Baguio Travel: 100 Questions Answered

Do I need to book bus tickets in advance? It is highly recommended, especially on weekends and holidays, via websites like PinoyTravel or the bus lines’ own portals.

What is the cheapest way to get around? Walking and riding the public jeepneys (fare starts at ₱13).

Are taxis expensive in Baguio? No, they are metered and drivers are famous for giving exact change. Flag-down rate is around ₱45–₱50.

Is Grab available? Yes, GrabTaxi is widely used and very convenient for areas with long queues.

Can I bring my own car? You can, but traffic is heavy and parking is extremely limited. Most locals advise leaving your car at the hotel.

Are there motorcycle taxis like Angkas? No, motorcycle taxis are currently illegal/unauthorized in Baguio.

Is the city walkable? Yes, if you don’t mind steep inclines and thin mountain air.

Where is the main bus terminal? Most major lines are located near SM Baguio or Governor Pack Road.

What is the “Coding” scheme? Baguio has a number-coding scheme for private vehicles based on the last digit of the license plate (Monday: 1,2; Tuesday: 3,4, etc.).

Can I rent a bike? It’s rare for city travel due to the hilly terrain, but you can rent bikes for fun inside Burnham Park.

How do I get to La Trinidad? Take a jeepney from the Magsaysay area; look for signs saying “Strawberry Farm.”

Is there an airport? Loakan Airport exists, but commercial flights (like PAL) are seasonal and limited.

Best Time to Visit & Weather

When is the coldest month? January and February.

When is the Panagbenga Festival? It is a month-long celebration in February.

Should I visit during Panagbenga? Only if you enjoy massive crowds and parades. If you want peace, avoid February.

What is the “off-season”? June to October (the rainy season).

Is it worth visiting during the rainy season? Yes, for the “bed weather” and fewer tourists, but be wary of landslides on the way up.

Do I need a heavy jacket? In Dec–Feb, yes. Otherwise, a light hoodie or windbreaker is usually enough.

Does it rain every day in the afternoon? During the wet season, yes, usually starting around 2:00 PM.

What is the average temperature? Between 15°C and 23°C, but it can drop to 9°C in early mornings.

Is it foggy in Baguio? Yes, especially in the late afternoon and evening in high-altitude areas like Mines View.

Do I need an umbrella? Always. Even in summer, sudden drizzles happen.

Accommodation Advice

Where is the best area to stay? Near Session Road or Burnham Park for convenience; Camp John Hay for luxury and pine trees.

Are transient houses better than hotels? Yes, for big groups or families on a budget.

Is Airbnb safe in Baguio? Generally yes, but verify if the unit has a reliable water supply and heater.

Do all hotels have air conditioning? Many do not, as the natural air is cool enough. Check before booking if you require it.

Is water scarcity an issue? Yes, some cheaper transients have scheduled water. Always ask the host.

Are there haunted hotels? Diplomat Hotel (ruins) and Laperal White House are famous spots, but for staying, some claim the older hotels have “vibes.”

Can I find a room for under ₱1,000? Yes, in hostels or far-flung transient rooms, but expect basic amenities.

Should I stay near the City Center? Only if you don’t mind the noise and smog. For a “real” Baguio feel, stay further out.

Is it easy to find parking at hotels? No. Always confirm parking availability with your accommodation before arriving.

Do I need a dehumidifier? If staying long-term or during the rainy season, yes, to prevent mold.

Sightseeing & Activities

Is Burnham Park free? Yes, entry is free.

What can I do at Camp John Hay? Hiking (Yellow Trail), picnic, shopping at outlets, and eating at Chocolate de Batirol.

Is the Strawberry Farm in Baguio? No, it is in the neighboring town of La Trinidad.

When is strawberry picking season? November to May; peak is February and March.

Is the Igorot Stone Kingdom worth it? Redditors often call it a “tourist trap,” but it’s popular for photos.

What is the best viewpoint? Mines View Park (very crowded) or Mirador Heritage and Eco Park (quieter).

What is the Diplomat Hotel? An abandoned hotel turned heritage site/park known for its eerie history.

Is the Botanical Garden worth a visit? Yes, it has been renovated and features beautiful international-themed pockets.

Where can I see the “Valley of Colors”? It’s the Stobosa murals in La Trinidad, visible from the main road.

What is the Mansion? The official summer residence of the Philippine President. You can take photos at the gate.

Can I enter the PMA (Philippine Military Academy)? Yes, but check for current visitor hours and dress code (no slippers/sandals).

What is BenCab Museum? A contemporary art museum by National Artist Benedicto Cabrera (located in Tuba, a short taxi ride away).

Is the Night Market open every day? Yes, along Harrison Road from 9:00 PM to 2:00 AM.

What should I buy at the Night Market? “Ukay-ukay” (second-hand clothes) and street food.

Are there hiking trails? Yes, Mt. Kalugong and Mt. Yangbew in La Trinidad are great for beginners.

Food & Dining

What is the most famous restaurant? Good Taste (affordable, huge portions) and Vizco’s (Strawberry Shortcake).

Where can I get the best coffee? Hot Cat Specialty Coffee, Garcia’s Coffee (market), or Foam Coffee.

What is Pinikpikan? A traditional Cordilleran chicken dish. Try it at Farmer’s Daughter.

Where is the best place for a romantic dinner? Hill Station or Foggy Mountain Cookhouse.

Is street food safe? Generally yes, but stick to busy stalls. Try the Strawberry Taho!

Where can I find the best pasalubong? Baguio Public Market or Good Shepherd Convent (Ube Jam).

Is the Ube Jam at Good Shepherd really better? Many believe so, plus the proceeds go to charity.

What is “Chocolate de Batirol”? A traditional Filipino hot chocolate found in Camp John Hay.

Are there craft breweries? Yes, Baguio Craft Brewery is very popular.

Where to eat “lutong bahay” (home-cooked) food? Slaughterhouse Compound for fresh meats and local stews.

What is the best cake in Baguio? Vizco’s Strawberry Shortcake is the consensus winner.

Can I find vegan food? Yes, Oh My Gulay! on Session Road is a famous vegetarian/art-themed cafe.

Are restaurants expensive? Baguio offers everything from ₱80 “carinderia” meals to ₱2,000 fine dining.

Is tap water drinkable? Most locals and tourists prefer bottled or filtered water.

Where to get breakfast? Patch Cafe or Arca’s Yard.

Shopping & Souvenirs

What should I buy at the market? Sagada oranges, strawberries, walis tambo (brooms), and fresh vegetables.

Where is the best ukay-ukay? Skyworld or the Harrison Road Night Market.

Is it cheaper to buy vegetables in Baguio? Yes, significantly cheaper than in Manila.

Are silver products good there? Yes, Pilak Silvercraft and Ibe Silver are reputable.

What is a “Sundot Kulangot”? A sweet coconut jam sold in small wooden shells.

Can I haggle? At the public market and night market, yes. In malls/boutiques, no.

What is “Woven Cloth” from Baguio? Traditional textiles from the Cordillera region, found at the Easter Weaving Room.

Where to buy cheap succulents/plants? Botanical Garden or the Orchidarium near Burnham Park.

Is SM Baguio worth visiting? Yes, it’s one of the few malls without air conditioning and has a great view deck.

What is the “Session Road on Sundays” event? The road is closed to cars, and there are chalk art events and street performers.

Local Culture & Etiquette

What language do they speak? Ilocano is the local tongue, but everyone speaks Tagalog and English.

Are locals friendly? Very. They are known for being polite and honest (especially taxi drivers).

What is the “King of the Road” rule? In Baguio, pedestrians are king. Cars actually stop when you step on a pedestrian lane.

Is smoking allowed? Baguio is very strict with its anti-smoking and anti-vaping ordinance. Smoke only in designated areas.

Is there a liquor ban? Generally, establishments stop serving alcohol by midnight or 2:00 AM depending on the license.

Can I take photos of the locals in traditional dress? Ask first. It’s customary to give a small tip if you take a photo with them at Mines View.

Is “Jaywalking” strictly enforced? Yes. Use the footbridges and crosswalks to avoid fines.

What is the “No Cellphone While Walking” rule? There was a proposed ordinance about “distracted walking,” so be mindful when crossing streets.

How do I show respect to the Igorot culture? Avoid using the term as a slur; appreciate their art and history at the Baguio Museum.

Is the city safe at night? Yes, it is one of the safest cities in the Philippines, though typical precautions apply.

Common Concerns & Tips

Is there a lot of traffic? Yes, traffic in the city center can be as bad as Manila during peak hours.

How do I avoid the crowd? Travel on weekdays (Tuesday to Thursday) and stay away from the city center.

Is there 5G signal? Yes, most parts of the city have excellent LTE and 5G (Globe and Smart).

Are there many ATMs? Yes, especially along Session Road and inside SM Baguio.

Do I need to bring a hair dryer? Some hotels don’t provide them, and it’s hard to dry hair in the cold, humid air.

What should I do if I get motion sick? The road to Baguio (Kennon or Marcos Highway) is very winding. Take meds beforehand.

Which road is better: Kennon or Marcos Highway? Marcos Highway is safer and wider. Kennon Road is scenic but often closed due to landslides.

Is Baguio expensive for tourists? It is relatively mid-range. You can survive on ₱1,500/day or spend ₱5,000/day.

Are there laundry shops? Plenty of self-service laundromats are available near student areas.

Is there a hospital nearby? Yes, Baguio General Hospital and Notre Dame are central.

What to do if it’s raining all day? Go “cafe hopping” or visit the BenCab and Baguio Museums.

Can I visit Sagada from Baguio? Yes, it’s a 5–6 hour bus ride from the Dangwa Terminal.

Where can I work remotely? Foam Coffee, Hot Cat, and various co-working spaces near universities.

Is the air quality good? In the pine forests, yes. In the city center, there is significant jeepney smoke.

What is the one thing I shouldn’t miss? Walking down Session Road at night when it’s foggy and cold.

Transportation & Logistics