01/07/2026
Sagada opens Tatayaen Cave, adding underground boating adventure to its tourism offerings
By Mia Magdalena Fokno
June 29, 2026
Beneath the mountains of Sagada lies a newly opened underground world where visitors can explore ancient limestone chambers before gliding across an underground river by boat, an experience now offered at the municipality’s newest cave attraction.
According to the Department of Tourism–Cordillera Administrative Region (DOT-CAR), Tatayaen Cave in Barangay Ankileng officially opened to the public on June 26 after a series of technical inspections, environmental assessments, and exploratory activities conducted by the Municipality of Sagada with assistance from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources–Cordillera (DENR-CAR), DOT-CAR, and other partner agencies.
The opening makes Tatayaen the third officially developed cave attraction in Sagada, joining the renowned Sumaguing-Lumiang Cave Connection and Balangagan Cave, and further strengthening the town’s reputation as one of the country’s premier destinations for nature-based and adventure tourism.
DOT-CAR said the cave was first explored by residents of Barangays Ankileng and Balugan in 2023. What was once known mainly as a grazing area for livestock and an old burial site has since revealed a remarkable underground landscape. Its name, “Tatayaen,” comes from the local dialect and means “to catch,” referring to the natural water catch basins found inside the cave.
Unlike Sagada’s other cave attractions, Tatayaen offers two experiences. Its Cave Spelunking Zone stretches approximately 246.7 meters through limestone chambers, while the Underground Boating Zone extends about 194.9 meters and features a subterranean river about 12 meters deep from the entrance, allowing visitors to explore part of the cave by boat.
According to DOT-CAR, Barangay Ankileng Chairman Pio Wadingan initiated the site’s early development by facilitating the installation of railings and metal steps to improve visitor safety while preserving the cave’s natural character.
Conservation remains central to the attraction’s management.
The DENR has classified Tatayaen as a Class II Cave, recognizing its delicate formations and sensitive ecosystem. As a result, access will be regulated, accredited cave guides will be required, and seasonal closures—particularly during the rainy season—will be implemented to protect both visitors and the cave.
Visitor numbers will also be limited. The Underground Boating Zone accommodates four persons per boat, with only two boats allowed inside at any given time, while the spelunking section can receive approximately 10 to 20 visitors at a time.
As of June 29, the cave experience costs P1,000 per group of up to five persons, inclusive of guide and boat fees. Visitors must first register at the Sagada Tourism Office in Poblacion before proceeding to the site.
Guests are advised to wear hard hats throughout the tour, follow their guides’ instructions, and refrain from touching cave formations, leaving waste, or disturbing wildlife.
DOT-CAR said the opening is expected to create additional livelihood opportunities for local residents through guiding services and other tourism-related enterprises, while reinforcing Sagada’s community-based tourism program.
The agency said Tatayaen Cave reflects the municipality’s commitment to expanding tourism without compromising conservation. Through regulated access and responsible visitor management, local officials hope the attraction will create new economic opportunities while preserving one of Sagada’s newest natural treasures for future generations.
Photo by the Department of Tourism - Cordillera Administration Region Office
