Everything You Need to Know Before You Go
Getting to Baguio
BY BUS FROM MANILA:
- Bus Companies: Victory Liner, Genesis, Joy Bus
- Terminals: Cubao, Pasay, Sampaloc
- Travel Time: 5-6 hours (varies with traffic)
- Fare: PHP 450-750 (regular to deluxe)
- Schedule: 24-hour service, buses every 30 minutes
- Book Ahead: Recommended for weekends and holidays
BY PRIVATE CAR:
- Route: NLEX → SCTEX → Tarlac → Kennon Road OR Marcos Highway
- Distance: Approximately 250 kilometers
- Travel Time: 4.5-6 hours depending on route and traffic
- Toll Fees: Approximately PHP 400-500
BY PLANE:
- Airport: Loakan Airport (small domestic airport)
- Limited Service: Check current flight schedules
- Alternative: Clark International Airport (2-hour drive to Baguio)
Getting Around Baguio
JEEPNEYS:
- Main mode of public transportation
- Fare: PHP 10-15 for regular routes
- Routes clearly marked on vehicles
- Abundant along Session Road and main thoroughfares
TAXIS:
- Available throughout the city
- Metered fares (insist on using meter)
- Flag down rate: PHP 40
- Always carry small bills
GRAB/RIDE-SHARING:
- Available in Baguio
- Reliable and convenient
- Prices may surge during peak times
WALKING:
- Downtown attractions are walkable
- Be prepared for hilly terrain and slopes
- Comfortable walking shoes essential
Best Time to Visit
DRY SEASON (November-May):
✅ Less rain, more sunshine
✅ Better visibility at Mines View
✅ Ideal for outdoor activities
❌ More tourists, higher prices (especially Dec-Feb)
RAINY SEASON (June-October):
✅ Fewer tourists, lower accommodation rates
✅ Lush green landscapes
✅ Cool temperatures
❌ Frequent rain, potential landslides
❌ Foggy views at scenic spots
PEAK SEASON:
- December-February (Christmas, New Year, Chinese New Year)
- Holy Week (March/April)
- Summer vacation (April-May)
FESTIVAL SEASON:
- Panagbenga (Flower Festival): February
- Book accommodations 2-3 months in advance
What to Pack
CLOTHING:
- Light jackets or sweaters (essential even in summer)
- Comfortable walking shoes - Long pants and long sleeves
- Light raincoat or umbrella
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses)
ESSENTIALS:
- Cash (many establishments don't accept cards)
- Power bank and chargers
- Camera or smartphone with full charge
- Reusable water bottle
- Sunscreen (UV is strong at high altitude)
- Moisturizer (air is dry)
- Small backpack or day bag
HEALTH ITEMS:
- Personal medications
- First aid kit
- Hand sanitizer
- Face masks (if needed)
Budget Guide (Per Person Daily)
BUDGET TRAVEL (PHP 1,000-1,500):
- Accommodation: PHP 500
- Meals: PHP 400
- Transportation: PHP 200
- Activities: PHP 300
MID-RANGE (PHP 2,500-4,000):
- Accommodation: PHP 1,500
- Meals: PHP 1,000
- Transportation: PHP 500
- Activities: PHP 500
COMFORT (PHP 5,000+):
- Accommodation: PHP 3,000+
- Meals: PHP 1,500
- Transportation: PHP 500
- Activities/Shopping: PHP 1,000+
Safety Tips
✅ Baguio is generally safe for tourists
✅ Keep valuables secure in crowded areas
✅ Use only authorized taxis or ride-sharing apps
✅ Be cautious of pickpockets in busy markets
✅ Avoid poorly lit areas at night
✅Stay on established trails if hiking
✅ Check weather updates during rainy season
✅ Emergency numbers: 117 (Police), 118 (Fire), 911 (Emergency)
Weather Information
Temperature: 15-23°C (59-73°F) year-round
Coldest Months: December-February (can drop to 10°C)
Rainy Season: June-October
Dry Season: November-May
What to Expect:
- Cool temperatures even in summer
- Sudden rain showers possible
- Fog common in mornings and evenings
- Strong sun despite cool air (wear sunscreen)
Emergency Contacts
🚨 Emergency Hotline: 911
👮 Tourist Police: 117
Fire Department: 118
🏥 Medical Emergency: 118
HOSPITALS:
- Baguio General Hospital: (074) 442-4816
- Notre Dame de Chartres Hospital: (074) 424-2844