Things To Do
in Sagada
Sagada is a highland town in the Cordillera region of the Philippines, surrounded by pine forests and ancestral terraces. It’s known for its ancient Hanging Coffins and dramatic mountain scenery. Adventurers flock here for cave exploration, sunrise views, and culturally rich encounters with local communities.
The town’s relaxed pace, cool climate, and rustic lodgings make it a memorable gateway to northern Luzon.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Sagada and take in the breathtaking mountain views that surround this serene town. Settle into your accommodation and grab a hearty breakfast at a local café. Take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets to get acclimated.
Visit the famous hanging coffins of Sagada, a unique burial tradition that has piqued the interest of many travelers. Learn about the history and culture of the Igorot people as you explore these fascinating sites. Don’t forget to take plenty of photos to remember this surreal experience.
Enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, trying out specialties such as pinikpikan and other Cordilleran dishes. Spend your evening relaxing by the fireplace in your accommodation, sharing stories with fellow travelers. Take in the starlit sky, which is particularly stunning in Sagada due to its minimal light pollution.
After breakfast, set out on an exciting trek to Sumaguing Cave, known for its majestic rock formations and underground river. The guided tour is not only thrilling but also educational, providing insights into the geological history of the region. Wear comfortable shoes as the cave can be slippery and requires careful navigation.
Post-adventure, recharge with lunch at a nearby eatery, enjoying the local flavors. Spend the afternoon exploring the surroundings, perhaps visiting the nearby Lake Danum for a serene experience by the water. Capture the beauty of the landscape with some photography, especially as the sun starts to dip.
Dine once again at a local favorite, savoring heartwarming cuisine to soothe your tired muscles. After dinner, participate in a traditional Bonfire Night, where you can meet locals and learn more about Sagada's folklore. Allow the warmth of the fire and company to create a memorable conclusion to your day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $15-40 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $25-70 |
| 🚲Tricycle ride within town | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning mountain scenery, caves, and waterfalls
- Rich Cordilleran culture and warm hospitality
- Cool climate and relaxed pace perfect for nature lovers
- Limited nightlife and dining options outside the town center
- Rough roads and basic medical facilities in rural areas
- "Kumusta ka?" - Hello, how are you?
- "Agyamanak" - Thank you
- "Mano ti presyo?" - How much is this?
- "Wen" - Yes
Places to Visit in Sagada
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic sunrise views over rolling hills and a sea of clouds on clear days; best arrived before dawn to secure a good vantage.
A pine-scented trail leading to traditional hanging coffins and viewpoints; especially atmospheric at dawn or late afternoon light.
A dramatic limestone cave with stalactites and stalagmites; challenging routes offer a striking underground photography experience.
Golden terraces and a powerful waterfall framed by rice paddies; a classic shot of Sagada’s rural landscape.
Food in Sagada
Sagada Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Cordilleran chicken dish prepared by lightly beating the bird and slow-cooking with greens and broth; available in several local eateries.
Must-Try!
Salt-cured and smoked meat common in the Cordillera; often served with rice or in stews; ask for a sample at local eateries.
Simple, nourishing dishes featuring native grains and seasonal greens, commonly found in tavern-style eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The town market where you can buy fresh produce, local coffee, dried goods, and small snacks; great for a quick bite or to restock snacks for hikes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be mindful at burial sites and during local ceremonies; ask for permission before taking photographs of people or sacred objects.
In villages and when visiting temples or traditional homes, wear modest clothing and remove shoes where requested.
Greet locals warmly, use basic local phrases if possible, and avoid loud behavior in the evenings when residents may be resting.
Safety
Tipping in Sagada
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated for guides, drivers, and service staff but not mandatory. 5-10% is a reasonable range for good service, with more for exceptional guiding in caves or private tours.
Cash (Philippine Peso) is widely preferred; some tourist-focused shops and cafes accept cards, but carry sufficient cash for markets and small vendors. ATMs are available in town, but may be limited in case of travel surges.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cool, dry days with pleasant temperatures and clear skies; crowds begin to rise as hikers and weekend travelers arrive. Pack layers, sunscreen, and water; early mornings can be chilly.
June to September brings frequent rain and occasional landslides in outlying routes; trails can be slippery and daylight hours are shorter. Bring waterproof gear, a dependable flashlight for caves, and plan cave visits with local guides who monitor weather conditions.
October to May offers the best overall hiking conditions with cooler days and minimal rain; mornings can be misty and evenings cool. This is a popular window for photography and longer treks.
Sagada at Night
Hiking in Sagada
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A classic hike from the village through terraces and forests to a spectacular waterfall.
Short to moderate hike to a famed sunrise overlook with rolling valleys.
Scenic walk through pine forests leading to traditional coffins and viewpoints.
Cave exploration with guided routes showcasing impressive formations.
Airports
How to reach Sagada by plane.
Domestic flights with road transfer to Sagada through mountain routes; commonly used as a gateway to northern Luzon.
Regional airport with limited service; many travelers fly Manila/Clark and drive to Sagada.
Major international hub; long overland transfer to Sagada via land transport (bus/van) or private car.
Alternative gateway; road transfer to Sagada via northern routes, often via Banaue or Baguio corridors.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Cordillera Indigenous groups with deep cultural traditions and a strong sense of community.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely played sport in schools and towns with casual pickup games in community courts.
Favored activities for locals and visitors exploring the montane terrain.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sagada.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries offer vegetable-based dishes or can prepare something simple from the kitchen; communicate clearly with staff and avoid meat-based specialties if needed.