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Baguio - Things to Do in Baguio in April

Things to Do in Baguio in April

April weather, activities, events & insider tips

April Weather in Baguio

25°C (77°F) High Temp
16°C (60°F) Low Temp
0.0 mm (0.0 inches) Rainfall
70% Humidity

Is April Right for You?

Advantages

  • Dry season tail end means daytime temperatures hit a comfortable 25°C (77°F) - warm enough for outdoor activities without the oppressive heat that arrives in May. You'll actually want to be outside during midday hours, which is rare for the Philippines lowlands.
  • Panagbenga Festival aftermath means accommodation prices drop 30-40% compared to February-March peak, but the flower farms around La Trinidad are still producing blooms. You get the Instagram-worthy strawberry fields and flower terraces without paying festival premiums or fighting tour bus crowds.
  • Summer vacation hasn't started yet - Philippine schools don't break until late April, so the first three weeks see significantly fewer domestic tourists. Session Road and Burnham Park are navigable on weekdays, and you can actually get weekend reservations at popular restaurants without booking weeks ahead.
  • UV index of 8 at 1,500m (4,900ft) elevation means you get genuine Vitamin D without the scorching intensity of beach destinations. The pine-scented air stays crisp in mornings and evenings, dropping to 16°C (60°F) - perfect sweater weather that feels luxurious after Manila's heat.

Considerations

  • Those 10 rainy days are unpredictable and increasingly erratic - climate patterns have shifted noticeably in recent years. When rain hits, it tends to arrive as sudden afternoon thunderstorms between 2-5pm, disrupting hiking plans and turning clay trails into slippery hazards. You'll need flexible itineraries.
  • Holy Week (April 13-20, 2026) transforms Baguio into a completely different city - over 400,000 visitors descend for religious observances and family reunions. Traffic becomes genuinely nightmarish, accommodation prices triple, and many local businesses close Thursday-Sunday. Either avoid this week entirely or book six months ahead.
  • The 0.0 inches rainfall statistic is misleading - April sits in an awkward transition where the dry season is ending but the wet monsoon hasn't established its pattern yet. You might get bone-dry stretches, or you might hit a week of daily drizzle. Weather apps become unreliable, and locals just shrug when you ask for forecasts.

Investigate Other Months

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Best Activities in April

La Trinidad Valley Strawberry Farm Tours

April is actually the tail end of strawberry season, which peaks December-March, but the farms are still producing and you'll pay 30-40% less than peak months. The climate at 1,300-1,400m (4,265-4,593ft) keeps berries coming through mid-April before the rains intensify. Morning tours from 6-9am offer the coolest temperatures around 14-16°C (57-61°F) and you can pick your own for PHP 400-600 per kilogram compared to PHP 800+ in February. The flower terraces are still photogenic, though past their absolute prime. Book 3-5 days ahead through your accommodation or local tour coordinators - avoid Holy Week when farms get mobbed by Manila families.

Booking Tip: Tours typically cost PHP 800-1,200 per person including transport from Baguio proper, lasting 3-4 hours. Look for small group options with 8 people maximum - larger buses mean waiting while everyone picks berries. Most operators include stops at the Valley of Colors flower farms. Morning departures are essential before heat builds and berries soften.

Mount Pulag Day Hikes via Ambangeg Trail

The 2,926m (9,600ft) summit of Luzon's highest peak is accessible April through May before monsoon rains make trails dangerous. April offers the last reliable weather window - you'll still catch the famous sea of clouds at sunrise about 60-70% of mornings, though less predictably than February-March. The Ambangeg trail is the easiest route at 8.5km (5.3 miles) round trip, taking 4-5 hours total with moderate fitness. Temperatures at the summit drop to 4-8°C (39-46°F) at dawn, so you'll need layering despite warm Baguio afternoons. Permits are required and limited to 80 climbers daily - book through DENR-accredited coordinators at least 10-14 days ahead. The grasslands turn golden-brown in April, less lush than rainy season but easier walking.

Booking Tip: Expect PHP 1,800-2,500 per person for day hikes including permits, guide, and transport from Baguio. Overnight camping trips run PHP 3,500-4,500. Verify your coordinator is DENR-registered - illegal guides face PHP 5,000 fines and you'll be turned away at checkpoints. Most departures leave Baguio at 1-2am to reach the summit for sunrise around 5:30am.

Tam-Awan Village Cultural Immersion

This reconstructed Ifugao village at 1,500m (4,921ft) showcases Cordillera indigenous architecture and art, and April's variable weather makes it ideal - you can explore the outdoor huts and sculptures during dry spells, then retreat to covered workshop areas when afternoon rains hit. The 70% humidity actually helps with traditional pottery and weaving demonstrations. Local artists offer 2-3 hour workshops in traditional tattoo patterns, basket weaving, or gong playing for PHP 500-800 per person. The village hosts monthly cultural performances, though schedules vary - check their current calendar. Unlike peak season, April weekdays see maybe 20-30 visitors total, so you get genuine interaction with resident artists rather than rushed photo ops.

Booking Tip: Entrance is PHP 60-80, workshops cost PHP 500-800 depending on activity and duration. No advance booking needed except for large groups over 10 people. Arrive early morning 8-10am or late afternoon 3-5pm to avoid the brief midday tour bus rush. The on-site cafe serves Cordillera coffee and traditional rice cakes. Allow 2-3 hours minimum if doing workshops, 1 hour for basic exploration.

Halsema Highway Scenic Drives to Sagada

The 150km (93-mile) mountain highway connecting Baguio to Sagada is the Philippines' highest road, peaking at 2,255m (7,400ft) at Atok. April's relatively dry conditions make this the second-best month after March for attempting the 5-6 hour drive - landslides are less frequent than monsoon months, though you'll still encounter occasional rockfall from afternoon rains. The route passes through cloud forests, terraced rice paddies preparing for planting season, and roadside vegetable markets selling just-harvested lettuce and carrots. Van services run PHP 500-700 per person one-way, departing Baguio 6-7am. The drive itself is the attraction - stop at Atok for strawberry jam vendors, Mount Data for pine forest views, and Bontoc for the provincial museum. Motion sickness is real on 300+ switchbacks, so take medication beforehand.

Booking Tip: Book van services through established Baguio transport terminals rather than random touts - look for posted rate schedules and numbered vehicles. Private van charters cost PHP 6,000-8,000 round trip for up to 10 passengers, worthwhile for groups wanting to stop frequently. Avoid travel on Sundays when returning Manila traffic backs up Kennon Road. Most visitors do this as a 2-3 day Sagada trip rather than day tours, which are exhausting.

Baguio Public Market and Night Market Food Crawls

The century-old Baguio Public Market sprawls across multiple buildings at the city center, and April's pre-summer vacation timing means it's busy with locals but not overwhelmed by tourists. The vegetable terraces are harvesting April crops - you'll find the year's first snap peas, fresh strawberries at PHP 200-300 per kilo, and Benguet coffee beans. The Kayang Street night market fires up around 5pm and runs until 10pm, offering street food from PHP 30-80 per item - try pinikpikan (traditional chicken soup), strawberry taho (silken tofu), and empanadas stuffed with Baguio vegetables. The 70% humidity keeps food fresh longer than dry season extremes. Go with an empty stomach and PHP 500-800 for a thorough crawl. The market's chaotic energy and haggling culture intimidate some visitors, but it's where you'll eat what locals actually eat rather than tourist-menu versions.

Booking Tip: No booking needed - just show up. Food tour guides charge PHP 1,500-2,500 for 3-4 hour market walks if you want cultural context and translation help with vendors. Bring small bills - vendors rarely have change for PHP 1,000 notes. The market gets slippery when wet, so wear closed-toe shoes with grip. Avoid Sundays when it's most crowded. Best timing is 4-6pm when day market transitions to night market and you can experience both.

Asin Hot Springs and Surrounding Trail Networks

Located 18km (11 miles) northwest of Baguio proper, these natural sulfur springs stay at 37-40°C (99-104°F) year-round and feel especially good when April's afternoon rains drop temperatures. The springs are increasingly developed with PHP 50-150 entrance fees depending on facility quality, but you can still find semi-wild pools if you're willing to hike 30-45 minutes beyond the main tourist areas. The surrounding pine forests offer 5-15km (3-9 mile) trail networks through Asin and nearby villages, with elevation changes of 200-400m (656-1,312ft). April's variable weather means you might hike in sunshine and soak in rain, or vice versa - bring waterproof bags. The area sees far fewer visitors than Baguio's central attractions. Combine springs with trail hiking for a full day trip.

Booking Tip: Jeepneys from Baguio to Asin cost PHP 50-80 and run until early afternoon - last return trips leave around 4-5pm, so verify schedules. Private tricycle charters run PHP 800-1,200 round trip with waiting time. Bring towels and change of clothes - rental towels are PHP 50-100 but quality varies. Some facilities have basic food stalls, but pack snacks and water. The more developed resorts charge PHP 300-500 for private cottages with pools. Go midweek to avoid Manila weekend crowds.

April Events & Festivals

April 13-20, 2026

Holy Week Religious Observances

April 13-20, 2026 brings Semana Santa, the Philippines' most significant religious period. Baguio becomes a pilgrimage destination with daily processions through Session Road, Stations of the Cross reenactments at various churches, and traditional pabasa chanting. The Baguio Cathedral holds special masses every hour. Many restaurants close Thursday-Sunday, and the city takes on a somber, reflective atmosphere very different from typical tourist energy. This is deeply meaningful if you're interested in Philippine Catholic culture, but logistically challenging for casual visitors.

April 24

Cordillera Day Celebrations

April 24 commemorates the anniversary of the Cordillera Administrative Region with cultural performances, indigenous sports demonstrations, and traditional food festivals at Burnham Park and various venues. You'll see gong ensembles, traditional dance competitions, and exhibitions of Cordillera weaving and woodcarving. It's a more local-focused celebration than Panagbenga, offering authentic cultural immersion without the tourist circus. Events are typically free or low-cost PHP 50-100 entrance.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Layering system for 16-25°C (60-77°F) temperature swings - mornings start cold enough for fleece or light down jacket, afternoons hit T-shirt weather, then evenings cool again. Avoid single-layer heavy coats that become useless by 10am.
Lightweight rain jacket or packable poncho - those 10 rainy days hit as sudden 20-40 minute downpours, usually 2-5pm. Local sari-sari stores sell cheap ponchos for PHP 50-100 if you forget, but they're flimsy plastic that tears easily.
Closed-toe hiking shoes or trail runners with actual tread - Baguio's hills get slippery when wet, and you'll walk 8,000-12,000 steps daily just navigating the city's steep streets. Flip-flops are fine for flat areas only.
SPF 50+ sunscreen despite the elevation - UV index of 8 at 1,500m (4,900ft) burns faster than you expect, especially if you're coming from overcast climates. Reapply every 2 hours during outdoor activities.
Breathable cotton or merino wool layers - the 70% humidity makes synthetic fabrics clammy and uncomfortable. You'll see locals in jeans and hoodies, but as a visitor walking everywhere, you want moisture-wicking natural fibers.
Small daypack with waterproof liner or dry bag - for protecting phones, cameras, and documents during surprise rain. Baguio's markets and attractions don't have convenient locker systems.
Cash in small denominations - many vendors, jeepneys, and smaller restaurants don't accept cards or have limited change. Bring PHP 100 and 50 notes, coins for PHP 13-15 jeepney fares.
Reusable water bottle - Baguio's tap water is generally safe at major hotels, and refill stations exist throughout the city. The altitude and walking means you'll drink 2-3 liters daily.
Basic first aid including anti-diarrheal medication - the market food is delicious but your stomach might need adjustment time. Pharmacies are everywhere, but having basics prevents midnight scrambles.
Light scarf or buff - useful for chilly morning jeepney rides, dusty market areas, and as an extra layer that packs small. Locals wear these constantly.

Insider Knowledge

The jeepney system looks chaotic but follows fixed routes - Session Road to Burnham Park to Baguio Cathedral forms the central loop. Fares are PHP 13-15 for standard distances. Say your destination clearly when boarding, and the driver or other passengers will tell you where to get off. Hand your fare forward through other passengers - this chain payment system confuses tourists but works perfectly.
Baguio's traffic patterns changed dramatically in 2024-2025 with new one-way systems around Session Road. What used to be a 10-minute walk might now require a 25-minute jeepney detour during peak hours 7-9am and 4-7pm. Walk whenever possible - the hills are steep but you'll save time and see more.
The strawberry jam sold everywhere varies wildly in quality - look for vendors who let you taste first, and check for actual fruit chunks rather than just red sugar paste. Real Benguet strawberry jam costs PHP 150-250 for a small jar, not PHP 50. If it's too cheap, it's mostly corn syrup and artificial flavoring.
Book accommodation for Holy Week by January 2026 or skip that week entirely - I'm not exaggerating about the 400,000 visitor surge. Hotels that normally charge PHP 2,000-3,000 jump to PHP 6,000-10,000, and even then you'll find NO VACANCY signs everywhere. The week before or after Holy Week offers 40% better pricing with similar weather.
The best Cordillera coffee isn't at the tourist cafes on Session Road - go to the public market's second floor where local roasters sell beans for PHP 300-500 per kilo. Ask for Sagada, Benguet, or Kalinga varieties. They'll grind it fresh for you. This is what locals actually drink, and it's a fraction of cafe prices.
Climate change has made April weather increasingly unpredictable in Baguio over the past 5-6 years - that 0.0 inches rainfall average is based on historical data, but recent Aprils have swung from bone-dry to surprisingly wet. Check week-ahead forecasts and pack for both scenarios rather than trusting seasonal averages.

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating the cold - tourists arrive thinking 'Philippines equals hot' and pack only shorts and tank tops, then freeze in 16°C (60°F) evening temperatures at 1,500m (4,900ft) elevation. You'll see shivering visitors buying overpriced hoodies from Session Road vendors for PHP 800-1,200 when a PHP 300 fleece from home would suffice.
Trying to drive yourself without understanding Baguio's roads - the city's one-way systems, steep grades, and aggressive jeepney drivers make this genuinely stressful even for experienced Manila drivers. Parking is nightmarish near attractions. Use jeepneys, taxis, or hired vans with local drivers who know the shortcuts and current traffic patterns.
Booking tours that spend 4 hours in traffic for 1 hour at the destination - many operators push day trips to Sagada or Hundred Islands that involve 10-12 hours total travel time. April's pre-summer vacation traffic isn't as bad as May-June, but Kennon Road and Marcos Highway still bottleneck. For distant destinations, plan overnight stays or skip them entirely and focus on Baguio proper and nearby La Trinidad.

Explore Activities in Baguio

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March

Travel guide for March

May

Travel guide for May

Climate Guide

Weather and seasonal patterns for Baguio

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