About Benguet
Benguet, known as the “Salad Bowl of the Philippines,” is a breathtaking province in the Cordillera region filled with lush mountains, cool weather, and vibrant cultural heritage. Home to the famous La Trinidad Strawberry Farm, Mount Pulag, and scenic vegetable terraces, Benguet offers a perfect escape for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and cultural travelers. Its blend of indigenous traditions, highland landscapes, and agricultural abundance makes it a must-visit destination in Northern Luzon.
How to Get Here
Benguet is easily accessible from Manila and nearby provinces, making it a favorite highland escape. The most common gateway is Baguio City, the provincial capital. From Metro Manila, you can take a bus bound for Baguio via Victory Liner, Genesis Transport, or JoyBus, with travel time ranging from 4 to 6 hours depending on traffic. For those with private cars, you can drive through NLEX, SCTEX, and TPLEX, then continue via Marcos Highway or Kennon Road. Travelers coming from Northern Luzon can also access Benguet through La Union, Pangasinan, or Nueva Vizcaya via scenic mountain roads. Once in Baguio, jeepneys, vans, and buses are available to reach Benguet’s municipalities like La Trinidad, Kabayan, Atok, and Bokod.
Benguet Tourist Spots
Mt. Pulag
Mount Pulag is one of the highest peaks in the Philippines, measures 2,922 MASL. It is also one of the most beautiful mountains in the country; therefore, you should include this on your list. On the other hand, on its summit, hikers can witness the famous “sea of clouds," a majestic phenomenon where visitors are literally above the clouds.
Tekip Falls
Tekip Falls is just one of the amazing waterfalls in Bakun. It’s a 75-80-foot waterfall situated in one of the hidden sides of the Bakun ranges. It’s a 30-45-minute walk from the old municipal hall, passing on the pilapil. Tekip has crystal clear, cold, and fresh waters flowing from different parts of the mountains. Its water pressure is also perfect for the soared muscles.
Mt. Ugo
Mt. Ugo traverse is a bit long because it is one of the giants in Luzon. Our traverse was a two-day hiking itinerary from Brgy. Kayapa, Nueva Vizacaya to Itogon, Benguet. The terrain has a relaxing and cool ambiance, surrounded by stunning greens. Ugo, others call it Mt. Ugu, bears colorful ornaments spread on the trails and hanging on the trees. Of course, there are birds singing their lullabies. Definitely one of the must-visit attractions and destinations in Benguet.
Mt. Ulap
Mt. Ulap is situated in Brgy. Ampucao, Itogon Benguet. It is one of the highest peaks in the Cordillera region with amazing flora and fauna. Because of its temperature, the trees, grass, and flowers look so healthy, making the mountain look gorgeous.
Mt. Timbak
I've been hearing from friends that Mt. Timbak and Mt. Tabayoc are just two of the must hiked mountains in the Cordilleras. In terms of altitude, this mountain stands 2,717 MASL and garnered an easy trail class - which I think is true. Among the provinces in CAR, Benguet is really a bomb and prominent to tourist, especially hikers, because of its rich forested mountain slopes, hike on relaxing ambiance and a beauty that can only be found in nature, plus a glimpse of the local livelihood.
Mt. Tabayoc
One of the most prominent mountains in Luzon is Mt. Tabayoc because it is the second highest mountain in Luzon (2842 MASL) and is one of the most preserved virgin forest in the Philippines, with a rich bio-diversity of flora and fauna. Your hiking experience will definitely be rewarded with a breathtaking beauty of sea of clouds, artistic view of the surrounding terraces, a cool weather, a relaxing green ambiance, and a life changing tranquility by the lake. Also, there are a lot of mouth watering at lost cost and fresh harvest vegetables in the area.
The Highest Point
Among the Bakun Trio mountains, Mt. Tenglawan is the most difficult to hike because of its long terrain and assault, although its trail class and technicalities can be placed at a moderate level. Tenglawan has an amazing shape, from afar (photo above). Based on how it looks shape and, this giant can be compared to Mt. Guiting-guiting in Romblon.
Hotels to Stay in Benguet
- SkyRidge Homestay
- Jewel Igorot Building
- Benguet Prime Hotel
- Aura One Hotel
- Metro Pines Inn
Travel Tips
- Wear layered clothing, as temperatures can drop, especially in Atok and Mount Pulag.
- Book your Mount Pulag hike early, as visitor slots are limited.
- Try local delicacies like pinikpikan and fresh strawberries.
- Respect indigenous communities and their customs when visiting cultural sites.
Summary
Benguet is a destination that offers the perfect balance of adventure, culture, and relaxation. From the majestic sunrise atop Mount Pulag to the simple joy of picking strawberries in La Trinidad, every experience here is unforgettable. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a culture enthusiast, or someone who simply loves cool mountain air, Benguet will surely capture your heart and leave you longing to return.
On the other hand, traveling in the Philippines is highly recommended because of its hidden beauty. Want to explore stunning places? Here’s my full travel guide after visiting all 82 provinces in the Philippines.
