Mayoyao Rice Terraces
About
Stone-walled terraces around the town center, with native huts perched in the middle of the paddies! Mayoyao is one of the five Ifugao rice terrace clusters on the UNESCO World Heritage list, and it's far enough off the Banaue trail that it still feels like a secret. Look out for the traditional Ifugao houses on four wooden posts, with the rice granary tucked into the roof, and ask about Mayoyao's heirloom rice, passed down through generations. Golden late-afternoon light makes the stone walls glow, so stay the night if you can. It's a long ride, so start early and pack snacks!
Dry until sunset (5:31 PM). Good time to go!
- Full day from Banaue, or overnightTime to spend
- April to May for green terraces; July to August for harvest gold. Late afternoon for golden light on the walls.Best time to go
- variesEntrance and budget
- Mayoyao is a full-day round trip from Banaue by hired van or jeepney, or a drive up the Ifugao–Isabela Road from the Isabela side.Getting there
What to do here
- Walk the stone-walled terraces around town
- Spot the native huts in the middle of the paddies
- Try the local heirloom rice
- Stay overnight in a native-style hut
Know before you go
Ifugao mountain roads see landslides in the rainy season (a Kiangan landslide broke a temporary footbridge in September 2026), so check road conditions before you go.
Stay on the dikes and ask before photographing people or homes.
Vehicle hire from Banaue is quoted per vehicle, so ask your lodging for current rates.
Where it is
Poblacion, Mayoyao, Ifugao (along the Ifugao–Isabela Road)
By commuteMayoyao is a full-day round trip from Banaue by hired van or jeepney, or a drive up the Ifugao–Isabela Road from the Isabela side. Public trips are few, so arrange your ride the day before.
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FAQ
Is Mayoyao part of the UNESCO site?
Yes! It is one of the five Ifugao rice terrace clusters on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
Can we do it as a day trip from Banaue?
Yes, but it is a long ride, so start early. Staying a night lets you catch the morning mist and golden light.
What is special about the houses?
Traditional Ifugao huts stand on four wooden posts, with the rice granary in the top part of the house.