Agritourism in Benguet, Philippines: A Growing Trend in Eco-Friendly Rural Tourism that Merges Nature, Culture, and Sustainable Agriculture

Published on December 12, 2025

Agritourism has emerged as a new trend in rural tourism, blending agricultural practices with tourism experiences in an effort to preserve local culture and the environment. In Benguet, a province in the Cordillera region of the Philippines, this evolving industry is flourishing. With its serene landscapes of misty highlands, vegetable gardens, and traditional farming methods, Benguet has become a key destination for those seeking a break from urban life. This article explores the rise of agri-tourism in Benguet and its potential to contribute to sustainable rural development and eco-tourism.

The Rise of Agritourism: Merging Nature with Wellness

Benguet is known for its picturesque landscapes, where the cool mountain air and lush green fields offer a peaceful retreat for tourists. The province’s farmers, once solely focused on cultivating crops, have embraced a modern version of farm hospitality, inviting visitors to experience rural life firsthand. Known as agri-tourism, this model combines agriculture with eco-tourism, allowing tourists to engage in farming activities, enjoy the natural beauty of the countryside, and support sustainable farming practices.

Agri-tourism is not just a trend but a response to the growing demand for travel experiences that focus on wellness and nature. By participating in agritourism activities, tourists can enjoy a regenerative experience, reconnecting with nature and gaining a deeper understanding of sustainable agricultural practices. This new form of tourism emphasizes eco-friendly practices, encouraging visitors to appreciate the natural environment while learning about the challenges of farming in the modern world.

The Role of Farmers in Agritourism

Farmers in Benguet have become creative entrepreneurs, blending traditional farming practices with the needs of modern tourists. By offering agritourism experiences, these farmers are able to diversify their income and promote sustainable practices. Visitors can engage in activities such as picking fresh vegetables, learning about organic farming, and participating in traditional agricultural practices. These experiences allow tourists to gain a hands-on understanding of the hard work and dedication required to produce the food they consume.

In addition to providing a unique travel experience, agritourism also serves as a platform for raising awareness about the importance of preserving the environment. With the growing concerns surrounding climate change and the loss of agricultural biodiversity, agritourism offers a way to showcase the value of preserving rural landscapes and traditional farming methods. The fees charged for visiting these farms are used to maintain the land, ensuring that future generations can continue to experience the beauty of Benguet’s rural landscapes.

Ecotourism and Sustainability

One of the main draws of agritourism is its emphasis on sustainability. Many tourists today are more conscious of their environmental impact and are seeking eco-friendly travel options. Agri-tourism sites in Benguet are able to offer a sustainable alternative to mass tourism, where environmental sustainability is prioritized. This includes practices such as reducing the carbon footprint of farming operations, minimizing waste, and preserving natural habitats.

The integration of sustainable practices into agritourism helps protect the land from the negative effects of overtourism. By supporting these businesses, visitors are indirectly contributing to the conservation of fragile ecosystems and ensuring that these beautiful landscapes remain intact for future generations.

Agritourism as a Source of Income and Community Development

Agri-tourism is not just about offering visitors a peaceful retreat; it also plays a vital role in local economic development. Small and medium-sized farms are reshaping their business models to cater to tourists, which helps generate income for rural communities. In a region like Benguet, where farming is the primary livelihood, this diversification of income sources can improve the standard of living for farmers and their families.

As more tourists visit agritourism sites, the demand for local products also increases. This creates a market for fresh produce, flowers, and handicrafts, which are sold to visitors or used to enhance the tourism experience. The economic benefits extend beyond the farmers themselves, as local businesses such as transport services, restaurants, and accommodations also benefit from the influx of visitors.

Furthermore, agritourism encourages the development of infrastructure in rural areas. Roads, sanitation systems, and communication networks are often improved to cater to the needs of tourists. This not only benefits the tourism industry but also improves the quality of life for local residents.

The Cultural and Educational Value of Agritourism

Agri-tourism in Benguet also has a strong cultural component. Tourists who visit these rural areas have the opportunity to learn about the local culture, traditions, and indigenous farming practices. Many of the agritourism sites in Benguet offer educational experiences, where visitors can observe traditional methods of planting, harvesting, and preserving food. They can also participate in cultural activities such as indigenous music, dances, and cooking demonstrations.

The opportunity to immerse oneself in the local culture is a key reason why many tourists are drawn to agritourism destinations. In addition to appreciating the beauty of the landscapes, visitors can develop a deeper understanding of the community’s way of life and their relationship with the land. This cultural exchange is invaluable in fostering mutual respect and appreciation between locals and tourists.

The Future of Agritourism in Benguet

The future of agri-tourism in Benguet looks promising. With the support of the government and local stakeholders, the agritourism sector has the potential to grow significantly in the coming years. The Department of Tourism – Cordillera Administrative Region (DOT-CAR) has already recognized the value of agri-tourism and has been promoting La Trinidad as a premier agri-tourism destination.

Through strategic marketing, including the use of social media platforms, farmers and tourism operators can reach a broader audience and attract more visitors to their farms. As social media marketing continues to gain momentum, agritourism sites in Benguet are likely to see increased visibility, allowing them to expand their reach and grow their businesses.

Agritourism as a Sustainable Future

Agritourism in Benguet is more than just a tourist trend; it represents a shift towards more sustainable and responsible travel. Benguet’s farmers help to preserve the environment, promote cultural heritage, and contribute to rural communities’ economic development by combining agriculture and ecotourism. Visitors to these agritourism sites not only appreciate the beauty of the landscape but also help to ensure that these traditions are passed down to future generations.

As more people seek meaningful travel experiences, agritourism provides an excellent opportunity to connect with nature, learn about sustainable farming practices, and support local communities. With a strong emphasis on sustainability and cultural preservation, agri-tourism is poised to become a cornerstone of responsible tourism in Benguet and elsewhere.