29/06/2026
ππ’π’π: First explored by local residents of Barangays Ankileng and Balugan in 2023, Tatayaen Cave in Sagada, Mountain Province, is now officially open to visitors following a series of inspections, assessments, and exploratory activities undertaken through the joint efforts of the Local Government Unit of Sagada, with technical assistance from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources - Cordillera Administrative Region (DENR-CAR), the Department of Tourism - Cordillera Administrative Region (DOT-CAR), and other concerned agencies.
The cave was formally opened on June 26, 2026, in the presence of local officials, community members, tourism stakeholders, and representatives from partner government agencies, marking another milestone in Sagada's continuing efforts to develop tourism in a sustainable and community-centered manner.
What was once a grazing area for farm animals and an old burial site has now emerged as one of Sagada's newest tourism attractions, showcasing remarkable natural features hidden beneath the ground. The name "Tatayaen" comes from the local dialect, which means "to catch," referring to the several natural water catch basins found inside the cave.
Tatayaen Cave actually consists of two distinct cave systems. The first, known as the Cave Spelunking Zone, has an approximate length of 246.7 meters and an entrance measuring 6.093 meters by 10.867 meters. The second, referred to as the Underground Boating Zone, extends approximately 194.9 meters and features an underground river with a depth of about 12 meters from the cave entrance, allowing visitors to explore a portion of the cave by boat.
Visitors can expect an exciting combination of spelunking and underground river exploration as they navigate through impressive rock formations, subterranean chambers, and unique geological features shaped over thousands of years.
Through the initiative and early efforts of Barangay Ankileng Chairman Pio Wadingan, the area was gradually secured with the installation of essential railings and metal steps to ensure the safety of future visitors while exploring the cave.
Classified by DENR as a Class II Cave, Tatayaen Cave possesses delicate formations and sensitive ecological features that require regulated access. As such, all visitors are required to be accompanied by an accredited cave guide, and seasonal closures will be implemented, particularly during the rainy season, to ensure both visitor safety and the protection of the cave ecosystem.
Visitor numbers will likewise be regulated to ensure a quality visitor experience while minimizing impacts on the cave environment. The Underground Boating Zone can accommodate four persons per boat, with only two batches allowed inside at any given time, while the spelunking section can accommodate approximately 10 to 20 persons at a time.
As of this writing, the cave experience is priced at Php 1,000.00 per group of five persons, inclusive of guide and boat fees. Visitors are required to register first at the Sagada Tourism Office in Poblacion, Sagada, before their visit.
Guests are advised to follow all safety instructions provided by their guides, wear the prescribed hard hats at all times, and dress appropriately for the activity. Visitors are likewise reminded not to touch or vandalize cave formations, leave any waste inside the cave, or disturb wildlife inhabiting the cave system.
The development of Tatayaen Cave is expected to generate additional livelihood opportunities for local residents through guiding services and other tourism-related enterprises, further strengthening community-based tourism in Sagada.
The opening of Tatayaen Cave underscores the commitment of the Municipality of Sagada and its local communities to develop tourism responsibly while ensuring the protection and conservation of the area's fragile cave ecosystem for future generations.
DOT-CAR congratulates the Local Government Unit of Sagada, under the leadership of Mayor Felicito Dula, for the successful opening of Tatayaen Cave, now the third cave attraction officially opened for tourism in the municipality, alongside the renowned Sumaguing-Lumiang Cave Connection and Balangagan Cave. The opening of Tatayaen Cave further strengthens Sagada's position as one of the country's premier destinations for nature-based and adventure tourism.
As a newly opened attraction, visitors are encouraged to practice responsible tourism and help preserve Tatayaen Cave by following all established guidelines and respecting the natural and cultural heritage of the area.
