Geographical Features

Overview of CAR's Location in the Philippines

🌷The Cordillera Administrative Region is situated in the northern part of the Philippines - with an estimated land area of 1,865,660 hectares, bordered by Ilocos Region in the west and Cagayan Region in the east.

🌷It has six (6) provinces namely: Abra, Apayao, Benguet, Ifugao, Kalinga, and Mountain Province. One highly urbanized city - Baguio City, officially known as the Summer Capital of the Philippines.

ABRA

APAYAO

BENGUET

IFUGAO

KALINGA

MTN. PROVINCE

🌷The Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) in the Philippines is characterized by its diverse geographical features, ranging from rugged mountain ranges to fertile valleys and rivers. These features have not only shaped the region's climate and ecosystems but also influenced its historical development, settlements, and cultural evolution.

🌷See and explore the geographical features, climate variations, notable natural landscapes, and their impact on each of the six provinces comprising CAR:

Abra Province

🌷Geographical Features: Abra is predominantly mountainous, with the Cordillera Central running through its eastern portion. The Abra River, the longest river in CAR, traverses the province, creating fertile valleys ideal for agriculture.

🌷Climate Data: Abra experiences a tropical monsoon climate, with average temperatures ranging from 22°C to 26°C. Annual rainfall varies but generally falls between 1,500 to 2,500 millimeters.

🌷Notable Natural Landscapes: The Tangadan Tunnel in San Quintin showcases impressive rock formations and cliffs, attracting adventurers and nature enthusiasts.

Apayao Province

🌷Geographical Features: Apayao is characterized by rugged mountains, deep gorges, and dense forests. The Apayao River and its tributaries carve through the landscape, creating scenic views and opportunities for outdoor activities.

🌷Climate Data: Apayao has a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Average temperatures range from 22°C to 26°C, with rainfall averaging between 1,500 to 2,500 millimeters annually.

🌷Notable Natural Landscapes: The limestone formations of Dupag Rock in Luna are a popular attraction, offering visitors a glimpse of unique geological formations and caves.

Benguet Province

🌷Geographical Features: Benguet is renowned for its mountainous terrain, including the Cordillera Central and the iconic vegetable terraces carved into the mountainsides by indigenous communities. The province is also known for its numerous rivers and waterfalls.

🌷Climate Data: Benguet experiences a cool climate due to its high elevation, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 23°C. Annual rainfall varies but generally falls between 1,500 to 3,000 millimeters.

🌷Notable Natural Landscapes: The Mount Pulag National Park is a major highlight, featuring diverse ecosystems and the third-highest peak in the Philippines, attracting hikers and nature enthusiasts from around the world.

Ifugao Province

🌷Geographical Features: Ifugao is famous for its extensive rice terraces, carved into the mountainsides by the indigenous Ifugao people over two millennia ago. The province is also characterized by its rugged mountains and river valleys.

🌷Climate Data: Ifugao experiences a tropical climate with pronounced wet and dry seasons. Average temperatures range from 22°C to 26°C, with rainfall averaging between 2,000 to 3,500 millimeters annually.

🌷Notable Natural Landscapes: The Banaue Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are among the most iconic landscapes in the Philippines, showcasing the intricate engineering skills of the Ifugao people.

Kalinga Province

🌷Geographical Features: Kalinga is known for its rugged terrain, with steep mountains, deep valleys, and winding rivers. The Chico River, one of the longest rivers in the Philippines, flows through the province, providing water for irrigation and hydropower.

🌷Climate Data: Kalinga experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Average temperatures range from 22°C to 26°C, with rainfall averaging between 2,000 to 3,500 millimeters annually.

🌷Notable Natural Landscapes: The Tabuk-Tinglayan Road offers breathtaking views of the mountains and rice terraces, providing travelers with an opportunity to immerse themselves in Kalinga's natural beauty.

Mountain Province

🌷Geographical Features: Mountain Province is characterized by its rugged mountain terrain, deep valleys, and pristine forests. The province is home to numerous rivers, including portions of the Chico River, which serves as a lifeline for many communities.

🌷Climate Data: Mountain Province experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Average temperatures range from 22°C to 26°C, with rainfall averaging between 2,000 to 3,500 millimeters annually.

🌷Notable Natural Landscapes: The Sagada Cave System, including the famous Sumaguing Cave, offers visitors a chance to explore underground chambers, rock formations, and underground rivers, showcasing the province's geological diversity.

Influence on Historical Development, Settlements, and Cultural Evolution:

🌱The geographical features of CAR, such as its mountain ranges, rivers, and valleys, have influenced the historical development and settlements of indigenous communities. For example, the rice terraces of Ifugao and the vegetable terraces of Benguet are testament to the ingenuity of indigenous peoples in adapting to their environment.

🌱These features have also shaped the cultural evolution of the region, as indigenous groups developed unique traditions, languages, and agricultural practices suited to their landscape. For instance, the annual rice terraces festivals celebrate the cultural heritage and agricultural traditions of Ifugao and Kalinga.

🌱Additionally, the abundance of natural resources, such as fertile soils and waterways, attracted settlers and facilitated trade and commerce, contributing to the region's economic development over time.

Get a glimpse of the six (6) provinces!

Source: North Luzon Travel Fair (FB)

Author

Hazel Famular

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