Getting There in Banaue and Batad
Part of the Banaue and Batad travel guide — see every topic in All Banaue and Batad Guides.
Banaue is a mountain town in Ifugao province, in the north of Luzon. It is the base for visiting Batad and the other rice terrace villages. The trip from Manila is long, and most people take an overnight bus. Banaue can also be combined with Sagada and Baguio on a longer trip through the mountains. This guide explains the main routes and how to plan.
From Manila
Overnight buses run from Manila to Banaue, usually leaving in the evening and arriving early the next morning. The trip often takes about nine to ten hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Buses are usually air-conditioned and can be cold, so bring a jacket. Book tickets in advance, especially at weekends and in holiday seasons. Some travellers hire a private van instead, which is more expensive but more flexible. Some buses stop at rest stops for food along the way. Arriving early in the morning gives you a full first day.
From Sagada or Baguio
Many visitors combine Banaue with Sagada. Vans and jeepneys run between the two towns, often with a change of vehicle in Bontoc. The road is mountainous and takes several hours. From Baguio, travellers can reach Banaue by road, either directly or via other towns. Road conditions can change, especially after heavy rain. Ask your guesthouse for the latest schedules, as local transport times change often. Seats on small vans fill up fast, so arrive early. Mountain roads have many curves, so take something for motion sickness if you need it.
From Banaue to Batad
To reach Batad, take a hired tricycle, jeepney or van from Banaue to the road end above the village. The ride usually takes about 45 minutes, sometimes longer. From there, you walk down to the village. Many guesthouses in Banaue can arrange transport and a guide. If you plan to come back the same day, agree on a pick-up time with your driver before you start walking. Leave enough time to walk back up before dark. Prices for hired rides are usually per vehicle, so sharing with other travellers can save money. Agree on the price before you go.
Planning your trip
Give yourself at least two or three nights in the area. One full day for Batad and Tappiya Falls is a minimum, and an extra day helps if the weather is bad. Bring enough cash from Manila or Baguio, as ATMs in Banaue are limited and can run out of money. Mobile signal is often weak in the villages. During the rainy season, landslides can block roads, so keep your plans flexible and check conditions before you go. Banaue has small guesthouses and a few hotels. Many have views over the terraces.
Getting There at a glance
| Getting there | Overnight bus from Manila, about 9 to 10 hours |
|---|---|
| Hours | Buses usually leave Manila in the evening; check current schedules |
| Cost | Bus is cheap to mid-range; private vans cost more |
| Best time | Dry season, about February to May |
| Bring | A warm layer for the bus, cash and some snacks |