Getting Off the Map: Journey to Batad

I joined Barefoot Travels as they embarked on a journey to Batad, home to the amphitheater-like rice terraces included on UNESCO's heritage list.

No Signal & Wi-Fi, No Problem

It took around 30 to 45 minutes just to get to this signpost. The road to Batad is only partly paved, which makes it difficult to reach, but adds to its charm. There's nothing like going to a destination that separates you from the electronic craziness prevalent in the city.

Our group was greeted by a spectacular view of the terraces. The short trek to this town was definitely worth it just for the views.

Eating adobo/lunch with the best view!

After resting and eating for an hour, our group began the hike through the terraces. The distance may be short, but it was difficult because of the high steps and narrow pathways.

The magnificent view of the verdant amphitheater-like terraces was something to behold. The spectacular scene was worth every drop of sweat and bolt of pain shooting through our legs as we made our way through the rice fields.

Tappiyah Falls was not as spectacular as I thought it would be, but its cool waters managed to revitalize my tired body. The trek to get there was quite a challenge as the steps were steep.

I was unable to take photos of the pathways we had to pass because I was too worried about not falling on either side. The challenge of the trek was the rocky and narrow pathways that tested your balance and fear of heights.

There were so many good angles of the picturesque rice terraces, I couldn't stop taking pictures. Our motley crew posing with the fields as our background.

It is just green and lush as far as the eyes could see.

The town is like any other small provincial town I've been to in the Philippines. There wasn't much happening outside the guest house you are staying in once it gets dark. It was bucolic. Beautiful. A breath of fresh air and all of the cliches about rural life you think of.

I ate this corn beef pizza on my last night in Batad. It was quite delicious.

For those planning to visit Batad and nearby places in the Ifugao region.

If you could consider this as a road...

The pain in my legs has yet to subside, but we had to soldier on as it takes another 30 to 45 minute trek just to get to the jeep we had to ride.

Pit Stop Banaue

They all started saying 'wacky' when their picture was taken. These ladies know how to catch attention all right!

Green! can't get enough of rice fields and nature!

We saw this cute kid riding a makeshift bike on our way back to Manila. The ladies on our group couldn't get enough of this cute fella.

Barefoot Travels arranged for everything, from the transportation to the lodging and the guide. You have to pay extra for some of the meals though. Check out the details below to know more about their trips to Batad and other destinations.

Barefoot Travels
Email: barefoottravels@yahoo.com
Contact No: 0923-5610062 | 0918-9081032 | 0917-3589716
Website: www.barefoottravels.org
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/barefoottravels

*DISCLAIMER: This is a sponsored post but thoughts and opinions are strictly my own.