Cagayan Valley Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, food and drink scene, cultural attractions, safety tips, and transportation options in Cagayan Valley, Philippines.


Introduction to Cagayan Valley

Cagayan Valley is a region in the northern part of Luzon, Philippines. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage and vibrant food and drink scene. Visitors to Cagayan Valley can enjoy a range of outdoor adventures, historical attractions, and delicious local cuisine.

List of Places to Visit in Cagayan Valley

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Callao Cave - Part of the Peñablanca Protected Landscape and Seascape, the cave is famous for its seven chambers and limestone formations.
  2. Basilica Minore of Our Lady of Piat - A holy site for Catholics, the basilica holds the image of Our Lady of Piat, the patroness of Cagayan Valley.
  3. Saint James the Apostle Parish Church - A 17th-century church in Piat, Cagayan, known for its Baroque architecture.
  4. Museum of Northern Philippines - A museum in Tuguegarao that showcases the cultural and historical heritage of the region.
  5. The Cagayan Provincial Museum and Historical Research Center - A museum in Tuguegarao that displays artifacts and memorabilia related to the history and culture of Cagayan Valley.

Natural Attractions of Cagayan Valley: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Sierra Madre Mountains - A mountain range that offers breathtaking views and opportunities for hiking and camping.
  2. Cape Engaño Lighthouse - Located in Palaui Island, the lighthouse offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
  3. Pinacanauan River - One of the cleanest and longest rivers in the Philippines, the Pinacanauan River offers kayaking and bamboo rafting opportunities.
  4. Palaui Island - An unspoiled island with stunning beaches and diverse wildlife.
  5. Calayan Island - A hidden gem with untouched white beaches, hidden lagoons, and majestic rock formations.
  6. Anguib Beach - One of the most beautiful beaches in the Philippines, Anguib Beach offers clear blue waters, powdery white sand, and a peaceful ambiance.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cagayan Valley

  1. Mt. Amuyao - A mountain located in Ifugao and Apayao, offering a challenging but rewarding climb.
  2. Mt. Ugo - A popular hiking destination in Benguet, offering scenic views of the Cordillera Mountains.
  3. Callao Cave - A popular destination for spelunking and cave exploration.
  4. Batanes Islands - A group of islands that offers a range of hiking opportunities amid beautiful landscapes and rich culture.

Best Things to Do in Cagayan Valley: Activities and Tours

  1. Food and Heritage Tour - A guided tour that takes visitors through local markets and cultural landmarks.
  2. Eco-Tourism Adventure - A tour that allows visitors to experience the region’s natural beauty through hiking, kayaking, and other outdoor activities.
  3. Cultural Immersion Tour - A tour that offers an immersive experience through unique cultural activities such as loom weaving, pottery, and bamboo craft making.
  4. Island Hopping - A tour that takes visitors to the beautiful islands around Cagayan Valley, such as Palaui and Calayan.

Week-Long Itinerary for Cagayan Valley

Day Activity
1 Arrival in Cagayan Valley & exploration of Tuguegarao
2 Visit to Callao Cave and Siwangag Cove
3 Tour of Palaui Island
4 Trek to Mt. Amuyao
5 Cultural immersion tour in Bugatay Village
6 Island hopping in the Batanes Islands
7 Departure from Cagayan Valley

Food and Drink Scene of Cagayan Valley

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Pancit Batil Patung - A Cagayan Valley specialty that consists of stir-fried noodles, beef, and egg with a flavorful rich broth.
  2. Pinakbet - A vegetable stew made with shrimp paste and mixed veggies like squash, eggplant, and okra.
  3. Bangus (Milkfish) - A local fish that’s usually grilled or served as fried. It is considered one of the national dishes of the Philippines.

Local Beverages

  1. Tupig - A traditional Filipino rice cake made with coconut milk and wrapped in banana leaves.
  2. Atchara - A sweet and sour side dish made with pickled papaya and vegetables.

Where to Stay in Cagayan Valley: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Hotel Lorita - A hotel located in the heart of Tuguegarao City that offers comfortable rooms and great amenities.
  2. Pamulinawen Hotel - A hotel in Laoag City that offers spacious rooms and a restaurant serving local cuisine.
  3. Villa Diana Hotel - A hotel in Santa Ana, Cagayan, that offers a tropical vibe and easy access to beaches and other attractions.
  4. Palaui Island Homestay - A homestay located in Palaui Island that offers a unique local experience and delicious home-cooked meals.

What to Buy in Cagayan Valley: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Handwoven Textiles - The region is known for its vibrant and intricately woven textiles, such as the Ilocano abel and the Gaddang ginamat.
  2. Pottery - Clay pots, vases, and other pottery products made in the region are known for their unique designs and high quality.
  3. Cagayan Wine - The region produces locally made wine from fruits such as duhat, bignay, and balimbing.

Local Culture and Customs of Cagayan Valley

The people of Cagayan Valley are known for being hospitable and friendly. They have a rich cultural heritage, evident in their traditional dances and colorful festivals such as the Piat Sambali Festival, Kombira Festival, and Pancit Batil Patung Festival. Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs and traditions, and to immerse themselves in the local culture.

Best Time to Visit Cagayan Valley

The best time to visit Cagayan Valley is during the dry season, from November to April. The weather is mild, and outdoor activities are more enjoyable during this time. Visitors may also get to witness some of the region’s colorful festivals during this season.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cagayan Valley

Do:

  1. Respect local customs and traditions.
  2. Try local food and drink.
  3. Wear comfortable clothing and footwear for outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  1. Litter or damage natural and cultural landmarks.
  2. Disrespect people or their customs and traditions.
  3. Wear revealing clothing in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Cagayan Valley

Cagayan Valley is a generally safe region, but it is always advisable to take necessary precautions. Travelers are advised to stay alert and be aware of their surroundings at all times, especially when visiting crowded places.

Health in Cagayan Valley

Visitors are advised to take necessary vaccinations before visiting Cagayan Valley. Malaria is prevalent in some parts of the region, so it is advisable to take mosquito repellents and wear long clothing to avoid mosquito bites.

Getting to Cagayan Valley: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Cagayan Valley

The closest airports to Cagayan Valley are Tuguegarao Airport, Laoag International Airport, and Cauayan Airport.

Bus Stations Near Cagayan Valley

Several bus companies offer routes to and from Cagayan Valley. There are also vans and jeepneys available for transportation within the region.

Other Options

Visitors may also choose to rent a car or a motorcycle to explore the region at their own pace.

How to Get Around in Cagayan Valley

The most common modes of transportation in Cagayan Valley are tricycles, jeepneys, and buses. Renting a car or a motorcycle is also a good option for those who prefer to explore the region at their own pace.

Where to Go Next from Cagayan Valley: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Batanes Islands - A group of islands known for its breathtaking landscapes, unique culture, and traditional Ivatan houses.
  2. Ilocos Norte - A province known for its stunning beaches, historical landmarks, and delicious local cuisine.
  3. Isabela - A province known for its rice terraces, hot springs, and beautiful national parks.
  4. Tuguegarao City - The regional center of Cagayan Valley, Tuguegarao City is known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant food scene.

Conclusion

Cagayan Valley is a gem that offers a mix of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant food and drink scene. Visitors to this region will find a vast range of attractions and activities that cater to every interest. From hiking and outdoor adventures to cultural immersion tours and local food experiences, Cagayan Valley has something for everyone.



    Cagayan
    Isabela (province)
    Nueva Vizcaya