Banaue Sights and Landmarks Guide, Philippines

If you’ve been to the other sites comprising the Wonders of the Earth, say Eiffel Tower and Great Wall of China, you shouldn’t miss out the 8th Wonder located in the town of Banaue.

The entire Banaue is characterized by well-molded terraces of rice and other crops. After a tricycle ride up to the mountain, you can start traveling on foot. Walk through the terraces up and enjoy a bird’s eye view of shops, houses, planted rice, hotels and restaurants. Along the way, you’ll see elderly Ifugaos dressed in native tapis (skirt-like lower wear) greeting with warmth and pleasure. They’d love to enjoy a photo opportunity with tourists countless times. Some locals would sell you some embroidered and cotton-made blankets, shawls, towels and sarongs.

If you want to negotiate the price, you can of course.

Along the streets, you can see shops selling various items. You are surely surprised why these mountain individuals are so skilled not only in basket weaving, but also in wood carving. Best buys of utilitarian baskets, bowls, small containers and big rice baskets should be availed so that you can have something that reminds you of Banaue.

It’s a common thing to see farming people getting their lands cultivated as you travel along the terraces of this World Heritage Site as recognized by UNESCO.

There’s a swing bridge that’s fun trudging along. Trekking up and down should be taken at your own pace so that it’s less tiring. You are also likely to spot the back of some buildings in your terrace exploration.

It’s expected that when you tour to Banaue, you should enjoy the angle from the veranda of People’s Restaurant and Hotel that is in the heart of the town giving you the best view. It’s usually sunny on daytime, so it’s advised that you bring along your Sunscreen protection or any Sun-block lotion. Another fascinating sight is how the kids ride on their mini-scooters to transport themselves just nearby.

The Native Village Inn is another must-see as it contains the authenticity among Ifugaos. A view from the mountaintop in this spot will aim your attention toward the Hapao rice terraces.

Travel agents especially from the Philippine Adventures have developed cost-effective tour packages for domestic and international tourists alike. If your conscience is telling you to enjoy the magnificence of nature, you should listen to it. He is right; you should trek up.