When planning a trip from Manila to Baguio City, the choice between Kennon Road and Marcos Highway can significantly impact your journey. Each route offers its own set of advantages and considerations, catering to different preferences and travel needs. Let's delve into the details to help you make an informed decision:

Kennon Road

Kennon Road stands as a historic and picturesque route to Baguio City, renowned for its scenic beauty and relatively quick access. With a toll fee of Php15 for cars, it provides an affordable option for travelers.

Traveling along Kennon Road treats you to breathtaking views of waterfalls, pine forests, and mountains adorned with wild sunflowers, creating a truly immersive experience. However, it's essential to note that Kennon Road can be unpredictable, particularly during the rainy season. Intensive mining activities over the years have left some areas vulnerable to landslides and rockfalls, adding a degree of uncertainty to the journey.

Despite its narrow and winding nature, Kennon Road remains manageable for most vehicles. If your car is deemed "underpowered," you have the option to take a detour onto Loakan Road at Camp 7 to enter Baguio City. Overall, Kennon Road offers a scenic and memorable journey to the City of Pines.

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Marcos Highway

Offering sweeping views of the South China Sea and boasting recent renovations, Marcos Highway presents itself as a compelling alternative to Kennon Road. While it may be longer in distance, Marcos Highway is wider, smoother, and touted as an "all-weather" route, making it a reliable choice for travelers.

One of the key advantages of Marcos Highway is its accessibility to various parts of Baguio City, particularly the northwest side where popular destinations like Green Valley, Legarda Road, and Quezon Hill are located. Additionally, Marcos Highway provides a shortcut to Asin Road or Naguilian Road, bypassing the town center.

However, it's essential to consider the steep climb and potential foggy conditions, especially in the afternoons, along Marcos Highway. This route requires a stronger engine compared to Kennon Road, ensuring a smooth and pleasant ascent to the City of Pines.

RELATED: Toll Fee Rates for Metro Manila and Luzon Expressways

Final Verdict

Ultimately, the choice between Kennon Road and Marcos Highway depends on your priorities and vehicle capabilities. If you prioritize reliability and accessibility to specific areas of Baguio City, Marcos Highway may be the preferred option. However, if you seek a scenic and adventurous journey, Kennon Road offers a captivating route to the City of Pines.

Visit my driving guide for other routes and detours to Baguio.

THINGS TO DO IN BAGUIO

Check out my Baguio Travel Guide and my list of 25 Tourist Spots to Visit in Baguio City!

ATTRACTIONS TO SEE IN MANILA

Regardless of your choice, both routes promise an unforgettable journey filled with breathtaking scenery and memorable experiences amidst the beauty of Northern Philippines. Choose wisely and embark on a remarkable adventure to Baguio City, the Summer Capital of the Philippines.