Banaue is considered one of the 8th wonders of the world. It is no doubt, a tourist destination in the Philippines because it is well-situated as a hub from which travelers can strike out for short trips into the surrounding villages. What is most distinct about Banaue is ite century old rice terraces that have survived and weathered mother nature and time. It is a recommended Point of Interest in Philippine soil.
It is actually easier to get to Banaue from Manila, rather than to Baguio, and many prefer the former as the gateway for trips to Bontoc and Sagada.
How to get there.
From Manila, the most convenient way is to take the 10pm bus from either Dangwa Bus or Auto Bus (During peak seasons or holy week, you have to at least reserve ticket on week or 3 days before trip whenever possible). Ticket will cost around PHP 290 (approx. 6 to 7 USD). Trips are usually daily. The trip will usually take you around 8 to 9 hours. The trip will pass by Neighboring Provinces of Nueva Vizcaya, Bayombong, Solano, Bambang. You will arrive around 5 to 6 am the next day.
From Baguio, as of this date, Auto Bus does not operate unlike in the past. I'm not sure if Dangwa is also operating, but you can take a ride almost every afternoon only near the Rizal Park (in Baguio City). There are buses and mini buses station. You just need to check out the trip schedules because almost everyday, they are changing. This trip will take you from Baguio going down to Carmen, making a let turn to the junction going to Vizcaya, heading east, then a turn from San Jose going up north making your way to Solano or Bayombong The trip will also bore you a long 9 hour haul. On the other hand, you can settle by riding three different trips: Baguio to Sagada or go directly to Bontoc, taking the trip from either Slaughter House or at the back of Centermall, simply known as Dangwa Terminal. The trip will usually take you 5-6 hours. The trip usually starts around 6 am, taking the Halsema Highway route. If you take the Sagada trip and arriving at the area, it is impossible to leave the place without making your way around, but If you are in a hurry, you can either rent a jeepney going to Bontoc or settle for the next day. It will usually take you around 1 to 2 hours to reach Bontoc. Bontoc is a central part of the transportation link. From Bontoc, you can actually go directly to Baguio or Banaue or Sagada. From Bontoc, there are jeepneys that have limited schedules, so an inquiry from locals is recommended. You can take a jeepney trip between 8 am to 10 am. You can ask the locals of what time the trip is in the afternoon. The trip will usually take you 1.5 to 2 hours going to Banaue.
