Baguio City Tour: Day 1 Itinerary with Opti Travel & Tours
Explore Burnham Park, historical landmarks & more! Discover Baguio City’s Day 1 itinerary with Opti Travel & Tours.
Craving some mountain air and breathtaking scenery, we decided to explore Baguio City with one of my friends and her mom! Baguio City has always held a special charm for me, but my previous visits were fleeting glimpses, as work trips meant tight schedules and limited exploration.
To make the most of our time in Baguio and avoid any planning hassles, we decided to join a group offered by Opti Travel & Tours. They have a massive Facebook page with over 600,000 followers – that kind of popularity speaks volumes, right?
We set off from Manila sometime between 9:30 and 10:00 pm. This was a two-day adventure and we were joined by nine other awesome travelers. Thankfully, everyone showed up right on time, which is always a great way to start any trip!
On our first day in Baguio, we visited these tourist spots:
Cultural and Architectural Delights:
- Burnham Park: The Heart of Baguio’s Leisure Activities
- Diplomat Hotel: A Piece of Baguio’s Colonial Past
- Valley of Colors: Hillside Homes Painted into a Giant Mural
- Tam-Awan Village: An open-air museum and Artist Village
- Session Road: Bustling Streets Lined with Shops and Restaurants
Enthralling Natural Wonders:
- La Storta Gardens: A Haven of Lush Flora and Fauna
- The Rock Gardens: A Sculpted Masterpiece from Nature’s Scraps
- Mirador Blue Moon Gate: Framing Breathtaking Panoramic Views
- Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: Immerse Yourself in the Tranquility of Bamboo Groves
Spiritual and Reflective Sites:
- Lourdes Grotto: A Replica of the French Sanctuary
- Pandemic Healing Memorial: A Moment of Reflection
Bonus: Night Market
Exploring Baguio’s Charm (Day 1 Activities)
We arrived in Baguio bleary-eyed at 5 am. Our first stop was Burnham Park. The exhaustion from the journey had us all searching for breakfast as soon as we disembarked from the van.
Fortunately, we spotted a vendor selling “Strawberry Taho” for ₱50.00 a cup. Taho, a popular Filipino street delicacy composed of silken tofu, sweet syrup, and tapioca pearls, can be found throughout the Philippines.
But have you ever tried Strawberry Taho? This unique variation, which features a rich strawberry syrup and whole strawberries, is commonly offered by Taho vendors at numerous tourist destinations in Baguio.
Burnham Park Boating Fee:
Our rendezvous time back at the van was 6:30 am, but unfortunately, we couldn’t find any restaurants or fast-food places open yet. Even Jollibee was closed until the same time.
Instead of waiting, we decided to explore Burnham Park a bit. Thankfully, a helpful policeman pointed us towards Chowking. This saved the day! We grabbed a quick breakfast and rushed back to the van, only five minutes behind schedule.
Here’s a heads-up for anyone planning a boat ride at Burnham Park:
- ₱ 200.00 for 30 minutes (5 Persons Capacity)
- ₱ 250.00 for 30 minutes (6 to 7 Persons Capacity) — plus an additional PHP 50.00 if you need a rower
Diplomat Hotel: A Piece of Baguio’s Colonial Past
The Diplomat Hotel, originally known as the Dominican Hill Retreat House, boasts a rich history nestled atop Dominican Hill in Baguio City, Philippines. Construction began in 1913 and was completed in May 1915. Initially envisioned as a peaceful retreat for Dominican friars, the building briefly transformed into Colegio del Santissimo Rosario, a school unfortunately shuttered due to low enrollment just two years later.
World War II brought a dramatic shift. The Diplomat Hotel became a refuge for civilians seeking safety. However, this sanctuary was disrupted by the invading Japanese Imperial Army who used the building as their headquarters.
Today, it’s known as the Baguio City Heritage Hill and Nature Park, undergoing a transformation organized by the local government. A 15 million Philippine peso grant from the National Commission for Culture and the Arts jumpstarted rehabilitation efforts in April 2022. The entire property has been renamed the Dominican Heritage Hill and Nature Park, reflecting its rich history.
While the Diplomat Hotel is no longer a functioning hotel, it holds a unique place in Baguio’s cultural landscape. Local legends speak of the hotel being haunted by the spirits of those who perished during World War II, attracting paranormal enthusiasts. Despite its abandoned state, the ruins retain a picturesque charm, making it a popular spot for photographers and sightseers alike.
Unfortunately, as of November 2022, safety concerns prevent visitors from entering the Diplomat Hotel. Recent earthquakes have compromised the structural integrity of the building.
Admission Fee and Operating Hours:
Admission: Currently, there’s a P10 entrance fee for adults and P5 for children to visit the Diplomat Hotel (as of May 18, 2024).
Operating Hours: 08:00 am to 05:00 pm
Note: Since the Diplomat Hotel is undergoing rehabilitation, it’s important to check for any updates on entrance fees or closures before your visit.
Towering over Baguio City, right next to the Diplomat Hotel, stands a remarkable sight: the world’s largest tablet of the Ten Commandments. This building-sized edifice, certified by Guinness World Records at a staggering 152.90 square meters, is intricately carved with the Bible’s Ten Commandments.
The project was initiated by Grace Galindez-Gupana, CEO of ABS Gen Herbs International Corp. This impressive structure is a testament to both faith and human dedication. Skilled contractors from Nueva Ecija brought the project to life.
More than just a religious symbol, this monumental tablet stands as a unique landmark, adding to Baguio City’s rich cultural collage. So, if you’re planning a visit to the Diplomat Hotel, make sure to seize the opportunity to witness this Guinness World Record-holding Ten Commandments tablet.
Mirador Heritage & Eco-Spirituality Park
Baguio’s newest gem, Mirador Heritage & Eco-Spirituality Park, has quickly become a must-visit for tourists. Opened in late November 2020, this park perched on Mirador Hill (near the iconic Lourdes Grotto) offers a welcome escape from the city’s buzz.
The park is big, green, and gloriously unhurried — from its terraces you can see mountains, valleys, and forested hills rolling out in every direction. It was one of those places where we kept stopping mid-walk just to take in the view.
Let’s explore! This 5-hectare, multi-tiered park is packed with attractions. Step through the iconic Torii gate, a traditional Japanese symbol of transition from the ordinary to the sacred, often found at Shinto shrines. Wander through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, inspired by its namesake in Kyoto. Find solace at the Pandemic Healing Memorial, explore the Jesuit Villa and Retreat House, or grab a cup of serenity at Cafe Iñigo.
Based on our experience, it’s beneficial to listen to your guide’s advice and take a photo of the map. The interior can be quite like a maze, and a picture of the map can greatly assist in navigating the area.
Here are some tips to navigate Mirador Heritage & Eco-Spirituality Park:
- Snap a picture of the map: Trust us, this is a lifesaver! The inside of La Storta Gardens can feel like a maze, with winding paths and hidden corners. Taking a quick picture of the map at the entrance will be a huge help in finding your way around.
- Time Management is Key: Keep your scheduled return time in mind when exploring different spots. If Lourdes Grotto, with its climb up numerous stairs, is a must-see, be mindful of how long you spend at La Storta Gardens.
- Follow Your Wanderlust: But if you’re like us and fell head over heels for the enchanting gardens and bamboo forest, don’t hold back! Explore at your own pace. The signs are clear and will eventually lead you to Lourdes Grotto, like a treasure hunt at the end of a beautiful journey.
- Follow the signs: They’ll eventually lead you to Lourdes Grotto at the end.
- Don’t worry about getting lost: If following signs becomes tricky, you can always rely on Google Maps.
Admission Fee and Operating Hours:
Admission: Currently, there’s a P100 entrance fee while children below 12 years old can enter for free (as of May 18, 2024).
Operating Hours: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
La Storta Gardens: A Haven of Lush Flora and Fauna
La Storta Gardens, perched within the Mirador Heritage & Eco-Spirituality Park, holds a special connection to a faraway place. Named after a vision experienced by St. Ignatius de Loyola near Rome, Italy, this garden feels like a thoughtful gift from the Christian Life Community in the Philippines to Baguio.
The garden boasts a unique feature – a series of tubular seats overlooking Naguilian Road. These inviting spots are like little sanctuaries where you can relax, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and soak up the peaceful surroundings.
The Rock Gardens: A Sculpted Masterpiece from Nature’s Scraps
The Mirador Hill Eco Park also boasts the Rock Gardens, where a captivating display of unique rock formations awaits.
Attraction: The Rock Gardens draw in visitors with its ascending hiking trail, embellished with steps, pathways, and boulders crafted from rock. As you ascend, you are treated to picturesque views of Baguio City. It’s a location where remnants from nature have been artistically transformed into a masterpiece.
Safety: Given that you’ll be hiking for a while at the Rock Gardens, it’s advisable for safety reasons to wear appropriate footwear for hiking and dress in comfortable attire.
Mirador Blue Moon Gate: Framing Breathtaking Panoramic Views
Tucked away within the Mirador Heritage & Eco-Spirituality Park, a hidden gem awaits – the Blue Moon Gate. This picturesque archway, inspired by traditional Chinese architecture, stands proudly, tempting visitors to explore the park’s serene beauty. It’s like a colorful portal promising a tranquil escape.
But the Blue Moon Gate is more than just a pretty picture. Its white and blue hues hold a deeper meaning. Locals revere the Virgin Mary, and these colors symbolize her role as a gateway to Christ. Additionally, the blue evokes the rarity of special moments, like the saying “once in a blue moon.”
Step through the archway, and breathtaking panoramic views of Baguio unfold before you. Majestic mountains rise tall in the distance, completing a picture-perfect scene. This spot is a haven for relaxation and reflection. Immerse yourself in the cool pine breeze whispering through the trees, and let the tranquil atmosphere wash over you.
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: Immerse Yourself in its Beauty and Tranquility
If you’re looking for a taste of Japan without leaving the Philippines, then Baguio City has a treat for you! The Mirador Heritage and Eco Park boasts its very own Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a mesmerizing recreation of the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in Kyoto, Japan.
Step inside this captivating grove, and towering bamboo stalks will envelop you in a serene world. Sunlight filters through the leaves, painting the ground with a dappled light show, while the gentle rustle of the wind whispering through the bamboo creates a symphony of tranquility.
The entire park is a haven for anyone yearning for a taste of Japanese culture. Beyond the bamboo grove, a replica of a traditional torii gate, a symbolic gateway to Shinto shrines, stands tall. Lush gardens and landscaping, meticulously crafted with Japanese influences, further enhance the immersive experience.
Mirador Peace Memorial: A Moment of Reflection
The Mirador Peace Memorial is a notable attraction within the Mirador Heritage and Eco Park.
Gateway to Tranquility: The memorial’s entrance is marked by a striking red Torii Gate, a traditional symbol in Japan marking the transition from the ordinary to the sacred. This iconic structure sets the tone for a place of reflection and serenity.
A Bell of Transformation: Hanging proudly above the torii gate is a bell, crafted from an unlikely source – a neutralized bomb recovered after the devastating carpet bombing of Baguio during WWII. This bell serves as a powerful symbol of transformation, where the tools of destruction are repurposed for peace and remembrance.
Layered Beauty: The Peace Memorial boasts a multi-terraced landscape, adding depth and dimension to the space. It’s like a visual journey, inviting visitors to climb and explore, perhaps reflecting on the challenges and triumphs humanity has faced.
Breathtaking Vistas: And then there’s the view! On a clear day, the Peace Memorial offers a stunning panorama, showcasing the dramatic sunsets over the western villages of Baguio and the distant Lingayen Gulf. Even the occasional fog, typical of Baguio, adds a mystical touch to the scene.
Lourdes Grotto: A Replica of the French Sanctuary
Standing proudly in Baguio City, Lourdes Grotto is a meticulously crafted homage to its namesake in Lourdes, France. Built in 1913, the grotto shares the same sturdy limestone used to construct the nearby Mirador Jesuit Villa, creating a sense of historical kinship.
Stepping inside, you’ll be greeted by a revered statue of Our Lady of Lourdes. This beautiful artwork, meticulously crafted from polychromed molave by the renowned artist Isabelo Tampingco, is a focal point for devotion. The grotto itself serves as a sanctuary for prayer and meditation, especially drawing large crowds on Sundays and during Holy Week. Pilgrims and devotees flock here seeking blessings and a sense of peace under the Virgin Mary’s watchful gaze.
Reaching this spiritual haven requires a climb up a stairway with approximately 252 steps. Don’t worry, though! A sturdy center rail assists those who need extra support, and a dedicated handicap route, constructed in 2007, ensures accessibility for all. Your perseverance will be rewarded with a breathtaking panorama of Baguio City. For the most stunning unobstructed views, consider visiting during the dry season, which typically stretches from late December to late May. Imagine the crisp mountain air and clear skies enhancing the grandeur of the cityscape – a truly unforgettable reward for your climb.
Tam-Awan Village: A Living Museum of Cordillera Culture
For our final stop before heading back to our cozy accommodation, we ventured to a place that transported us back in time – Tam-Awan Village and the Igorot Stone Kingdom.
A Vibrant Collage: Tucked away in Baguio City, Tam-Awan Village is a vibrant hub for art and cultural exploration. Founded by a group that included the esteemed National Artist Ben Cabrera, this village pulsates with creativity. It’s a place where the past and present intertwine, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Cordilleran culture.
A Journey Through Time: Over the past two decades, Tam-Awan Village has played host to over 200 exhibits. Here, artistic expressions from across the Philippines and even beyond come alive for visitors to experience. But Tam-Awan Village goes beyond traditional galleries. It delves deeper, showcasing authentic huts salvaged from Sagada and Kalinga. Stepping inside these structures is like stepping back in time, offering a firsthand look at Cordilleran ways of life.
A Celebration of Heritage: Despite its limitations, Tam-Awan Village, under the Chanum Foundation’s dedicated guidance, strives to be a vibrant platform for Cordilleran culture. It’s a place where visitors can not only immerse themselves in the beauty of traditional art but also gain a deeper understanding of this fascinating region and its heritage.
A Perfect Farewell: Leaving Tam-Awan Village and the Igorot Stone Kingdom felt like the perfect farewell to our Baguio adventure. It was a reminder of the rich history and artistic spirit that continues to thrive in this captivating city.
Planning Your Visit to Tam-Awan Village? Here’s What You Need to Know About Entrance Fees:
Tam-Awan Village offers tiered entrance fees depending on age (prices at the time of writing, May 2024 — check the official Tam-awan Village website for the latest rates and opening hours):
- Adults: PHP 60
- Students and Senior Citizens (with valid ID): PHP 40
- Children (between 3 and 10 years old): PHP 30
- Children (under 3 years old): Free Entry
Tip: It’s always a good idea to bring your student or senior citizen ID to avail of the discounted rates.
Journey to the Igorot Stone Kingdom
Next up on our Baguio adventure: The Igorot Stone Kingdom! This intricate complex, meticulously crafted by the Igorot people, stands as a living testament to their heritage, beliefs, and traditions.
Across the 6,000-square-meter compound, you’ll discover a captivating array of stone towers, each with a unique purpose. These structures, ranging in size and function from community centers to ceremonial spaces and dwellings, showcase the Igorot’s exceptional skills in stonework and their harmonious relationship with the natural environment.
The park is more than just a display of craftsmanship; it’s a reflection of its creator, Pio Velasco’s, spiritual journey and connection to the land. It also bridges the gap between old and new Igorot culture, offering a glimpse into both worlds.
Entrance Fees for Igorot Stone Kingdom:
To plan your visit to the Igorot Stone Kingdom, here’s a breakdown of the current entrance fees (subject to change):
- Adults (13 years old and above): PHP 100
- Senior Citizens (with valid ID) and Children (4 to 12 years old): PHP 80
- Toddlers (3 years old and below): Free Entry
Shared Mission: Preserving an Enduring Legacy
Both Tam-Awan Village and the Igorot Stone Kingdom play vital roles in preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of the Igorot people and Baguio City. They offer locals and tourists alike a deeper understanding and appreciation of the region’s history and traditions.
Valley of Colors
On our way to our accommodation, we also passed by La Trinidad, Benguet, near Baguio City, which boasts a vibrant transformation – the Valley of Colors. This wasn’t always the case. What was once a plain village of rusty iron sheets and unpainted cement has been reborn into a stunning art project.
A group of artists, with the help of the local tourism department, breathed new life into the area. Painted in a dazzling array of colors, the village transformed into a giant artwork known as “Colors of StoBoSa.” This catchy name combines the names of the three villages involved: Stonehill, Botiwtiw, and Sadjap.
The project’s main theme is a nod to the area’s past – sunflowers! Back in the day, the hills were filled with these bright blooms, inspiring the artwork’s vibrant colors.
Deep-Fried Pork Belly in Sinigang? We Tried It (and Loved It!) at Torogis Restaurant
For lunch, our tour guide took us to one of his favorite spots, Torogis Restaurant. While they famously offer Strawberry Sinigang, none of us were quite adventurous enough to try it! Instead, we tried the Lechon Kawali Pork Sinigang.
This dish was a unique twist on the classic Filipino stew. The star of the show was the lechon kawali (deep-fried pork belly), paired with refreshing lettuce. The real magic came from their natural tamarind soup base, which was rich and bursting with flavor.
We also couldn’t resist trying Baguio’s strawberry and avocado ice cream – a must-try for everyone who loves ice cream!
Experience the Thrill of Baguio Night Market
The final stop on our day’s tour was the Baguio Night Market. Before heading there, we first visited SM Baguio for dinner. We enjoyed a meal at Seoul Bibimbob while waiting for the night market to open.
We strolled around Session Road while waiting for the night market to open. We took pleasure in watching some live performances as we explored the area.
The night market was a highlight! We indulged in a delicious and budget-friendly food trip, savoring treats like the Takoyaki and watching skewered strawberries caramelized in sugar being prepared at another stall. By midnight, we decided to call it a night to ensure we’re well-rested for tomorrow’s city tour, which we’re already excited about!
Highly Recommended: Opti Travel & Tours (9/10)
Opti Travel & Tours did a great job of ensuring our comfort throughout the tour. While our experience was overwhelmingly positive, there’s always room for improvement. Here are a couple of suggestions:
Minor Room for Improvement / Tour Suggestions: Optimizing the Guest Experience
Enhancing Guest Communication:
- Pre-Tour Information: Consider notifying guests in advance about the possibility of children being present on the tour. This allows them to plan accordingly and manage expectations for a more relaxing vacation experience.
Streamlining Breakfast Options:
- Early Arrival at Burnham Park: For guests arriving early at Burnham Park, suggest grabbing breakfast at Chowking, a 24-hour fast-food option conveniently located within the park. This eliminates the hassle of searching for open restaurants and ensures a satisfying breakfast before the tour commences.
Tailoring the Itinerary:
- First Day Activity Level: To accommodate potential travel fatigue, consider prioritizing less strenuous activities on the first day. This caters to guests who might be experiencing travel fatigue and allows them to ease into the tour’s pace. Activities involving extensive stair or rock climbing can be saved for the second day, when guests are likely to have more energy.
Managing Expectations:
- Strawberry Farm Availability: To manage guest expectations, it would be beneficial to inform them about the seasonal availability of strawberries at the farm before including it in the itinerary. This allows them to adjust their expectations and potentially choose alternative activities if strawberries are not in season.
Prioritizing Guest Enjoyment:
- Botanical Garden Time: Allocate a more significant portion of the tour schedule for the Botanical Garden. Given the potential for limited attractions at other locations, guests might appreciate spending more time exploring the diverse flora and fauna of the Botanical Garden.
Accommodation and Staff Feedback:
- Accommodation: We appreciate the clean and spacious accommodation, which comfortably housed our group of three.
- Driver: A special commendation to the driver for their friendly and accommodating nature, which greatly enhanced our overall experience.
Despite these minor suggestions, my overall experience with Opti Travel & Tours was outstanding. Their dedication to customer service, comfortable touring experience, and array of itinerary make them a top choice for exploring Baguio. I highly recommend them to anyone looking for a fun and hassle-free way to discover the beauty of this incredible city!
Baguio: A Day of Cultural Gems, Natural Beauty, and Tranquility (Day 1 Recap)
Our first day in Baguio was filled with fun activities! We walked a lot (exploring a new city is hard work!), but it was totally worth it. We are thankful for a safe trip and the awesome people who made our day fun.
This beautiful city, famous for its chill weather, surprised us with all the interesting things it has to see. With Opti Travel & Tours showing us the way, we got to explore everything Baguio has to offer.
A Look Back in Time:
First, we learned about Baguio’s long history. Places like Burnham Park and the Diplomat Hotel are like giant history books! These old buildings tell stories about what Baguio was like way back when.
Nature’s Playground:
But Baguio isn’t just about the past! La Storta Gardens with its beautiful flowers and plants blew us away. The Rock Gardens, with all their cool rock formations, were totally different but just as neat. And Mirador Blue Moon Gate gave us a panoramic view of the whole city – nature really is an artist! Even the Valley of Colors, a place where the earth itself tells a story, was interesting to see.
More Than Just Summer Fun:
Baguio is way cooler than we thought! It’s not just a place to escape the summer heat. The old buildings tell stories of the past, the colorful villages are full of life, and everywhere you look there’s amazing nature.
We can’t wait to see what adventures await us tomorrow! Stay tuned for more about our awesome trip to Baguio!
Keep exploring: Planning more Philippine adventures after this Baguio City tour? Island-hop with our Ultimate 6-Day Cebu Itinerary, unwind near Manila with our Bosay Resort Antipolo getaway, or meet the giant wind turbines in Pililla’s Gentle Giants: Windmills Near Manila.
Author’s Note
This trip to Baguio held a special place in my heart. It was the first time I explored the city purely for pleasure, with people I specifically chose as travel companions, a stark contrast to the usual work trips. The itinerary and tour provider we found added the finishing touches – all the ingredients for an unforgettable adventure.
Planning our own adventures is truly rewarding, even when things don’t go exactly as planned. Unexpected turns can be valuable learning experiences, and that’s the beauty of travel for me – the chance to grow and adapt along the way.
Have fun exploring all the hidden gems of Baguio! Safe travels!
