North Luzon, a breathtaking region in the northern Philippines, is famous for its cool climate, dramatic landscapes, and rich heritage. North Luzon tourist spots feature centuries-old rice terraces and immersive cultural encounters. This guide covers the best spots to visit and the recommended North Luzon tour packages so you can easily explore UNESCO sites and heritage hubs.
In northern Luzon, you’ll discover a mix of natural wonders and cultural gems unlike anywhere else in the country. Check out the world-famous rice terraces of Banaue town, a hand-carved masterpiece on the mountainside. Head to Buscalan Tattoo Village in Kalinga Province to witness a traditional artists share their ancient art with travelers from all over the world.
On your journey through the highlands, don’t miss Sagada town, where dramatic hanging coffins, mysitcal caves, and limestone cliffs offer both cultural intrigue and jaw-dropping scenery. If you’re looking for a lively mix of art, history, and city charm, Baguio City won’t disappoint with its thriving art scene, heritage museums, and cool mountain vibe.
With so many places to visit in the northern Philippines, every stop feels like stepping into a new story. Keep reading to discover where to go in North Luzon and experience the most unforgettable adventures in the Philippine highlands.
Key Takeaways
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North Luzon sits in the northern part of the largest island in the Philippines. Nestled in the highlands, it is loved for its cool climate, breathtaking mountain towns, and rich cultural traditions.
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Best time to visit North Luzon: The region is most enjoyable during the dry months, from November to May, when cultural sites are more accessible, skies are clearer, and trails are easier to hike. Even in summer, the weather here stays cool compared to the lowlands.
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Visiting during the colder months of December to February is also a great option, as the crisp mountain air makes exploring the highlands even more refreshing
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Top tourist spots to explore in North Luzon include:
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Buscalan Tattoo Village: Experience the ancient tattoo traditions of Whang-Od and her apprentices, who welcome travelers from around the world to receive these centuries-old hand-tapped tattoos.
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Banaue Town: Marvel at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Batad Rice Terraces, hand-carved by the Ifugao people and often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World.”
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Baguio City: Explore its thriving art scene at Ili-Likha Artist Village and BenCab Museum, visit heritage spots like Tam-awan Village, and enjoy strawberry-picking at nearby La Trinidad town.
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Kabayan Town: This town serves as the jump-off point for the breathtaking hike up Mt. Pulag, the highest peak in Luzon and the third highest mountain in the Philippines.
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Sagada Town: Discover its famous hanging coffins, explore Sumaguing Cave, and hike to Marlboro Hills for a chance to witness the magical sea of clouds.
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Travel planning tip: North Luzon’s geography is vast and largely mountainous, with many attractions tucked away in remote highland areas. Getting from one destination to another can be challenging, so careful advance planning is essential for a stress-free trip.
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Hassle-free travel: For a smooth and carefree vacation, consider booking tours and travel packages in the Philippines. Trusted agencies like Guide to the Philippines handle your transport, tours, and accommodations, so you can relax and enjoy the journey while everything else is expertly arranged for you.
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Video by the Philippine Department of Tourism
Quick Travel Tips
Unlike the more popular destinations such as Boracay Island or Siargao Island, North Luzon offers a different charm and unique experiences. Here, you can immerse yourself in breathtaking mountain landscapes and rich traditions that have been preserved for generations.
The region rewards those who venture off the usual tourist path with authentic encounters and unforgettable scenery. Here are some tips to keep in mind when planning your trip to Northern Luzon:
How to Reach North Luzon
The Philippines’ geography makes traveling here a bit more challenging, as North Luzon is vast and largely mountainous, with many attractions tucked away in remote highland areas. Getting from one destination to another takes time, so planning in advance is key to making the most of your trip.
Baguio City is accessible from Manila City via a 4–6 hour bus ride with reliable companies like Victory Liner and Genesis Transport. If you prefer a more flexible journey, you can also rent a private van. From Baguio City, you can venture deeper into the mountains toward Kalinga Province, where van or jeepney transfers will take you to the famous Buscalan Tattoo Village.
To reach Sagada town, you can take a bus with Coda Lines, which offers a direct 10–12 hour trip from Manila City. Another option is to travel from Baguio City, where local buses and vans regularly head to Sagada town. Meanwhile, Banaue town, home to the UNESCO-listed rice terraces, is accessible via overnight buses from Manila City operated by companies like Ohayami Transit.
For a more flexible and comfortable journey, you can also arrange a private van transfers.
Best Time to Travel to North Luzon
The best time to explore North Luzon is during the dry months, from November to May. Even in the summer, the highlands remain pleasantly cool compared to the lowlands. If you visit between December and February, you’ll be greeted with crisp mountain air that makes exploring rice terraces, caves, and scenic trails even more refreshing.
For a smooth and stress-free vacation, consider booking guided tours and travel packages to Benguet Province and other regions in North Luzon. Trusted agencies like Guide to the Philippines can advise you on the best time to travel and arrange your transportation, tours, and accommodations, so you can simply enjoy the journey while everything else is expertly taken care of.
1. Baguio City
Baguio City, famously called the “Summer Capital of the Philippines” and the “City of Pines,” is a refreshing mountain retreat sitting 1,500 meters above sea level. Its cool weather, pine-covered hills, and charming city vibe and a favorite escape from the heat of the lowlands.
Baguio City is home to some of the most iconic tourist spots in Luzon Island. You can wander around Burnham Park, visit Mines View Park for sweeping mountain views, or stroll along the lively Session Road. Don’t miss Baguio City tours that take you to Tam-awan Village, a cultural park where you can explore traditional huts and local art.
Ililikha Artist Village is another highlight, a quirky food and art hub built around trees with a creative twist. One of the top tourist spots in Baguio City is the BenCab Museum, where you can admire the works of National Artist Benedicto Cabrera. Other must-sees include Camp John Hay, a historic American base turned leisure spot, and the serene Botanical Garden.
Food lovers will enjoy exploring the restaurants in Baguio City, where the cool climate and fertile soil make fresh vegetables a star ingredient. You can warm up with rich hot chocolate in cozy cafés, savor farm-to-table meals, or enjoy classic Filipino dishes elevated by the city’s produce. If you want a sweet experience, tour Baguio City and go strawberry picking in nearby La Trinidad farms.
From Baguio City, you can easily join a flower farm tour to Atok town in Benguet Province, where vibrant gardens and breathtaking mountain views await. One of the highlights is the Northern Blossom Flower Farm, famous for its endless rows of colorful blooms set against the backdrop of the Cordillera highlands.
There are also plenty of hotels in Baguio City to suit every type of traveler, from charming bed-and-breakfasts to modern stays near key attractions. Many of the best hotels sit close to tourist spots, giving you easy access to sightseeing, dining, and shopping. With so much to enjoy, Baguio City is a destination worth visiting any time of the year.
- Explore the widest selection of vacation packages to Baguio Cityand find the perfect trip for you.
- For a hassle-free getaway, book the highly-recommended 3-day 2-night Baguio City tour package.
2. Banaue Town
Banaue town (also spelled Banawe) is one of the most iconic destinations in the Philippines. Famous for its breathtaking rice terraces, this town draws travelers who want to see landscapes that blend history, culture, and natural beauty. The Banaue Rice Terraces, carved by the Ifugao people, are a remarkable engineering feat and remain one of the most visited tourist spots in Banaue town.
These terraces are recognized as a National Cultural Treasure and even made their way to the big screen. In the 2018 Marvel film Avengers: Infinity War, Thanos is shown gazing over the very same mountains and rice paddies, highlighting their cinematic beauty. It’s an unforgettable sight that feels just as magical in real life as it does on film.
Many travelers are surprised to learn that the Banaue Rice Terraces themselves are not the UNESCO-listed site. Due to modern structures within the Banaue Rice Terraces, the UNESCO designation does not cover the Banaue Rice Terraces itself but specifically recognizes the Batad Rice Terraces and Bangaan Rice Terraces, both found within Banaue town.
When you visit, you’ll discover that Banaue town offers more than just spectacular views. Local guides share stories of the Ifugao people, giving you a deeper appreciation for the culture and traditions that keep these terraces alive. Join tours to Banaue Rice Terraces in the Philippines to witness these stunning landscapes and experience the rich heritage that has shaped them.
Batad Village
Batad is a remote mountain village in Banaue town, home to fewer than 1,500 people, and often described as the crown jewel of the Ifugao rice terraces. Here, you’ll find one of the UNESCO heritage sites in the Philippines—the awe-inspiring Batad Rice Terraces. Unlike the mud-walled Banaue rice terraces, Batad’s are stone-walled and form a natural amphitheater that will leave you speechless.
Reaching Batad village is an adventure in itself, as no roads lead directly into the area. You’ll need to trek along narrow paths that wind beside the terrace walls, just wide enough for one person. The effort pays off with postcard-worthy views at every turn and the sense of being immersed in a living cultural landscape.
Spending a night in Batad village is highly recommended, with cozy guesthouses and homestays offering sweeping views right outside your window. Locals welcome travelers with warm hospitality, giving you a deeper connection to the community and its traditions. It’s the perfect way to slow down and experience village life.
For a seamless experience, book the ultimate 2-day Batad and Banaue Rice Terraces tour package. This guided adventure includes transportation, accommodations, and insights from local guides, letting you enjoy the scenery and heritage without the hassle of planning. It’s the most enriching way to discover this UNESCO site.
4. Sagada Town
Tucked away in the Central Cordillera Mountains, Sagada town is a laid-back highland escape known for its cool climate and peaceful vibe. It's a favorite among backpackers looking for remote destinations off the beaten path. With its mix of cultural traditions and natural beauty, you’ll quickly see why Sagada town is one of the most unique places you can visit in Northern Luzon.
One of the most iconic tourist spots in Sagada town is the Hanging Coffins. This centuries-old burial tradition, still practiced by local tribes today, reflects the community’s deep respect for their ancestors. While not everyone is qualified for this ritual, visiting the site gives you a glimpse into Sagada town’s fascinating culture and history.
Hanging coffins are located within Echo Valley, a scenic gorge named for the way sounds bounce off its limestone walls. Aside from being home to this traditional burial site, the area is also known for its dramatic cliffs. Another must-visit site is Bomod-ok Falls, where a towering cascade of cool mountain water rewards your hike with a refreshing dip.
For sweeping sunrise views, a hike to Marlboro Hills is a must—its sea of clouds drifting over the valleys creates a dreamlike scenery that makes it one of the most unforgettable sights in Sagada town. This short trek is a highlight of the best tours in Sagada town, giving you the chance to connect with nature while experiencing the town’s unique traditions and culture.
Adventure seekers will love exploring Sagada town’s mystical caves. Join the spelunking tour to Sumaguing Cave and marvel at its incredible limestone formations. For a deeper adventure, try the Sagada Cave Connection Tour to Sumaguing and Lumiang Burial Cave. For a more leisurely option that visits both the Hanging Coffins and Matangkib Cave, join Sagada town’s Paytokan Walking Tour.
To enjoy a seamless and hassle-free experience, book the best-selling 3-day Sagada town tour package. With all travel arrangements taken care of by local experts, you’ll have more time to simply enjoy the sights. For a more immersive North Luzon adventure, check out the top tour packages to Sagada and Banaue towns, which let you explore top highland destinations in one trip.
5. Buscalan Tattoo Village
Tucked away in the mountains of Kalinga Province, Buscalan is a remote village that has become one of North Luzon’s most sought-after destinations. Travelers from around the world make the trek here for one special reason—to experience the ancient art of batok, or traditional hand-tapped tattoos, preserved by the Butbut people of Kaling Province.
At the heart of this tradition is Apo Whang-Od, the legendary mambabatok (traditional tattoo artist) often called the last and oldest of her kind. Today, she continues to share this centuries-old craft, while training her grandnieces to carry on the legacy. Getting a tattoo in Buscalan village isn’t just about the design—it’s about becoming part of a living tradition that connects you to the community.
Visitors describe getting a tattoo from Whang-Od or her apprentices as a deeply meaningful and once-in-a-lifetime experience. You can have this unique encounter when you book a 2-Day tour package to Buscalan Tattoo Village. Since the village is remote, it’s best to join a guided tour where everything, including transportation, is handled for you—allowing you to fully enjoy the journey.
If you want to expand your trip, the 3-Day tour package Buscalan Tattoo Village and Sagada town is perfect for immersing yourself in both traditional tattoo culture and Sagada town’s breathtaking landscapes. This hassle-free tour ensures you experience the best of culture and nature in just one journey.
After your visit, you can explore more of Kalinga Province’s hidden gems, such as Sleeping Beauty Mountain, Kabunyan Natural Dam, and the pristine Pasil and Saltan Rivers. For thrill-seekers, the Pasil, Saltan, and Chico Rivers are among the top whitewater rafting spots in the region, making your North Luzon adventure even more unforgettable.
- Check out the ultimate 3-day tour packages to Kalinga and Apayao provinces for the best off-the-beaten-path adventure.
6. Kabayan Town
Kabayan town in Benguet Province is the most popular starting point for adventurers making their way to Mt. Pulag. Known as the jump-off point to this iconic peak, Kabayan town welcomes you with cool mountain air, scenic views, and a sense of excitement for the hike ahead. From here, you can join guided Mt. Pulag tours that make the climb more seamless and rewarding.
Mt. Pulag
Standing at 2,922 meters above sea level, Mt. Pulag is Luzon Island’s highest peak and the third-highest mountain in the country. Dubbed the “Playground of the Gods,” Mt. Pulag is one of the best mountains to hike in the Philippines, especially if you want to witness the magical sea of clouds at sunrise. The sight of the sun rising above the rolling clouds is an unforgettable reward for your climb.
The trails of Mt. Pulag lead you through towering pine forests, mossy woodlands, and sweeping grasslands as you make your way toward the summit. The cool weather can drop to as low as -2°C, so it feels like you’re hiking in a different world, far from the tropical heat of the lowlands. The landscapes here are not only breathtaking but also refreshingly different from other Philippine hikes.
If you’re new to hiking, don’t worry. The Ambangeg Trail—the most popular route—is rated 3/9 in difficulty, making it beginner-friendly and accessible even if it’s your first big climb. Expect rugged paths and gentle but steady slopes that challenge you just enough without being overwhelming.
To make your adventure seamless, book the highly-recommended Mt. Pulag hiking tour package, where everything is arranged for you, from transportation to permits and guides, so you can focus on enjoying the experience.
The Breathtaking North Luzon Highlands Await You
North Luzon’s highlands—where misty mountain towns, ancient rice terraces, and centuries-old traditions await—offer a travel experience unlike any other in the Philippines. From the creative buzz of Baguio City to the awe-inspiring rice terraces of Banaue town and the timeless rituals of Buscalan Village, your journey through this region blends natural wonder with deep cultural immersion.
Whether you're drawn by the artistry of mountain sculptures or the soulfulness of indigenous heritage, North Luzon beckons to travelers who crave stories behind every vista and meaning behind each path. Ready to answer the call of the highlands? Your unforgettable adventure awaits.
For a seamless and enriching experience, consider booking the 9-Day North Luzon Region Nature & Adventure Tour Package, which includes must-try activities like the Sagada Town Caves Tour, a trek to Bomod-Ok Falls, and a hiking tour of the Bangaan and Batad Rice Terraces.
You can also opt for the 15-Day Highlands Adventure Tour to North Luzon, designed to combine cultural encounters with natural attractions. With every detail arranged for you, from transport to guided activities, these tours make exploring North Luzon’s remote and rugged regions hassle-free, allowing you to simply focus on the adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Planning a trip to the highlands of North Luzon? Here are some of the most common questions travelers ask before exploring this beautiful region.
What is North Luzon famous for?
North Luzon is best known for its breathtaking mountain landscapes, rich indigenous culture, and unique attractions like rice terraces, caves, and traditional villages. It’s also a favorite among hikers and nature lovers for its cool climate and adventure-filled trails.
Where is North Luzon located?
North Luzon refers to the northern section of Luzon Island, the largest island in the Philippines. It covers provinces such as Ifugao, Kalinga, Mountain Province, and Benguet, where you’ll find many of the country’s most iconic highland destinations.
What are the must-visit tourist spots in North Luzon?
Some of the top places to explore include the Banaue Rice Terraces, the Buscalan Village in Kalinga where you can get a traditional hand-tapped tattoo from Whang-od, the Hanging Coffins, Marlboro Hills, and Sumaguing Cave in Sagada town, as well as the museums and farms in Baguio City. For hikers, climbing Mt. Pulag, the third-highest peak in the Philippines, is a must-do adventure.
Are there vacation packages available for these destinations?
Yes, you can book vacation packages that include transportation, hotels, and tours to North Luzon through Guide to the Philippines. These packages are curated by local experts to ensure a seamless and memorable experience, taking care of all travel arrangements for you.
Reach out to Guide to the Philippines through the chat widget on the website or email us at info@guidetothephilippines.ph for personalized assistance.
How do I get around when visiting multiple destinations in North Luzon?
Traveling between towns in the Philippine highlands can be challenging because of remote locations and winding mountain roads. The most convenient option is to book vacation packages or guided tours with prearranged transfers, so you can explore different spots without the stress of navigating public transportation.
If you prefer commuting, major bus lines like Victory Liner and Genesis Transport can take you to Baguio City, where vans and jeepneys connect to Buscalan Village and nearby towns. For Banaue town and Sagada town, Coda Lines provides direct routes.
For a more flexible and comfortable journey, you can also arrange private car transfers through Guide to the Philippines. Reach out to us via the chat widget on the website or email us at info@guidetothephilippines.ph for personalized assistance.
Can I explore North Luzon on my own, or should I book a guided tour?
You can explore independently, but keep in mind that North Luzon is remote and mountainous. Navigating public transportation on your own can be stressful and time-consuming. Booking packaged tours to North Luzon makes your trip easier, as all travel arrangements—including accommodations and transfers—are taken care of.
Plus, local guides share cultural insights, manage logistics, and help you make the most of your time.
Can I book tours and activities in North Luzon in advance?
Yes, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak travel seasons. Guide to the Philippines offers curated tours and experiences with trusted local guides, ensuring a hassle-free and unforgettable journey.
Are North Luzon tours and activities suitable for senior travelers?
Yes, many tours in North Luzon are suitable for seniors. However, take note that some activities may involve walking or short hikes, so it’s best for travelers to choose tours that match their pace and comfort level. There are also plenty of options that focus on sightseeing, cultural experiences, and scenic drives, making the trip enjoyable and flexible for senior travelers.
When you book with Guide to the Philippines, you can further customize transportation and itineraries for a smooth, enjoyable trip. For special requests, use the chat widget on the website or email info@guidetothephilippines.ph
Are tours to North Luzon suitable for families and kids?
Yes, though families should keep in mind that trips often involve long drives across mountainous terrain. Younger children may find the journeys tiring, and some may experience motion sickness. It’s best to plan breaks.
Is it safe to travel around Northern Luzon?
Yes, the Philippines is generally safe for tourists, especially in popular destinations like Banaue town, Sagada town, and Baguio City. As with any trip, it’s best to follow local guidelines, avoid isolated areas at night, and keep updated on weather and travel advisories.
What should I wear and bring when exploring North Luzon?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, light layers, and a jacket for the cool mountain climate. Sunscreen, a hat, and reusable water bottles are also recommended, especially if you’re hiking or joining outdoor tours.
