With so many things to do in Sagada, I created this ultimate guide to help you make the most out of your limited time in this beautiful mountain town. As always, my goal is to share my experience so you can make better decisions.
- 5-Day Itinerary w/ Prices
- Sagada Tours and Attractions
- Where to Eat in Sagada
- Where to Stay in Sagada
- Souvenir Shopping
- Know Before You Go
Let’s start!
About Sagada
Sagada is a beautiful mountain town located in the Mountain Province of the Philippines, within the lush Cordillera Mountain Range on the island of Luzon.
The distance between Manila and Sagada is about 400 kilometers (250 miles). The travel time by car or bus is typically around 10-12 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Sagada is home to the Igorot people, who have fascinating traditions like the hanging coffins of Echo Valley and the ancient burial caves. The lush, mist-shrouded mountains are also home to cascading waterfalls and sprawling rice terraces. All this, combined with a laid-back mountain town atmosphere, makes for an ideal retreat destination.
Sagada’s rise in popularity began after its stunning landscapes were featured in the movie That Thing Called Tadhana. Since then, it’s welcomed thousands of visitors annually. While ongoing development brings more conveniences like gas stations, accommodations, and cafes, I hope the local government and community collaborate to preserve Sagada’s unique charm and the natural beauty that draws people here.
Sagada 5-Day Itinerary
Disclaimer: I stayed in Sagada for a week, but recommend a 5-day itinerary for first-time visitors.
I organized this 5-day Sagada itinerary based on the location of each attraction and the ideal time to go. I’ll discuss more about Sagada’s road layout in this article, but the schedule I made is arranged in a way that you won’t have to keep going back and forth along the main road. It saves time, energy, and gas (and of course, money too!).
For this trip, I didn’t want to cram seeing a lot of places in one day, so I made sure to leave some time to enjoy our accommodation. I also think that the best types of vacations blend sightseeing with relaxation, especially in Sagada, where the lives of the locals inspire you to slow down.
| Day | Time | Activity | Cost |
| Day 1 | 10:00 AM | Sagada Weaving | FREE |
| 10:45 AM | Brunch at Yoghurt House | ||
| 12:00 PM | Register at the Tourism Office | PHP 100/person | |
| 12:30 PM | Sagada Pottery | PHP 100/person | |
| 02:00 PM | Ganduyan Museum | PHP 100/person | |
| 03:00 PM | Check-in Blue Mountain Cabins | ||
| 05:30 PM | Dinner and Sunset at Blue Mountain Cabins | ||
| Day 2 | 07:30 AM | Breakfast at Bana’s Coffee | |
| 10:00 AM | Bomod-Ok Falls, Coffee Farm, & Rice Terraces | PHP 500 | |
| 04:30 PM | Early Dinner at Misty Lodge & Cafe (Alternative: Coffee Heritage House) | ||
| Day 3 | 05:45 AM | Sunrise Breakfast at Isang Wow Cafe | |
| 09:30 AM | Hanging Coffins (Alternative: Paytokan Walk) | PHP 300 | |
| 11:30 AM | Sumaguing Cave (Alternative: Cave Connection) | PHP 800 | |
| 02:00 PM | Late Lunch at Salt and Pepper | ||
| 03:45 PM | Wash Up and Rest at the Cabin | ||
| 06:00 PM | Dinner at Log Cabin | ||
| Day 4 | 06:00 AM | Sunrise Breakfast at the Cabin | |
| 08:00 AM | Blue Soil Hike (Alternative: Marlboro + Blue Soil) | PHP 800 (I did this for free) | |
| 11:30 AM | Lunch at Sagada Brew | ||
| 12:45 PM | Walk Around Town/Souvenir Shopping | ||
| 02:00 PM | Relax at the Cabin | ||
| 05:30 PM | Sunset Dinner at Sagada Cellar Door | ||
| Day 5 | 10:00 AM | Breakfast at Sagada Blue Mountain Cabins | |
| 11:00 AM | Check-out | ||
| 11:20 AM | Buy and Try Pies at Lemon Pie House | ||
| 12:00 PM | Lunch at Ganduyan Inatep Cafe | ||
| 01:30 PM | Back to Manila via Baguio Route | ||
| TOTAL | PHP 3,000 |
Note: The total cost above doesn’t include fuel, food, souvenirs, gratuity, and accommodation. But don’t worry! We’ll discuss them all in this article.
Tours, Prices, and Things to Do in Sagada
Sagada’s local government recommends a few accredited tour agencies. They offer the same price and tour packages, so it doesn’t matter which one you choose.
Perhaps the strongest deciding factor when choosing a Sagada tour agency is the location. As their offices are scattered across town, I recommend choosing the one closest to your accommodation since you have to meet your tour guide at the office every time you book a tour.
That said, here are some of the best tours and attractions in Sagada. You can go to some of these places on your own, except for hikes and spelunking tours.
Sagada Weaving
Cost: Free
You can’t miss Sagada Weaving – it’s right on the main road, making it the perfect first stop if you’re driving. Swing by on your way in or out of town, since you’ll pass it anyway. It’s a small place, so it won’t take long.
Inside, you’ll find skilled artisans practicing the age-old art of weaving. Pictures inside are not allowed, but you can browse the shop and purchase unique, handcrafted items made from traditional Sagada weaves. I got a couple of shawls and pouches for my grandparents, plus an embossed Sumaguing cliff magnet.
Even if you have no plans to purchase anything, Sagada Weaving is still worth visiting. Aside from getting to watch the process of traditional weaving, you can also chat with the owners. They’re super friendly and will fill you in on Sagada’s history.
If all that exploring makes you hungry, don’t worry! Once you pass Sagada Weaving, you’ll hit a bunch of cafes and eateries – perfect timing for your first meal in town.
Ganduyan Museum
Cost: PHP 100 entrance fee
Did you know Sagada wasn’t always called Sagada? It used to be Ganduyan, hence the name of the museum. It’s home to a privately owned collection and not a formal museum in the traditional sense. You’ll find Ganduyan Museum right across the City Hall.
Usually open from 2 PM to 6 PM, you can drop by and pay the PHP 100 entrance fee. Sometimes the museum opens late when the owner is busy. Some days, it doesn’t open at all.
If you’re lucky enough to be there when it’s open, grab the opportunity to interact with the owners. Since the collection belongs to a local family who has gathered items over generations, they’re the best people to talk to if you want a deep dive into the significance of the artifacts.
You’ll learn about the rich history and culture of the Kankana-ey people, a major indigenous group in the Mountain Province region of the Philippines. Photos are not allowed inside the museum.
Sagada Pottery
Cost: Free to visit, PHP 100 for pottery lessons
Sagada Pottery is an open-air pottery house located 10 minutes away from Sagada Weaving. Walk-ins are allowed, but you can contact the local potters below if you want to reserve a slot:
Inside, you’ll find handmade vases, creative mugs, and necklaces made from Sagada clay. But the main reason people go here is to try their hand at pottery. It only costs PHP 100 per person, which includes the clay and a one-on-one session with one of the local potters.
You can take home your work of art for an additional price. I purchased the ramen bowl that I made, which cost PHP 950. This does not include shipping costs. You can’t take it with you yet, since it takes approximately 4 months to dry, torch, and all that.
It wasn’t crowded when I went since the weekend crowd just left. There’s no parking, but you can park by the side of the road.
Bomod-Ok Falls, Coffee Farm, and Rice Terraces
Cost: PHP 500 Guide Fee, PHP 650-900 Shuttle Fee
Bomod-Ok Falls is the tallest falls in Sagada. It’s tucked away within a valley and is roughly an hour-long trek each way from the jump-off point.
To get there, you need to book a guided hike from any of Sagada’s accredited tour agencies and meet at the tour agency’s office. But since we had a car, we were allowed to drive straight to the jump-off point and meet our guide there.
There’s a huge parking lot across the jump-off point. Parking is free. There’s a sari-sari store there too. You can buy snacks, water, and basic hiking gear. There’s a CR also. I advise you to go because there’s no restroom throughout the hike. Typical of public restrooms in Philippines provinces, it costs PHP 5 to PHP 10.
Once you start the hike, you’ll pass a couple of villages, a small coffee farm, and beautiful rice terraces. You’ll also be rewarded with stunning views of Sagada’s mountains. When we reached the Falls, we were allowed to swim and enjoy the refreshingly cool water. You won’t be able to do this from November to December though, since the cascade will be too strong and the pool will be too deep.
That said, the best time to visit Bomod-Ok Falls is from January to May. However, you might not be able to visit the Falls in the last week of December and the first week of January. The local communities perform a farming ritual during these times, so the trail is closed to tourists. This also happens during the last week of May or the first week of June for the harvest season.
The trail is moderately challenging and is mostly downhill to the falls, but you know what that means. It’s mostly uphill going back!
Fortunately, there’s a shortcut back to the jumpoff point. However, the shortcut is full of boulders, and there is no shade from the sun. Although the distance is shorter, I think this route is just as difficult because it’s a steeper climb. But once you reach the top, you can ride the 15-minute Jeepney ride back to the jumpoff point. This costs PHP 350 since you have to pay for the entire jeep.
If you’re planning to hike Bomod Ok Falls, I recommend allotting at least half the day for the trip. The entire tour takes around 4 to 5 hours if you want to enjoy the Falls, plus the hike back takes much longer.
Sunrise and Sea of Clouds Hike
Cost: PHP 800 Guide Fee, PHP 650 Shuttle Fee
There are several ways to see a sea of clouds in Sagada. The easiest option is to head to Isang Wow Cafe in town, which offers unobstructed views of sunrise and clouds—the works. You can enjoy it with a nice breakfast and a warm cup of coffee.
Alternatively, book a sunrise Marlboro hike tour. You’ll start the hike as early as 2 AM so you can reach Marlboro’s summit in time for sunrise. However, there’s always a risk of not seeing a sea of clouds.
Another option is to book accommodation that faces the sea of clouds. I recommend Blue Mountain Cabins, one of the nicest lodges in Sagada which offers breathtaking sunrise views (if the weather is right).
Hanging Coffins
Cost: PHP 300 Echo Valley Only, PHP 1,000 Paytokan Walk
The hanging coffins in Sagada offer a unique glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and traditional beliefs of the Igorot people, an indigenous group in the Mountain Province of the Philippines.
A centuries-old tradition, there are several reasons for hanging coffins, including:
- Bringing the deceased closer to heaven
- Protecting the bodies from animals and floods
- Beliefs about the afterlife and ancestral spirits
While still practiced, the number of hanging coffin burials has decreased in recent times.
The most popular location for viewing the hanging coffins is Echo Valley, a short walk from Sagada town. You’ll see coffins suspended from cliffsides, some quite ancient. I recommend heading here in the morning to avoid the afternoon heat.
You’ll pass by the public cemetery first, then the rest of the 30-minute walk involves a walk with stairs and some uneven ground. Like many of the natural attractions in Sagada, walking to the destination is mostly downhill, and then heading back to the jump-off point is uphill.
There’s a wall climbing station just before you reach the hanging coffins. It costs PHP 500 for the whole day, including gear.
Visiting any of the hanging coffins in Sagada requires a guide. Echo Valley is often visited in conjunction with Lumiang Burial Cave, which contains stacks of traditional coffins. Alternatively, book the Paytokan Walk tour (PHP 1,000 for 10 people), which includes a visit to a farm-to-table coffee shop and an underground river.
Sumaguing Cave
Cost: PHP 800 Sumaguing or PHP 1,500 Cave Connection, PHP 400 Shuttle Fee
Sumaguing Cave’s natural formations are truly awe-inspiring and unlike anything you’ll see above ground. It’s filled with stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and unique rock formations sculpted over thousands of years. There’s no question why spelunking this vast cave is one of the best things to do in Sagada.
There are pools of cold water deeper into the cave, where you can swim or splash around. That said, it’s impossible not to get wet when you go exploring Sumaguing Cave. Don’t bother wearing sneakers and socks. You’ll just be asked to take them off and leave them before heading deeper into the cave and pools.
The best time to go to Sumaguing cave is in the afternoon. While it’s hot outside, you can enjoy the cool temperature inside the cave during the approximately 2-hour tour. We went on a weekday and had the whole cave to ourselves. This made for incredible photos – we controlled the lighting, with no other headlamps ruining the shots.
Spelunking the Sumaguing cave is not for everyone. It involves some intense scrambling, slippery surfaces, and tight spaces. You have to carry your weight when you use the rope to get down and climb back up. It’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or claustrophobia.
The cave is also home to bats, but they’re not usually a major concern for visitors. Since cave tours typically happen during the day, you’re less likely to encounter large swarms of them.
You can’t explore Sumaguing Cave without a local guide. Spelunking Sumaguing cave only costs PHP 800 (good for 5 people). If you’re looking for a more challenging cave adventure, book the Cave Connection tour, which costs PHP 1,500 (good for 3 people) and takes at least 5 hours roundtrip.
Blue Soil Hills
Cost: PHP 800, PHP 650 Shuttle Fee
The “Blue Soil” hike in Sagada is a lesser-known gem that showcases a unique side of the area’s natural beauty. As you can see from my drone shot below, while the soil might not be true blue, it takes on a grayish-blue hue.
A quick hike to Blue Soil offers a change of pace from Sagada’s caves and waterfalls. It’s a great option for photographers and those seeking something different.
The Blue Soil Hills are in Sagada’s Marlboro Country area, a less-traveled route compared to the more popular Echo Valley or Bomod-ok Falls. This hike is often combined with a Marlboro sunrise hike for the sea of clouds views. The combined route takes roughly 5 hours and costs PHP 1,600, while Blue Soil alone costs PHP 800.
Guides are usually required in Sagada, but Blue Soil can be an exception. Since we stayed at Blue Mountain Cabins, just a 30-minute walk away, we did a free self-guided hike. It took us about an hour because we stopped for photos and had our leash-trained cat exploring the forest.
If you stay at Blue Mountain Cabins, the concierge will give you directions to Blue Soil. The trail is easy enough to follow, plus we saw a few guides herding tour groups back down so we were able to confirm which way to go.
About 10 minutes into the hike, you’ll find a small house with a shop selling snacks, drinks, and souvenirs. There are also vendors at Blue Soil offering typical Filipino snacks like fish balls, hot dogs, and quail eggs. They close shop at 4 PM, the latest time for hiking in Sagada.
We stayed until around 10 AM, waiting for the sunrise tour groups to leave (they depart around 9:30 AM at the latest). Once crowd-free, we flew our drone and had a great chat with a stall owner about life in Sagada.
Where to Eat in Sagada
Food in Sagada is surprisingly affordable. You’ll enjoy fresh, locally sourced vegetables and meats incorporated into delicious dishes. Most eateries offer satisfying set meals featuring meat, vegetables, Sagada rice, and even dessert.
Most of the eateries and cafes in Sagada are located in the town proper. There are a few scattered farther away, but not so distant that it would be difficult for visitors to reach. Also, I love that we were able to bring Garfield (our fluffy ginger cat) into all the eateries.
Here’s a list of all the cafes and eateries that I tried and recommend for your next trip to Sagada.
Yoghurt House
As you can guess from the name, Yoghurt House is famous for its homemade yogurt. They also serve breakfast and simple meals, primarily served with nuts and fresh vegetables.
The food may be a little bit spicy even if it isn’t specified on the menu, which I didn’t mind as I love spicy food. If you don’t, make sure to tell the chef not to use chili.
Like most eateries in Sagada, Yoghurt House has a cozy, backpacker-friendly atmosphere. It has a small balcony on the second floor, perfect for chill sunset meals in cool weather. While waiting for your meal, take time to look at the photos of indigenous tribes displayed throughout the eatery.
Bana’s Coffee
Bana’s Coffee offers Sagada-grown coffee, chill vibes, and is a favorite spot for hanging out. This is one of the few cafes in Sagada that sells Civet coffee.
Also known as Kopi luwak, it’s a type of coffee that has been partially digested and then passed through the digestive system of the Asian palm civet, a small cat-like mammal. If you’ve always wanted to taste that, Bana’s Coffee should be on your radar.
Aside from roasted coffee, Bana’s Coffee also serves breakfast and light bites. But sometimes, there’s no chef. No chef, no food! So you might just have to do with a slice of cake and coffee.
Misty Lodge & Cafe
The moment I stepped into Misty Lodge & Cafe, I was surrounded by owls! Not real ones, of course, but the entire place is filled with owl-themed art and decor. It creates a quirky, artsy atmosphere. There are cozy tables for two, plus a comfy lounge area that feels like you’re in grandma’s home.
Since Misty Lodge is also a lodge, it offers high-speed Starlink WiFi – perfect for digital nomads or anyone who needs to stay connected during their Sagada visit. Their pizzas are a must-try, as are their creative fresh drinks. I highly recommend the four-cheese pizza – it’s absolutely delicious!
Coffee Heritage House
Coffee Heritage House is a bit of a hidden gem. If you have a car, definitely swing by after seeing Bomod-ok Falls – you’ll pass it on the way back to the town proper.
The views are amazing, overlooking the town, and there’s a huge garden to chill in (perfect if you have pets!). It’s peaceful and cool up on the hill, away from the bustle of town.
Heads up: It’s the only cafe out that way, and the road is one lane. You’ll drive through little farms and houses. Also just a warning – they might be closed right now. They were still renovating and sorting out permits when I went.
Isang Wow Cafe
Isang Wow Cafe is THE place to be for sunrise breakfast with a view! They have big, hearty portions – perfect fuel for a day of exploring. I got the bangus (milk fish), and Raffy had the beef tapa (he said it was sweet but tasty).
It was a memorable experience to eat Filipino comfort food with that golden sunrise over the sea of clouds. The freshest veggies on the side were a bonus. Get a warm cup of coffee too! The photo above doesn’t do it justice. Afterward, don’t miss their shop for souvenirs and local snacks.
TIP: Isang Wow Cafe opens as early as 5 AM. Arrive as early as possible to secure seats, especially on weekends.
Salt and Pepper
Salt and Pepper is located in one of the tallest buildings in the town proper. Given the large block letters that say, “Salt and Pepper”, I bet you won’t have a hard time locating this gem. You’ll climb a narrow staircase leading up to the eatery.
It was surprisingly cool inside, even without any visible air conditioning or fans – maybe clever insulation? The space is huge, with wide wooden tables and chairs. It’s a perfect, comfy spot to unwind after a tour.
We loved the generous portions, especially the pile of fresh veggies on the side. We tried Sinarabsab – juicy, pan-grilled pork in a sweet, vinegary sauce with onions and ginger – and the pork etag sisig was simply amazing. Wash it all down with a refreshing Lime-Yakult (probiotic drink)!
Log Cabin
Log Cabin, owned by a French chef since 1991, offers a cozy, European-influenced dining experience in Sagada. The space is small and inviting, adorned with local art (and a real reindeer head!), seating maybe 20 people max. No reservations – it’s first-come, first-served. We lucked out with a quick table on a weekday, but expect a wait on weekends.
The crowd seemed mostly foreign tourists when we visited. The menu has limited options, with set choices for dinner. Service can be slow, so it’s best not to arrive super hungry.
I enjoyed my Menu IV – Sagada forest ham – and Raffy’s Menu I (smoked etag) was also tasty. The matcha latte was a perfect after-dinner treat. They also have an outdoor food truck for frozen goods or takeout.
It’s easy to spot near City Hall and Ganduyan Museum, especially at night with its warm lighting.
Must-try meal in Sagada: Etag is a traditional Igorot delicacy in Sagada. It’s made from pork meat that’s heavily salted, then either sun-dried or smoked over a fire for preservation.
The curing process gives etag a very salty, smoky, and savory flavor profile – an acquired taste for some.
Sagada Brew
Sagada Brew is one of the most popular cafes in Sagada. After tasting their cafe latte, I’m no longer surprised why. I liked it so much that I came back the next day (and the day after).
On my first visit, I also ordered creamy fish with Sagada rice (and a side of fresh vegetables), which I loved and definitely recommend.
The cafe is small, with only a few tables and chairs that could maybe accommodate 20 to 30 people. There’s nothing much to say about the interiors as it looks just like any other small-town cafe, but while there, check out the Sagada coffee beans for sale and the local delicacies made by the cafe’s chef.
Sagada Cellar Door
If you’re looking for the chillest, coolest, hippest place to be in Sagada, you’ll find it at Sagada Cellar Door. You’ll find the trail that leads to it right beside Sagada Pottery. But if you don’t know it’s there, you might miss it.
Sagada Cellar Door is approximately 5 to 10 minutes away from the main road, so at first glance, you’ll think that the lot is empty. You have to walk up a steep but very scenic trail, with tall trees that make you feel like you’re walking the scenes of Twilight (minus the vampires). The climb up to this hangout spot is part of the exciting journey.
That said, I recommend going here with a car. Unless you want the brief cardio, of course. Once you reach the Sagada Cellar Door, you’ll feel like you hit the jackpot. It’s just a whole other dimension of coolness and carefree vibes, complete with a huge bonfire, an outdoor bar, and relaxing chairs and tables surrounded by tall pine trees.
If you come at sunset, you’ll find the place perfectly shrouded in mist, the orange light casting the tall trees with a romantic vibe.
At the bar, you can order local brews and tapas. If it’s too cold, head inside. There are wooden tables beside huge windows, the perfect spot to chill. You can also tour their mini brewing setup in the basement.
Important: If you want a full dinner, call ahead to reserve. Otherwise, it’s just bar snacks and drinks. I’ve included their Sagada Cellar Door’s number below.
Leaving at night can be tricky due to limited lighting. They close by 9 PM, which is considered late for Sagada, where many cafes close by 6 PM.
Lemon Pie House
If you love tropical flavors or want a unique treat, Lemon Pie House is a must-visit! It’s easy to spot along the main road in town. The shop seems small from the front, but there’s actually a spacious lounge area tucked away – just go through the unassuming glass door beside the cashier.
Most people grab their famous lemon pies to take home as gifts, and I did the same! After trying a slice (so good!), I bought several boxes for friends and family. They offer other flavored pies too (egg pie, blueberry pie, and apple pie).
Since these pies are fresh, I recommend buying them on the day you leave Sagada. They’ll be perfect when you share them.
Where to Stay in Sagada
For a comfortable stay with breathtaking sunrise views of Sagada’s famous sea of clouds, I recommend the Blue Mountain Cabins. We loved the Balangagan Room with its king bed and balcony facing the incredible sunrise view. The lodge also features a pool, scenic cafe, inviting fire pits, and free parking.
Note: Blue Mountain Cabins is about 15 to 20 minutes from the town proper, best for those with their own car (traffic isn’t an issue in Sagada).
Additionally, staying at Blue Mountain Cabins means you’ll be near Blue Soil, a one-of-a-kind hiking destination in Sagada. Normally, you’d need a guide, but lodge guests can easily do a self-guided hike – it’s only 30 minutes to an hour away. Sumaguing Cave is also just 5 minutes away.
Blue Mountain Cabins is pet-friendly! Dogs and cats are welcome without extra fees, and the lodge’s expansive grounds are perfect for furry companions to explore. This is a noteworthy perk compared to many of Sagada’s smaller inns with limited space.
I also recommend the Shire of Sagada, a hobbit-inspired accommodation. Expect small, round hobbit-style rooms partially built into the hillside, offering a rustic, charming experience. However, they don’t allow pets and parking is limited.
Souvenir Shopping
Sagada offers a variety of unique souvenirs. Here’s what I found (and got for family and friends):
- Fruit Wines: Sample and buy local fruit wines made with native berries and other regional fruits. It makes a tasty and unique gift.
- Sagada Coffee Beans: While you might not find raw beans due to limited supply, you can snag bags of freshly roasted Sagada coffee. Just ask at the cafes!
- Local Delicacies: Browse the markets for locally made snacks and treats, perfect for sampling or sharing with friends (lemon pie, butter cookies, banana treats, etc.).
- Handcrafted Items: Look for beautiful woven textiles, wood carvings, or a unique dreamcatcher that speaks to you.
Tip: Many shops and stalls accept cash only, so be sure to have some on hand for your souvenir shopping adventures!
Know Before You Go
Sagada Road
The town of Sagada centers around a single main road, making it easy to find the city hall and tourist center. But since this is a small mountain town, the roads are also small. Driving is more difficult on weekends or peak season since big tour vans will be all over the place.
If you’re planning to bring a car, plan the attractions you’ll visit each day so you don’t have to keep going back and forth across town. Some attractions are North of town, while the rest are down South.
Mode of Payment: Cash and Gcash Mostly (No Credit Cards)
Bring plenty of cash! Most businesses in Sagada accept cash or GCash (a popular mobile payment app). Credit cards are rarely accepted.
Gasoline Stations
While a new gas station is listed on Google Maps, it’s still under construction. There are only a few gasoline stations in Sagada, including one Petron station. The gas station at Kiltepan Peak is permanently closed. You’ll find small local stations throughout town but expect higher prices due to the mountain transport.
Getting Around
Tuk-tuks/tricycles cost around PHP 25 per person. They will take you around town and accept cash only.
Alternatively, rent a van with driver at any of Sagada’s accredited tour agencies. Shuttles are typically required for tour packages that include attractions outside town.
ATMs
Sagada has two ATMs, located in the Municipal Hall and Tourist Office. They sometimes run out of cash, so it’s wise to withdraw funds beforehand if possible. (Landbank at City Hall, DBP at the Tourist Office)
Tourist Registration Fee
You’ll receive a tourist receipt after registration. You’ll need to present this receipt every time you join a tour, so take a photo as a backup in case you lose the paper. Get yours at the Tourist Office (across from City Hall) for PHP 100 per person.
Staff can provide maps, advise on seasonal conditions for attractions, and give you directions to accredited tour agencies.
Meeting Your Tour Guide
While meeting tour guides at the Tourist Office is typical, arrangements can vary. Some guides might allow you to use your own vehicle, but always clarify this in advance.
For example, if you’re staying at Blue Mountain Cabins and you booked a tour to Sumaguing Cave, the tour agency might no longer require you to pay for a van since the cave is just 5 minutes away from the Cabins.
Sagada Curfew
Sagada has a 9 PM curfew. Most establishments close as early as 6 PM, contributing to the town’s relaxed atmosphere.
Weather in Sagada
Sagada’s coldest months are November to January. It starts to warm in February, although mornings until around 9 AM remain chilly. Temperatures usually cool down again by 4 PM.
The key to packing is layers! You’ll need both warm and light clothing. Even if you visit in warmer months, a light jacket for early morning or evenings is essential. A portable fan might also be a lifesaver for those afternoon hikes.
Seasonal Attractions
Some attractions in Sagada are seasonal, including Pong-as Falls. The tourism office does not recommend visiting during the summer because the water levels are low, making the falls less scenic.
Meanwhile, access to Bomod-Ok Falls is often restricted during the planting and harvest seasons, which occur in the first week of January and the last week of May, respectively. The trail, which passes through several villages, is closed during these times as the local communities perform rituals.
Dress Code and Religion
Sagada is now predominantly a Christian Catholic community, known for its conservative values. Residents frequently remind visitors to dress modestly.
Notices advising against wearing short shorts and low-cut tops are posted at various points such as tourist registration areas, on receipts, and even your tour guide will mention this.
Sagada FAQs
Where to park in Sagada?
Parking options are limited within Sagada town proper:
- Small Paid Parking Lot: There’s a small lot across SEGA Tours for vans and jeeps, charging around PHP 50-100.
- Sagada Brew Parking: They have parking for PHP 50, waived if you’re dining there.
- St. Mary Church Parking: PHP 10 fixed rate (sometimes it’s free), but be prepared for a longer walk to town.
- Sumaguing Cave Parking: PHP 50 fixed rate
- Accommodations: Many inns and lodges in town don’t have dedicated parking lots. Expect to use the public lots and walk to your accommodation.
Where to watch the sunrise in Sagada?
The most popular place to watch the sunrise amidst a sea of clouds is up Marlboro Mountain. This is a 4-hour hike from the jump-off point.
However, you don’t need to hike all the way up to Marlboro’s summit to watch a beautiful sunrise. Easy-to-access locations include Isang Wow Cafe in town and Blue Mountain Cabins Cafe.
Is Kiltepan Sagada still closed?
Yes, Kiltepan in Sagada is permanently closed. This is private property and is no longer available to the public.
Is Sagada pet-friendly?
Yes, Sagada is pet-friendly! It’s an ideal destination for explorers with pets since you can bring your furry babies pretty much everywhere. Most cafes and lodges allow them, plus there is plenty of green space for them to roam around.
When is Etag Festival?
The Etag Festival in Sagada is celebrated annually during the first weekend of February. The specific dates can vary slightly from year to year, so it’s best to check with the Sagada Tourism Office or their official website for the most up-to-date information closer to your intended travel time.
Are drones allowed in Sagada?
Yes, we were able to use our drone in Sagada. However, don’t forget to ask your guide as rules may change.
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