Klook.com google.com, pub-5320905345872243, DIRECT, f08c47fec0942fa0

Alfonso Lista, Ifugao: What you need to know

Formerly known as the municipality of Potia, Alfonso Lista is one of the largest (by land area) municipalities in the province of Ifugao. The most notable attraction in this municipality is the Magat Dam and the Bird-Watching Observation Deck bordering the municipality of Ramon, Isabela. This man-made wonder separates the Cordilleras from the Cagayan Valley Region.

Read also: 2021 List of “Long Weekends” in the Philippines

Dubbed as the “Corn Granary of the Cordilleras,” Alfonso Lista’s rolling hills are covered with wide corn plantations and agriculture is one of their main sources of livelihood. Coupled with the warm smiles of people and the laid-back feels in the municipality, it is really a good place where you can #FindYourselfInTheCordilleras!

If you have heard about Alfonso Lista for the first time, well, me, too. It instantly sparked my interest in exploring the secrets of this province being an up-and-coming tourist destination in the Cordilleras. The municipality was named after the first mayor of Potia, Alfonso Lista. It is usually not on the tourist map of seasoned travelers but the Local Government aims to boost their tourism efforts and attract people in the area, especially that it is near Magat Dam – the 4th largest dam in Asia.

 

At first, I was curious what Alfonso Lista has to offer despite the fact that when you come to think or search about the province of Ifugao, the first thing that immediately comes to mind would be the famous Banaue and Batad Rice Terraces. I am amazed of the fact that there are still some attractions in the province that are “off the beaten path.” Therefore, I can say that this municipality is Ifugao’s “best kept secret.”

Places you can visit in Alfonso Lista

Now that Ifugao’s best kept secret is revealed, I will show you some of the sights that you must visit when going to Alfonso Lista. There is a handful of attractions that you can visit while exploring the municipality. If you are fond of gardening and into organic farming, there is a place for you. If you are into bird-watching and nature appreciation while marveling over Magat Dam’s beauty, a dedicated spot is also being developed as a family-friendly site. And if you are active enough to conquer 1,000 steps to see the Dam from behind, you can also do it, too!

Domingo Integrated Organic Farm

Also known as “Rancho Domingo,” this famous agribusiness boasts everything organic – ranging from numerous organically grown plants to grazing animals from chickens, turtles, and rabbits. Name it, they probably have it!

What enticed me the most is their organically grown blue ternatea, combined with fresh tarragon leaves. As a budding vegan, I find it refreshing and au naturel. You can have a whole-day stroll inside the garden and sir Jess Domingo would love to tour you around the property. They also serve organically-sourced food once you pay the farm a visit. Its secluded location makes it more conducive for one to appreciate nature to its core. You can reach sir Jess at +63 917 800 9133.

Magat and Maris Dam Bird-watching Site (Municipal Forest Library and Wetlands Ecotourism Park)

This, I have to say, is the main attraction of the municipality. If you are a nature-lover (like me!), this is the place to be. Having a generous view of the Magat River and the nearby wetlands, you can also see the bordering town of Ramon, Isabela.

 

This Eco-park has been developed in 2014 and was opened to the public to raise awareness about nature and about the arrival of migratory birds from nearby municipalities. If you are lucky enough, a huge bunch of migratory birds would welcome you during the fly-in hours (usually around 1730 – 1830 H everyday).

Located in Sitio Minanga in Barangay Sto. Domingo, the bird-watching site is more or less 1 hour from Santiago City, Isabela. While at the site, you can get a glimpse of white egrets basking in the wetlands of Magat River.

Address	Sitio Minanga, Sto. Domingo, Alfonso Lista, Ifugao
Business days and hours	0530 – 1730 H, Daily
Environmental Fee	Adults (₱ 20.00), Students (₱ 10.00)
*Best time for fly-in / fly-out	1730 – 1830 H (fly-in) / 0530 – 0630 H (fly-out)

1,000 Steps Eco-park

This 32-hectare Eco-park is one of its kind in the Cordilleras. The thrill of this attraction is that you should climb at least a thousand steps and every pathway would give you a panoramic view of the nearby Dam. The 497-meter pathway also offers what nature can give – fresh air! The mountaintop view will give you a generous sight of Alfonso Lista and Ramon, Isabela.

Its 1,000 feet elevation is a feat on its own. There are numerous vantage points where you can take those Instagram-worthy photos. From afar, you can also see the the mangroves where the egrets fly-in and fly-out every day. Several huts are also available for rent after your journey.

Address	Sitio Lubong, Sto. Domingo, Alfonso Lista, Ifugao
Business days and hours	0600 – 1630 H, Daily
Environmental Fee	Adults (₱ 20.00), Students (₱ 10.00)
Cottages for rent	Picnic huts = ₱ 50.00 / Trade Post Span = ₱ 50.00 / Cottages = ₱ 100.00

1000 Steps Eco Park, Alfonso Lista, Cordillera Administrative Region, Cordilleras, Culture, Domingo Integrated Organic Farm, Ifugao, Luzon, Magat Dam, Philippines, Travel, Vacation