Learn from this Sagada Tourist Spot list why this small town remains a favorite local destination.
Sagada is a small town in Mountain Province enriched with its natural landscape and preserved way of life. Its chilly climate makes it perfect for a long weekend getaway for both backpackers and adventure lovers.
According to Climate-Data.org, the average temperature in Sagada is 19 degrees C annually. Its hottest temperature peaks at 24 degrees C from April to May, while January to February has an average low of 12-13 degrees C.
With its mountainous setup like Baguio, Sagada offers plenty of natural attractions perfect for excursions.
Book your tour to Sagada in advance so that you can save from accommodation fees. The most visited month is January, followed by November to December.
Traveling to Sagada
Traveling from Manila to Sagada takes around 10-12 hours, depending on the season and the number of stopovers.
While taking a bus is the most cost-effective way for backpackers and solo travelers, bus operators commonly offer night departures.
You can also book private cars if you have that extra budget to arrive quicker.
Here is the list of Sagada Tourist Spot you can add to your itinerary
Table of Contents
1. The Hanging Coffins of Sagada
Hanging a deceased loved one’s casket is an ancient tradition in Mountain Province. As a result, the hanging coffins became an iconic Sagada tourist spot.
They believe that placing their loved one’s remains on a higher altitude brings the souls closer to the heavens. Thus, hanging on the mountain cliff became a tradition for 2000 years.
Hire a local guide to explain how they brought and suspended the coffins above the cliff.
You can observe Sagada’s hanging coffins from a distance or trek for half an hour down the cliff and see up close.
Indeed, visiting the Sagada hanging coffins gives you a glimpse of its uniqueness and tradition.
2. Sumaguing Cave
Prepare for unforgettable spelunking at the Sumaguing Cave. Best for a group activity, exploring its chambers is hugely challenging at some point.
The natural rock formations inside will stun you as some of them resemble animal and humans shapes.
While it is expected of you to get wet, wearing proper gear will let you maximize spelunking at Sumaguing Cave.
Passing through some chambers of the cave is no easy task. For example, you’ll have to be passing on a narrow boulder, climb a rock and rappel down, and even pass on a cold pool of water.
Exploring the cave usually takes two hours, depending on the tourist’s volume.
Drop by first at its tourism office to secure a permit and have a local guide assigned to your group.
However, you can warm up by walking from the municipal office to the cave for approximately 30 minutes.
Spelunking in Sumaguing cave makes a top Sagada tourist spot choice for adventure lovers as a whole.
3. Lumiang Cave
Finishing your Sumaguing Cave adventure leads you to the Lumiang Cave
because of its underground passage connection.
You can see a stockpile of tiny coffins that have been there for over 500 years from its entrance. The caskets blend to the color of rocks as well.
Visiting Lumpiang Cave separately, on the other hand, lets you trek down with the help of a guided railing for a few minutes.
Taking the Sumaguing Cave tour includes the Lumiang Cave, though.
4. Echo Valley
Another way to see the hanging coffins of Sagada is by visiting the Echo Valley.
Trek down the valley for about 20 minutes, and you will be passing by the local cemetery and the Calvary Hill.
Its name comes from the fact that sounds resonate back from the mountains, especially when you shout loud. Testing the sounds is not allowed anymore, though.
In today’s modern time, some locals still practice burials at the mountain cliffs.
Visiting the Echo Valley gives you a different view and a meaningful perspective of their culture.
5. Kapay-aw Rice Terraces
From its mountainous terrain, towns near Sagada also share rice terraces, just like those from Ifugao. And that is the Kapay-aw rice terraces.
Though not as high as those in Banaue, Ifugao, the rice fields still look breathtaking from afar.
You can stop by the road and be mesmerized by its panoramic view when heading to Sagada.
Visiting this Sagada tourist spot is indeed beautiful scenery every traveler can appreciate. You get to have a lush green view after the planting season, while a golden mountain range when it is about to harvest.
6. Bomod-ok Falls
If there are mountains, there are probably falls, too. The Bomod-ok Falls is among those the province has.
Reaching the falls, however, requires an hour of trekking. That includes passing by the Kapay-aw rice terraces and a small village. You need to register at Barangay Banga-an and hire a guide first, though.
Immerse yourself in the refreshing waters of the falls as a reward for your long trek. The falls make a lovely backdrop, too, if you like to snap some photos.
After a long journey, it certainly rewards you with its natural charm. This Sagada tourist spot makes a great addition to your itinerary.
7. Kiltepan Viewpoint
The Kiltepan Viewpoint is the perfect place to witness a mesmerizing sunrise from a high altitude for tourists who seek the sea of clouds.
Access to the vantage point requires around 40 minutes of trek, or hire a car to get to the site fast.
While it is relatively cold in Sagada, you should wear a comfortable dress to enjoy the view.
Watch as the sun rises from the mountains of Cordillera and be stunned by the sea of clouds.
While waiting, you can also indulge in local Sagada coffee that is offered by a cafe nearby. They also sell champurrado (hot chocolate porridge), which is perfect for the chilly weather.
8. Marlboro Hills
Another location to witness the sea of clouds is trekking to Marlboro Hills.
Hike the rolling hills for an early morning adventure. Likewise, reaching the viewpoint gives you a 360-degree view of the seemingly endless mountain ranges and the sea of clouds.
This alternative location for witnessing the great sea of clouds keeps you away from the crowd at Kiltepoint Viewpoint.
Worry not to get thirsty as there are stalls positioned along the trails.
9. Lake Danum
Spend your afternoon chasing sunset at the Lake Danum.
It takes an hour of trekking getting there, though. You can opt to hire a tricycle if your legs are in awe after a day full of walking.
Lakes above mountains are very rare, so make sure to visit this as well.
Grasses cover the lake’s perimeter and make an ideal sitting spot while waiting for sundown. It makes an excellent option for campers, too.
You can also spend the rest of the day for a quick picnic by the lake. Pop-up stores selling snacks are around the corners as well.
Take a picture for the gram, or thoroughly enjoy a different view while on the high altitude.
10. Blue Hills
After watching the sea of clouds at Kiltepan or Marlboro Hills, Visiting the Blue Hills is an excellent move to maximize your Sagada tour.
The hills’ surface turns bluish thanks to its copper component. To protect the area, the local government thus prohibits mining from these hills.
Feel like you’re in a magical place while taking some photographs. Carefully explore the steep hills by wearing appropriate gear.
The surrounding pine trees also complement the spectacular spot so that you can enjoy your quick getaway.
Plan your next tour now and include this to your Sagada tourist spot list.
11. Pongas Falls
Aside from the Bomod-ok Falls, there goes another must-see water feature by the name of Pongas Falls.
Also referred to as the Twin Falls of Sagada, the Pongas Falls stands smaller than Bomod-ok Falls.
You will be passing by a humble village, and the trail itself is much easier than that of Bomod-ok.
You would consider dedicating at least half of the day to catch up with the time of trekking back and forth, though.
Take a dip in its refreshing waters while feeding your soul with a breathtaking view. You can also climb up halfway and rest below the rushing waters that act as a water massage.
12. Bokong Falls
Bokong means small, and it is where its name came.
You can add the Bokong Falls to the Echo Valley tour because of their proximity.
With its more accessible trail, you can instantly enjoy the cold waters of its running waters.
Its open basin is relatively deep and is perfect for taking a quick swim.
Try visiting Bokong Falls instead of its challenging counterparts. It is an excellent way to relax your busy feet after some time.
13. Mount Ampacao
Hiking enthusiasts and beginners should not miss the opportunity to visit Mount Ampacao when you are in Sagada.
Reaching the 1800-meter summit takes you around less than two hours from Ambasing Elementary School, depending on your pace. Getting to the true summit, however, takes you another 40 minutes of steep trekking.
Dedicate at least half of the day, especially when you plan to traverse the Lake Danum in the afternoon.
Consider bringing with you enough water as it is deliberately hot during the summer.
14. Episcopal Church
Built during the American occupation, The Episcopal Church of Saint Mary The Virgin serves as the main church in Sagada.
It is a Protestant church, and most of the citizens in the town are baptized here.
The old church features stone-walled architecture and stained glasses. Its bluish door adds instantly adds curiosity to anyone who visits the place.
Take some time to drop by before or after your tour at Sagada. It is always nice to have a solemn moment once in a while, especially when traveling.
After a long day of the tour, you can relax in its surroundings shortly, thanks to the cold climate and greeneries around.
15. Ganduyan Museum
The Ganduyan Museum is a private museum found in the town proper.
This museum showcases a vast collection of traditional specimens like sculptures, tools, jewelry, and fabrics.
Visiting the museum includes a brief introduction to the rich culture and tradition of Sagada by the owner.
16. Orange Picking
Like the strawberry picking in Baguio, you can try orange picking at Sagada Rock Inn & Cafe.
Rent a car to quickly reach the cafe in exchange for an hour of walk from the town center.
First, you need to pay a small entrance fee, and you are good to go picking some fresh fruits. Note, however, that you’ll be paying for the picked oranges after the activity.
Be sure to include this unique experience to your Sagada tourist spot list and enjoy the rest of your stay.
You can try tasting their local dishes after your orange picking activity.
17. Sagada Weaving
For your souvenir items, you can drop by at Sagada Weaving. Here, you can watch how locals make their patterned fabrics.
This humble shop sells coin purses, handbags, and other products made from woven fabrics.
Their fabrics are meticulously crafted hand-in-hand and assure you of their uniqueness and originality.
If you love traditional textiles, shop at Sagada Weaving, as prices are comparatively lower than those sold at your local boutique shops.
18. Sagada Pottery and Training Center
Visit the Sagada Pottery and Training Center when you are traveling with your kids.
They offer an introductory lesson in pottery, and the best part is you try it out by yourself.
However, note that you cannot bring your handcrafted pots with you because of their curing process. Instead, they offer finished products ready for sale.
Overall, it is an excellent experience worthy for kids and adults alike.
🔗Read nearby Tourist Destination | Baguio |
List your Sagada tourist spot itinerary now!
Sagada is known as the best-kept secret of the North. With tourism significantly increasing year by year, some Sagada tourist spot caters to enormous crowds, especially during peak months.
It is truly a fantastic experience traveling to places like Sagada while you are still young. To maximize your trip, you have to immerse yourself in its outdoor fun activities.
Visiting Sagada entails being a responsible tourist. The place is considered sacred to its locals and a place for serenity and finding inner peace.
Prepare your itinerary now from the list above. Make sure to plan your DIY or organized tour so that you can maximize staying and discovering the beautiful Sagada.
Safe Travels!
Remember that we are still in the middle of a pandemic. For your guidance about the changes in health protocols and travel requirements, you may visit their Facebook page or the official page of the Department of Tourism. Stay safe.