5 / 5 - One review
How to get there
2hrs by mini-van from Banaue, followed by a walk
When to go
All year round, but it's during April/May and October/November that the rice fields are at their most spectacular.
Minimum stay
One day
Batad (The Philippines)
©
Arthur Joffrin
Practical information about Batad
Reviews of Batad
There's no road access to these amazing terraced rice fields, which are a classified UNESCO site.
My suggestion:
Even though it may be easier to stay in Banaue and not haul your luggage all the way to the village, it's really worth making the effort to visit Batad. You can bed down in a homestay on the higher levels of the village and enjoy exceptional views of the surrounding countryside.
Summary:
Only accessible by foot, Batad has an intriguingly mysterious side. When I arrived at the top of the village, I was blown away by the local culture and the sturdy, stone walls that make the town look like a giant amphitheatre. It's not often that you see man-made constructions and nature blend in so well together.
If you walk along the top of the rice fields, you'll get some stunning views. But watch your step, as some paths are narrow and really slippery! I then continued my walk downhill to reach a large waterfall. If you don't mind chilly water, you can take a dip in a freshwater pool close to the waterfall.
Finally, a visit to the lower part of the village, which is surrounded by plantations, will give you the chance to meet the locals, who enjoy a simple life. You'll also be able to recharge your batteries before heading off on one of the numerous treks in the region. This was one of my favourite stops during my trip to the Philippines.
©
Arthur Joffrin
73 travellers' photos
