WHAT TO EXPECT DURING A BANAUE AND BATAD TOUR
If you’ve arranged a land transfer with us, departure from Metro Manila is between 8:00–10:00 PM, depending on your starting point. There will be short stopovers along the way so you can stretch your legs, grab snacks, or use the toilet. Travel time to Banaue, Ifugao takes around 9 hours, depending on road and weather conditions. (For DIY travelers: Please plan your trip so that you arrive in Banaue town by around 8:00 AM. This will give you enough time to have breakfast, freshen up, and prepare for the day’s activity or meet your guide at the arranged time.) Upon arrival in Banaue town, unload your bags and proceed to your assigned accommodation.
If early check-in is allowed, you may settle in and have your breakfast before meeting your guide to finalize your plans and set the start time for the day’s activity. For Day 1, we recommend starting easy with a scenic trek to the Hapao Rice Terraces and Bogyah Hot Spring, a great way to stretch your legs and enjoy the breathtaking Ifugao landscape without overexerting yourself after the long drive. Your guide will assist with arranging the tricycle or jeepney ride to the area (about 1 hour from town). Please note that this side activity is not included in the main tour package, and any related expenses will be on your account. After your Hapao adventure, head back to your accommodation to rest, enjoy dinner, and try the local rice wine (tapuy), a traditional Igorot drink that helps ward off the mountain chill. Before bed, pre-order your breakfast for the next day so the staff can prepare in advance. The wake-up call on Day 2 is usually at 6:00 AM. After breakfast, get ready for your Batad trekking adventure to Tappiyah Falls, the highlight of your trip. To reach the trail jump-off, you’ll take a tricycle or jeepney ride (around 1 hour) from your accommodation. The guide will help you coordinate this. Before starting your hike, make sure to wear proper hiking shoes or sandals and comfortable clothes. We recommend bringing or renting a hiking stick (available at most lodges). Don’t forget your trail snacks, water and change of clothes. Since you’ll likely swim at Tappiyah Falls, it’s best to wear your swimsuit under your hiking clothes. Passing rain showers are common, so ensure your bag is water-resistant or your things are wrapped in plastic or a dry bag. The hike and swim at the falls usually take around 3 hours, depending on your pace. You’ll be back in Batad village by noon, just in time for lunch at one of the local eateries. After lunch, take the trike back to your Banaue accommodation. Once back in town, you’ll have time to explore Banaue, visit the viewpoint of its world-famous rice terraces, shop for souvenirs, and have lunch before your scheduled departure. Expect another 8-hour journey back to Manila, ending your trip pleasantly tired but fulfilled with beautiful memories, new stories to tell, and a camera full of incredible photos.