Hero image of Batanes Islands in Cagayan Valley, Philippines
Destinations Cagayan Valley

Batanes Islands

Best Time Dec - May
Budget ₱₱₱
Difficulty Easy

About Batanes Islands

Batanes is the northernmost province of the Philippines, offering scenery unlike anywhere else in the country. Often compared to New Zealand or Scotland, it features rolling green hills, dramatic cliffs, and traditional Ivatan stone houses. The province consists of three inhabited islands: Batan, Sabtang, and Itbayat. Batan offers the main tourist sites including the Basco Lighthouse and Vayang Rolling Hills. Sabtang showcases well-preserved stone houses and white sand beaches. Itbayat is more rugged and adventurous. The Ivatans are known for their resilience and honesty. The "Honesty Coffee Shop" is a famous testament to the local culture.

Highlights

  • Basco Lighthouse
  • Vayang Rolling Hills
  • Valugan Boulder Beach
  • Traditional Stone Houses in Sabtang
  • Honesty Coffee Shop

Trip Essentials

Best Time Dec - May
Budget ₱₱₱
Difficulty Easy
Nature Culture History Landscapes
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Batanes Islands photography - Shot 2

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Batanes Islands photography - Shot 3

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Batanes Islands photography - Shot 4

Suggested Itinerary

1
✈️
08:00

Arrival

Arrival at Basco Airport and check-in

🌴
14:00

Vayang Rolling Hills

Sunset view of the rolling hills and West Philippine Sea

🏄
16:00

Basco Lighthouse

Visit the iconic lighthouse at Naidi Hills

2
🌴
09:00

Chawa View Deck

Panoramic view of the cliffs and sea

🌴
11:00

Racuh a Payaman

Also known as Marlboro Country, expansive pasturelands

🍽️
13:00

Honesty Coffee Shop

Self-service coffee shop showcasing Ivatan honesty

3
✈️
06:00

Faluwa Ride

Boat ride to Sabtang Island

🏄
09:00

Chavayan Village

Visit traditional stone houses

🌴
11:00

Morong Beach

Visit the natural stone arch

Location

Practical Information

Flights to Basco (BSO) are available from Manila via Philippine Airlines or Clark via Sunlight Air.

Homestays and lodges in Basco are the most common. Luxury options include Fundacion Pacita.

Weather is unpredictable. Bring windbreakers and motion sickness medicine for the faluwa ride.

Travel Tips

packing

Pack for Tropical Weather

Lightweight, breathable clothing is essential. Don't forget swimwear, a quick-dry towel, and a light rain jacket for sudden showers.

transport

Using Tricycles

Tricycles are the most common local transport. Negotiate the fare before getting in, or ask a local for the standard rate to your destination.

budget

Cash is King

While major cities accept cards, many islands and rural areas rely on cash. Always carry small bills (20s, 50s, 100s) for small purchases.

safety

Hydration Safety

Stick to bottled or purified water. Avoid tap water and ice cubes in street stalls unless you are sure they are made from purified water.

cultural

Filipino Hospitality

Filipinos are incredibly friendly. A smile goes a long way. "Salamat" means thank you and is always appreciated.

packing

Sun Protection

The sun can be very strong. Bring high SPF reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself during island hopping.