Baguio is the Philippines’ “Summer Capital,” a cool, pine-covered city in the mountains of the Cordillera. From Clark International Airport it is a scenic drive north, and it is one of the most popular road trips for visitors who want to see beyond Manila. This guide gives you a 3-day plan, practical driving tips and the choice between driving yourself and hiring a driver.
Quick facts
| Drive time | About 4 to 5 hours from Clark, depending on traffic and route |
| Route | Clark, then SCTEX and TPLEX expressways north, then the mountain roads up to Baguio |
| Best months | November to February for cool, dry weather; March to May is busy and warm |
| Best vehicle | An SUV or crossover for the mountain climbs |
| Fuel and tolls | Budget for tolls on the expressways and a full tank before you climb |
Day 1: Clark to Baguio
- Morning: Pick up your car at our Clark Freeport Zone office and leave early to beat the traffic. Fill the tank and download offline maps.
- Midday: Stop for lunch at a rest stop or town along the expressway. Have a coffee break before the climb.
- Afternoon: Climb into the mountains. Drive slowly on the winding sections and keep to your lane on blind curves.
- Evening: Check in, then walk Session Road and the night market area for dinner. Baguio is cold at night, so bring a jacket.
Day 2: Explore Baguio
- Burnham Park: Rent a boat or cycle around the lake.
- Baguio Cathedral and Session Road: An easy morning walk.
- Mines View Park and Wright Park: Mountain views and the famous pony rides.
- La Trinidad strawberry farms: Pick your own strawberries when in season, and buy local produce.
- BenCab Museum or Tam-awan Village: Art and Cordillera culture, if you want a slower afternoon.
Tip: parking in central Baguio is tight and traffic is heavy. Park once and walk, or use taxis for short hops in the city.
Day 3: Return to Clark
Leave after breakfast so you are back at Clark before dark. If you are flying out of Clark, plan to return the car at least a few hours before your flight. Ask us about early drop-off and airport arrangements.
Driving tips for Baguio
- Check road conditions before you leave. Mountain roads can be affected by rain and landslides, especially in the wet season.
- Use a lower gear on descents instead of riding the brakes.
- Avoid driving the mountain sections at night or in heavy fog if you are unfamiliar with them.
- Expect Baguio’s traffic on weekends and holidays, and plan extra time.
- Carry water, snacks and a charged phone.
Self-drive or chauffeur?
The expressway portion is straightforward, while the mountain approach and city traffic are the tiring parts. If you are nervous on steep, winding roads, a driver is the more relaxing option. If you enjoy driving, self-drive gives you the freedom to stop at viewpoints along the way. Read our full comparison: Self-Drive vs. Chauffeur-Driven.
Ready to go?
See our available vehicles, including the Mitsubishi XFORCE, or contact us to plan your Baguio trip. If you are renting as a visitor, check our requirements for foreigners renting a car in the Philippines first.