Best Places to Visit in Benguet | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
Benguet Travel Guide
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Welcome to Benguet, a province located in the Cordillera Administrative Region of the Philippines. Known as the "Salad Bowl of the Philippines," Benguet is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, cool climate, and vibrant culture. This mountainous province is home to the stunning Mount Pulag, the third highest peak in the country, offering adventurous travelers the opportunity to hike and witness the awe-inspiring sea of clouds at its summit. Benguet is also renowned for its strawberry farms, where visitors can pick their own fresh strawberries and indulge in delicious strawberry-based delicacies. Immerse yourself in the rich indigenous culture of the Igorot people, who have inhabited this region for centuries, and explore their traditional villages and handicrafts. Whether you are seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply a tranquil escape from the bustling city life, Benguet has something to offer for every traveler.
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Best Places To Visit in Benguet
1. Baguio City : Known as the "City of Pines," Baguio City is a popular destination for its cool climate and scenic views. Visitors can explore the famous Burnham Park, Mines View Park, and the Tam-Awan Village to learn about the local culture and traditions.
2. La Trinidad : Located in the heart of Benguet, La Trinidad is famous for its strawberry farms and vegetable gardens. Visitors can pick their own strawberries and enjoy the fresh produce at the local market. The town also hosts the annual Strawberry Festival, which showcases the best of the local harvest.
3. Sagada : A picturesque town nestled in the Cordillera Mountains, Sagada is known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the famous hanging coffins, hike to the Bomod-ok Falls, and learn about the local weaving traditions at the Sagada Weaving House.
4. Banaue : Home to the famous Banaue Rice Terraces, this town is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history and culture of the Philippines. Visitors can hike to the terraces and learn about the ancient irrigation systems that have sustained the local communities for centuries.
5. Tuba : Located just outside of Baguio City, Tuba is a great destination for adventure seekers. Visitors can go ziplining, rappelling, and rock climbing at the nearby Camp John Hay Adventure Zone, or explore the scenic trails of the Mount Santo Tomas Forest Reserve.
6. Itogon : This town is home to the famous Balatoc Mines, where visitors can learn about the history of mining in the Philippines and try their hand at gold panning. Itogon is also a great destination for hiking and camping, with several scenic trails and campsites to choose from.
7. Tublay : Known for its scenic waterfalls and hot springs, Tublay is a great destination for nature lovers. Visitors can hike to the Tappiya Falls, soak in the hot springs of the Benguet Agri-Pinoy Trading Center, or explore the scenic trails of the Mount Pulag National Park.
8. Atok : This town is famous for its scenic views of the Cordillera Mountains, including the famous Atok Sakura Park, which boasts over 30,000 cherry blossom trees. Visitors can also explore the local vegetable gardens and learn about the traditional farming practices of the region.
9. Kapangan : Located in the southern part of Benguet, Kapangan is a great destination for cultural immersion. Visitors can learn about the local Kankana-ey culture and traditions at the Kapangan Museum, or explore the scenic trails of the Mount Pulag National Park.
10. Mankayan : This town is known for its rich mining history and scenic landscapes. Visitors can explore the famous Lepanto Mines and learn about the history of mining in the Philippines, or hike to the scenic Mount Napulawan and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
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Food & Drinks To Try In Benguet
1. Strawberry Taho: Benguet is known for its strawberry farms, so a must-try food is the strawberry taho. Taho is a popular Filipino snack made from soft tofu, sweet syrup, and tapioca pearls. In Benguet, they add fresh strawberries to the mix, giving it a unique and delicious twist.
2. Ube Jam: Ube, or purple yam, is a staple ingredient in Filipino desserts. Benguet is famous for its high-quality ube, so trying the local ube jam is a must. It is a sweet and creamy spread made from mashed purple yam, condensed milk, and butter. It can be enjoyed on bread, pancakes, or even as a topping for ice cream.
3. Strawberry Ice Cream: Another must-try treat in Benguet is the strawberry ice cream. Made from fresh strawberries grown in the region, this ice cream is bursting with fruity flavor. It is a refreshing and delightful dessert, perfect for cooling down on a hot day.
4. Pinikpikan: Pinikpikan is a traditional dish from the Cordillera region, where Benguet is located. It is a chicken dish prepared by beating the chicken with a stick to tenderize the meat. The chicken is then cooked with ginger, onions, and other spices, resulting in a flavorful and hearty soup. It is a unique culinary experience that showcases the local culture and traditions.
5. Benguet Coffee: Benguet is known for its coffee production, so trying the local coffee is a must for coffee lovers. The region's cool climate and high altitude contribute to the unique flavor profile of Benguet coffee. It is often described as smooth, rich, and slightly fruity. Enjoy a cup of freshly brewed Benguet coffee to start your day or as a pick-me-up in the afternoon.
6. Strawberry Wine: Benguet is also known for its strawberry wine production. Made from locally grown strawberries, this wine offers a sweet and fruity taste. It is a great souvenir to bring back home or enjoy during your stay in Benguet. Pair it with some local cheese or chocolate for a delightful combination.
7. Benguet Vegetables: Benguet is known as the "Salad Bowl of the Philippines" due to its abundant vegetable production. Make sure to try the fresh and crisp Benguet vegetables, such as lettuce, carrots, broccoli, and cauliflower. These vegetables are grown using organic methods and are packed with flavor and nutrients. You can enjoy them in salads, stir-fries, or as a side dish to complement your main meal.
8. Strawberry Shake: If you're a fan of milkshakes, don't miss out on trying the strawberry shake in Benguet. Made from fresh strawberries, milk, and ice cream, this shake is a delightful and indulgent treat. It is a perfect way to enjoy the sweetness of Benguet's strawberries in a refreshing drink.
9. Benguet Longganisa: Longganisa is a Filipino-style sausage, and Benguet has its own version called Benguet longganisa. It is made from ground pork mixed with local spices and garlic, giving it a distinct flavor. It is often served for breakfast with garlic rice and eggs, providing a savory and satisfying start to the day.
10. Mountain Tea: Benguet is also known for its herbal teas, particularly the mountain tea. This tea is made from various herbs and plants found in the region's mountains. It is believed to have medicinal properties and is often consumed for its calming and soothing effects. Enjoy a cup of mountain tea to relax and unwind while taking in the beautiful scenery of Benguet.
Best Time To Visit Benguet
The best time to visit Benguet, Philippines is during the dry season, which typically runs from November to April. This is when the region experiences milder temperatures and less rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The main attractions in Benguet, such as the famous strawberry farms in La Trinidad and the stunning views from Mount Costa, are best enjoyed when the weather is clear and pleasant. However, it is important to note that Benguet can get quite crowded during the peak tourist season from December to February, so if you prefer a quieter experience, it may be best to visit during the shoulder months of November or April.
Flight Calendar For Benguet
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Transportation To Benguet
There are several transportation options to Benguet, Philippines.
1. By Air: The nearest airport to Benguet is the Loakan Airport in Baguio City. From Manila, you can take a domestic flight to Baguio City and then take a taxi or a bus to Benguet.
2. By Bus: There are several bus companies that offer trips to Benguet from Manila. You can take a bus from Manila to Baguio City and then transfer to a local bus or jeepney to Benguet.
3. By Car: If you prefer to drive, you can take the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) from Manila and then continue on the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) and the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX) until you reach Baguio City. From Baguio City, you can drive to Benguet.
4. By Taxi: You can also hire a taxi from Manila to Benguet, although this option can be more expensive.
Once you are in Benguet, you can use local transportation such as jeepneys, taxis, or tricycles to get around the province.