Yes, I know. This post is so long overdue. Almost 6 months of being a lazy bum, eh? So yea, here it is!!

We woke up early and got ready for the day. We tried Rock Inn and Cafe’s breakfast menu before heading to Sagada Tourist Information Center. We’ve already been there on our first day to pay for the tourism fee, but we didn’t ask for any advice from the local guides for tips and recommendations on what to see and do during our stay. So now we had our itinerary arranged throughout the day (it was free, by the way.), and we even met a group to join us (or the other way around) to lessen the total fee (guide and transportation fee) per person for the whole trip. We all agreed to visit 3 attractions that day.

First Stop | Go Spelunking in Sumaguing Cave (Short Course)

Since we arrived early in the morning, the cave was not crowded, and you know what that means? No crowd means no photobombers. Yay! So we had two guides. One guide for a group of four. We were briefed on what to expect and what to do and not to do during the activity. No one is allowed to enter without a guide, and you cannot wander around. Your group needs to stick together since it is pitch black and slippery inside. Only the guides had gas lamps. They don’t provide any safety gear or helmet or even flashlights, but you can bring your own if you’d like.

It took us almost two hours to finish the caving experience. It was exhausting. It was physically demanding for me, but I enjoyed it. I just personally didn’t expect it to be that hard. I even slipped a couple of times. But don’t worry, the guides will keep you safe and will entertain you with stories and whatnot, and they will even be your personal photographer throughout the whole caving.

THINGS TO REMEMBER:

• Wear sandals or flip-flops. You’ll have to remove any footwear at a certain point. And be prepared to get wet! You’ll be wading through knee-deep/waist-deep cold water. 
• Wear something light and comfortable. Stay with your group and listen to your tour guides. 
• Do not litter. 
• Bring your own flashlight or even safety gear if you are that afraid. 
• Use a waterproof camera. Refrain from bringing DSLRs or any heavy equipment. These will just slow you down or will make it hard for you to cross trails and obstacles. 
• Beware of Bat droppings and urine.

Second Stop | Chasing Waterfalls: Bomod-ok Falls

After spelunking, we went to see the Big Falls or the Bomod-ok Falls. To reach Bomod-ok Falls, one must endure an hour’s walk or so, and another hour back, depending on one’s stamina or the number of breaks and stopovers for your photo ops. You’ll pass through a village, some slippery and rocky trails, rice terraces, and cliff edges, but don’t worry because half of the trail is cemented.

Yes, it was another tiring activity. It needed strength and endurance, especially on your back up to the end point of your trek, but none of it mattered when you witness such majestic views. Definitely rewarding! A must-go.

THINGS TO REMEMBER:

• Same with numbers 1 – 4 from the previous list.
• Bring a cap/hat and sunglasses or an umbrella to shield you from the scorching heat or unforeseeable rain. And apply sunscreen.
• You can ask for a walking stick. It’s free!
• Bring water to keep you hydrated.
• Bring a towel and a dry set of clothing to change into.
• Stop taking too many photos. Live in the moment.

Last Stop | Back to Rock Inn – Town Proper

Our last stop was supposed to be Lake Danum to watch the sunset, but since we finished around 1 pm and we were all sweaty, wet (it poured as we headed back up), and worn out, we decided to end our itinerary. We headed back to the Inn to rest and change, then went back to the town proper and tried random restaurants and cafes we passed by. I’ll be making a different post about the food/restaurant. So yea, that’s about it. Btw, most of these photos are taken by my boyfriend. Okay, laters! ♡