Are you looking for a fun, new adventure? Baguio City offers a wealth of opportunities to discover the great outdoors. Whether you’re an experienced trekker or an adrenaline junkie, this unique city in the Philippine highlands has something that fits your interests and wants.
From engaging cultural attractions to thrilling outdoor activities, there is an abundance of excitement for thrill seekers to explore. Read on for a comprehensive guide to adventuring in Baguio City!
Why Baguio City is a Great Destination for Adventure Seekers
Baguio City is a popular destination for adventurous travelers due to its incredible variety of activities, sights, and experiences. Its mountainous landscape offers spectacular views, while its pleasant climate makes it an ideal spot for trekking, camping, and other outdoor activities. Here are some of the most popular adventures you can have in the city:
Hiking and Trekking
With its mountainous terrain, Baguio City is the perfect destination for a hiking or trekking adventure. The city provides many trails for travelers to explore, ranging from easy walks to challenging multi-day hikes.
Mountain Biking
If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, then mountain biking is the perfect activity for you. With its rugged terrain and steep slopes, Baguio City is a great spot for mountain biking.
Camping
f you’re looking for a unique camping experience, Baguio City is the place to go. Its high elevation and temperate climate make it an ideal spot for camping away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Rock Climbing and Caving
Baguio City has a number of excellent rock climbing and caving spots. These activities are great for adrenaline junkies who want to challenge themselves and explore new areas.
Sightseeing
There is plenty to see in Baguio City, from its many cultural attractions like churches, museums, and art galleries, to its stunning natural scenery. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day of sightseeing or an exciting adventure, Baguio City has something to offer.
Adrenaline Activities
If you’re looking for an adrenaline-filled adventure, Baguio City has plenty of options to choose from. The city is home to a variety of activities such as zip lining, dirt biking, and white water rafting.
Cultural Attractions
Baguio City also offers a wealth of cultural attractions for travelers to explore. The city has numerous museums, historic sites, and churches that offer insight into the history and culture of the region. Here are some of the most popular cultural attractions in Baguio City:
1. Mines View Park
Mines View Park in Baguio City is an amazing destination for those looking for scenic views, delicious snacks, and quality goods. Situated on a high mountain peak, the park overlooks the great Cordillera mountains and other breathtaking scenery.
Locals and visitors alike can find an array of quality crafted items at one of the many stalls at the park, or enjoy a bowl of specialty native snacks while appreciating a picturesque sunset. Mines View Park is definitely worth visiting!
Address: Mines View Observation Deck, Mines View, Baguio, Benguet
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
2. Burnham Park
Burnham Park in Baguio City is an 8.6-hectare recreational area in the Cordillera Administrative Region of the Philippines. It is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, offering numerous activities such as canoeing, biking, swimming, and sightseeing.
The park has served as a special place to relax, spend time with family and friends, or explore its gardens and other landmarks like the iconic “Mansion House”. It is also home to a number of annual festivals including the Panagbenga Festival which has become well-known regionally.
Address: Jose Abad Santos Dr, Baguio, 2600 Benguet
Phone: (074)4427014
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
3. Baguio Cathedral
Baguio Cathedral, or the Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity, is a Roman Catholic Church located in the city center of Baguio City. It is one of the most popular spots for tourists, as its architecture and intricate details are breathtaking.
The cathedral is known for its Neo-Gothic design and its intricate stained glass windows that depict various stories of the Bible. The main attraction is a large statue of Jesus Christ located at the entrance.
Address: 2600 Steps To Our Lady Of Atonement Cathedral, Baguio, Benguet
Phone: (074)3044061
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
4. Botanical Garden
The Botanical Garden in Baguio City is an expansive, naturalized park that showcases the varied ecosystem and notable flora of this region. Visitors can find more than 1,000 species of plants inside the garden’s large grounds, including many rare and endangered taxa.
Along with manicured beds and pockets of colorful blooms, a walk through Baguio Botanical Garden will provide insight into the lush landscape of northern Luzon. A research center and conservatory for native Philippine plant life, this unique destination awaits exploration.
Address: 37 Leonard Wood Rd, Baguio, 2600 Benguet
Phone: (074)4462009
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
5. Tam-Awan Village
Tam-Awan Village in Baguio City is a cultural eco-village that offers a picturesque array of local art and culture. The area features traditional structures from the different tribes around Benguet, as well as a wide variety of cafes, artist galleries, and native handcrafted souvenirs.
You can also enjoy beautifully landscaped gardens with breathtaking views, historical sites, and a range of other cultural attractions. Tam-Awan Village is the perfect spot for visitors to experience and learn about the unique cultural heritage of this vibrant city.
Address: 366-C Long Long Benguet Rd, Baguio, 2600 Benguet
Phone: (074)4462949
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
Food and Drinks Adventures
No adventure is complete without a good meal, and Baguio City has plenty of options to choose from. Visitors can explore a variety of local and international cuisines, as well as unique food and drink experiences. Here are some food and drinks adventures to try in Baguio City:
- Cordilleran cuisine – Baguio City is the gateway to the Cordillera Administrative Region, which is known for its distinct cuisine. Visitors can try local dishes such as pinikpikan (chicken dish), pinuneg (pork blood sausage), and etag (smoked meat). These dishes often use indigenous ingredients such as mountain rice, wild ginger, and bamboo shoots, and are cooked using traditional methods such as smoking and grilling.
- Strawberry taho – Baguio City is famous for its fresh strawberries, and visitors can try a unique local dessert called strawberry taho. This sweet tofu dessert is topped with fresh strawberries and strawberry syrup, creating a delicious and refreshing treat.
- Street food – Baguio City is also known for its street food scene, with various vendors offering local favorites such as grilled meat skewers, fish balls, and sweet corn. Visitors can also try unique snacks such as kakanin (rice cakes) and turon (fried banana roll).
- Pinewoods coffee – Baguio City is also known for its coffee, with several local cafes offering unique blends and flavors. Visitors can try Pinewoods coffee, which is made from locally grown beans and has a rich, earthy flavor.
- Honeycomb ice cream – Baguio City also offers a range of sweet treats, including unique flavors of ice cream. Visitors can try honeycomb ice cream, which is made with locally sourced honeycomb and has a sweet, creamy flavor.
In summary, Baguio City offers a wide range of food and drink experiences, from traditional Cordilleran dishes to unique local desserts and coffee. Visitors can explore a variety of local flavors and experience the unique tastes of this beautiful mountain city.
Shopping
Baguio City is a popular shopping destination for both locals and tourists, offering a diverse range of products that showcase the region’s culture and heritage. Here are some things to know about shopping in Baguio City:
What to Buy:
- Handwoven items – Baguio City is known for its weaving industry, and visitors can find handwoven textiles such as blankets, table runners, and bags.
- Fresh produce – Baguio City is also known as the “City of Pines” and is home to a thriving agriculture industry. Visitors can buy fresh fruits and vegetables such as strawberries, oranges, and carrots, among others.
- Souvenirs – Visitors can find a variety of souvenirs such as keychains, shirts, and other trinkets to take home as a reminder of their trip.
Where to Shop:
- Baguio City Public Market – This is one of the largest public markets in the city and offers a wide range of products, including fresh produce, handicrafts, and clothing.
- Night Market – This is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, featuring vendors selling various products such as food, clothing, and souvenirs.
- Mines View Park – This is a popular tourist spot that also features several shops selling souvenirs and handicrafts.
Overall, Baguio City is a great shopping destination for visitors looking for unique souvenirs and handmade items. With its wide range of products, there’s something for everyone in Baguio City. So come and explore the city’s shopping scene!
Accommodations
Baguio City offers a range of accommodations from luxury hotels to quaint guesthouses. Here are some tips for finding the perfect place to stay in Baguio City:
Hotels – There are a variety of hotels in Baguio City, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury properties. Visitors can find hotels with amenities such as restaurants, swimming pools, and spas.
- Chalet Baguio Hotel
- Paragon Hotel and Suites
Guesthouses – For a more intimate experience, visitors can stay in one of the many guesthouses in Baguio City. These places offer cozy rooms with all the necessary amenities, as well as a unique atmosphere and local charm.
- Small House – Baguio
- Mary Chiang Baguio Transient House
Vacation rentals – Another option is to rent a vacation home or apartment in Baguio City. These are great for travelers who want to explore the city at their own pace and have access to a fully equipped kitchen and other amenities.
- Vacation rentals
- Baguio Vacation Apartments
In summary, Baguio City has a variety of accommodation options to choose from, depending on budget and preferences. From luxury hotels to cozy guesthouses, travelers can find the perfect place to stay during their visit.
Getting to Baguio City
Getting to Baguio City can be done through various modes of transportation, such as by car, bus, or air. Baguio City is located in the Cordillera Administrative Region of the Philippines, approximately 240 kilometers north of Manila, the country’s capital.
By car, the most common route is via the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) from Manila, then taking the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) and the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX) until reaching Rosario, La Union. From there, it is approximately a 45-minute drive to Baguio City via Naguilian Road or Kennon Road.
By Bus, Alternatively, visitors can take a bus from Manila, with several bus companies offering daily trips to Baguio City. The trip takes around 6-7 hours, depending on traffic and the chosen route. There are also direct bus trips from other cities in Luzon, such as Dagupan, Vigan, and Laoag.
By Plane, visitors coming from Visayas and Mindanao, may take a connecting flight to Clark International Airport or Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila, then proceed with land travel to Baguio City. From Clark International Airport, visitors can take a shuttle or taxi to the Victory Liner Terminal in Dau, Pampanga, where there are regular bus trips to Baguio City.
Additionally, there are daily flights to the Loakan Airport in Baguio City from Manila via Philippine Airlines. However, it should be noted that flights are subject to weather and operational conditions.
Tips for Adventure Seekers Visiting Baguio City
Adventuring in Baguio City is a great way to explore the city and its unique culture. However, there are a few tips that adventure seekers should keep in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:
1. Dress Appropriately – The climate in Baguio City is cooler than in other parts of the Philippines, so it is important to dress appropriately for outdoor activities. Comfortable, lightweight clothing and shoes are recommended.
2. Bring Water and Snacks – It is essential to stay hydrated and energized during your adventures, so be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks.
3. Follow Local Guidelines – It is important to follow local guidelines when engaging in outdoor activities and sightseeing in order to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
4. Respect the Environment – Visitors should avoid littering and other activities that could damage the environment and disrupt wildlife.
5. Be Prepared – Be sure to bring a mobile phone and other emergency supplies in case of any unexpected issues or incidents.
By following these tips, adventure seekers are sure to have an unforgettable time in Baguio City! So what are you waiting for? Start planning your next trip to Baguio City today!
In Conclusion
Baguio City is a great destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. It offers unique attractions such as Mines View Park, Burnham Park, and Baguio Cathedral that provides breathtaking views, diverse activities such as food and drink adventures, and shopping experiences.
With its lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and numerous attractions, Baguio City is a must-visit destination for any traveler. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your next adventure to Baguio City today!
