Perhaps most of us Filipinos (and to a certain extent, also foreign visitors) have one thing in mind when we talk about picturesque hills and that is the ever famous Chocolate Hills of Bohol. Recently, the Green Hills in Quitinday, Albay are also starting to carve its niche in the Philippine tourism hub. Little would most people know that there is a unique set of mini hills in Sagada that turns to blue-green especially when moistened called Kaman-utek (also Caman-utek) Blue Soil Hills.
Being one of the newest natural attractions being promoted by the Sagada Genuine Guides Association (or SAGGAS), these blue hued landscapes has made Sagada an ever more worthy destination. Despite the fact that the hills aren’t very accessible, a trek to this place would surely fire up the adventure-seeker in you and is definitely worth it in case you get lost. 😉
During my 8th visit to Sagada, a local friend and I went to saunter our way to these hills. And believe me, we almost got lost. Hahahaha! From the town center, we made our way to Marlboro Country (Kamanbaneng Peak) which was pretty easy as I have hiked the place 3 times already. From Marlboro, there is a trail leading to the Blue Soil Hills (that’s according to my friend who is from Sagada himself). And so we followed a trail southward of Kamanbaneng that eventually led us to a limestone cliff.
The trail to the hills was picturesque in every corner. We even passed by a seemingly garden of limestone rocks. But when we reached the cliff, we wondered to ourselves how get down. To cut the story short, we tried our best to descend from the cliff (note, it was pretty challenging). Good thing I am physically fit to deal with the unexpected adventure. (hahahaha).
After the perilous descent, we found ourselves on an open grassy field with a small pond from which an awesome view of the limestone cliff (that looked like a dome) we passed through is seen. Later on, we were informed that this spot is called Kaipitan (a marker that would mean the blue hills are already nearby). We spent minutes to rest and marvel at the surrounding (to which I imagine is a perfect spot for camping).
From there, we found a trail and followed it. A few more minutes and the sight of a distinct blue shade appeared our very eyes. At first, I was in disbelief and scanning my brain for some possible explanations as to why the soil is blue. The thought that these pieces of land contain certain chemicals like copper sulfate may be high, for a moment, satiated my yearning for answers. (Later on, this was proven true, according to a guide I asked). Also, it is believed that the blue color intensifies once the soil gets even more moistened.
The area where the blue soil hills isn’t that big but is large enough to be admired. Pitcher plants and pine trees abound the area and some electric lines that are quite a sore to the eye. Nonetheless, the charm of these blue hills are really pleasing and refreshing to the eyes.
If you want to visit these unique wonders of Sagada, you may contact the Sagada Genuine Guides Association (SAGGAS) at 09295569553 (Sir Gareth Likigan) or you could drop by their office which is situated near the Yogurt House.
Don’t be a wasted soul, be ‘juan’derlust’. Take it easy ebri’juan’…
8x, wow! have only been once but am sure there is so much more to see in sagada. this blue mini hills look like a smurfs camp! can i ask which hotel do you book every time you visit sagada?
LikeLiked by 1 person
will be going for my 10th before the year ends kaya go na rin at bumalik Micah. You are absolutely right! There is so much to see in Sagada. and i love the “smurfs camp” thought about this place!!! yay!
and about hotel. i believe there are no hotels in Sagada. Most if not all, are just inns/lodges and homestays. I already have an adopted family there so i stay with them. But if i want a different place to stay, i usually stay at Residential Lodge.
Thank you for dropping by. Cheers!
LikeLiked by 1 person
an adopted family! well done. you must be a trooper, going for 10, since traveling all the way up is quite challenging!
LikeLiked by 1 person
hahaha cheers for being a trooper! LOL. anyhow, keep on traveling and have fun always!
LikeLike
i try! which province is your favorite destination? does sagada take the cake?
LikeLiked by 1 person
Batanes? hahaha but Sagada and the entire Mountain Province will always have a special spot in my heart, 🙂 and you?
LikeLike
have you been to ifugao? where wang od is? mine is the islands in visayas! but i would love to see batanes. did you plan your own trip there or are there tour operators on the island once you arrive?
LikeLike
isnt it that Apo Whang-od is from Kalinga? Thats if i remember it right. Been to Kalinga and Ifugao but not to Whang Od. Not really interested in tattoos. hahaha…
i usually plan my own trip. But yes, there are tour operators in Batanes Micah.
LikeLike
am not sure where that awesome lady is but it would be cool to meet her. oh nice!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Nice Article Romulo! I will be sharing on our pages. thanks!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wow thank you for the appreciation. And thank you for sharing it as well.
LikeLike
Saggas is beside Salt N’ Pepper 🙂
LikeLike
Sagada-bound next week and I’m sooo happy I came across your blog. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wow thank you Paula. Have a great time in Sagada!
LikeLike
I am a 1st timer that like to go to Sagada and I really fascinate of this place., How and what should I do first?
LikeLike
Go to their tourism office and ask for a guide.
LikeLike