Banaue Rice Terraces

Known by Filipinos as the “Eighth Wonder of the World”, the Banaue Rice Terraces were built 2000 years ago by the ancestors of the indigenous people of Ifugao and are commonly thought to have been built largely by hand. Sourced by an ancient irrigation system from the rainforests above the terraces, locals still grow rice and vegetables, although the region’s tourism industry has increasingly prevailed.

With the Ifugao people maintaining the Banaue Rice Terraces, their culture revolves around rice and its related rituals and feasts, from rice cultivation to rice consumption. Also known to cultivate edible shells, fruit trees, and other vegetables, the Ifugao recognize the Banaue Rice Terraces as a source of life and art.

A thriving tourism industry has emerged around the Banaue Rice Terraces, offering visitors on Philippines vacation packages beautiful views of the terraces, the chance to meet local tribes, and even a spiritual healing ritual performed by a Mumbai, a traditional Ifugao witch doctor.

Needless to say, they’re a sight that must be seen on a Philippines vacation.