About the ride from Sagada to Manila
Sagada sits in the Philippines' Mountain Province, an oasis of green and the perfect place to rejuvenate your body, mind, and soul. Located in the Cordillera Mountains, Sagada is famous for its hanging coffins - an ancient burial tradition practiced by the indigenous people of the region.
There is plenty to do for the outdoor enthusiast - treks through the Echo Valley, watching the sunrise from above the clouds at Mt.Kiltepan, spelunking at Sumaguing Cave, and hikes to stunning waterfalls are just some of the activities that await you in Sagada. For those who want something a little more laid back, a stroll through the Kapay-aw rice terraces may be the perfect thing to do.
On the other hand, the capital city of the Philippines, Manila, is a city buzzing with energy. Glitzy skyscrapers and centuries-old Spanish colonial monuments find a place next to each other, giving the city its own unique appeal. No trip to this city is complete without a visit to the Intramuros or Walled City, the oldest part of the town. Lose yourself in its European charm on foot or horse-drawn carriage. For some nature therapy, head to Rizal Park, and for some of the most unforgettable sunsets and flavors, take a walk down the Manila Baywalk at dusk.
Travelers can take a bus or rent a private taxi to cover the 240 miles (390 km) distance from Sagada to Manila. Buses are a popular option and the most cost-effective choice - perfect for backpackers and budget travelers. If comfort and convenience are what you are looking for, then booking a private car is an excellent option. Though more expensive, they take less time to cover the distance and provide more flexibility, legroom, and privacy.
What to see when traveling from Sagada to Manila
The journey from Sagada to Manila is an incredibly scenic one. If you start during the day, you will get to see beautiful panoramas of the Cordillera Mountains as you descend from Sagada. As your bus or taxi winds its way down from Sagada, you can enjoy views of the region's refreshingly green rice terraces. The first part of the journey has a lot of twists, with each turn revealing the mountain region's untouched beauty.
The route takes you through small towns and villages and is the perfect chance for you to get a peek into the lives of locals. So, sit back and relax to the everyday sights of people going about their day-to-day lives.
How to get from Sagada to Manila
Taking a bus
With economically priced tickets, buses are a popular choice for those traveling from Sagada to Manila. Most of the buses offer daytime departures and reach Manila by late evening or early hours of the morning. The journey takes around 12 hours, and the buses make multiple stops along the way, giving passengers a chance to grab some food, use restrooms, and stretch their legs. Travelers can choose between a Standard Tourist Bus and a slightly more expensive VIP Bus.
The VIP Bus offers cushioned, reclining seats that make it easy for you to nap during the journey. Additionally, the VIP Bus provides passengers with blankets, although it is best to take a warm sweater or jacket, as the bus drivers often crank up the air-conditioning, and it can get quite cold as the bus makes its way down from the mountains of Sagada to Manila.
Hiring a private car/taxi
For those who value comfort and convenience, booking a private car is an excellent option. You can book a standard-sized car that is perfect for single travelers and couples. For families or those traveling as part of a bigger group, you can hire an SUV that can accommodate up to 5 people. Though a more expensive option, private taxis provide an incredible amount of flexibility.
You can start at a time that is most convenient for you and take breaks as you please along the way. All the taxis are air-conditioned and provide hotel or airport pick up and drop off. Do note that the price does not include toll fees. These are to be paid directly at the toll booth during travel.