Since moving out to the Philippines many years ago, i've always wanted to explore the beauty of the North. And there's no better way than to start this discovery by immersing myself in one of the greatest wonders of the world.
It is told that the Rice Terraces of the Ifugao Province were carved on to the moutain sides of Ifugao 2000 years ago by the hands of the land's ancient ancestors. Using only bare hands and primitive tools [ like stone ], the Rice Terraces cover about 4000 square miles and reach an altitude of atleast 5000 feet! Crazy stuff right?
The rice terraces truly reflects on the Ifugao culture of hardwork and innovation. An inspiring virtue these structures represent. 💪🏽
Now Entering : The Amphitheater
The village of Batad is known to pack some of the finest views in all of Banaue.
Signature for its elevated terrace structure, the Batad Rice Terraces is famously known as - The Amphitheater.
With the town village cradled in the heart of The Amphitheater, a day in the life here truly makes such a beautiful show. From my point of view, up to the birds eye view. 🕊
[ Note : November-December marks the post harvest months in Banaue. Along with this time being in wet season, this explains the special murky aesthetic of the rice terraces. ]
Now Entering : Tappiyah Falls
If I spot a waterfall on a map, it’s an automatic adventure for me. So in finding out there was one hidden deep in the cuts of Banaue, getting there became a top priority.
The hike to Tappiya Falls packs a wonderful treat in itself! Because to get to the falls requires a scenic trek through the Batad Rice Terraces - hiking up and down its signature ( and steep ) steps.
Following the Rice Terraces starts the main trail to Tappiya Falls, which can take about 30-45 minutes to get through. Although the path is paved, it has its parts of uneven steps and intense incline - making this a somewhat strenuous hike. But trust, this struggle is worth its bargain in the end.
Being in the presence of the Tappiyah Falls sets for such a majestic scene. Here, one can feel the rush of nature's energy - from the tranquil river flow to the chill breeze this sphere of bliss brings. With its falls crashing down to its base below, a mist blesses the soul of its admirer with a soothing kiss.
I can only imagine being here after a long days of work in the Terraces. Nature's gift to one who provides for family and community.
And to be in such a realm of bliss in an already epic wonder of creation, defines how special the land of Banaue is. A unique yet sublime place to be.
TIPS
Walk With Caution
Although hiking on the terraces makes for an experience of a lifetime, one wrong step on its narrow path can lead you to a murky fall into the Rice Paddies. 😬
Be safe! Walk with caution.
Bring H20
As there are no clean drinking water on the trail, bringing your own water [most preferably in a reusable bottle like the Hydro Flask®] is the best way to go. Staying hydrated is to make the hike as easy and less strenuous on yourself as possible.
Pack A Snack
Staying energized is a must on this hike - for keeping the body fueled for the incline parts of the trail is key.
PS : CLEAN AS YOU GO!
Tappiya Falls is definitely a sanctuary of bliss! But it seems there are no designated bodies to maintain its beauty. Be a good citizen of our Earth, keep our planet clean for all.
The Simple Things
What I loved most about being in Banaue is the lifestyle. Life is simple here. Farming is still a way of life and the community revolves around these terraces. It was a humbling culture to experience and I can see one appreciate life for what it is as days go by around here. 🌿
For this chance to slow life down, and to ground myself to live for what life truly is - is the best thing I got from this Banaue Experience 🙏🏽
- Vence G.
www.instagram.com/vgurujiii
Important Notes
Bus To Banaue [via Ohayami Trans]
Departure : 10:00PM
Price : P480
Travel Time : 9 hours 30 minutes
Ohayami Bus Terminal is in Sampaloc, Manila. Try to be there 30 minutes before departure. Don't forget your neck pillow!
Note : We recommend you to secure your ticket and book in advanced via www.ohayamitrans.com
Final stop of the trip is at the Ohayami Bus Terminal in Banaue. There you will pay an environmental fee [P10] and decide where to go next. Waiting there are a group of tricycle drivers who can :
A - Tour you around Banaue*
B - Take you to the Banaue Tourism Office for more information [P10]
C - Take you straight to the Batad Saddle Point*
* Fare may vary depending on your itinerary with your tricycle drive / guide.
Getting To & Around Batad
Tricycle To Batad Saddle Point : P450
Jeepney : P50 [ 3PM to Batad] [9AM to Banaue]
The Batad Saddle Point is the drop-off point to where the trailhead going to Batad Village is. There, you can start your trek to Batad or hire a guide who can take you to your accommodation then around Batad for a day.
Guide [Batad] : P800*
Our guide took us to viewpoints around the Batad Rice Terraces and Tappiyah Falls.
* Rates may vary on your itinerary and agreement with guide.
Where To Stay
For the ultimate Ifugao experience, you can opt to stay a night in a native Ifugao hut at Ramon's Native Homestay! Here you can enjoy the essence of the simple life in Banaue, with stunning views of the Batad Rice Terraces right outside your window.
Definitely worth a stay to maximize The Banaue Experience.
Contact : +639351302911
[ Note : Our stay was booked via AirBnB. ]