Banaue Rice Terraces
Carved into the mountains of Ifugao over 2,000 years ago, the Banaue Rice Terraces are one of the most iconic cultural landscapes in the Philippines. Often dubbed the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” these ancient terraces were built by the indigenous Ifugao people using only hand tools, showcasing remarkable ingenuity and harmony with nature.
Today, the terraces continue to be cultivated, offering not just jaw-dropping scenery but also a living heritage site. Travelers from all over the world join Banaue Rice Terraces tours to hike along these verdant steps, learn about traditional farming practices, and experience the rich culture of the Ifugao people.
What to Expect
The Banaue Rice Terraces stretch across the mountainsides like green stairways to the sky. While the terraces near the town center offer incredible panoramic views, travelers can venture deeper into the region to visit nearby villages like Batad and Bangaan, which are part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed rice terraces.
Trekking through these villages not only reveals the most pristine and photogenic terraces but also allows you to engage with the locals, stay in native inns, and witness the Ifugao way of life.
Plan Your Visit
For those wanting to explore more of the Cordillera Region, Banaue is often included in Sagada-Banaue packages and multi-stop North Luzon packages that also feature the mystical caves of Sagada, the historic town of Vigan, and even the Buscalan tattoo village in Kalinga—where the legendary Apo Whang-Od practices the traditional art of hand-tapped tattoos.
The 2-Day Trip to Buscalan Village includes a side trip to Banaue Rice Terraces and a visit to the Buscalan tattoo village, offering an enriching combination of culture, history, and nature.
