Most expenses are covered, with the exception of restuarants. (You Pay)
Day 1 - Manila-Banaue
For this short trip we would have to leave Manila by 6 a.m to get ahead of the rush hour traffic. Although rush hour in the Philippines can be very entertaining to people of foreign countries, it can also delay the trip significantly. We would take the North Expressway out of Manila, through the land locked evergreen provinces of Nueva Ecija and Nueva Vizcaya, known as the Gateway to Banaue. This rural countryside consists of small towns, villages, and beautiful rice paddies. It's a great place to make frequent stops to take pictures.
Along the way we'll make a short stop at a restaurant in San Jose City. You pay, so it's completely up to you what level of dining experience you enjoy.
After lunch we would resume our drive to Banaue, passing through
Dalton Pass. It is a historical landmark in Santa Fe, Nueva Vizcaya. Many soldiers and citizens lost their lives in battle during WW2 at Dalton Pass, so many veterans of Japan, America, and the Philippines find this site particularly interesting to visit. They probably say a few words for the spirits of their lost loved ones.
Day 2 - Banaue-Bontoc-Sagada
Once again we would start with an early breakfast. Then we would depart from Banaue via private local jeepney to
Bontoc, and later
Sagada. We could see the Bontoc Museum, founded by a Belgian Sister, which houses a varied collection of authentic artifacts and photos of the mountain tribes.
We then proceed to
Sagada, a small town in Bontoc province. Weather conditions permitting, you can hike to some ancient burial caves with mummified coffins. If hiking isn't your thing, spend some time looking around this picturesque city. At the end of the day we retire to the comforts of a Sagada hotel of your choosing. You pay for dinner, which is also of your choosing.
Day 3 Sagada-Banahue
Once again we will start with an early breakfast. Then we will return to Banaue via private local jeepney. The same company offers tours of the rice terraces on the way to
Bangaan, a traditional village nestled in this beautiful panoramic valley.
A 20 minute walk down a descending trail brings us to
Ifugao, a province packed with indigenous people and fascinating culture. Mingle, and visit a typical home to observe the local way of life. There is a breathtaking viewpoint of the terraces, after which you can visit some local markets where woodcarvings and ethnic baskets can be purchased. Prices are excellent here - I highly recommend we stop for lunch. Later in afternoon we return to Banaue.
Day 4 - Banaue to Manila
Today we leave Banaue and head back to Manila. We'll make a short stop in
San Jose, Nueva Ecija to eat lunch. Your choice of restaurant or fast food, but you pay for it. Late in the afternoon we will arrive in Manila and I'll drop you off at your hotel.
It was a pleasure to provide you with such an enjoyable trip.