We wanted to have an off-the-beaten-track Ifugao experience. As soon as we arrived in Banaue, we rode a jeep going to Batad on rugged terrain. After about 15 minutes, there was a landslide blocking the road. We had to get off and hike for an hour the rest of the way.

That was just the first leg. From the Banga-an junction, the hike was all uphill. I almost stepped on a snake slithering in front of me at one point. Reaching the highest point, we stopped for rest and snacks before descending to the village of Batad.