Sagada has long appealed to weary travelers in search of something different. Despite its remote location in the shadow of the Cordilleras in Northern Luzon, the town remains a popular adventure-seeker's getaway to caves, rice terraces, and ancient cultures.
Whether you're there for the serene environment or the challenging hike trails, Sagada definitely hits the spot for travelers of all backgrounds and ages.
What to See in Sagada
Sagada boasts a combination of man-made and natural wonders. The idyllic atmosphere of the town has led people to call it as the Philippines' version of Shangri-La. For the more adventurous travelers, there are a number of sites that are worth going to. All guided tours are arranged via the Tourism desk inside the town hall itself.
Sumaguing-Lumiang Cave Connection. This cave network is the most popular and talked-about attraction in Sagada. As the name suggests, you enter one cave and go out through a different exit point.
For three hours, you will scale limestone rock faces, rappel down ledges of cave rock, wade and even swim through bodies of water and crawl through narrow crevasses to witness fascinating rock formations that nature has artfully sculpted through thousands of years.
There are times when you will actually have to use your guide as a "ladder" or foot rest. You won't be able to get up and get down from certain spots without their help so that sure cranks up the "excitement" and "adrenaline" dial, right?
Despite the seemingly dangerous and physically-taxing maneuvers required for spelunking in Sagada, major injuries are rare and most travelers only come out covered with mud.
There's a bunny slope option to caving as well. You will simply go in and climb up the same way you came in but it's still a rush. The great thing about it is that you feel that it is dangerous and risky but you're still able to pull it off. Many people who doubt their fitness level, strength, balance and stamina have conquered the caves, leaving them with lasting memories of how fun it was.
Bomod-ok Falls. Also known as the Big Falls. The trek to the water falls takes hikers through a maze of fog-laced rice terraces. Yes, it's tiring and steep. Make sure you have a good pair of hiking shoes with you.
After about two to three hours worth of walking and scaling mini-ravines, you will be rewarded by the cold pools of the falls. The water drops from a height of about 150 feet and the color is just really stunning.
Other Destinations - and a Word on Pricing. Other locations worth visiting include Echo Valley, Bokong Falls, Demang Ancestral Village, Lake Danum, Mount Amapacao, Underground River and Hanging Coffins.
The key to saving money in touring is to make sure that you know how much the guides charge. Tours are priced on a per guide basis - i.e. four people will still pay the same total amount that a single person would pay if he were to go alone. The rates are fixed and displayed at the town hall tourism desk.
