controversial dish made of chicken that was beaten alive prior to cooking to bring blood to the surface. You can try etag and pinikpikan , both traditionally prepared or with a twist in the following restaurants that this Sagada Travel Guide highly recommends:

• Ganduyan Inatep – a restaurant that will make you feel like you’re dining in a traditional Ganduyan house while enjoying a heart plate of Etag and Chicken yoghurt inatep
• The Shire of Sagada – best place to try the Etag pizza and Pinikpikan pasta
• Sagada Brew – a restaurant best known for the big serving of pasta, Callos and Herb Chicken with such a mouthwatering presentation.
• Dongdaemun Korean Restaurant – the first and only restaurant in Sagada offering authentic Korean food
• Lemon Pie House – best place to try the famous lemon pie
• Salt and Pepper – one of the well-known and oldest restaurant in town and the best place to try Chicken inutom and etag pizza
• Masferre – a place for steak and chicken dishes cooked to perfection
• Yogurt House – best place to try their home-made yogurt
• Gaia Sagada Cafe – best for vegetarians
• Happy House – among the best restaurants to try Pinikpikan
• IsangWow Cafe by the Clouds – the best breakfast place in town with an effortless view of the sunrise and sea of clouds

Read more about Sagada’s gastronomic culture and history: Top 10 Places to Eat in Sagada

Where to Stay in Sagada

There are no upscale hotels in Sagada . Most of the accommodation that the locals offer are cozy rustic homestays and lodging. What I personally love about these accommodations though is that, they don’t need air-conditioning anymore as this town is blessed with cool, fresh air brought by the altitude and the trees everywhere. Despite the cold, the locals are warm enough to welcome everyone visiting their homes. If you are looking for places to stay in Sagada, here are the ones that you may choose from:

• The Shire of Sagada – Check Availability and Book Here
• Inandako Bed and Breakfast
• Bilza Sagada Lodge
• Joan’s Homestay
• Happy House
• Agape Log Cabin – Check Availability and Book Here
• Banga-an BnB and Coffee House – Check Availability and Book Here
• Sagada Sunrise View Homestay – Check Availability and Book Here
• The L’Auberge – Check Availability and Book Here
• Andrew & Mary’s Lodging House – Check Availability and Book Here
• Dagdag Village Homestay – Sagada – Check Availability and Book Here
• Sagada Lodging Home – Check Availability and Book Here

Tips and Reminders when Visiting Sagada

• The local tourism office DO NOT allow DIY tours. They require a local guide and shuttle service for each attraction.
• It is cheaper if you can travel at least in groups so you can share and split expenses with others, too.
• Bring sets of comfortable clothes and footwear as you will be walking A LOT around the town and during your tours.
• Bring flashlights. This can be useful for treks that starts at dawn.
• Bring extra layers. It gets really cold especially at night.
• Bring enough cash especially on tours. They prefer cash in terms of mode of payment for goods and services though some accept GCash already. There are ATMs in Sagada but it only accept domestic cards.
• Respect their local traditions and house rules. They can be really strict as regards those.
• Respect the local community and the attractions that you’ll visit; most especially, refrain from touching the burial jars and coffins.
• Bring reusable bottle of water.
• If you are commuting and taking the bus, book your bus tickets in advance and take note of the bus schedules.
• If you are to bring your own car and your homestay doesn’t have enough parking space, there is a paid parking space past the Anglican church. The LGU doesn’t allow tourists driving their own cars around.

How to Get There

From Manila to Sagada

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

From Banaue to Sagada

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

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

From Baguio to Sagada

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

Sample 3 Days 2 Nights Sagada DIY Itinerary

Day 0 8:00 PM – Departure from Cubao

Day 1 9:00 AM – Arrival in Sagada/ Register at the Tourism Office 9:30 AM – Echo Valley and Hanging Coffins Tour 12:00 PM – Lunch at Ganduyan Inatep 1:30 PM – Ganduyan Museum 2:00 PM – Check in/ Prepare for Lumiang-Sumaguing Cave Connection 2:30 PM to 6:00 PM – Lumiang-Sumaguing Cave Connection 6:30 PM – Back to homestay/ freshen up 7:30 PM – Dinner at Sagada Brew/ Happy House

Day 2 4:00 AM – Rise and shine 4:20 AM – Arrival at the jump off 4:30 AM – Start trek to Marlboro Hills 5:30 AM – Wait for the sunrise at Marlboro Hills 6:00 AM – light breakfast (don’t forget to try their black rice champorado for only Php 80.00) 6:30 AM – Start trek to Blue Soil 8:30 AM – Arrival at Blue Soil 9:00 AM – Back to homestay for heavy breakfast and freshening up 10:00 AM – Sagada Pottery 11:00 AM – Sagada Weaving/ Buying of Pasalubong 12:00 PM – Lunch at Masferre/ Yogurt House 1:00 PM – Prepare for Balangagan Cave Spelunking 2:00 PM – 5:30 PM – Balangagan Cave Spelunking 6:00 PM – Back to homestay/ freshen up 7:00 PM – Dinner at the Shire of Sagada/ Lemon Pie House

5:30 AM – Rise and shine/ light breakfast 6:30 AM – 10:00 AM – Bomod-Ok Falls tour 10:30 AM – Back to homestay/ pack up 11:30 AM – Check out/ Lunch at Yogurt House 1:00 PM – Bus to Manila 1:00 AM – Expected Time of Arrival in Manila

NOTE: For a 2 Days and 1 Night Sagada DIY, you may consider Day 1 up to the first half of the itinerary on Day 2.

3 Days 2 Nights Sagada DIY Sample Budget

Note: the sample budget in this Sagada Travel Guide considers a small group of 4. You may be able to spend less if you’ll be joining a bigger group of tourists.

Day 1 – Php 2,760 (with bus fare from Manila)

Bus from Cubao to Sagada – Php 1,200.00 Tourist Registration fee – Php 100.00 Echo Valley + Hanging Coffins access fee – Php 10.00 Guide fee – Php 300.00/ 4 – Php 75.00 Lunch – Php 200.00 Ganduyan Museum Entrance fee – Php 100.00 Shuttle fee for Lumiang-Sumaguing Cave Connection – Php 400.00 (free if you’re staying at Bilza Lodge)/ 4 – Php 100.00 Lumiang-Sumaguing Guide fee – Php 1,500.00/ 4 – Php 375.00 Dinner – Php 250.00 Accommodation Day 1 – Php 350.00

Day 2 – Php 2,081.00

Marlboro Hills + Blue Soil Shuttle Fee – Php 1,350.00/ 4 – Php 338.00 Marlboro Hills + Blue Soil Guide Fee – Php 1,600.00/4 – Php 400.00 Champorado at Marlboro Hills – Php 80.00 Sagada Pottery (Showcase fee) – Php 200.00/4 – Php 50.00 Lunch – Php 200.00 Balangagan Cave Shuttle fee – Php 850.00/ 4 – Php 213.00 Balangagan Cave Guide fee – Php 800.00/ 4 – Php 200.00 Dinner – Php 250.00 Accommodation Day 2 – Php 350.00

Day 3 – Php 1,760.00

Bomod-Ok Falls Guide fee – Php 500/4 – Php 125.00 Bomod-Ok Falls Shuttle fee – Php 900.00/4 – Php 225.00 Access fee – Php 10.00 Lunch – Php 200.00 Bus fare to Manila – Php 1,200.00

Total Budget for 3 Days 2 Nights Sagada DIY trip – Php 6,061.00

NOTE: For a 2 Days and 1 Night Sagada DIY, you may consider Day 1 up to the first half of the Day 2 itinerary and spend a total of Php 4,978.00

Sagada Travel Guide, In a Nutshell

Anne Elizabeth Gumiran

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

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22 comments.

Christia Mae

Hello Mam! May I inquire which homestay/lodging among the list do you prefer? Thank you!

Hello! My top recommended homestays/lodging in Sagada are Inandako, Bilza Sagada Lodge and the Shire of Sagada 🙂

So, we cannot go to Blue Soil and Marlboro Hills without a guide?

Hi, Guida! The LGU of Sagada does not allow tourists to go without any guides in any attractions (except the Anglican Church).

ana mariela imus

what is the lowest stay-in in sagada? and do they have services that roaming around in sagada?

Hello, Ana! What do you mean by the lowest stay-in? If you’re referring to accommodation, you can stay for a night for as low as Php 600.00/ person in some homestays (shared). As for services, since DIY trips (i.e. going to the tourist attractions and exploring on your own without a guide) are not allowed, you can book your tours at the tourism office or Travel Now Asia. These tours usually include pick up and drop off already. However, if you wish to explore the town proper especially to go eat and buy souvenirs, I suggest you book an accommodation that is around the center so you won’t have to think much about the transfers.

Hi! I would like to inquire if solo traveler? Any tips or advise kung pwede ba mag join sa ibang groups or kung pwede po ba yun pag dating doon? Or kailangan talaga your own group and not allowed makijoin po? Salamat. Planning to go this February. Thank you!

We did this some time 2019! We did not join any groups from Manila. You can take a Coda Lines bus to Sagada then inquire at tourism office and makisabay nalang sa ibang tourists from there if they would be okay with others joining their circle.

Hi, mga anong oras po kayo nakauwi pa Manila? Thank you!

We arrived at around 2:00AM that’s because we went to Baguio city for dinner. If not, we could have been there at around 11:00 PM or 12:00 AM 🙂

Hi! I am a solo traveller po. may idea po kayo if pwedeng maki-join sa tour na papuntang marlboro hills at sa iba pang tourist attractions nila? thank you!

Hello! It actually depends. Perhaps of you travel on a weekend, you may be able to join the tours at the tourism office 🙂 However, take note that some tourists prefer to go on an exclusive tour with the guide. But to give you light, during our first time in Sagada, we just politely asked the group if we could join and they did allow us too! What’s important is that you coordinate with the tourism office so just in case, they can also put you in a group 🙂

Hi Queenie, Thank you for this guide! Super helpful. Just wanted to confirm bale need talaga ng tour package? We’re group of 5 and we’re planning to go to Sagada this summer. Wala bang option sa Tourism Office to book or rent a van with a driver and tour guide to get us to all the attractions doon sa sample itinerary mo? or need talaga namin maki tour with other people? We wanted sana na hawak namin oras namin e. I hope you can answer. Thank you again!

Hi, Michelle! While you can go to Sagada on your own (say through commuting or bringing your own car), renting of van from the tourism office for tours is not an option, unfortunately. They really have shuttle services that will pick you up and drop you off from accommodation to facilitate as well the traffic in the town. The good thing with your number is that, you may go on an exclusive tour (allowing you to utilize your own time on your own pace) since most of the tours usually go with 5 persons or more 🙂 Perhaps, you just need to coordinate it with them. You need to book your tours in the tourism office. Hope this helps!

Mariella Bondoc

Hi! Planning to there this month. Is there any permit required for DIY tour? Thank you!

Hello! You may only do DIY itinerary (i.e. going there and choosing which places you’ll visit). For tours, you still need to coordinate and get guides from the tourism office upon arrival 🙂

Hi, your blog is really a big help to us who wants to explore the place. We plan to visit it next month, i read this and you mentioned about shuttle services. We’ll be bringing our own car to this trip. Do we still need to avail of the shuttle services to go from one place to another? Thanks. Would be great to hear from you soon.

Hello! Unfortunately, they don’t allow private cars to go around especially to be driving to and from the tourist spots (that’s as per our own experience as well when we brought a car during our first trip in Sagada). The shuttle service is really required 🙁

Hi any reocomendation for a homestay with the lowest rate?

The cheapest I’ve seen and ever stayed into is Joan’s Homestay! 🙂 It is a bit far from the center though. I love and also highly reco Inandako! 🙂

If I were to take my 4×4 Pickup to Sagada, is there a 5 star lodge or hotel there? Is it easy to get a guide once you arrive at Sagada or is it best to prebook a guide in advance?

Hello, please take note that there are no 5-star hotels in Sagada. There are designated parking areas as well for private vehicle especially if you will be staying somewhere in the center. There are lodging and inns though that have their own parking spaces. However, they are usually located outside the town center. It is easy as well to get a guide. Upon arrival, make your way to the tourism office 🙂 That would be the best thing to do 🙂

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