Mount Costa in La Trinidad, Benguet? Five stars, and it’s no wonder this place is stealing hearts left and right! Tucked away in the cool, pine-scented highlands just a short 15-20 minute drive from Baguio City, this 6-hectare garden wonderland feels like stepping into a nature lover’s dream. With 24 uniquely themed gardens and 5,500 meters of winding trails, it’s a feast for the senses—think vibrant flowers, quirky art installations, and that crisp mountain air that makes you want to breathe deeper.
Walking through the Yellow and Blue trails, you’re hit with one stunning setup after another. The Mirror Garden is a total standout—mirrors nestled among the trees create this magical, almost surreal vibe that’s perfect for fun photos or just soaking in the creativity. Then there’s the Music Garden, where you can tap metal instruments for some playful tunes, or the Inca-inspired garden with its fish pond and cultural nod. Each spot feels like its own little world, from the colorful Spectrum Garden with its rainbow ropes to the serene Zen Garden, ideal for a quiet moment of reflection. It’s not just about the plants (though there are nearly a hundred varieties to gawk at); it’s the way the gardens blend nature with art, making every step feel like an adventure.
What makes it even better? It’s family-friendly to the core. Kids can run wild in the playgrounds, swinging and sliding while blending into the natural surroundings, and there’s even a pet-friendly policy, so your furry pals can join the fun. The staff are absolute gems—friendly, helpful, and sometimes you’ll even meet a member of the Acosta family, who poured their heart into turning their old strawberry fields into this eco-tourism gem. Food kiosks are scattered around, serving up tasty bites (their coffee and burgers get a thumbs-up!), and there are plenty of rest spots and clean comfort rooms, so you’re never left wanting.
Sure, the entrance fee (around ₱200-₱350 depending on the package) might feel a tad steep for locals, and those with mobility issues might find the trails a bit challenging since wheelchair access isn’t fully there yet. But the peaceful vibe, the cool fog rolling in during the afternoon, and the sheer variety of experiences—from glamorous hiking to chilling in a rented Green Living Room—make it worth every peso. Whether you’re a solo traveler chasing serenity, a family looking for a fun day out, or a photographer hunting for that perfect shot, Mount Costa delivers. It’s a slice of paradise that feels like a love letter to nature and creativity, and I’m already...
Read moreAbout 25 minutes from Baguio City proper via Naguilian Road, Mount Costa is a private park that allows for a convenient and quiet commune with nature. Parking is road-side parking only so be early to get your ideal spot. Upon entry, a fee of Php350 for adults and Php250 for students with valid IDs needs to be paid at the entrance. A band bearing the name of Mount Costa will be placed around your wrist. Children who are 3 yrs old and below are free to enter. Wear light clothes and convenient walking shoes because it's going to be a lot of walking and climbing. For tourists' convenience, toilets and washing stations are deployed along the trails. The place is clean, well maintained, and conveniently designed. The place brings back memories of Baguio City in the 70s when the place was cooler and unspoiled. You will re-learn to appreciate natural foliage, forest sound, and the forest spirit. If you have small children make sure you attend to them at all times because the trails have no railings. Even the pretty steel footbridges over water canals are without rails. The place is themed with pretty designed gardens. Naturally growing foliage is left untouched and allowed to grow just how mother nature would. Right in the heart of the place where the trails converge is a convenient food court where you can dine or grab a hot or cold drink. Cellular signal is cranky so you have to save those Facebook and Instagram - worthy photos on your phone. It takes about 45 minutes to an hour to work through the trails. People with heart conditions should take slow strides and enjoy the scenes. Listen to the pretty chirp of birds as you sit in the many lounges along the routes. Please make sure to bring your trash with you and avoid destroying plants and properties. The owner has made significant efforts to bring us good quality facilities as seen on their choices of furnitures, tables, and picnic umbrellas. Let us show mutual respect by taking care of the property. At a Php350 entrance fee, this place is a bargain. Put this in your next Baguio adventure and enjoy tripping...
Read moreI'm absolutely speechless about the experience we have had here at Mount Costa!
It is a nature park mainly themed around the Inca Civilization of Central America, though there are parts that are just there as to spark the curiosity of the visitors.
First off, with the ticket, there's a different price for each package that you want to have: regular, with snacks, local, senior, and others that are available to choose from. Just note that each ticket is per head/person payment.
There were a handful of areas to visit following different trails, but all were special in their own way; the view of the sky, the rustling trees, and of course, the fresh mountain air.
The coffee shop within the park, Casey Beans, was the only one open. Although it's a small shop and had a simple menu, the foods and drinks were amazing; we were even surprised in how affordable they were!
As for accessibility, there are some comfort rooms for some areas, although they are not very far from each other. And prepare to have a bit of endurance since you need to walk a couple of stairs to go through each part.
If you are a nature lover or just thinking of visiting here, you'd probably need about half a day, maybe alone or with someone. Greatly recommended for anyone who wants to relieve their stress, hang out, or just want to have a little bit of tranquility.
Overall, would definitely go again. We had a...
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