PH · Ifugao · 16.90°N 121.05°E

banaue rice terraces

Ancient rice terraces carved by hand into the Cordillera mountains.

Best time
The drier months from about February to May are best for hiking. The terraces change through the year, from flooded paddies after planting to green and then gold before harvest. The rainy season, roughly June to October, brings landslides on the mountain roads.
How long
2–3 days
Getting there
Fly from KL to Manila (about 4 hours), then about 9 hours north to Banaue by overnight bus or car.
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PH · Ifugaobanaue rice terraces16.90°N 121.05°Egowherelah.com
Dear group chat,Ancient rice terraces carved by hand into the Cordillera mountains.— gowherelahTo: whoever’s drivingBanaue Rice TerracesPH, Ifugao
KLbanaue rice terraces
≈ 2,610 km from KL, as the crow flies
Banaue rice terraces (N. Luzon, Philippines)taken from observation point at beginning of road to Bontoc. Clear evidence of erosion of the terraces.

Photo: User: (WT-shared) Roundtheworld at wts wikivoyage · Public domain

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Photos: Wikimedia Commons, credited on each.

Rice terraces carved into the mountains of Ifugao by hand, generations ago, and still farmed today. The main viewpoint above Banaue town is the classic shot, while nearby villages like Batad have terraces you can hike right through. Getting there takes effort, but the views make up for it.

Makan

  1. Tinawon riceHeirloom rice grown on the terraces and harvested once a year. Try it at the local guesthouses.Map ↗

Things to do

  1. Banaue viewpointThe main lookout just above town, with the classic view down a valley of terraces.Map ↗
  2. BatadA village set in an amphitheatre of terraces, part of the UNESCO-listed Cordillera terraces. You walk in from the road.Map ↗
  3. Tappiyah FallsA steep hike down from Batad to a tall waterfall with a cold pool for swimming.Map ↗
  4. BangaanA small village of traditional Ifugao houses below the road, also on the UNESCO list.Map ↗

Good to know

  • The terraces are working farms. Stay on the paths and walls, and ask before photographing people.
  • The Batad hike is steep with a lot of steps. Wear proper shoes and consider hiring a local guide.

Last checked October 2026. Things change, so check opening times, fees and transport before you go.