Information about Banaue Rice Terraces

Banaue Rice Terraces

The Banaue Rice Terraces are a National Cultural Treasure of the Philippines and are regarded as the 8th Natural Wonder of the World.  The terraces are crafted in the mountains of Ifugao and were done by hand.

Rice terraces have existed for over 2,000 years in the mountain areas of Ifugao and northern Luzon Island. The terraces were initially built as a realistic approach to the problem of growing rice on land that drops down in front at various angles.

The Sunrise Viewpoint is the most common spot for viewing the rice terraces, where local Igarot people pose for photos and sell carvings. However, it is also possible to head off on foot along the trails that run across the rice paddies, their banks strewn with scarlet wildflowers that compare dismally with the bright green of the rice plantings.

How to get there

If you choose to explore the rice terraces on your own, it is better to employ a guide or join a guided tour.

Best time to visit

The terraces can be viewed at any time of year, but the ideal time to visit is between February and March, when sweeping and planting takes place, and between June and July, when harvesting takes place.