The Banaue Rice Terraces, located in Ifugao Province and northern Luzon Island, are more than 2,000 years old. These terraces were carved by the ancestors of the local people in order to plant rice and some vegetables. Being hand-made, they are located 1,500 meters above sea level and are believed to encircle half the globe when placed one by one. Due to the rainforests that grow above the terraces, the soil is very productive there. Still, modern Filipinos prefer to use this place as a tourist attraction. Nowadays, the number of activities for visitors has developed, including the traditional exploration of the terraces and visiting the tribes at the bottom of this handcrafted miracle.
Another site which is equally impressive is Batad rice terraces. They are located one hour drive from Banaue and are still maintained in an efficient way.
The rice terraces may be visited at different times of year depending on what you'd like to see. Come April to May or October to November to see them lush and green, while in June and December you can observe harvest time and see it in the shades of gold. In January to March or September during planting season, the bare terraces are less impressive but still enjoyable—that's when you might see the mirror-like cascades filled up with water. July and August are the least favourable time for this is the peak of rainy season notorious for occasional landslides. Thus, we recommend September through June as the best time to visit the rice terraces.
Practical info
When were the Banaue Rice Terraces carved?
The ancestors of those living in Ifugao Province and northern Luzon Island created the Banaue Rice Terraces over 2,000 years ago. These cultural treasures were intricately hand-carved, providing a way for the locals to plant rice and vegetables in the region. Show more
Where are the Batad Rice Terraces located?
You can find the Batad Rice Terraces in Ifugao Province, Phillipines, approximately one hour's drive from Banaue. They are just as impressive as the Banaue Rice Terraces and are still maintained effectively, providing visitors with a window into rice terrace building from centuries ago. Show more
What activities can visitors do while exploring the rice terraces?
While exploring the Banaue and Batad Rice Terraces, visitors can take guided hikes, meet the local tribes who maintain these cultural treasures, and learn about the significance and tradition of these sites. The natural environment surrounding the rice terraces is also amazing and definitely worth exploring. Show more
When is the best time to visit the rice terraces?
The period between September to June is the best time to visit the Banaue and Batad Rice Terraces, with the exception of July and August during the rainy season. During October through November or April through May, the terraces are at their greenest. Those interested in seeing the golden harvest can visit in June or December, and those keen on attending the planting season can go in August through September. Note that while the terrain may look barren during dry seasons, the water cascading down the terraces can still be very beautiful. Show more
What is the main advantage of the rainy season for the rice terraces?
Visiting the rice terraces during the rainy season, which lasts from July to August, is not ideal due to the heavy rainfall making the area muddy and washing out the terraces' lush green color. However, when the rain recedes, it fills the terraces' cascades and pools, providing stunning mirror-like reflections of the steps. Though not a popular time for tourists, it is a unique opportunity for those interested in taking advantage of this photographic display while accepting the mud and rain. Show more
