Sagada- A Hidden Gem

Sagada is where I truly began to fall in love with the Philippines. Located about 3 hours by bus from Banaue and about 5 hours by bus from Baguio City, Sagada is in the Mountain Province of the Philippines, with a population of approximately 11,000 people. Compared to most areas in the Philippines, where it is hot and humid almost all year round, Sagada is usually cold and rainy, making it unique to the country's familiar weather. It is also home to one of the best (and also most expensive) Kopi Luwak coffee in the world. Kopi Luwak is coffee that includes partially-digested coffee beans, eaten and defecated by the Asian palm civet. It is said that the civet chooses to eat only the best coffee beans. As unappealing as it sounds, the Kopi Luwak in Sagada recently won a prestigious international award, establishing it as one of the best worldwide. In addition to all these amazing things, Sagada is home to many fun attractions that aren't flowing with tourists, making the experience much nicer.

Here's why you should visit this hidden gem in the Philippines:

1.     Marlboro Country & Blue Soil Hills- This was my absolute favorite thing to do in Sagada. The Kamanbaneng Peak, or more commonly known by the locals as Marlboro Country, is an hour-long trek to one of the most amazing viewpoints you will ever see in your life, guaranteed! I'd recommend waking up at 4 am to hike Marlboro Country to see the breathtaking scenery, as you literally face a sea of clouds surrounded by a colorful sky.

When the clouds clear, you have a 360° view of the neighboring areas of the Mountain Province. Usually it is very cold at the mountaintop regardless of the time of the year, therefore there are always locals selling cup noodles, coffee and tea. However, be aware that it will cost double than the original price. From there, you may either leave or continue on another one hour walk to the Blue Soil Hills. This unique attraction can only be found in Sagada- the bluish-green color of the hills is due to the soil's high content of copper sulfate, and the color's are even stronger after it rains. It is very easy to get lost in the beauty of the hills and also to catch a break from the early morning trek. I would highly suggest not skipping this one-of-a-kind experience!

2.     Sagada Eco-Trail- The trail consists of three attractions- the Hanging Coffins at Echo Valley, the Underground River, and the Bokong Falls. The trek starts at Echo Valley, a forested valley located 15-20 minute walking from Sagada. As the name suggests, the valley is so big that you can hear your echo when you yell! The interesting part about the visit to Echo Valley is the unusual sight of the Hanging Coffins. It is a tradition to be buried in these coffins if you were born, married and had grandchildren in Sagada, and is still common to this day. These coffins, however, are significantly smaller than normal ones, the reason being that the dead are buried in a fetal position to symbolize their entrance into the afterlife. I thought this cultural ritual was an interesting way to start our journey.

Immediately after, you reach the Underground River, a small body of water running inside a dark cave. I found it highly unremarkable and would not even define it as a "river". Finally, a short walk leads you to the Bokong Falls- it is an alternative to the popular Bomod-Ok Falls, but it makes up for it big time! It was very relaxing to cool off in the chilly waterfall and it was the first of many I encountered throughout my time in the Philippines. You may even find yourself picnicking there with the locals (from personal experience)!

3.     Lumiang-Sumaguing Cave Connection- If extreme adventures are more of your thing, this is the attraction for you. The Cave Connection is a 3-4 hour spelunking experience starting at Lumiang Cave and passing through Sumaguing Cave. The interesting part when you're in there is seeing the different rock formations that take thousands of years to develop. The journey itself is not hard, just be aware that some of the paths are narrow and require you to pay attention to the guide's instructions. Also a very important tip- the guide usually brings a lamp with him but I cannot stress enough how a flashlight is HIGHLY advised, especially if you don't want to accidentally step on bat shit 😉. This adventure was definitely a highlight of Sagada and the Philippines as a whole because you will most likely only find this type of attraction here.

4.     Exploring Sagada- If you feel like taking a break from the great attractions offered by this small town, I would recommend exploring what this place has to offer. Whether it be by interacting with the locals on the streets or in the markets, or walking into a new place everyday to try something new, there is surprisingly much to do. I mostly enjoyed seeing the different arts and crafts offered as Sagada is well known for its weaving industry, and revisiting the Gaia Sagada Café, a vegan café offering both great food and an astonishing view of the rice fields.

5.     Treasure Rock Inn- Last but certainly not least, one of my greatest memories not only from this place but from my entire trip came from the Treasure Rock Inn. Words cannot describe how much I enjoyed being there, whether it be from the amazing hospitality from the owner, Jerry, and his welcoming family, to the fun karaoke nights with the locals, to the countless other incredible things in this place. I definitely loved my time at Treasure Rock Inn and would highly recommend staying there (even if you don't, everyone there is friendly and will always be up for a chat and to offer suggestions on what to do).

Writing this brought back many wonderful memories of Sagada, and I hope you make the most of this hidden gem as well.

Until next time, safe travels!