Batanes Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, food to try, and things to do in Batanes, Philippines. Learn about the local culture, customs, and where to stay. Plan your trip and explore the beauty of this Southeast Asian gem.


Introduction to Batanes

Batanes is an archipelago province in the Philippines, located in the northernmost part of Luzon. It is composed of three major islands: Batan, Sabtang, and Itbayat. Known for its breathtaking natural landscapes, rich culture, and friendly locals, Batanes attracts visitors seeking a unique experience away from the bustling cities.

List of Places to Visit in Batanes

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Sto. Domingo Church

Sto. Domingo Church, also known as the Basco Cathedral, is one of the most prominent landmarks in Batanes. Built in the early 19th century, the church was originally made of cogon grass and wood. It was later replaced with limestone and coral stones.

Chawa View Deck

Chawa View Deck offers a panoramic view of the rolling hills and turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean. It is a great spot to watch the sunrise or sunset.

Valugan Boulder Beach

The Valugan Boulder Beach is a unique attraction in Batanes. It is a beach composed of larger-than-life boulders that were formed after Mount Iraya erupted in the 15th century.

Fundacion Pacita

Fundacion Pacita is a historical house turned into a hotel, named after the late Pacita Abad, a renowned artist. The house features Capiz shells windows, antique furnishings, and Pacita’s paintings.

Natural Attractions of Batanes: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Mount Iraya

Mount Iraya is a dormant volcano that towers over Batanes. It is a popular hiking spot for adventure seekers and offers a stunning view of the island from its peak.

Vayang Rolling Hills

The Vayang Rolling Hills is a vast stretch of grassy hills that give the illusion of a green sea. It is a perfect spot for a picnic or to take pictures with the panoramic view as the backdrop.

Marlboro Country

Marlboro Country, colloquially known as Racuh A Payaman, is a vast pastureland surrounded by rolling hills, much like New Zealand’s countryside. The name was derived from the famous cigarette brand’s advertisements in the 1990s that were filmed in the area.

Nakamaya Burial Site

The Nakamaya Burial Site, also known as the Idjang, is a fortress-like structure made of limestone rocks. It was used as a burial ground by Ivatan ancestors and a refuge from pirates and raiders.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Batanes

Batanes offers several hiking and biking routes that suit various skill levels. The most popular hikes are Mount Iraya, Mt. Matarem, and Chawa View Deck. Biking is also a popular activity and renting bikes is easy to do in the town proper.

Best Things to Do in Batanes: Activities and Tours

Explore the Ivatan culture and try local delicacies. Visit the local shops and buy souvenir items. Go on island hopping tours to Sabtang and Itbayat. Visit the various beaches and swim in the turquoise-blue waters of Batanes.

Week-Long Itinerary for Batanes

Day Activities
Day 1 Arrival, check-in, and tour around Basco Town
Day 2 Island hopping tour in Sabtang
Day 3 Visit Nakamaya Burial Site and Chawa View Deck
Day 4 Marlboro Country and Diura Fishing Village
Day 5 Hiking to Mount Iraya or biking around Basco
Day 6 Discover the Vayang Rolling Hills
Day 7 Departure and goodbyes

Food and Drink Scene of Batanes

Must-Try Dishes

Vunong

Vunong is a traditional Ivatan soup made with beef, root crops, green papaya, and spices. It is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for Batanes’s cold weather.

Uved Cookies

Uved Cookies are made of arrowroot flour, butter, and sugar. These cookies are a popular snack in Batanes and go well with coffee, tea, or on their own.

Luñis

Luñis is a pork dish cured with salt and spices. The curing process takes three to five days, and it is usually served during special occasions.

Local Beverages

Coconut Crab

Coconut Crab is a type of alcoholic drink made from fermented coconut and sap from the coconut tree. It is similar to wine and is served during special occasions.

Turmeric Tea

Turmeric Tea is a popular drink in Batanes because of its health benefits, and it is made with fresh turmeric roots and honey.

Where to Stay in Batanes: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Batanes offers various accommodations such as hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. There are also homestays available in the local communities for those who want a more authentic Ivatan experience.

What to Buy in Batanes: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Batanes offers several souvenir items that showcase the province’s culture and traditions. The popular souvenirs are made of Abaca fibers, such as bags and hats. Uved cookies and other local delicacies make great souvenirs too.

Local Culture and Customs of Batanes

The Ivatan culture is unique and rich, and it revolves around the concept of community and cooperation. Ivatans are known for their honesty, hospitality, and resilience. They also have their language, Ivatan, which is a dialect of the Austronesian family.

Best Time to Visit Batanes

The ideal time to visit Batanes is from November to February, when the weather is mild. The months of March to October are the monsoon season, and the province receives typhoons, making travel to Batanes somewhat hazardous.

Do’s and Don’ts of Batanes

Do:

  • Respect the Ivatans culture and traditions.
  • Cover up when entering churches and other holy places.
  • Try the local delicacies and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Litter and dispose of your waste properly.
  • Disturb the natural attractions and monuments.
  • Be disrespectful to the locals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Batanes

Batanes is a relatively safe place to visit. However, it is advised to take necessary precautions when traveling, such as securing valuable items and avoiding public displays of wealth.

Health in Batanes

There are no major health risks in Batanes, but travelers should take precautionary measures such as using sunscreen and staying hydrated.

Getting to Batanes: Transportation Options and Logistics

Batanes is accessible by air and sea. Philippine Airlines and Skyjet offer daily flights from Manila. There are also weekly sea trips from Manila to Basco.

Airports Near Batanes

The Basco Airport is the only airport in Batanes and located in the capital town of Basco.

Bus Stations Near Batanes

There are no bus stations near Batanes, as it is accessible only by air or sea.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent motorcycles or bicycles to explore the island.

How to Get Around in Batanes

The primary mode of transportation in Batanes is the tricycle. Visitors can also rent motorcycles or bicycles to explore the island.

Where to Go Next from Batanes: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

The nearby destinations accessible from Batanes are Ilocos Norte, Cagayan, and Babuyan Islands. Visitors can also take a ferry from Batanes to Taiwan.

Conclusion

Batanes is a hidden gem in the Philippines, waiting to be explored. From natural wonders to rich culture and traditions, Batanes has something to offer to each traveler. With this comprehensive tour guide, planning your trip to Batanes will be a breeze. Make sure to visit and experience the beauty of this Southeast Asian paradise.

Basco Airport Basco Airport


    Basco