Baguio Attractions, there is more to do than you thought!

Why does Baguio City get so much attention?

In a country more renowned for its powdery white beaches and crystal clear water, tourists flock to the coast to catch the warmth of the sun. Baguio City is probably as far opposite from this image as you can get, anywhere in the Philippines.

Baguio is unique, it is nestled high in the Cordillera Mountain Range with a cool to temperate climate. On the coast you dress in light clothes, shorts shirts or singlets to deal with the heat and humidity, however up in Baguio warmth is required.

Cold weather clothes.

You need warm clothing when visiting Baguio City, maybe not during the day but at night it is a must. A jumper or jacket is necessary to keep the chill from your bones. Baguio also gets more than it’s fair share of rain so if you can bring an umbrella do so, a light rain coat would be ideal as well. It is windy pretty much all year round so ensure you dress accordingly, don’t dress thinking it will be like the coastal areas.

What do I do in Baguio?

There are numerous Baguio attractions, with just about all of them having fantastic views and scenery that will stay in your mind forever.

I have listed below some of the more interesting Baguio attractions or perhaps the Baguio attractions that fall in the category of “must see”. They are in no particular order, however if you think I have left out an important Baguio attraction, please let me know, you can contact me here.

Asin Hot Springs
Interestingly enough, Baguio is the coldest city in the Philippines and to enjoy a good soaking in some hot springs, Asin Hot Springs, all you need to do is catch a jeepney from Session Road to Asin. The jeepney will take about 45 minutes to take you the 16 kilometres to the hot springs. There are some huge pools of hot sulphuric water, in some of the pools it is bubbling away near boiling point. Asin Hot Springs is a great way to relax and give your bones a well deserved rest.

Burnham Park
Burnham Park is located in the centre of Baguio City, it’s main feature is the man made lake. The park is without a doubt a fantastic green belt where you can enjoy all types of activities. During the day you can hire a boat on the lake, use the tennis and basketball courts, hire a bike or grab a book and relax on one of the numerous benches. At night it tends to be a lovers lane. The park was named after the towns planner, Mr Daniel Burnham.

Mines View Park
The Mines View Park is now known for two hugely different things, on one hand you have the not to be missed spectacular views of the valleys and mountains of the Cordillera Mountain Ranges and the copper and gold mines of Benguet. These views are a must see in Baguio. Mines View Park is also now known for the souvenir stalls selling you everything you can think of, mostly hand crafts.

Mansion House
Mansion House in the official summer residence of the elected Philippines President. It is a huge building, impressive in its grandeur, suitably linked to important heads of state. When not being used as a summer working office, Mansion House Baguio is also the site for a number of international conferences.

Camp John Hay
Camp John Hay, was originally developed by the US Armed Forces who recognized the area around Baguio as a good rest and recreation area for their troops. The grounds cover nearly 250 acres. Today it has and still is being developed into an international hotel, Camp John Hay Manor, Camp John Hay Golf Course and Club House, Tennis, Basketball and volleyball courts and even a bowling alley. An eco tourist trail has also been included through the lush vegetation with conservation in mind.

Session Road or City Market
If you are looking for local handcrafts this is the place to search. You will not be disappointed, your search will be rewarded with woodwork, silverware, jewelry, textiles and weaving. Enjoy the sights and smells, try the strawberries and take some photos.

Baguio Flower Festival
This is a fantastic Baguio attraction. It is also known as the Panagbenga Flower Festival and occurs once a year in February. The parade, consisting of floats adorned in an array of designs using numerous colourful flowers, journeys down Session Road which is lined with well wishers cheering ecstatically. The festival is full of good humor and fun and if you are in Baguio around February try to have a look.

Getting to Baguio

Have a look here for information on how to get to Baguio City.

Where do I stay in Baguio City?

For all the information you need on where to stay in Baguio, have a look here.