Baguio

What is there to see?

Baguio is a highlands area of the Philippines at around 1500m altitude. Baguio is popular with westerners and Filipino's alike because of the cooler climate in the summer months (March, April, May). In fact you may even need a sweatshirt on some days!

When in Baguio you must visit the Camp John Hay Manor Hotel and perhaps have a meal here. There are also restaurants and shops in a nearby arcade. Whilst in this area you should also visit the Baguio Botanical Gardens, Wright Park and Mines View Park. There are good views here, horse riding and souvenir stalls.

The pine trees and hills make for a refreshing change in the landscape. You'll enjoy the winding roads on your way to Baguio.

Baguio is famed for it's wooded carvings. You will see these in the market and on the side of the road. If you thought the carvings in Manila were cheap then look at the deals you get when you buy direct! Of course wood can be heavy, but if you really want something then why not ship it by sea.

The market is an interesting experience. You get to see all the vegetables and fruit that are produced in this cooler climate. These inlclude strawberries. In the market you will also find a great deal of local handicraft including wood carvings and materials. You can even buy a wooly hat for when you go home.

On your way out or into Baguio you may come across this Lion sculptured from the rock along Kennon Road. It was created by Lions Club members of Baguio. You can get some great wood carvings from adjacent stores as a bargain price!

Where do I stay?

Baguio has many hotels ranging from affordable (around 1000 peso) to expensive and luxurious. If money is no issue then you should stay at Camp John Hay Manor Hotel. A good accomodation listing can be found in the 'Philippines Travel Guide' by Jens Peters.

How do I get there?

There is an airport nearby, but flights are pretty infrequent. Most people get to Baguio by bus from Manila. Allow around 6 hours for the bus journey (car is quicker). You could also combine this with a trip to La Union about 1 hour bus ride away. Buses on longer routes are usually air conditioned and cheap. You'll also get to take in many views! The bus station in Baguio is good and centrally located so you'll have no problems finding it.

How long shall I stay?

A day or two is sufficient for Baguio. There isn't actually a huge amount to do, but you'll enjoy seeing the vegetation and views at this altitude. You'll also enjoy seeing the market and buying some local handicrafts. I often just go to Baguio for 4 or 5 hours to break my journey when travelling to North Luzon and back to Manila. Baguio is slightly off-track when you do this, but I think it is a worthwhile stop.

Tips and Comments

If you are prone to cold then pack a light sweatshirt in your backpack. If you are all man, then it never really gets that cold!

If going to North Luzon (Batad, Vigan, La Union for example) then why not plan your bus route for a few hours stop-over (or overnight) in Baguio.