One of the most memorable destinations we visited in Mayoyao with the TPB Philippines is the Mt. Nagchajan Viewpoint. It offers an almost 360-degree breathtaking view of the Mayoyao Rice Terraces and mountains. This is perfect for those who want to relax and appreciate the beauty of nature.
If you’ve ever read anything about this spot, you might have come across information stating that people used to hike for about an hour to reach the viewpoint. However, nowadays, there is a road constructed that will take you to the destination.
In our case, we traveled just a few minutes from our previous location at Khohang Garden after visiting A’pfaw Mahencha Falls, and heading to Nagchajan Viewpoint. After a short walk, we arrived at the top of the hill.
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Mt. Nagchajan Viewpoint Experience
One thing that we all noticed is how good the amenities are at the location. There’s a toilet for visitors, and there are tons of nice decorations perfect for that photo op. But once we arrived at the viewpoint itself, we never expected the surprise that awaited us.
The view was breathtaking, instantly fostering a connection with nature. Plus, the cool breeze on the hill made the experience extra special. I could have stared at that beauty for hours.
The view. 🙂
Mt. Nagchajan Viewpoint offers lots of great amenities to enhance your experience. Firstly, there is a spacious venue to eat and bond with your family and friends. Imagine sharing good food with the people you love while enjoying this beautiful view.
In our case, the local government of Mayoyao prepared some local dishes for us. I loved the taste and freshness of the food. The big hit was the fried strips of gabi (taro). These were so crispy and tasty that French fries would have a run for their money. This food should be mainstream.
There is also a huge “Wow Mayoyao” signage there that you can use for your photo ops.
Our food.
My food. Super full.
After our lunch, it was time for another highlight: the Mayoyao dance presentation. Locals prepared a dance performance. Having witnessed some native dances from the Cordillera, I couldn’t help but compare the difference with the one I saw in Mayoyao. The movements in Mayoyao are more controlled and minimal, yet still graceful. The local historian, Robert Bongayon, mentioned that each movement has a story to tell.
Although the movements are minimal, you might think it’s easy, right? No! We tried these steps during our first dinner in Mayoyao when they had a presentation and asked us to join the dance. It was challenging. Haha, Each step requires so much control and precision that I ended up losing balance most of the time.
It was such a nice experience witnessing the performance and the colorful culture of Mayoyao.
The dance presentation.
After that presentation, the local officials, along with Mayoyao Mayor Jimmy B. Padchanan Jr., joined the dance. Seeing them participate in the dance signifies that the locals in Mayoyao are in tune with their culture and heritage, something that is rare nowadays. I’m in awe.
Here’s the video that I took during the dance presentation at Mt. Nagchajan Viewpoint. Enjoy!
Another great thing that happened that day at Nagchajan Viewpoint is how Mayoyao’s local historian shared the history of the place. Mt. Nagchajan was the site of the final battle that ended Japan’s occupation of the Philippines in World War II. It took place from July 26 to August 9, 1945, in Mayoyao. Every August 8-9, the “Lenong Ad Majawjaw” (Adventure for Peace) festival honors this significant event.
I had a great time at Nagchajan Viewpoint. So, if you plan to visit Mayoyao, don’t forget to include this place in your itinerary. Relax, eat, and bond with your friends at Nagchajan Viewpoint.
The local historian explains the Mayoyao clothes.
The history of Mt. Nagchajan Viewpoint.
READ THE BLOG POST: Mayoyao Rice Terraces: Trekking the UNESCO World Heritage Site
How to get to Mt. Nagchajan Viewpoint
From Manila or Baguio, take public transport going to Lagawe, Ifugao. At the terminal, some buses/vans will take you to Mayoyao.
You also have the option to travel to Santiago (Isabela) or Solano (Nueva Vizcaya) and take public transport going to Mayoyao. Currently, there is no direct public transport going to Mayoyao from Manila or Baguio. You have to either go to Lagawe, Santiago or Solano. Here are the schedules.
From Lagawe to Mayoyao:
– Bus departs at 3:00 PM
– Van departs at 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM
From Santiago, Isabela to Mayoyao:
– Van: 7:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 4:00 PM
– Bus: 8:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM
From Solano, Nueva Vizcaya to Mayoyao:
– Departure at 8:00 AM
Once you arrive in Mayoyao, the terminal is just near the market. Just walk a little until you arrive at the Mayoyao Municipal Tourism Office. They will assist you with all your needs in exploring Mayoyao from hiring local guides, transportation, tours, and itineraries. Tell them that you plan to visit Mt. Nagchajan Viewpoint.
Mayoyao Tourism Office
– Facebook: Majestic Mayoyao Tourism
– Email: mayoyaotourism@gmail.com
– Mobile: 0906-9582204 / 0949-6640088
Of course, it’s important to have my pic din. Haha, Photo with the locals.
Recommended Hotels & Inns in Mayoyao
Looking for a place to stay in Mayoyao? Here are some options:
1. Mayoyao View Inn: Get ready for some breathtaking views of nature and rice terraces! It’s right by the plaza and Municipal Hall. Check out their room rates here.
2. Helen’s Guest Hauz: Just a short drive from Mayoyao Town Center, they’ve got different rooms depending on how many guests you have. You can reach them at 09061410715.
3. Mayoyao Hostel: If you want to wake up to stunning views of the rice terraces and nature, this hostel near Ottong Hill is perfect for you. Give them a call at 09275185814 or 09359169273.
READ THE BOG POST: Mayoyao View Inn Review
Group photo!
Best Time to visit Mayoyao
When’s the best time to visit Mayoyao? Here’s the scoop:
November to April: This is the dry season. The weather’s usually nicer with less rain, making it great for outdoor adventures like exploring the Mayoyao Rice Terraces and waterfalls. December to February is cooler, so outdoor activities are more comfy. But remember, Mayoyao’s weather can be a bit unpredictable, so there might be occasional showers even in the dry season.
May to July: If you want to see the rice terraces at their greenest, plan your visit during these months. It’s the planting season, and the terraces are filled with lush green rice seedlings, creating a stunning landscape against the mountains.
So, whether you prefer dry weather for trekking or want to catch the terraces at their most vibrant, choose the time that suits you best!
More Mayoyao Blog Posts
- 10 Best Things to Do in Mayoyao
- Tenogtog Falls in Mayoyao
- Pikaw: The Japanese Fish in Mayoyao
- APFO’OR: The Old Burial Tombs of Mayoyao, Ifugao
- MAOR’FONG: Traditional Way of Eating in Mayoyao
- A’pfaw Mahencha Falls in Mayoyao
