Banaue Rice Terraces, Philippines

Banaue Rice Terraces

BanauePhilippines

agriculture

Why You'll Love Banaue Rice Terraces

Welcome to the breathtaking Banaue Rice Terraces in the Philippines! This destination is an absolute must-see for anyone visiting the country. The rice terraces, built over 2000 years ago by the Ifugao Tribe, are a true wonder of the world. You won't find anything like it anywhere else!

The rice terraces stretch out for miles and miles, and they're carved into the mountainsides so precisely that they look like giant steps. When viewed from afar, the terraces create a mesmerizing and stunning visual effect. The entire area is incredibly picturesque, surrounded by lush greenery and mountain views.

In fact, the Banaue Rice Terraces are so beautiful that they're often called the 8th Wonder of the World. Visitors can go on hikes and treks through the terraces, admire the impressive irrigation system that the Ifugao Tribe developed, and even meet local communities who still live and work in the area.

The best time to visit is during the rice planting and harvest season, which happens from June to November. You'll see the people of the Ifugao Tribe hard at work, planting and harvesting the rice by hand. It's an incredible sight to see!

Overall, the Banaue Rice Terraces are a must-see destination for anyone visiting the Philippines. Don't miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Getting to Banaue Rice Terraces

The nearest airport to Banaue Rice Terraces is the Cauayan Airport located in Isabela province. From there, you can book a private car or take a bus to Banaue. If you are coming from Manila, the most common way to travel is by bus. You can take a bus from Cubao or Pasay Terminal to Banaue, which takes about 9 hours. Alternatively, you can also take a van or hire a private car from Manila to Banaue.

The closest city to Banaue Rice Terraces is Baguio City, in Banaue.

Travelling from Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport to Banaue Rice Terraces

When to Visit

The best time to visit the Banaue Rice Terraces in the Philippines is from February to May when the weather is generally dry and sunny.

Weather and Climate

The weather in Banaue Rice Terraces, Philippines varies throughout the year. From November to April, the region experiences the dry season with cool temperatures and less rainfall. The average temperature during this period is around 23°C (73°F).

From May to October, Banaue Rice Terraces experiences the wet season, characterized by high humidity levels and heavy rainfall. The average temperature during this period is approximately 25°C (77°F).

It is worth noting that the region is located at a high altitude and experiences cooler temperatures than other areas in the Philippines. The best time to visit Banaue Rice Terraces is during the dry season when the rice paddies are at their greenest and water levels are at their highest.

Costs When Visiting

In Philippines, the currency is the Philippine Peso.
Some sample costs when travelling around Banaue Rice Terraces are:

- Food (per day):
- Basic meal at local eatery: 50-100 PHP (1-2 USD)
- Western meal at tourist restaurant: 300-500 PHP (6-10 USD)
- Groceries (per day): 200-300 PHP (4-6 USD)

- Accommodation (per night):
- Budget guesthouse/hostel: 300-600 PHP (6-12 USD)
- Mid-range hotel/resort: 1,500-2,500 PHP (30-50 USD)
- Luxury hotel/resort: 5,000-10,000 PHP (100-200 USD)

Safety Rating

Overall, Banaue Rice Terraces in the Philippines is considered a safe destination. The crime rates in the area are generally low, although petty theft can occur in tourist hotspots or crowded areas. Women are generally safe in the area, but it is still recommended to take basic safety precautions such as not walking alone at night. The Philippines is a relatively tolerant country towards racial and LGBTQ diversity, although discrimination can still occur. It is always recommended to be respectful of local customs and beliefs.

Local Population

The population in Banaue Rice Terraces, Philippines is primarily composed of indigenous tribes such as Ifugao and Kankanaey people. Many of the residents are also Christians, with a small number of Muslims. The primary language spoken is Ifugao, although many people also speak Filipino and English. In terms of gender, there is a relatively equal split between males and females. As for the racial breakdown, the vast majority of the population is Ifugao and Kankanaey, with a small number of other ethnicities scattered throughout the area.

Things to Do

Some common tourist activities at the Banaue Rice Terraces in the Philippines include trekking/hiking to view the terraces, visiting the nearby Batad rice terraces, exploring the local villages and markets, learning about the Ifugao culture and traditions, and trying traditional dishes like Pinikpikan and Inasinan. The nearby Tappiya Waterfall is also a popular attraction for visitors.