Sumaguing Cave in Sagada – Spelunking Adventure in the Mountain Province

Jump to: About Sumaguing Cave | How to Get There | What to Expect | Suggested Itinerary | Travel Budget | Where to Stay | Travel Tips

About Sumaguing Cave

Sumaguing Cave, also known as the “Big Cave,” is the most popular spelunking site in Sagada, Mountain Province. This natural limestone cave features massive rock chambers, underground pools, slippery tunnels, and jaw-dropping stalactites and stalagmites. It's perfect for adventure seekers looking for raw and thrilling experiences beneath the earth’s surface.

How to Get There

• 📍 Located about 15–20 minutes by foot or tricycle from Sagada town proper
• 📝 Registration and local guide are required at the Sagada Tourism Office
• 🛻 From town, ride a tricycle or join a group walk to the cave’s entrance

What to Expect

• 🪨 Massive rock formations with names like "King’s Curtain" and "Bear Paw"
• 💧 Underground streams, pools, and cold waters — bring dry bags
• 🧗 Rappelling, crawling, sliding, and even barefoot walking on slippery rocks
• 🔦 No artificial lights — guides use gas lamps for illumination
• ⛑️ Tours take 1–2 hours and involve moderate to intense physical activity

Suggested Itinerary

• 7:00 AM – Breakfast in town
• 8:00 AM – Register at the tourism office, hire a guide
• 8:30 AM – Short ride to cave entrance or walk via South Road
• 9:00 AM – Begin Sumaguing Cave spelunking tour
• 11:00 AM – Exit the cave, freshen up, and enjoy lunch

Sample Travel Budget

• Guide Fee (for 1–4 pax): ₱800
• Environmental Fee: ₱100
• Tricycle (RT): ₱100 per person
• Optional Tip: ₱50–₱100
• Total: ₱1,050 (good for 2–4 people)

Where to Stay

• 🏡 Misty Lodge, Kanip-Aw Pines View Lodge, Sagada Hub
• 🏨 Book early during weekends or holidays

🏨 View Sagada accommodations via Agoda

Travel Tips

• ✔️ Wear sandals or shoes with strong grip — no flip-flops
• ✔️ Bring a change of clothes, towel, and plastic bag for wet clothes
• ✔️ Don’t bring bulky bags — hands need to be free for balance
• ✔️ Respect the cave — no vandalism or touching of formations
• ✔️ Pregnant women, seniors, or people with injuries are not advised to join

Final Thoughts

Sumaguing Cave is a thrilling test of courage and curiosity — a mix of fear, laughter, and awe as you explore the earth’s natural artistry. It’s one of Sagada’s most unforgettable adventures and a must-try for any backpacker or explorer.

Also read: The Hanging Coffins of Sagada – Ancient Igorot Burial Site