Halsema Highway
Philippines, asia
150 km
2,255 m
hard
December to May
The Halsema Highway (officially Aspiras-Palispis Highway) is the highest road in the Philippines, reaching an elevation of approximately 2,255 meters as it traverses the Cordillera Central mountain range in northern Luzon. The 150-kilometer route connects Baguio, the summer capital of the Philippines, to Bontoc in Mountain Province, winding through dramatic mountain scenery of pine forests, vegetable terraces, and deep ravines.
Named after the American engineer Eusebius Halsema who supervised its construction in the early 1900s, the road is notorious for landslides, fog, and narrow sections with steep drop-offs. Despite improvements over the years, it remains a challenging drive that passes through the spectacular rice terraces of the Cordillera region, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The highway provides access to remote Igorot communities whose traditional culture and terracing skills have been maintained for over 2,000 years.
Where is it?
Halsema Highway is located in Cordillera, Philippines (asia). Coordinates: 16.8500, 120.8833
Driving Tips
Drive during dry season only as landslides are extremely common during typhoon season. Start early from Baguio to allow plenty of daylight. The road is very winding and can cause motion sickness. Stop at the highest point marker for photos. Visit the Banaue and Batad rice terraces as a side trip from Bontoc. Carry food and water.
Road Surface
Paved asphalt with rough patches
Road Details
- Country
- Philippines
- Continent
- asia
- Region
- Cordillera
- Length
- 150 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,255 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Surface
- Paved asphalt with rough patches
- Best Season
- December to May
- Coordinates
- 16.8500, 120.8833
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