Tours Banaue - 10 Days North Luzon Heritage, Mountains & Cultural Journey

PRIVATE Tours
Departure: on any date Private tours are scheduled at your preferred date
Group: just you You will travel privately with only your own group
Pickup: Manila Free pickup from your hotel in Manila. Tour ends with a flight from Cauayan Airport.
Itinerary: flexible Two route options available. Itinerary can be customised and extensions are available.

PRIVATE Tour
Departure: on any date
Participants: No maximum
Pricing: Approx. ₱ 9,500.00 per day, per person
Inquire Customize

PRIVATE Tour
Departure: on any date
Participants: No maximum
Pricing: Approx. ₱ 9,500.00 per day, per person
Inquire Customize Inquire Customize

PRIVATE Tour

Itinerary
PRIVATE Tour Itinerary
Suggested Day 0 – Arrival in Manila (Pre-Tour)

We highly recommend staying at The Bayleaf Intramuros, ideally located within the historic walled city of Intramuros. This charming boutique hotel offers easy access to some of the capital's most important cultural and historical landmarks.

Depending on your arrival time and energy level, you may spend the afternoon exploring Intramuros at your own pace — walking through centuries-old stone streets, Spanish-era plazas, churches, and colonial buildings. For more adventurous travelers, continue toward Binondo, the world's oldest Chinatown, where narrow streets are filled with local eateries, traditional shops, and hidden cultural gems. A convenient Grab taxi can bring you back to the hotel afterward.

In the evening, enjoy dinner at Barbara's Heritage Restaurant, where Filipino cuisine is paired with traditional music and cultural dance performances, or opt for a more relaxed evening at the rooftop restaurant of Bayleaf Hotel overlooking the Manila skyline and the historic walls of Intramuros.

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ROUTE 1 Day 1 – Manila Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar

Route Option 1: Las Casas / Baguio / Vigan Route

Leave Manila between 8:00–9:00 AM and travel north toward the province of Bataan (approximately 3 hours). Along the way, you may stop in Balanga to visit the World War II Museum, offering insight into the historical events that shaped the Philippines during the Japanese occupation.

Continue to Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar, a breathtaking heritage resort located along the coast of Bagac, Bataan. This remarkable destination transports visitors back to the Spanish colonial era through a collection of beautifully restored ancestral houses ("bahay na bato") originally built during the 18th and 19th centuries. Walk through cobblestone streets lined with antique houses, wooden balconies, old churches, and tranquil gardens while horse-drawn carriages pass by. The atmosphere feels like stepping into a living museum of old Philippines. Beyond its heritage charm, Las Casas also offers a relaxing beachfront setting where guests may enjoy sunset views and cocktails by the sea.

Alternative Option – Hundred Islands: Instead of Las Casas, you may opt for a visit to the famous Hundred Islands National Park, best explored during the dry season from January to June. Accommodation can be arranged at Proxy Plus Hotel or the family-run Italian-owned Olana Resort, known for its welcoming atmosphere and excellent Italian cuisine.

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ROUTE 1 Day 2 – La Union / Baguio Vigan

Option A – San Juan, La Union: Travel to San Juan, La Union, a relaxed coastal destination popular for surfing, beach cafés, and sunsets. Stay at Kahuna Beach Resort, where tropical beachfront scenery and laid-back island vibes create a perfect overnight retreat.

Option B – Baguio City: Alternatively, continue toward the cool mountain city of Baguio, often referred to as the "Summer Capital of the Philippines." Accommodation is recommended inside Camp John Hay, a former American military rest area transformed into a forested mountain retreat. The following morning, visit the vibrant Baguio Public Market — considered one of the finest markets in Northern Luzon — and the acclaimed BenCab Museum, showcasing contemporary Filipino art in a beautiful hillside setting with café and mountain views.

Continue onward to Vigan, passing scenic mountain roads and stopping at Santa Maria Church, one of the country's UNESCO-listed Baroque churches. Check in at La Casa Blanca or Hotel Luna.

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ROUTE 2 Day 1 – Manila Vigan (Direct, 8–9 hours)

Route Option 2: Direct Vigan Route

Begin your Northern Luzon adventure with an early departure from Manila. The scenic 8–9 hour drive gradually reveals the changing landscapes of the Philippines — from bustling cities to quiet farming towns, coastal scenery, and wide-open plains.

Lunch may be arranged in San Juan, La Union, either at Kahuna Beach Resort overlooking the sea or at the German-owned Final Option Resort, known for its relaxed atmosphere and excellent cuisine.

Arrive in the heritage city of Vigan in the late afternoon and check in at La Casa Blanca or Hotel Luna. As evening falls, enjoy your first glimpse of the city's old-world atmosphere while strolling through softly lit cobblestone streets lined with ancestral houses and horse-drawn carriages.

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BOTH ROUTES Day 2 – Vigan Heritage Tour

Step back in time as you explore the beautifully preserved heritage city of Vigan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the finest examples of Spanish colonial architecture in Asia. Enjoy a traditional calesa ride through narrow cobblestone streets while passing elegant ancestral homes, centuries-old churches, and colonial landmarks that reflect the Philippines' Spanish-era past.

Visit: Syquia Mansion (former residence of President Elpidio Quirino) and Pagburnayan Pottery Workshop, where local artisans continue centuries-old pottery traditions by hand.

For lunch, dine at the famous Hidden Garden, a peaceful sanctuary filled with tropical greenery, sculptures, flowers, and artistic displays.

Spend the afternoon wandering along Calle Crisologo, where antique shops, local crafts, cafés, and heritage buildings create a nostalgic and romantic atmosphere. Optional: sunset visit to nearby Mindoro Beach.

Overnight: La Casa Blanca or Hotel Luna

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Day 3 – Vigan Laoag

After breakfast, continue north toward Laoag while exploring some of Ilocos Norte's most important historical sites.

Visit the Marcos Museum, offering insight into the political history of the region and the legacy of the Marcos family. (Closed every first Tuesday of the month)

Continue to the iconic Paoay Church, a UNESCO-listed Baroque church famous for its massive coral stone walls and earthquake-resistant architecture. Its grand façade and centuries-old atmosphere make it one of the country's most impressive churches.

Proceed to Malacanang of the North, the former lakeside residence of the Marcos family overlooking scenic Paoay Lake.

After the tour, continue to Bellagio Hills for dinner and overnight stay.

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Day 4 – Pagudpud Excursion

Travel to the northern coastal paradise of Pagudpud, approximately two hours from Laoag.

Enjoy a scenic trek to Kabigan Falls, hidden within lush tropical forest.

Continue to Saud Beach, widely regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches in Northern Luzon with its powdery white sand and turquoise waters. Relax by the beach and enjoy lunch before returning to Laoag later in the day.

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Day 5 – Laoag Sagada

Today's journey takes you into the breathtaking Cordillera mountains toward the highland town of Sagada. The winding mountain roads offer dramatic scenery of valleys, cliffs, forests, and traditional villages scattered across the mountainsides.

En route, stop once more at the magnificent Santa Maria Church (UNESCO) before continuing toward the famous Sky Deck viewpoint, where panoramic mountain landscapes unfold beneath the clouds.

Arrive in Sagada, located approximately 1,500 meters above sea level. The town's cool climate, pine forests, and peaceful atmosphere provide a refreshing contrast to the lowlands. You may enjoy local mountain coffee at Bana's Café or fresh yoghurt with fruits at the well-loved Yoghurt House.

Dinner recommendations: Log Cabin, Sagada Bistro, Yoghurt House.
Overnight: Rock Inn or The Shire of Sagada

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Day 6 – Sagada Cultural & Nature Tour

Visit Echo Valley and the famous Hanging Coffins, where ancient burial traditions continue to reflect the spiritual beliefs of the Igorot people. Continue to Lumiang Cave, home to centuries-old wooden coffins carefully placed inside the cave chambers.

Later, enjoy an immersive local experience (approx. 1.5 hours) featuring: traditional Etag preparation (dried meat), coffee processing from bean to cup, and mushroom cultivation.

Optional for active travelers: guided trek to Bomod-ok Waterfalls, offering stunning views of rice terraces, mountain villages, and a majestic waterfall ideal for swimming.

Optional Extensions (require an additional day):

• Buscalan Village — home of legendary tattoo artist Apo Whang-Od. Mingle with locals and optionally receive a traditional tattoo using charcoal mixed with water and a thorn of the pomelo or calamansi plant attached to a bamboo stick. Best avoided on weekends and holidays due to crowds. We usually return to Sagada afterward due to limited accommodation in the area.

• Maligcong Rice Terraces — known for their traditional agriculture systems. A scenic 2-hour hike using peaceful trails, accessible by local jeepney from Bontoc (30-min drive, largely one-way road). Lunch and rest at Suzette Homestay with views over the Maligcong rice terraces.

Overnight: Rock Inn or The Shire of Sagada

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Day 7 – Sagada Bontoc Hapao Banaue

After breakfast, depart for Banaue via Bontoc. Visit the Bontoc Museum, showcasing tribal artifacts, traditional attire, and cultural history of the Cordillera peoples.

Continue to the magnificent Hapao Rice Terraces in Hungduan, famous for their impressive stone walls and ancient engineering. Enjoy a guided walk through the terraces and optional visit to nearby hot springs hidden within the mountains.

Lunch may be served at the charming Native Village Inn, offering spectacular terrace views and peaceful surroundings.

Continue to Banaue afterward.
Overnight: Banaue Grand View Hotel

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Day 8 – Batad Rice Terraces & Tappiyah Waterfalls

We use a jeepney for the Batad tour — a 1 hour drive from Banaue. Today's highlight is the legendary Batad Rice Terraces at 1,500 meters, listed at UNESCO as the most extensive rice terraces in Ifugao. The guided trek of 2 hours passes through traditional Ifugao villages, mountain passes, trails, and spectacular viewpoints.

Optional continuation to Tappiya Waterfalls is available for guests comfortable with a more physically demanding hike (high steps). Note: The pool was affected by the typhoon of November 2025 and is currently not suitable for swimming.

Return to Banaue in the afternoon after a full day of adventure and cultural immersion.
Overnight: Banaue Grand View Hotel

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Day 9 – Banaue Mayoyao Cauayan

After breakfast, continue toward the lesser-visited rice terrace region of Mayoyao. Enjoy scenic mountain drives and optional short trekking opportunities through traditional Ifugao villages and rice terraces.

Stops along the way:
• Bangaan Rice Terraces viewpoint — optional 1-hour hike to Bangaan village (back and forth)
• Ducligan Rice Terraces
• Snake River Viewpoint — unique perspectives of the Cordillera mountains and valleys
• Mayoyao Rice Terraces viewpoint — optional 1.5-hour hike through the terraces

Continue to Cauayan and check in at your hotel.
Overnight: The Maximillian Hotel Cauayan

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Day 10 – Departure (Cauayan Manila)

After breakfast, transfer to Cauayan Airport for your flight back to Manila via Cebu Pacific or Philippine Airlines.

This itinerary may also be arranged in reverse order, or may end in Laoag or Manila depending on flight schedules and guest preferences.

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Important Notes

Most museums are closed on Mondays.

Marcos Museum is closed every first Tuesday of the month.

Mountain itineraries may change due to weather, local rituals (some sights may be temporarily closed), or road conditions (e.g. landslides).

Flexibility is important when traveling through the Cordillera region.

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Pickup & Drop off

Pickup

FREE Pick up between 7:00–10:00 AM (depending on the itinerary) from your hotel / home in Manila (*) on Day 1.
(*) If you wish to be picked up either straight from a Manila airport or from Angeles airport, please let us know your details and this can be discussed. Extra costs apply. Please indicate this in your Booking Request Form.

Drop off

Tour ends on Day 10 with a flight from Cauayan Airport back to Manila (Cebu Pacific or Philippine Airlines). The domestic flight is at the guests' own arrangement and cost. Please arrange your Cauayan flight when booking.
Things to bring

Sunscreen, hat, insect repellent, refillable water container, sturdy walking shoes or trekking boots, warm layers (Sagada & Baguio mountain climate can be cold, especially at night), swim wear, waterproof jacket, spare dry clothes, (optional) educational giveaways like crayons for children in place of money/candy.

Inclusions & Exclusions

Tour Inclusions

	Transportation by new air-conditioned vehicle throughout with English speaking driver (except Batad jeepney on Day 8).
	Fuel, toll fees, parking fees, registration fees and taxes.
	Approximately 10 nights best available run of the house accommodation (sharing basis, single supplement extra) incl. approximately 10 breakfasts, local taxes & service charges. The exact number of nights and breakfasts depends on the duration of your chosen itinerary.
	All tours including entrance fees and local English speaking guide where indicated.
	Privately chartered jeepney for Batad tour (Day 8).

Tour Exclusions

Domestic flights (Cauayan Airport, Day 10). Personal expenses. Optional activities. Lunches and dinners unless indicated. Gratuities/tips. Everything else not listed under inclusions.

Additional Information about guide

The local regulations insist on the need of a local guide in Banaue and Sagada. Our tours include local guide hire (with basic English language skills) in Banaue and Sagada. Should you wish a German, Dutch, Spanish, Russian or French speaking guide (on top of the local guides) throughout your whole tour, this can be arranged by us upon your request in advance and costs approximately Php 5,000.00 additional per day. Food and accommodation for this guide comes still on top of this. Please indicate this as a request in your Booking Form.
Accommodations (hotels with * are included in our package)
Most Hotels in North Luzon are lacking quality and service, so if you are expecting 5-star level of accommodation it's better to avoid beautiful North. Keep in mind that many smaller places are family run. We visited all places and made a selection based on our own and our clients' experiences: logistics, service, food quality, ambiance, value-for-money and location. Room rate is per night twin/double sharing and includes breakfast where indicated. Of course, we can also book your own suggested hotel.
- Manila Accommodation choices (Day 0)
  
  The Bayleaf Intramuros *
  
  Ideally located within the historic walled city of Intramuros, The Bayleaf Intramuros offers easy access to Manila's most important cultural and historical landmarks. The hotel features a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views over the Manila skyline and the historic walls of Intramuros.
- Las Casas / Hundred Islands Accommodation choices (Day 1, Route Option 1)
  
  Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar *
  
  A breathtaking heritage resort located along the coast of Bagac, Bataan. Features beautifully restored Spanish colonial ancestral houses ("bahay na bato"), cobblestone streets, and a relaxing beachfront setting. Guests may enjoy sunset views, beach activities, and cocktails by the sea.
  
  Olana Bed & Breakfast (Hundred Islands Alternative)
  
  Located 20 km from the Hundred Islands tour entry. The Italian owner ensures tasty, quality food. A small family-run cozy place along the coast. Only 4 rooms but more are being added.
  
  Php 3,500.00 per room per night (without breakfast).
  
  Proxy Plus Hotel, Hundred Islands
  
  Proxy Plus is a modern, comfortable hotel in Alaminos, Pangasinan, serving as a convenient base for exploring Hundred Islands National Park. A short drive from Lucap Wharf — the jump-off point for island-hopping — it offers clean, well-appointed air-conditioned rooms, friendly service, and good value for travelers heading out to the islands.
- La Union / Baguio Accommodation choices (Day 2, Route Option 1)
  
  Kahuna Beach Resort, San Juan, La Union *
  
  The most popular and probably best resort in San Juan, La Union — the main surfing area, about 5 hours from Manila. Tends to be busy especially on weekends. Features a great restaurant overlooking the sea with a varied menu.
  
  Le Monet Hotel, Camp John Hay, Baguio *
  
  Php 8,000.00 per room per night (twin share with breakfast).
  
  Highly personalized, unique experience for every guest. 70 well-appointed rooms and suites for ultimate convenience and relaxation. Refreshing pine scents and sweeping views. In-house swimming pool with cold water. Located at the renowned Camp John Hay with many restaurant options nearby.
  
  The Manor at Camp John Hay, Baguio
  
  Php 12,000.00 per room per night (twin share with breakfast).
  
  Best hotel in and around Baguio. The Manor's 158 well-appointed rooms including 47 elegant suites are located at Camp John Hay, walking distance to restaurants. Forest or garden views.
- Vigan Accommodation choices
  
  Hotel Luna *
  
  Php 5,500.00 per room per night (twin share with breakfast).
  
  The best hotel in the area with great value. Located at the heart of Vigan's Heritage Village on Crisologo Street. The first and only museum hotel in the Philippines — showcasing the finest Philippine art including rare vintage artworks and Juan Luna masterpieces. Modern comfort with an old-world feel. Good staff and food, buffet breakfast with many choices. Standard rooms are elegant and spacious with cable TV, private bathroom with hot/cold shower, free toiletries and slippers.
  
  La Casa Blanca Vigan Hotel
  
  Php 5,100.00 per Superior King room per night.
  
  A new 4-star hotel in the center of Vigan on the famous Crisologo Street. Very competitive pricing and popular with both local and foreign tourists.
  
  Villa Angela Heritage House, Vigan
  
  Villa Angela is one of Vigan's best-loved heritage houses — a beautifully preserved 19th-century Spanish-colonial ancestral home turned boutique inn, just steps from Calle Crisologo. Its antique-filled rooms feature hardwood floors, four-poster beds, capiz-shell windows, and period furnishings that capture the romance of old Vigan. Staying here feels like living inside a piece of history while remaining within easy walking distance of the heritage village's churches, plazas, and cobblestone streets.
- Laoag Accommodation choices
  
  Bellagio Hills *
  
  Php 6,500.00 per room per night (twin share with breakfast).
  
  Located on the west side of Lake Paoay overlooking the former Malacanang of the North. A short distance from Laoag/Paoay with a private garden paradise. Modern contemporary design with luxury in every room. Only 2 junior suites among 4 total rooms — early reservation recommended. Junior suites feature an additional lounge area, sofas, and tub chairs. All rooms have a balcony or terrace for private dinners with scenic lake views.
- Sagada & Bontoc Accommodation choices
  
  Rock Inn and Cafe *
  
  Rock Inn and Cafe offers a pleasant stay in Sagada. Especially for groups it's the best place around as it has a large sitting area out and inside the building, a big garden, small orange plantation, good restaurant and a place to light a bonfire. Their rooms are spacious.
  
  They also have a private spacious house available with 3 bedrooms and a living room 200 meters away from the inn.
  
  Rock Inn and Cafe is located 4 km outside Sagada. If you prefer to be in town for your overnight, Masferre Country Inn would be the better option.
  
  Please note that in general the accommodation in Sagada is quite basic.
  
  The Shire of Sagada *
  
  Only 7 well-designed rooms — the best available in Sagada. Located 1.5km from the town center. A very small and intimate place. Please note that the limited size means services are not at the same level as the room quality, and the menu is not extensive.
  
  Mount Data Hotel (en route, Bauko)
  
  Located 3.5 hours from Baguio and 1.5 hours from Sagada — an ideal stopover en route. Newly renovated, opened 2022. Located in Bauko, Mt. Data at 2,100m above sea level on 7.7 hectares. 22 rooms (standard and deluxe). Restaurant, cafe, bar, picnic grounds, and eco trail. Can be chilly with morning frost; a cozy fireplace is available.
- Banaue Accommodation choices
  
  Banaue Grand View Hotel *
  
  The newest hotel in Banaue, located 10 min drive from the town center and nestled between the different Banaue rice terraces viewpoints.
  
  More expensive rooms (80m2) in the main building offer 2 queen size beds and a balcony overlooking the Banaue rice terraces. Their newest forest view rooms (22m2) offer 1 queen size bed opposite the main building. All rooms use high-quality imported materials. They serve international dishes in their restaurant.
  
  Banaue Heritage Hotel and Museum
  
  Boutique hotel located 20 min walk from the Banaue town center. 14 small but neatly appointed rooms with aircon. Friendly staff. Breakfast served but no full restaurant — Las Vegas Restaurant is opposite the road. Museum entry at Php 300 houses the biggest collection of rice gods. Great terrace views over the nearby rice terraces.
- Cauayan Accommodation choices
  
  The Maximillian Hotel Cauayan *
  
  Maximilian Hotel is one of the newest hotels in Cauayan, located 2 minutes drive from the airport and 5 minutes drive from the center of Cauayan.
  
  The location makes this hotel an ideal choice when arriving at and/or departing from Cauayan airport. It offers all the amenities of a 4-star hotel at very reasonable prices.