Sagada’s Best Falls For A Refreshing Wild Swim
Sagada is known for its rich history, dramatic caves, and hiking culture. One of our favourite things to do while in Sagada was to cool off after a long hike in one of Sagada’s falls. Perhaps Sagada doesn’t have the biggest or best waterfalls in the Philippines but after a steep trek or long hot walk they’re the perfect reward. Throughout this blog we share Sagada’s three best falls and their location; you must not miss these on your itinerary!
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Bomod-ok Falls Sagada (The Big Falls)
The first waterfall we share and the most popular is Bomod-ok Falls. As you walk the 2 hour path you might start to question if the hike is worth it, but the views on the hike make the journey pay off and the 200ft waterfall with its cold, refreshing spray is a reward most welcomed.
Also known as The Big Falls, as it’s bigger than Bokong, there are lots of steps down and back up from the waterfall pool. We were told by our hotel host that you can not leave without visiting Bomod-ok falls as it’s the highlight of Sagada.
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Bokong Falls Sagada (The Little Falls)
Bokong Falls is part of the Paytokan Walking Tour and is a welcomed stop to cool off and relax after the 3 hour walk. Located 10 minutes off Sagada’s main road, Bokong Falls is one of the easiest waterfalls to get to. You’ll often see locals hanging out here, enjoying the refreshing water and even jumping 6m’s into the deep pool below.
Found amongst lush green rice terraces and surrounded by tall pine trees this waterfall is the perfect place to relax. Bokong Falls is made up of a twin flow that meets at the bottom creating the deep pool that you can swim in, just be careful as the surrounding rock is extremely slippery.
If you want to attempt the 6m jump (like Mike) be extra careful as the climb up to the top of the falls is pretty treacherous.
Pongas Falls Sagada
The hike to Pongas Falls starts from Ankileng village, a 1 hour walk or trek through the river will bring you past rice terraces and through towering mountains. The falls are small but the water tumbles over rocks and boulders into a pool below where you can cool off. Interestingly, the falls provide irrigation to the surrounding rice terraces meaning not only are they a stunning part of the landscape they are vital to the local community.
Obwa Falls or Blue Lagoon
We didn’t visit Obwa Falls nor could we find much information about it anywhere! This adds to the magic, a waterfall untouched by tourists and a mystery of how to get there! If you visit blue lagoon also known as Obwa Falls on your Sagada trip we’d love to hear from you… this is your sign to go and uncover this off the beaten track waterfall!
Best Time To Visit Sagada
Sagada Tourism Guidelines For Sagada Activities
Once in Sagada you need to register at the Sagada Municipal tourist information center (₽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 instead tourists need to use the tourism shuttle buses.
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.
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.
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Best Places To Eat In Sagada
Yoghurt House - Famous for its homemade yogurt and cosy vibe, this spot offers a mix of local and Western dishes.
Gaia Cafe & Crafts - Located on a hill with stunning views, Gaia Cafe is known for its vegetarian and organic menu.
Sagada Brew - This cafe is popular for its coffee and comfort food. You can enjoy their breakfast meals, pastas, and sweet treats like cakes and pastries. Their brewed coffee, made from Sagada's Arabica beans, is a highlight.
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:
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. |
 | Universal Travel Adaptor With Multiple USBs Life while travelling will never be the same again! Charge multiple devices all at once in any country... game changer. |
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!
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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