Things To Do
in Bontoc
Bontoc is a highland town in Mountain Province perched along the Chico River, surrounded by carabao-blue skies and pine-scented air. It serves as the provincial capital and a gateway to the Cordillera’s rich indigenous heritage, rice terraces, and cave systems. The town blends traditional Igorot culture with a growing selection of guesthouses, markets, and trailheads for nearby villages.
In this cool, mountainous setting, visitors can immerse in local crafts, history, and scenic viewpoints while starting excursions into nearby towns like Sagada and Besao.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local eatery, enjoying traditional Filipino dishes. Afterward, visit the Bontoc Museum to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage and history of the Igorot people. Stroll through the village to witness the local lifestyle and stunning mountain views.
In the afternoon, take a guided trek to the nearby rice terraces, marveling at the breathtaking landscape and the intricate farming techniques used by locals. Discover hidden waterfalls along the way for a refreshing dip in the cool, clear waters. End your trek at a local farm and enjoy a delicious farm-to-table lunch prepared by the friendly farmers.
As the sun sets, head to a popular local restaurant for dinner, sampling authentic Cordilleran dishes. Join a gathering with local artists for an evening of traditional music and dance, experiencing the vibrant culture of Bontoc firsthand. Wind down at your accommodation, reflecting on the day's adventures under a starry sky.
After breakfast, gear up for an exciting day trip to Mount Polis, a popular hiking destination. The trek begins with a scenic drive through winding mountain roads, offering plenty of photo opportunities along the way. Upon arrival, start your hike and enjoy the lush landscapes that envelop you.
Take a packed lunch to enjoy at one of the breathtaking viewpoints, soaking in the panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. Continue your hike to explore the diverse flora and fauna unique to the area. Challenge yourself to reach the summit for an unforgettable photo op at the top.
Return to Bontoc as dusk approaches, enjoying the stunning colors of the sunset over the mountains. Choose a cozy restaurant for dinner, where you can share tales of your adventure with fellow travelers. End the day with a leisurely stroll around the village, soaking in the peaceful evening ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚎Local transportation (jeepney/van/bus) | $0.50-2 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel/guesthouse per night | $12-28 |
| 🧺Groceries and crafts | $3-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich indigenous culture and welcoming communities
- Stunning highland scenery and photo opportunities
- Limited nightlife and urban amenities
- Rural roads can be challenging in the rainy season
- "Kumusta" - Hello / How are you? (Filipino/Tagalog commonly understood)
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Pakiusap" - Please
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Nagsasalita ka ba ng Ingles?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Bontoc
Visit one of these nice places.
A compact, informative museum setting with traditional artifacts and well-framed angles for portrait and still-life photography.
Rugged river scenes with old wooden bridges and terraced slopes in the background, especially dramatic at sunrise or sunset.
Iconic Cordillera terraces with reflective water, stone walls, and mountain backdrop—perfect for wide landscape shots.
Photogenic crossings and village lanes framed by conical huts and agricultural fields.
Highland panoramas with sweeping valleys; ideal for sunrise shoots and long-exposure cloudscapes.
Food in Bontoc
Bontoc Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Smoked or preserved meat (often pork) served with rice and vegetables; a staple in Cordillera households.
Must-Try!
A rustic chicken dish prepared in a Cordillera style, typically with salt and smoke-infused flavors; variations exist across villages.
A simple vegetable and meat stew common in mountain provinces; look for seasonal greens and root vegetables.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Where locals buy fresh produce, meats, and crafts; great for observing daily life and trying fresh, simple snacks.
Try inexpensive bites like fried bananas, sweet potato chips, or sticky rice treats sold by neighborhood vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always ask for permission before taking portraits of individuals or families; respect cultural practices and private spaces.
Show reverence at traditional or sacred locations; follow signs and guidance from locals during ceremonies or rituals.
Use polite greetings such as “po” and “opo” when addressing elders; speak softly in residential areas to avoid disturbing neighbors.
Safety
Tipping in Bontoc
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service; small amounts (a few pesos to a few hundred) are common for guides, drivers, and hotel staff if you’re satisfied.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry, sunny days with cool mornings and evenings; perfect for outdoor trekking and terrace photography, but carry water and light rain protection for sudden showers.
Frequent rain and occasional landslides affect road conditions; plan extra travel time and opt for shorter hikes with flexible itineraries.
Cool to chilly nights, comfortable daytime temperatures; pack light jackets and layered clothing for comfort at higher elevations.
Bontoc at Night
Hiking in Bontoc
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Trails offering panoramic views of deep valleys, cloud forests, and subalpine landscapes.
Scenic walks through carefully terraced fields with traditional stone walls and rural scenery.
Accessible caves and underground passages offering dramatic spelunking experiences and photographic opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Bontoc by plane.
Closest widely served airport to Mountain Province; expect several hours of road travel to reach Bontoc.
Alternative northern option with road connections to the Cordillera; longer travel times to Bontoc.
A farther option in northern Luzon; often used as a gateway for an extended Cordillera trip.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Indigenous groups including Bontoc and nearby Cordillera communities; languages vary but share traditional cultures and crafts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple sport across towns in the Philippines, commonly played in schools, gyms, and community centers.
Popular for reaching terraces, viewpoints, and cave systems around Bontoc and nearby towns.
Off-road routes along ridgelines and forested trails in the surrounding hills.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bontoc.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can rely on fresh vegetables, rice, and legumes; ask for locally sourced greens or veggie-friendly stews; many guesthouses can accommodate requests with advance notice.