As I catch my first glimpse of the rugged rock formations, it feels like I’ve been transported from the bustling streets of Manila to a scene straight out of Jurassic Park, all in just a two-hour journey. Welcome to Batanes, the northernmost frontier of the Philippines, surrounded by nothing but vast ocean. The mountainous landscapes of the Batanes province remind me of the wild beauty of Scotland, but with a tropical twist – think palm trees and bicycle cabs adding to the charm. The peaceful atmosphere, breathtaking views, friendly locals, and the unique Batan culture and traditions instantly captured my heart in this small corner of the world.
Batanes is home to several honesty stores – shops where there are no staff, just a piggy bank for payments – reflecting the warm and laid-back vibe of the place. Having traveled extensively across Luzon and many major islands in the Visayas region, I can confidently say that Batanes has secured the top spot as my favorite destination in the Philippines.
Situated perfectly between Taiwan and Luzon, the main Philippine island, Batanes welcomes all visitors through its main gateway, Basco. This quaint town serves as the capital of the province and is home to around 8600 residents. Upon arrival at the tiny airport terminal, you’ll need to register and pay a 100 Philippine pesos tourist fee along with a 350 pesos environment fee. These fees are essential for the preservation and enhancement of Batanes’ rich natural and cultural heritage.
Exploring the main island of Batan is a must-do experience. As you traverse the narrow lanes, you’ll notice the abundance of sturdy stone houses crafted from limestone and coral. Given the frequent typhoons in this region, the Ivatan people, as the locals are known, have perfected the art of constructing resilient homes. While Basco itself may seem like a sleepy town, the real star here is nature.
Just a short distance from Basco lies the Basco Lighthouse, offering a stunning view of the coastal cliffs. To reach the lighthouse, you can arrange for a tricycle from Basco or ask your accommodation for assistance. Interestingly, Batanes had its own version of Uber before the ride-hailing service existed – by calling the ‘tricycle center’ Basco Toda at +63 929 703 8404, you can arrange for a tricycle to get around. Due to high fuel costs, tricycle drivers usually don’t roam aimlessly, so a phone call is necessary to secure a ride.
Apart from tricycles, there are other enjoyable ways to explore Batan Island. Renting a motorbike is a popular choice, although fuel prices here are notably higher than on larger Philippine islands. Some guesthouses on Batan also offer bicycle rentals, allowing you to leisurely explore the island at your own pace. Alternatively, you can opt to rent a tricycle with a driver for a more guided experience.
Leaving Basco behind, Batan Island unfolds its natural wonders. From the lush hills of Marlboro Country where cattle graze freely to the unique Valugan Boulder Beach with its polished volcanic stones, Batan promises a treasure trove of sights to behold.
Venturing to the charming island of Sabtang, located about 19 kilometers south of Basco, you can catch a ferry from a quay for a scenic 45-minute ride. Sabtang boasts the best-preserved traditional stone houses in the entire archipelago, particularly in the picturesque village of Chavayan. The island also features steep cliffs, scenic roads, and beautiful beaches like Morong Beach and the beach near Chavayan, perfect for a relaxing day by the clear waters.
Unlike Batan, public transport is scarce on Sabtang, but tricycles are available for hire to take you around the island. For a full day of sightseeing with a driver, you can expect to pay around 1500 pesos per vehicle, accommodating up to three passengers.
For a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, consider visiting Itbayat, the northernmost municipality of the Philippines. Itbayat, with its unique geological formations shaped by typhoons and volcanic activity, offers a rocky wonderland to explore. Accessible only by boat from Basco, Itbayat’s remote location and unpredictable weather conditions make it a challenging yet rewarding destination for intrepid travelers.
Once on Itbayat, don’t miss the opportunity to marvel at the views from Mount Karoboban, explore the mysterious Torongan Cave, and embark on a thrilling hike to the breathtaking Rapang Cliffs. Guides are available for hire at 1000 pesos per group for the hike to Rapang Cliffs, as the trail crosses private property.
Despite its remote location, Itbayat offers a unique experience, albeit at a higher cost due to limited resources. A day’s rental of a tricycle will set you back 3000 pesos, while a motorbike with a driver
