A lot of waterfalls can be found in Sagada Mountain Province but I chose Bomod-Ok Falls because it is the biggest one. Going solo or by group is okay. A guide is needed when trekking Bomod-Ok Falls. I was travelling solo so as much as possible I wanted to save from travel expenses. I waited on the Tourism office for groups doing Bomod-Ok trek so I can join with them to lessen the transport and guide fee.
But waiting is tiring and to maximize my time, I decided to went there alone. I paid like 1,000 pesos for transportation (back and forth) and guide fee. The trek was pretty easy, less than 1-hour hike to be exact.
Bomod-Ok falls is captivating. You can go swimming, I wanted to but I didn’t because I was planning to do town proper tour, like weaving or Cave Connection activity right after from Bomod-Ok. I will only stay here few days so I wanted to try other activities and of course, I almost forgot, Bagyong Karen, will land soon.
The trail was easy, some portions had stairs. We passed by some rest area and bead plants they used to create accessories like bracelets and necklace. It’s overlooking, you can see rice terraces below. Speaking of rice terraces, a great view can be found in Bontoc, but wasn’t included in my itinerary. One of the reason I would come back in Sagada.
I enjoyed the company of my guide. She is very chatty. At her age, almost 60 years old, still physically fit, can hike 5-6 times in a day, especially on peak season.
My guide. You can book a guide in the tourism office.
This is the kind of plant they used to make accessories. It’s like a bead. Cool, isn’t it? I actually made a bracelet out of it.
HOW TO GET TO SAGADA (from Manila)
Option 1: Direct Bus (Manila to Sagada)
- Operator: Coda Lines (Cubao Terminal)
- Travel Time: 11–13 hours
- Fare: ₱1,000–₱1,200
- Schedule: Usually leaves at night (8:00 PM or 9:00 PM)
- Arrival: Early morning in Sagada
Option 2: Baguio Stopover
- Manila → Baguio (Victory Liner or JoyBus)
- Baguio → Sagada (GL Trans at Dangwa Terminal)
HOW TO GET TO BOMOD-OK FALLS FROM SAGADA TOWN
Option 1: Jeepney or Van to Brgy. Banga-an Jump-off
- Travel time: ~20–30 minutes
- Fare: ₱50–₱100 per person (or ₱500–₱600 for a group ride)
- Ask to be dropped off at the Bomod-Ok Falls Registration Center
- Or you can book a guide ahead and then let them pick you up from the hotel you are staying
REGISTRATION & GUIDE FEE
Environmental Fee – ₱50
Registration at Brgy. Center – ₱10
Guide Fee – ₱500 (good for up to 10 people)
Its more expensive hiking solo as you will shoulder the guide fee by yourself
Note: Hiring a guide is mandatory for safety and community support.
TREK DETAILS
- Duration: 1–1.5 hours (one way) but this depends on your pacing
- Difficulty: Moderate (steep stairs and rocky terrain)
- Route: Through traditional rice terraces, local villages (Fidelisan), and scenic views
- Tip: Best to start early in the morning to avoid the midday heat as trail to Bomod-ok Falls is an open trail.
WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE FALLS
- 200-ft tall, powerful waterfall
- Cold, refreshing natural pool. You can bring swimwear, it’s allowed for swimming.
- Beautiful backdrop for photos
- Peaceful environment, surrounded by nature
WHAT TO BRING
- Refillable water bottle
- Trail snacks
- Comfortable hiking shoes/sandals with grip
- Extra clothes & towel (for swimming)
- Dry bag or plastic for wet clothes
- Eco-friendly sunscreen & insect repellent
- Camera or phone with waterproof case
BEST TIME TO VISIT
- Dry Season: November to May
- Avoid the rainy season (June–October) due to slippery trails and possible landslides. I went there around September and after Bomod-ok Falls hiking, it’s all rainy days.
ACCOMMODATIONS IN SAGADA
Some popular budget and mid-range options:
- Misty Lodge
- Coffee Heritage House
- Sagada Heritage Village
- Residential Lodge
- Inandako’s Bed and Breakfast
- Green House – I stayed here it’s affordable, decent and quiet, though their signage is a little creepy, lol!
Tip: Book at least 2 nights to enjoy Sagada’s other spots like Sumaguing Cave, Echo Valley, and Kiltepan Viewpoint.
LOCAL ETIQUETTE & REMINDERS
- Respect local traditions and private property
- Do not pick or trample on rice plants or vegetation
- Take your trash with you
- Always follow your guide’s instructions
- Ask permission before taking photos of locals
All of these are SOP rules when traveling, applicable to all places.
BONUS: Nearby Attractions
After visiting Bomod-Ok Falls, consider exploring:
- Sumaguing Cave (spelunking) – I can 100% recommend this activity.
- Echo Valley & Hanging Coffins
- Kiltepan Viewpoint (sunrise) – I missed sunrise here, no clearing due to bad weather.
- Marlboro Hills (sea of clouds trek) – I actually missed this spot due to bad weather.
- Blue Soil Hills (natural cobalt-colored terrain) – I actually missed this spot due to bad weather, so better to visit during summer.
QUICK TIPS FOR THE BEST EXPERIENCE
- Start your trek early (7–8 AM)
- Travel on weekdays to avoid crowds
- Don’t travel June-Oct (possible storm or rainy days)
- Bring coins and small bills
- Download offline maps or Google Maps of Sagada
Travel date: September 2016. This post is updated August 18, 2025
