Sagada is a remote area located high up in the Cordillera mountains and is around 171 miles away from Manila. It is a favorite destination for adventure-seekers and explorers as well as city-dwellers who are weary of the hustle and bustle of urban life. Sagada is definitely a place to refresh your spirit as it is full of breathtaking natural attractions and untouched wilderness.
Going to Sagada is a long journey – from Baguio (which is around 6 to 8 hours away by car from Manila), the trip takes around 7 hours. However, during the long trip, you will be treated to spectacular views of the rice terraces that the Cordillera region is famous for. The long journey is all worth it as Sagada has plenty of choice caves that are perfect for spelunking and exploring. Even non-caving experts and spelunking first-timers will enjoy themselves as local quick-footed, English-speaking tour guides are available to assist. The Sumaguing Cave is the most popular as it can be explored by caving pros and neophytes alike. Inside the cave are magnificent stalactite and stalagmite formations that were shaped over millennia. Some formations that you can expect to see have been named by the locals as king and queen’s curtains, giant fudge, pregnant woman, Mickey Mouse, alligator, dancing hall, and rice terraces. The cave also has underground streams and natural pools. Just be warned though that the water is quite chilly.
Aside from the caves, tourists are also recommended to visit Bomod-ok Falls, a 200-foot column of water. Other points of attraction are the hanging coffins – graves of the ancestors of the Sagada people that were built into cliff sides. Make sure to stop by also at the Masferre Café, where photographs of Igorots (the local group in Sagada) taken by Eduardo Masferre in the early 20th century are on display.
