On this page
In an age of AI-generated imagery, something as astonishing as the rice terraces in Banaue, Philippines might not seem real, but trust us, they are. The region’s feats of ancient engineering are some of the most picturesque landmarks in Southeast Asia. But where did they come from and how can you get there to see them with your own eyes?
Where are the Banaue Rice Terraces?
The Banaue Rice Terraces sit amidst a remote area of the Cordillera Central Mountain range in northern Luzon, just over 320 km (200 mi) from Manila.
Why should you go to Banaue?
The Banaue Rice Terraces are an incredibly scenic and remote destination located 1,500 m (4,900 ft) above sea level in the lush Philippine Cordillera highlands. They’re also a historic contribution to hillside farming and agriculture by the Indigenous Ifugao people, who've preserved the rice terraces for 2,000 years. Part of the wider UNESCO-listed Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras cultural landscape, these terraces were constructed along the mountains' natural contours and offer an incredible display of sustainable living and cultural preservation. The local tribes and villages have developed a must-see experience where inspiring natural scenery and historic culture unite off the beaten path.
How do you get to Banaue?
The town of Banaue can be reached by car from Manila and Baguio; both journeys take about nine to 10 hours, but they are absolutely worth it. You should visit from April to May or October to November when the terraces are the most lush and picturesque, while the rainy season from July to August is not recommended due to the risk of landslides and less desirable conditions for hiking and other outdoor experiences.
Goway's Destination Specialists are experts at crafting tailor-made trips to landmarks in the Philippines, including Banaue. To get started on planning your own globetrotting adventure, request a free quote.
Born to two parents who met travelling, Sael has always wanted to travel the world. Sael has hiked the Inca Trail in Peru, visited blue-footed boobies on the Galapagos Islands, stood on both hemispheres of the equator in Ecuador, climbed the Sydney Harbour Bridge, hiked the base of Uluru, surfed Pacific Ocean waves in Mexico, and skydived over the Great Barrier Reef in Cairns. Meeting new people and sharing stories are some of Sael's favourite parts of travelling, and he hopes he can help ignite this passion for discovery in others.