Kids

The Kids’ GCQ Travel Guide: Baguio Edition

by Kevyn Gohu
February 24, 2022

Bringing the kids to the Summer Capital of the Philippines? Here are some places our kids can go to during GCQ in Baguio.

Baguio is hailed as the “Summer Capital of the Philippines” and “The City of Pines”. Despite the sweltering heat from the cities below, Baguio retains its cool temperature. Unfortunately, as a frequented tourist spot, Baguio’s LGU dropped some strict requirements for kids and adults alike to follow. From creating a BaguioVisita account, booking rooms in accredited accommodations, and bringing vaccination cards or negative antigen tests, once finished with the process — here are some places kids can go to in Baguio during GCQ.

But before bringing the kids to Baguio, please make sure that your area of residence is within Lockdown Alert Levels 1-3. Anyone from areas that are alert levels 4 and 5 will be rejected.

1. Watching Butterflies in Camp John Hay’s Butterfly Farm

Camp John Hay serves as an accredited accommodation spot too which makes the beauty of the Butterfly Farm not too far for those who stay there. Butterflies are a rare sight for our kids. All the more the ecosystem that these colorful insects flourish in. The particular flora found in the Butterfly Farm attracts a variety of butterflies and if the kids want to have them perch, they can try dipping their finger in honey or running it in sugar to attract them.

2. Tree Jumping in Tree Top Adventure

Tree jumping is not for the faint of heart. But it’s perfect for those who want a memorable trip. From the tall pine trees, families and kids can conquer their fear of heights by jumping from the top. It’s a bit of a shock at first but it’s a fun experience with the maintenance making sure nobody hits the forest floor.

3. Mountain Horseback Riding in Wright Park

Riding a horse up the mountain’s a unique experience in Baguio. Although the majority of their horses are retired racehorses, they have a few local horses that are small and perfect for kids. Always make sure that the kids are accompanied by a stable boy. Nobody likes a panicked horse rearing back and throwing people off before leaving them in the mountains out of fright.

4. Travel back to Ancient China by visiting the Bell Church

The Bell Church takes its visitors back to the time of ancient China when pagodas were built with dragons as guardians. Multiple Buddhist artifacts are housed there and some monks may even be there paying a visit. The landscaped gardens express the element of tranquility and serenity — two main elements needed to achieve enlightenment in Buddhism. Even if not a Buddhist themselves, families can appreciate the beauty of ancient oriental architecture.

5. Take a dip into Asin Hot Springs, Tublay

There are two Asin Hot Springs: one in Tuba and the other one in Tublay. The one in Tuba’s more developed but for those who want a more natural look, Asin Hot Springs in Tublay’s the one people go to. It’s in between La Trinidad, Benguet, and Baguio and is a few minutes drive from the Baguio City. In the area, you’ll see the Bayokbok Falls and several rock formations that are really IG-worthy. Don’t forget to take a shot at Tuel River!

6. Visit the BenCab Museum

Hailed as a National Artist, BenCab has a museum that’s dedicated to all his art. For families who have kids who need artistic inspiration, this museum in Baguio may be the spark they need to motivate them. Besides the art within the museum, the nature surrounding the area also makes it a calming experience. The place is even considered a cool spot for couples to take some cute and nature-based couple’s shots.

7. A Trip to the President’s Mansion

Even the president needs a vacation every now and then! It’s no surprise that the vacation house is in Baguio where it’s calm, slow, and surrounded by nature. Unfortunately, nobody’s allowed in but some families still take pictures outside the mansion just for kicks. Near The Mansion are several parks from Minesview and Burnham in case the kids want some food or are in the mood for a shopping trip.

Monitor Baguio LGU’s announcements carefully before bringing your kids this GCQ

Right now, Baguio is on GCQ Alert Level 3 so they might be a little stricter for younger kids. However, older kids past 11 might enjoy the nature trip up to Baguio where it’s cold instead of cooking themselves in the city. Besides the cool air upstairs, there’s a lot of strawberry jam and raisin bread to be had. Don’t forget to go shopping in the shops run by the tribes that live in Baguio for a souvenir. They’re one of a kind, including their metalworks.