Maligcong Rice Terraces
Stone-walled rice terraces in a quiet Cordillera village, seen at dawn above a sea of clouds.
Quick answer
- Where: barangay Maligcong, about 8 kilometres above Bontoc, the capital of Mountain Province.
- The terraces: stone-walled rice paddies said to date back about 2,000 years, still farmed today.
- The view: from Mount Kupapey (Kofafey) or Mount Fato, ideally at sunrise.
- Sea of clouds: on cool mornings, mist fills the valley below the summit.
- Getting there: overnight bus from Manila to Bontoc, then a jeepney up to Maligcong.
Why it is a wonder
Above Bontoc, the capital of Mountain Province, the village of Maligcong sits among rice terraces built with stone walls, curving around the valley in tight green ripples. They are said to date back around 2,000 years and are still worked by local families, among the best preserved in the Cordillera.
The classic way to see them is from Mount Kupapey (also spelled Kofafey). Hikers leave before dawn and reach the summit in time for sunrise. On cool mornings, a sea of clouds fills the valley and slowly pulls back to reveal the terraces below. Mount Fato, nearby, gives another angle among rock outcrops and forest.
Beat the crowds
- Avoid long weekends, when the summit gets busy.
- Stay overnight in a homestay so you can start the hike early.
Getting there
Take an overnight bus from Manila to Bontoc, about ten hours, or travel via Baguio or Banaue. Jeepneys run up to Maligcong a few times a day. See our Baguio and the Cordilleras guide.
A perfect day
- Climb Mount Kupapey before dawn.
- Breakfast at your homestay.
- Walk the terrace paths with a local guide.
- Continue to Sagada in the afternoon.
Through the seasons
- Dry months: the best chance of clear mornings and a sea of clouds.
- Rice cycle: the terraces change from water-filled to green to gold through the year.
- Cold nights: bring warm layers whatever the season.
Respect the place
The terraces are farms. Walk only on the paths, never on the walls, and ask before photographing people working.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the hike up Mount Kupapey?
Usually about an hour or a bit more from the village; most hikers start around 4 a.m. to reach the summit for sunrise.
Do I need a guide?
Local guides are recommended and support the village. Arrange one through your homestay.
When are the terraces green?
Planting and growing seasons vary; green and golden phases come at different times of year. Ask your homestay before you go.
Can I combine it with Sagada?
Yes. Sagada is a short drive from Bontoc.
La Trinidad farms
Strawberry fields, flower farms and highland vegetables in the cool valley next to Baguio.
We checked this guide against the 3 sources listed below. Last updated 14 November 2026. Basis: researched from official sources. Written and edited by Delfin, with AI-assisted research (how we work). Prices, hours and rules change, so confirm before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.
