Batanes
Where the Sky Meets the Sea
Overview
Batanes is the northernmost province of the Philippines, famous for its dramatic rolling hills, traditional Ivatan stone houses, and often compared to Ireland or New Zealand. This remote paradise offers unique culture, stunning landscapes, and an escape from modern life.
Batanes, officially the Province of Batanes, is an archipelagic province in the Philippines, administratively part of the Cagayan Valley region. It is the northernmost province in the Philippines, and the smallest, both in population and land area. The capital is Basco, located on the island of Batan, and is also the most populous municipality in the province.
Read more on WikipediaBatanes is the smallest and the northernmost province of the Philippines.
Top Attractions
Vayang Rolling Hills
Endless green hills overlooking the Pacific Ocean
Marlboro Country
Rolling grasslands resembling the American West
Sabtang Island
Traditional Ivatan houses and stone villages
Valugan Boulder Beach
Beach with giant boulders from Mt. Iraya eruptions
Naidi Hills Lighthouse
Lighthouse with panoramic views of Basco
Honesty Coffee Shop
Unmanned shop operating on honesty system
Chamantad-Tinyan Viewpoint
Stunning cliff viewpoint on Sabtang
Alapad Rock Formation
Dramatic rocks with crashing waves
Things to Do
North Batan Tour
Vayang Hills, Valugan Beach, Naidi Lighthouse
South Batan Tour
Marlboro Country, Alapad, Mahatao
Sabtang Island Day Trip
Stone houses, Chamantad viewpoint, beaches
Itbayat Island Trip
Most remote island, overnight required
Biking Tour
Rent a bike and explore at your own pace
Traditional Weaving
Learn Ivatan weaving from locals
Fishing with Locals
Experience traditional Ivatan fishing
Photo Gallery
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Explore DealsGetting There
- Philippine Airlines or SkyJet from Manila (limited flights)
- Book round-trip immediately - flights fill up fast
- No ferries - flights are the only option
Local Food
Uvud Balls
Meatballs made from pork and banana heart
Luñis
Flying fish cured in salt and dried
Coconut Crab
Local delicacy (seasonal, check availability)
Vunes
Local banana variety, try the chips
Where to Stay
Basco Town
₱1,500-5,000/nightMain town, most restaurants and services
Homestays
₱800-2,000/nightStay with Ivatan families for authentic experience
Fundacion Pacita
₱5,000-15,000/nightFamous hilltop boutique lodge with views
Sabtang Island
₱1,000-2,500/nightLimited options, usually day trip from Basco
Weather Forecast
Travel Tips
- •Book flights 2-3 months ahead - they sell out fast
- •Bring cash - no ATMs, limited card acceptance
- •Weather changes quickly - bring layers and rain gear
- •Respect local culture and ask permission for photos
- •Honesty shops operate on trust - pay what you take
- •Internet and mobile signal are limited
- •Register at the tourism office upon arrival
Best Time to Visit
Weather is unpredictable; flights often cancelled during typhoon season