Manila Attractions
Banaue Rice Terraces
Banaue
This fascinating region in northern Luzon is known for being
largely untouched by Western civilisation and gives a glimpse of
the true Philippines. In a string of villages around Banaue people
live according to age-old tribal traditions. The main attraction in
the area is the Banaue Rice terraces, dubbed the ‘eighth
wonder of the world’. Constructed about 3,000 years ago the
terraces start from the base of the Cordillero Mountains and extend
upwards for thousands of feet, cleverly irrigated by channelled
streams and springs. The terraces bear testimony to the ingenuity
of the ancient Ifugao people. There are more terraces at Batad
village, which also sports a waterfall and natural swimming pool,
and at Sagada there are a series of ancient burial caves in the
mountainside with the famous ‘hanging coffins’ perched
on limestone outcrops.
Transport: From Manila it is a 10 hour drive. Take public utility buses saying Manila-Banaue, such as Auto Bus. From Bagbag airport it is a two to three hour drive, with public buses or jeeps
