Cagayan Travel Guide

Discover the beauty of Cagayan, Philippines with our comprehensive travel guide. Learn about the best places to visit, food to try, culture and customs, and more!


A Comprehensive Tour Guide to Cagayan, Philippines

Located in Cagayan Valley, in Luzon, in the Philippines, Cagayan is a beautiful province that boasts of a rich history and culture. From stunning natural attractions to culturally significant historical sites, Cagayan has something for everyone. In this comprehensive tour guide, we will explore the best places to visit, the food and drink scene, local culture and customs, safety and health, and much more. So pack your bags, and get ready to discover the beauty of Cagayan!

Introduction to Cagayan

Cagayan is a province in the Philippines that is known for its stunning natural attractions and rich cultural heritage. With over 800,000 residents, Cagayan is a bustling province that is home to several ethnic groups, including Ilocano, Itawes, and Gaddang. The province is home to several historical sites, including the Callao Cave, which is known for its ancient limestone formations and the Redin-Magat River, which is a popular spot for outdoor adventures like kayaking and rafting.

List of Places to Visit in Cagayan

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Callao Cave - This cave is located in Peñablanca and is famous for its seven-chamber limestone formations. Visitors can take a boat ride to explore the cave.

  2. San Jacinto De Polonia Church - This church is located in Lal-lo and is known for its beautiful Baroque-style architecture. The church was built in the 1600s and is a popular pilgrimage site for Catholics.

  3. Museo Cagayan - This museum is located in Tuguegarao City and features artifacts and exhibits that showcase the history and culture of the province.

Natural Attractions of Cagayan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Palaui Island - This island is located off the coast of Santa Ana and is known for its stunning beaches and clear waters. It is also home to several hiking trails and attracts bird watchers from around the world.

  2. Callao Cave National Park - This park is located in Peñablanca and is home to the famous Callao Cave. Visitors can also explore the park’s hiking trails and take a dip in its natural pools.

  3. Pinacanauan River - This river is located in Tuguegarao City and is a popular spot for kayaking, fishing, and other water activities. Visitors can also explore its lush surroundings by hiking or biking along its banks.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cagayan

  1. Mount Cagua - This mountain is located in the municipality of Alcala and is a popular spot for hiking and camping.

  2. Magapit Suspension Bridge - This bridge is located in Lal-lo and is a popular spot for hiking and biking. It offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

  3. Tuguegarao City Bike Trail - This trail is located in Tuguegarao City and is perfect for beginners. It is a flat, paved trail that offers beautiful views of the city.

Best Things to Do in Cagayan: Activities and Tours

  1. River Rafting on the Redin-Magat River - This river is known for its rapids and is a popular spot for outdoor adventurers.

  2. Beach Hopping on Palaui Island - This island is home to several stunning beaches that offer crystal-clear waters.

  3. Caving at Callao Cave - Explore the cave’s seven chambers and witness the stunning limestone formations inside.

Week-Long Itinerary for Cagayan

Day Itinerary
1 Arrival in Tuguegarao City and check into hotel
2 Explore Tuguegarao City’s museums and historical sites
3 Take a day trip to Palaui Island and go beach hopping
4 Visit the Callao Cave National Park and go caving
5 Go hiking or biking on Mount Cagua or Magapit Suspension Bridge
6 Do an outdoor adventure like river rafting or kayaking
7 Shop for souvenirs and depart for the airport/bus station

Food and Drink Scene of Cagayan

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Pancit Batil Patong - This dish is a noodle soup that includes meat, vegetables, and egg. It is a popular breakfast dish in Cagayan.

  2. Inabraw - This dish is a soup that has bitter melon as its main ingredient. It is usually served with fish or meat and is a staple in Cagayan cuisine.

  3. Buko Juice - This refreshing drink is made from young coconut and is perfect for hot days.

Local Beverages

  1. Arak - This is a popular alcoholic drink in Cagayan that is made from sugar cane.

  2. Bugnay Wine - This is a sweet wine made from the bugnay fruit.

  3. Kapeng Barako - This is a strong coffee that is grown in the region and is known for its bold flavor.

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

  1. Hotel Joselina - This hotel is located in Tuguegarao City and offers modern amenities and affordable rates.

  2. Casa Consuelo - This guesthouse is located in Santa Ana and offers stunning beachfront views and comfortable accommodations.

  3. Palm Grove Island Resort - This resort is located on Palaui Island and is perfect for those looking for a luxurious stay.

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

  1. Abel Iloko - This is a type of traditional Philippine fabric that is woven by hand. It is perfect for making clothing or home decor items.

  2. Chicharon - This is a type of pork crackling that is a popular snack in Cagayan.

  3. Bugnay Wine - This sweet wine is the perfect souvenir to bring back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Cagayan

The people of Cagayan are known for their warm hospitality and strong sense of community. Religion plays a significant role in the culture of the province, and Catholicism is the dominant religion here. Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs and dress appropriately when visiting religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Cagayan

The best time to visit Cagayan is from December to April, when the weather is dry and pleasant. The summer months from May to June can be hot and humid, while the rainy season from July to November can bring heavy rains and typhoons.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cagayan

Do:

  1. Respect local customs and traditions.

  2. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

  3. Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  1. Disrespect local religion and customs.

  2. Wear revealing clothing in public.

  3. Litter or damage natural attractions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Cagayan

Cagayan is a relatively safe province, and serious crime is rare. However, visitors should take precautionary measures like avoiding deserted areas at night and keeping their valuables safe.

Health in Cagayan

Visitors should ensure that they have up-to-date vaccinations before traveling to the Philippines. It is also advisable to use insect repellent to avoid mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever. Visitors should also be aware of the risk of sunstroke and stay hydrated during hot weather.

Getting to Cagayan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Cagayan

The nearest airport to Cagayan is the Tuguegarao Airport, which is located in Tuguegarao City. It is serviced by several domestic airlines, including Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines.

Bus Stations Near Cagayan

Several major bus companies service the province, including Victory Liner and Five Star Bus. Buses can be taken from Manila or nearby cities like Baguio or Vigan.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or hire a private driver to explore the province.

How to Get Around in Cagayan

Jeepneys and tricycles are the primary modes of transportation in Cagayan. Visitors can also rent a car or take a taxi.

Where to Go Next from Cagayan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Batanes Islands - This group of islands is located northeast of Cagayan and is known for its stunning landscapes and unique culture.

  2. Ilocos Norte - This province is located south of Cagayan and is known for its beautiful beaches and historical sites.

  3. Kalinga - This province is located west of Cagayan and is known for its traditional tattoo culture and beautiful rice terraces.

Conclusion

Cagayan is a beautiful province that offers a diverse range of attractions and activities for visitors. From stunning natural attractions and outdoor adventures to culturally significant historical sites and delicious cuisine, there is something for everyone in Cagayan. So pack your bags, and get ready to discover the beauty of this wonderful province!

Basilica of Our Lady of Piat in Piat, Cagayan Basilica of Our Lady of Piat in Piat, Cagayan The Malaueg Church in Rizal, Cagayan The Malaueg Church in Rizal, Cagayan


    Tuguegarao