Sumaguing Cave
Located in the mountain town of Sagada in the Cordillera region, Sumaguing Cave is one of the most iconic and awe-inspiring natural attractions in Northern Luzon region. Often referred to as the "Big Cave," it is the largest of several caves in the area and is a must-visit for adventure seekers who want to explore the dramatic underground world hidden beneath the misty highlands of Sagada town.
Famous for its towering limestone formations, slippery rock passages, and underground pools, Sumaguing Cave offers an exhilarating spelunking experience and remains one of the top Sagada tourist spots.
What to Expect at Sumaguing Cave
Exploring Sumaguing Cave is not your typical walk-in-the-park activity. The guided spelunking tour in Sumaguing Cave involves navigating narrow crevices, rappelling down slippery rocks, and wading through cold, waist-deep water—all while surrounded by centuries-old stalactites and stalagmites. Many of these rock formations have taken on interesting shapes, with some even named for their resemblance to animals and objects.
The tour typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours and requires a local guide, ensuring safety and providing insights into the geology and cultural significance of the cave. For the more adventurous, Sumaguing Cave can be combined with the Lumiang Burial Cave through the famous Cave Connection route, which takes 3 to 4 hours.
How to Get There
To visit Sumaguing Cave, travelers must first make their way to Sagada town, which can be reached via a scenic land trip from Manila, Baguio, or Banaue. Many travelers include it as part of a tour package to Sagada town and Buscalan tattoo village, allowing them to experience both the natural beauty of Sagada and the rich cultural heritage of the mountain village of Buscalan in the province of Kalinga, home to the legendary traditional tattoo artist Apo Whang-Od.
If you’re looking for a more immersive adventure, consider booking a tour package to Baguio City and Sagada Town with a side trip to Banaue Town, which combines visits to iconic destinations in the Cordilleras, including the world-famous Banaue Rice Terraces and the breathtaking Sumaguing Cave.
Plan Your Visit
Sumaguing Cave is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the dry season from November to May when the cave passages are less slippery and easier to navigate. Wear comfortable trekking attire, bring waterproof bags for valuables, and be prepared to get wet and muddy—it’s all part of the adventure!
There are plenty of guided Sagada tours that include Sumaguing Cave in their itinerary, often along with other Sagada tourist spots like Echo Valley and the Hanging Coffins, Bomod-ok Falls, and Marlboro Hills.
