The official Banaue Viewpoint sits four kilometres north of the town centre, at the top of a switchback road at about 1,360 metres. From here you see the classic curve of the Banaue terraces sweeping up the opposite mountainside — the view that appears on Filipino banknotes and tourism posters. It is on most coach tours, which means it can get crowded between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m.; come early or late.
A small market and a row of stalls at the viewpoint sell Ifugao woodcarvings, woven cloth, and souvenirs. Local Ifugao elders in traditional dress sit for tip-only photographs. The carvings are mostly mass-produced but there are a few interesting pieces from genuine craftsmen if you look. A 20-peso fee for the viewpoint deck is collected at a small booth.