The History of the Rice Terraces of Batad and Banaue
The indigenous people carved the Banaue Rice Terraces into the Ifugao mountains in the Philippines. The belief is these terraces were built by hand using minimal equipment. The terraces are roughly 1,500 meters above sea level. An ancient irrigation system feeds the terraces from the rainforests. The vegetables and rice currently planted on the terraces have caused a gradual erosion of the ancient steps. The age of the terraces is estimated at 2,000 years. The Ifugao tribe belongs to the Igorots. There are numerous tribes located throughout the northern section of the country. These tribes have been cultivating rice for over 2,000 years. The historic terraces were never colonized by the Americans or the Spanish due to the difficult terrain. This enabled the Ifuago tribe to retain their traditional practices, culture and customs. Although the locals currently wear modern clothing, native costumes are still donned for partied and special occasions.
Planning Your Trip to Batad/Banaue
You can rent a car with driver Manila to Banaue and Batad any time of the year because the weather is always lovely. The average temperature is seventy degrees Fahrenheit (22 Celsius). The coldest time of the year is December through March. The majority of the rice terraces are muddly and barren. The planting season is during April and May. The rice terraces are not yet lush, but they are green. In June and July, the rice terraces fill out, but there is a lot more rain.
The best time to make the trip is from August through November. The rice terraces are beautiful and lush green. Some people prefer October and November because the rain has stopped. This is when the harvest takes place. If you want to see an amazing balance of blue skies and green terraces, consider private car from Manila to Banaue and Batad in October, prior to the harvest.
The Local village accommodations
You will not find any fancy resorts in Batad or Banaue. The accommodations are friendly little hostels and lovely homestays. Although there is no road leading all the way to the village, you can rent a van with driver Manila to Banaue and Batad then hike or walk in and out in roughly twenty minutes. The homestays in Banaue have a good reputation. You will discover a sensational view, comfortable beds and delicious food. You will have a great view of the terraces and be able to get an amazing massage. There are even restaurants onsite.
Hiking through the Rice Terraces of Batad and Banaue
Your adventure begins when you rent a van with driver Manila to Banaue and Batad. From there, you can hike through the rice terraces for three days. The best way to really see the terraces is on a multi-day hike. You can book your hiking tour online before your arrive or make arrangements right from Banaue. You can talk to many different guides about your preferences and customize your hiking adventure. You will be staying at local guesthouses during your journey.
You will be eating your meals at your accommodations. This often includes an amazing local favorite, chocolate banana pancakes. You need to bring snacks and water with you on the trail but the guesthouses sell water. When you begin your hike, you will be in the jungle. The chances are good you have never seen these types of trees and plants before. The second section of your hike is on the narrow paths of the rice terraces. Eventually, you will reach a guesthouse in Cambulo.
During your second day, your guide will take you through the zigzagging trails of the rice terraces. The views are spectacular with vibrant green jungles and a breathtaking blue sky. You will reach stairs leading to a magnificent waterfall. You will find the cool waters incredibly refreshing. You can have a nice picnic and really enjoy your lunch. Unfortunately, your journey will end on the third day. You will most likely want to return. This is an incredible trip for exploring nature.
The Hapao Rice Terraces & Hot Springs
When you rent a car with driver Manila to Banaue and Batad, you will be excited during your journey. Visit the Hapao Rice Terraces & Hot Springs. You can take a sensational walk on the narrow track going right through the rice terraces. Bathing in the hot springs is a fantastic way to end your walk. You will not even have to pay an entrance fee.
The Tappiya Waterfalls
No visit to Batad is complete until you see the majestic Tappiya Waterfalls. The beauty of the area begins as you make your way to the waterfalls. Your adventure includes uneven steps, muddy paths and narrow rice terraces. One of the best parts of your journey is the little huts offering fresh coconut juice during your trip. The falls are a staggering 230 feet in height. If you want to go swimming, go downstream and you will be able to wade in the refreshing river.
Tam-an Village
You will find Tam-an village by taking the 240 steps downwards from Banaue. This is an excellent opportunity to experience the life of the local Filipinos. You can purchase woven goods and wood carvings the natives made. Due to the accessibility and proximity, tourists visit this village more than any other.
The Awa View Deck
If you are interested in seeing a spectacular view of the rice terrace amphitheater, take the time to visit the Awa View deck. The uphill walk will be worth every second once you see the view.
The Mayoyao Rice Terraces
These rice terraces are visited the least due to the remote location. If you want to see a little more of the rice terraces, take a hike to Pula from Batad. This is one of the best experiences you will ever have in the Philippines. You should be physically fit and in good overall health because there is a lot of walking and the steps are steep. You can stay in a guesthouse fairly close to the waterfalls. This is an excellent place to start your adventure.
Depending on when you arrive, you can either stay in Canbulo for the night or continue until you reach Cambulo. If you decide not to stay, it is a good idea to have lunch and relax before your proceed. Your best option is hiring a guide or you may become lost once you enter the rice fields. The views and scenery you will see during your journey are beyond description. Pula village only recently had access to electricity since the lines were not yet constructed.
You can stay in a homestead where your meals are prepared for you. You will see wooden houses and terraces. If you are lucky, you will hear the enchanting sound of the national anthem being sung by the children at the school. From there, you can go back to Banaue, make the journey to Manila or enjoy the peace and serenity of staying in the middle of nowhere for another night or two.
Your adventure began with a private car from Manila to Banaue and Batad. You can return home the same way, but you will always be welcomed back to this warm, friendly and beautiful country.
Would you like to visit Banaue and Batad? Just Rent a car with driver from Manila to Banaue/Batad. Just complete our booking form and we will take you there.
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