Things To Do
in Mayoyao
Mayoyao is a highland municipality in Ifugao Province, perched among verdant mountains and rice terraces that shape its scenic landscape. The area preserves traditional Ifugao village life, with friendly residents, Cordillera crafts, and a tranquil pace of life. Its rugged terrain and cool climate invite hikers, photographers, and cultural travelers to slow down and immerse themselves in rural roots.
For visitors, Mayoyao offers authentic hospitality, dramatic viewpoints, and a gateway to the wider Ifugao terrace country without the crowds of more touristy towns.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at the airport and take a scenic drive to the picturesque town of Mayoyao. Settle into your accommodations, taking a moment to absorb the stunning views of rice terraces that envelop the area. Enjoy a traditional breakfast featuring local delicacies to kick-start your adventure.
Explore the town, visiting local markets and meeting friendly residents who share stories of their cultural heritage. Participate in a guided tour of the famous Mayoyao rice terraces, marveling at the age-old farming techniques that have shaped the landscape. Stop for lunch at a local eatery and savor authentic Filipino dishes.
As the sun sets, enjoy a peaceful stroll through the vibrant streets of Mayoyao, where you can appreciate the lively atmosphere. Sit down for dinner at a cozy restaurant, enjoying fresh local ingredients. Conclude your day by reflecting on your journey so far under a starlit sky.
Immerse yourself in the local culture with a visit to a nearby indigenous village. Engage in traditional crafts and learn about the unique customs and rituals that define the community. Enjoy a local breakfast prepared by the villagers, experiencing the warmth and hospitality of their lifestyle.
Take part in a cooking class where you'll learn to prepare traditional dishes using locally sourced ingredients. Share your meal with the villagers, bonding over stories and laughter. The afternoon can be spent hiking to hidden spots that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Return to Mayoyao and enjoy a quiet evening at a local café, sipping traditional beverages as you converse with newfound friends. Alternatively, participate in a cultural evening program where you can witness traditional dances and music. This vibrant experience deepens your appreciation for the rich heritage of Mayoyao.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel/guesthouse per night | $15-30 |
| 🧃Local snack or bottled drink | $1-3 |
| 🚗Short local transport ride (tricycle/jeepney) | $1-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and welcoming local communities
- Stunning terrace landscapes with fewer crowds than larger tourist towns
- Limited infrastructure and slower transport options
- Rural markets may have limited option for certain foods and supplies
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Magandang umaga" - Good morning
- "Saan ang palengke?" - Where is the market?
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Mahal kita" - I love you
Places to Visit in Mayoyao
Visit one of these nice places.
Elevated vantage point offering sweeping, layered terraces bathed in morning or late afternoon light.
Close-up and wide shots capturing the architecture, textures, and village life framed by terraces.
Dramatic ridge line and soft dawn colors ideal for panoramic landscape photography.
High open space with far-reaching valley views, perfect for golden-hour shots.
Food in Mayoyao
Mayoyao Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fermented rice wine often enjoyed with meals or during social gatherings.
Must-Try!
Smoked meat (often pork) preserved in the mountain air, typically served with rice and vegetables.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market days where residents sell fresh produce, smoked meats, rice, and basic snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet warmly, ask permission before entering homes, and remove shoes when invited inside.
Dress modestly in village spaces; avoid revealing clothing near sacred or family spaces.
Ask for consent before photographing people; some elders may wish to decline.
Use the right hand for giving/receiving; avoid pointing with a finger and avoid touching heads.
Safety
Tipping in Mayoyao
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated for guides and service; small amounts (5-10%) are common for organized services. Rounding up the bill is also acceptable in casual settings.
Cash (Philippine peso) is preferred in rural Mayoyao; some guesthouses may accept cards or bank transfers, but carry sufficient cash for markets and small shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry and sunny with cool mornings; great for long walks and terrace photography. Pack sun protection and water.
June to November brings frequent showers and lush greenery; be prepared for slick trails and possible road washouts.
December to February brings cooler, drier air; layers are essential for mornings and evenings.
Mayoyao at Night
Hiking in Mayoyao
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible trekking route around terrace fields with vantage points for photography and light observation.
Ridge trail linking the two terrace-rich valleys; moderate difficulty and rewarding panoramas.
Loop trail offering sweeping valley views, suitable for a half-day hike and sunset photos.
Airports
How to reach Mayoyao by plane.
Closest major gateway to the region; connections to Manila and other cities, followed by a long mountain-road drive to Ifugao.
Alternative gateway with international connections; requires a longer overland journey to Ifugao via Manila or northern Luzon routes.
Primary Manila hub; common stepping-off point for overland or multi-leg trips to Ifugao and Mayoyao.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Indigenous communities with strong agricultural and terrace-farming traditions, maintaining distinct language and cultural practices.
Smaller numbers of migrants and settlers whose presence contributes to local markets and services.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in schools and barangays; informal games are common in the evenings.
Popular in community centers and local gyms; often played during gatherings.
Cultural activities and sport-like games linked to local traditions; sometimes demonstrated at festivals.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mayoyao.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Mayoyao, vegetarian travelers can rely on vegetable sides, rice, and market-sold produce; communicate clearly with hosts or cooks, who can adapt dishes when possible.