Banaue
Stairway to the Sky
Overview
Banaue is home to the 2,000-year-old Ifugao Rice Terraces, often called the "Eighth Wonder of the World." Carved into the mountains by ancestors of the indigenous Ifugao people, these UNESCO World Heritage terraces showcase an ancient agricultural tradition still practiced today.
Banaue, officially the Municipality of Banaue, is a municipality in the province of Ifugao, Philippines. According to the 2024 census, it has a population of 20,143 people.
Read more on WikipediaBanaue is a town in the Cordillera mountain range in the north of the island of Luzon, in the Philippines. It is mainly visited for its stunning rice terraces, which are designated a National Cultural Treasure.
Top Attractions
Banaue Rice Terraces Viewpoint
Main viewpoint with panoramic views of the terraces
Batad Rice Terraces
Amphitheater-shaped terraces, more pristine than Banaue
Bangaan Rice Terraces
Picturesque village with traditional Ifugao huts
Hapao Rice Terraces
Less touristy terraces with hot springs nearby
Tappiya Falls
Majestic waterfall accessible from Batad (steep hike)
Banaue Museum
Learn about Ifugao culture, crafts, and traditions
Things to Do
Batad Trek
Full-day trek through rice terraces to Tappiya Falls
Bangaan Village Tour
Visit traditional Ifugao village and huts
Sunrise at Viewpoint
Watch sunrise over the misty terraces
Ifugao Weaving
Watch traditional weaving and buy authentic textiles
Native Hut Stay
Overnight in traditional Ifugao hut in Batad
Cultural Performance
Traditional Ifugao dance and music
Photo Gallery
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Explore DealsGetting There
- Overnight bus from Manila (Ohayami, Coda Lines)
- Bus to Baguio + transfer to Banaue (4-5 hrs)
- Private van hire from Manila
Local Food
Pinikpikan
Traditional Ifugao chicken dish (beaten then boiled)
Tinawon Rice
Heirloom rice grown in the terraces - nutty flavor
Etag
Smoked pork, similar to bacon
Rice Wine
Local tapuy rice wine, sweet and potent
Where to Stay
Banaue Town
₱800-3,000/nightMost hotels and inns with terrace views
Batad
₱300-800/nightBasic guesthouses and native huts
Hapao
₱500-1,500/nightHomestays near the hot springs
Weather Forecast
Travel Tips
- •Hire a licensed guide - it supports locals and ensures safety
- •Bring cash - no ATMs in Batad, limited in Banaue
- •Pack light layers - cool mornings, warm afternoons
- •Wear sturdy shoes for trekking on slippery paths
- •Respect the terraces - stay on paths, don't damage crops
- •Best photos are early morning when mist rises
- •Learn basic Ifugao greetings - locals appreciate it
- •Book bus tickets in advance during Holy Week
Best Time to Visit
Terraces are lush green; June-July for harvest golden color