Nestled in the Cordillera Mountains of northern Luzon, Philippines, the Banaue Rice Terraces are a testament to ancient engineering and sustainable agriculture. Often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” these 2,000-year-old terraces offer incredible sights and an extraordinary hiking experience.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about hiking the Banaue Rice Terraces, from preparation tips to the best trails, ensuring your journey through this UNESCO World Heritage site is as enriching as it is unforgettable.
Before we dive into the specifics of the Banaue Rice Terraces hike, let’s consider what makes this adventure so unique:
- Stunning scenery year-round
- An experience which combines nature, adventure and history
- Breathtaking views of emerald green terraces during the wet season
- The opportunity to meet Indigenous Ifugao people and learn their traditions
- Witnessing sustainable farming practices that have endured for millennia
Preparing For Your Banaue Rice Terraces Hike
Given its remote location, visiting Banaue requires some planning. It’s important to know the best season to visit, where to stay, and what essentials to bring.
Best Time To Visit
Timing is crucial when planning your Banaue Rice Terraces hike.
Consider these factors:
- December to February: Cool and dry, but the terraces may be brown
- March to May: Planting season, terraces turn vibrant green
- June to November: Rainy season, lush landscapes but challenging hiking conditions
We hiked in mid-August and had no issues at all! The terraces were unbelievably beautiful, though the heat was the only downside at this time of year.
Where to stay in Banaue:
Banaue Homestay ($) – Bogah Lodge ($) – Native Village Inn ($$)
What To Pack
Proper preparation is necessary to enjoy your Banaue Rice Terraces hike.
Essential items include:
- Sturdy hiking shoes with good traction
- Lightweight, quick-dry clothing
- Rain gear (jacket and pants)
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
- Reusable water bottles (you need plenty of water) and snacks
- Camera to capture the stunning views
Physical Preparation
While the Banaue Rice Terraces hike can be adapted to various fitness levels, some preparation will enrich your experience:
- Build endurance with regular cardio exercises
- Practice hiking on uneven terrain
- Strengthen your legs with squats and lunges
- Improve balance to navigate narrow terraces
Hiking Banaue Rice Terraces: Top Trails And Routes
Bangaan Rice Terraces Loop
For those seeking a less strenuous option, the Bangaan Rice Terraces offer a gentler Banaue Rice Terraces hike experience.
Highlights:
- Well-preserved traditional village
- Picturesque terraces with easier walking paths
- Opportunity to interact with local farmers
Trail Difficulty: Easy to moderate, suitable for most fitness levels
Duration: 2-3 hours for a leisurely loop
Batad Rice Terraces Trek
The Batad Rice Terraces, part of the larger Banaue complex, offer some of the most dramatic views and challenging hikes.
Highlights
- Amphitheatre-like terraces surrounding the village
- Traditional Ifugao houses and culture
- Stunning views from the Batad Saddle viewpoint
Trail Difficulty: Moderate to challenging, with steep sections and narrow paths
Duration: 4-6 hours round trip from Batad village
Tappiya Falls Hike
Combining the Banaue Rice Terraces hike with a visit to Tappiya Falls adds an extra layer of adventure to your journey.
What to Expect
- Descend through rice terraces to reach the falls
- A refreshing swim in the natural pool at the base of Tappiya Falls
- Challenging climb back up to the village
Trail Difficulty: Challenging, with steep descents and ascents
Duration: 5-7 hours round trip from Batad village
Unlock the Best of Banaue: The Top Experiences to Book Right Now!
Hike the rice terraces with your tour guide whose family resides right at the rice terraces. Just $50 per 5 people
Trek through mountains, forests, native communities, and past waterfalls. Stay overnight in a village and learn about their life and culture
Essential Tips For Hiking Banaue Rice Terraces
1. Hire A Local Guide
Engaging a local guide enhances your Banaue Rice Terraces hike in several ways:
- Navigate the complex routes safely
- Gain insights into Ifugao culture and farming practices
- Support the local community
- Discover hidden viewpoints and photo opportunities
2. Respect Local Customs And Environment
As you embark on your Banaue Rice Terraces hike, remember:
- Ask permission before photographing people or entering private property
- Stay on designated trails to preserve the terraces
- Carry out all trash and practice ‘Leave No Trace’ principles
- Dress modestly out of respect for local culture
3. Pace Yourself And Stay Hydrated
The environment of the Banaue Rice Terraces requires special consideration:
- Take frequent breaks to adjust to the climate
- Drink plenty of water, especially in warmer months
- Listen to your body and don’t push beyond your limits
4. Capture The Moment, Respectfully
While the Banaue Rice Terraces offer incredible photo opportunities, remember:
- Be mindful of your surroundings when using drones (if permitted)
- Avoid disrupting farmers or local activities for the sake of a photo
- Consider putting the camera down occasionally to fully immerse in the experience
Beyond Banaue: Other Places To Visit
While it is worth visiting to see the rice terraces, there is not much else to do in the tiny village of Banaue. Here are some other places you can visit during your Northern Luzon trip:
Explore this gorgeous town, filled with adventure and cultural gems. Discover the famous hanging coffins, or head deep underground for a spelunking adventure. Perhaps trek the rice terraces to Bomod-ok Falls or wake up bright and early to witness the magical sea of clouds during sunrise.
- Baguio
Discover one of the cleanest cities in Asia. Baguio, the summer capital of the Philippines, balances city life with nature perfectly. Expect breezy walks through pine tree forests, quiet streets and boat rides.
- La Union
If you fancy trying surfing in the Philippines, La Union is a great place to break up a trip between Manila and your Banaue rice terraces hike. This seaside town has plenty of cute beachfront restaurants, bustling markets and of course, waves to catch!
Other Adventure Activities In The Philippines
Whether you choose the challenging trails of Batad, the adventurous path to Tappiya Falls, or the gentler slopes of Bangaan, your Banaue Rice Terraces hike promises to be an unforgettable experience.
So lace up your hiking boots, prep your kit, and prepare for an adventure that will leave you in awe of human ingenuity and nature’s boundless beauty. The Banaue Rice Terraces await!
Thank you for reading our blog!
We are Em & Yul – An English & Filipino Travel Couple. Now based in Cebu, we frequently explore the best destinations, hidden gems and cultural attractions across the Philippines.
Subscribe to our email list (in the sidebar) to keep updated with our latest travel advice, content and recommendations.
You can get in contact with us using one of the methods below:
Please note that this website contains affiliate links, and I may earn a commission if you purchase through these links (at no extra cost to you). This helps us keep the website up and running. We only recommend genuinely useful products and resources 🙂