Paytokan Walking Tour Of Sagada: What You Need To Know
The Paytokan Walking Tour encompasses lots of attractions Sagada has to offer. It also includes one of the most popular sights, the Hanging Coffins and Eco Valley. As Sagada Tourism Rules state, you have to have a guide to explore these sights, meaning the Paytokan Walking Tour is a great way to see more of Sagada.
Apart from the Hanging Coffins other highlights include learning about how the local coffee is grown and made as well as Bokong Falls, a waterfall where you can take a refreshing dip at the end of the 3 hour hike.
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Where Is The Paytokan Walking Tour?
The Walking Tour is located in the heart of Sagada with the starting point Church Of St Mary The Virgin. You must have a guide with you so make sure you plan your walk through one of Sagada’s official tour operators.
How To Get To Sagada
There are two ways to get to Sagada , the first a direct bus and the second includes a stop in Baguio, known for its cooler climate.
The most convenient is the direct Coda Line Corporation overnight bus, which can take you from Quezon City in Manila, directly to Sagada. You can choose between semi deluxe, no toilet (₽760) and super deluxe buses, with a toilet (₽980), both make stops along the way. The buses all leave in the evening, the timings are 8pm, 9pm, 10pm and 10:30pm. We recommend booking your bus with 12Go.
Sagada is also accessible by bus from the city of Baguio (4 hours). If you’re arriving in Manila you will need to get a Victory Liner bus up to Baguio first. Then get a taxi (₽80) to the GL Trans Terminal where you can catch a bus to Sagada (₽220). Please note the last bus of the day leaves at 1pm.
Top Tip: We recommend hiring a car to explore Luzon if you’re a confident driver, there’s so much to see which by bus alone is hard to access.
How To Get To The Paytokan Walking Tour?
As you have to have a guide they will lead you the way. You just need to make sure you have registered at the tourism office (don’t lose your receipt) then you can head to a tourism provider who will introduce you to your guide. They will show you the way...
What Will You See On The Paytokan Walking Tour
Church Of St Mary The Virgin
The church in Sagada Mountain Province was built by American Missionaries in 1904. It is a unique historical landmark due to a mix of indigenous influences and Christianity which is the main religion in Sagada today. The main features of the church are the vibrant stained glass window and large wooden beams inside.
Mission Compound Cemetery
The next stop on the walking tour is the Mission Compound Cemetery. Unlike other cemeteries the coffins are placed above ground with space left open for partners. During All Saints Day or Panag-opoy pine twigs are lit beside the coffins. Interestingly, the tradition of the hanging coffins is now dying out in favour for a Christian burial, where loved ones can light a twig close to the coffin more easily.
Hanging Coffins And Echo Valley
The main attraction of the Paytokan Walking Tour are the hanging coffins in Echo Valley. The main reason the coffins are perched so high on the cliff face is due to the belief that this would bring them closer to their ancestors and closer to heaven. The coffins are carved from tree trunks by the elderly themselves or by their family members. Once they have died,, the ceremony of their death will take place which includes different rituals and practices that are unique to the Igorot people.
Baw-eng Local Coffee Farm
We enjoyed learning about the beans grown in the valley and sampling some of the farm to cup coffee. During the pandemic, Sagada turned back to its roots of agriculture to make an income. From this agrotourism has blossomed and we got to view and learn about the Arabica plants which produce the Arabica coffee bean. The plants only grow at high altitude in places with lots of rain and shade. Arabica is known for its peculiar and bitter flavour.
At the end of the Paytokan Walking Tour you will reach Bokong Falls. It will be a relief as it will give you somewhere to cool off after the long trek. Situated amongst lush green rice terraces Bokong Falls isn’t far from the main road but feels secluded due to the landscape of pine trees all around. Bokong Falls is made up of a twin flow, two cascading falls meet at the bottom creating a deep pool allowing for people to jump from the rock 6 meters above. If jumping isn’t for you, you can relax in the pools below, just be aware it can get very slippery!
Paytokan Common Questions
How Much Does The Tour Cost?
The tour cost is ₽1000 for 10 people.
How Long Does The Walk Take?
The walk takes 2-3 hours from Paytokan Gate.
Is The Walk Difficult?
The walk is steep with steps and some uneven patches, you will need a moderate level of fitness for the Paytokan Walk.
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Is There A Shorter Walk?
Yes! If you only want to see the church, Hanging Coffins and valley you can go on the Echo Valley Tour For ₽300 for 10 people. This walk will take 30 minutes from Paytokan gate.
Who Are The Tour Providers?
Sagada Genuine Guides Association (SAGGAS)
Sagada Environmentalist Guides Association (SEGA)
Sagada Ethnos Tour Guides Organization (SETGO)
Association of Southern Sagada Environmental Tour Guides (ASSETG)
Sagada Tourism Guidelines
Once in Sagada you need to register at the tourist information centre (₽100) then you can head to any one of the many tour guide organisation offices to get a tour. Some examples are SEGA or SAGGAS however the most up to date information will be given to you at the tourism office.
You need a tour guide for each activity. It goes without saying but never engage services of children for tours. We were also told all tourist vehicles are required to park at their accommodation during their stay and use the tourism shuttle buses instead.
There is a focus on the environment in Sagada, they encourage the use of reusable water bottles and bags and of course no littering.
Finally, respect all sacred grounds, refrain from making loud noises and wearing scarce clothing. Refrain from taking photos of elders without permission.
Best Places To Stay Sagada
Sagada Mountain Province holds a special place in our hearts. We truly found a home away from home here and loved our time spent in the mountains and above the clouds. There are lots of accommodation options and we recommend you find somewhere that is walkable to the tourist information centre where you’ll register and sort tours. One of Sagada’s rules is you have to use their local transport to get to the attractions meaning a local hotel or hostel is vital.
We use Booking.com and HostelWorld for all of our stays around the world!
Below is a list of top accommodations we recommend for Sagada Mountain Province:
Top Things To Do In Sagada
There’s so much to do in Sagada especially if you enjoy hiking. You could easily spend a week here exploring every nook and cranny and learning about the unique culture of the elders in the village. Here’s our top picks:
Top Pick: Marlboro Sea Of Clouds
Worth the early morning wake up, you can experience the famous sea of clouds on top of Marlboro Hill.
Can’t Miss: Sumaguing Cave
Go spelunking in one of The Philippines biggest caves, see different rock formations, subterranean rivers and explore the underground world of Sagada.
Best Waterfall: Bomod-ok Falls
Something still on our list as it was closed due to a burial ceremony when we visited. We were told this is the best waterfall in Sagada by our guide and host.
Off The Beaten Track: Bessang Pass
Fancy an adventure? Why not drive the Bessang Pass to or from Sagada. A winding mountain road with incredible views which is slightly nail-biting.
Other Things To Do In Sagada
Echo Valley Paytokan Walking Tour
Pongas Falls
Lumiang Cave
Essential Travel Items You Need
 | Lifestraw - Filtered Water Bottle Allowing you to fill up water whenever and wherever with peace of mind plus you’re helping the environment! |
 | Jungle Formula - High Deet Mosquito Spray The weak sprays will not work! Make sure to bring a high deet percentage spray made for the tropics. We also use Mosquito Wipes. |
 | Water Shoes - Lightweight with Protection Stay protected from Sea Urchins with these, also useful for snorkelling, waterfall hikes and more. We also love our Microfibre Towels and Dry Bag. |
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Top Tips For Travelling The Philippines
If you’re visiting the Philippines here are our top travel tips:
Book flights in advance - they can become expensive if you leave it last minute… oh and check your luggage allowance to skip expensive check in fees at the airport. Don't forget your Apple Airtags to track your bags
Agree on taxi prices upfront - when getting into a tuk-tuk, tricycle or taxi, make sure you agree on a price or they have a meter, so many tourists get ripped off with a huge price tag at the end of the ride.
Take it slow - don't feel the need to see all the islands, we recommend picking a few and doing them properly. See the island in full, find some locals and sing Karaoke..
Embrace the chaos and get stuck in, the locals are friendly and love to help and share information about their home!
For a checklist of what's needed to pack for your trip, read: How to Pack for Backpacking to South East Asia: Backpacking Essentials and Accessories
We love our DJI Mini for all of our drone shots!
Final Thoughts on Paytokan Sagada Walking Tour
The Paytokan Walking Tour is a great way to spend a morning, you will discover the rich history Sagada holds as well as visiting some of the best sights such as the Hanging Coffins in Echo Valley. Bokong Falls was also a highlight allowing us to cool off after the 3 hour walk.
Travel Tools To Help You Plan
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Thank you for reading and enjoy your Philippine adventure. Reach out to us over on Instagram @KateandMikesTravels. We always love to hear from people who read our blogs!
For our Filipino friends: Maraming salamat sa pag babasa, hangang sa susunod nating pag kikita, mamimiss namin kayo, mabuhay ang pilipinas! Salamat
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