Batanes: A Paradise of Rolling Hills and Breathtaking Views

Batan Island Travel Guide: Must-Visit Spots and Essential Travel Tips

Batanes, the northernmost province of the Philippines, is a destination unlike any other. With its vast rolling hills, dramatic coastlines, and rich cultural heritage, it offers an unparalleled travel experience. This article provides an in-depth look at the top attractions on Batan Island, the province’s main island, along with useful travel information for a seamless visit.

Travel Tips for Visiting Batanes

✔ Best Time to Visit – The dry season (November to May) provides the best weather conditions.
✔ How to Get There – Direct flights to Basco are available from Manila and Clark.
✔ Getting Around – Options include renting bicycles, motorcycles, or hiring tricycles and tour vans.
✔ Accommodation – Basco offers a range of homestays, inns, and boutique hotels.
✔ Local Etiquette – Visitors are encouraged to respect Ivatan culture, dispose of trash properly, and adhere to local regulations.

Batanes offers a truly unique travel experience, where nature and culture harmoniously coexist. Whether exploring its rolling hills, historical landmarks, or charming local spots, a visit to Batan Island is an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Philippines’ northern frontier.

Batan Island: The Heart of Batanes

Batanes is the smallest province in the Philippines, with a population of just 18,831. It consists of 10 islands, only three of which are inhabited: Batan, Itbayat, and Sabtang. This guide focuses on Batan Island, where the capital, Basco, is located.

Visitors to Batan Island typically explore it through the North Batan Tour and South Batan Tour, which cover the island’s most remarkable landscapes and cultural sites.

Top Attractions in Batan Island

North Batan Tour (Half-Day Tour)

1. Basco Lighthouse – An ideal vantage point offering panoramic views of the town, surrounding mountains, and the sea.

2. Rolling Hills – Expansive, grassy hills with breathtaking ocean views, perfect for sightseeing and photography.

3. Boulder Bay (Valugan Boulder Beach) – A shoreline covered with smooth boulders, shaped over time by powerful waves.

4. Japanese Tunnel – A historic underground passage used by Japanese forces during World War II.

5. PAGASA Tukon Radar Station – A weather station that provides a 360-degree view of Batanes.

6. Tukon Chapel (Mt. Carmel Chapel) – A stone chapel inspired by traditional Ivatan houses.

7. Basco Church (Cathedral of Santo Domingo de Guzman) – The oldest church in Batanes, dating back to 1783.

8. Alapad Hills and Rock Formation – Unique geological formations with stunning coastal views.

South Batan Tour (Full-Day Tour)

1. Chawa View Deck – A coastal viewpoint with a stairway leading down to the sea.

2. Mahatao Boat Shelter – A protected harbor designed for Ivatan fishing boats.

3. San Carlos Borromeo Church & Blank Book Archive – A UNESCO-listed church where visitors can leave personal messages in blank books.

4. Huhmurun Blue Lagoon & White Beach – Hidden coves with clear waters and white sand.

5. House of Dakay – The oldest surviving Ivatan stone house, built in 1887.

6. Honesty Store – A unique shop that operates on an honor system, with no cashier present.

7. St. Joseph Church in Ivana – A historic church located near the Honesty Store.

8. Muchung Hill & Madangay Hill – Green hilltops with unobstructed views of the ocean.

9. Marlboro Hills (Racuh A Payaman) – One of the most picturesque spots in Batanes, characterized by rolling grasslands.

10. National Museum of Batanes – A museum showcasing the rich culture and history of the Ivatans.

11. Blow UR Horn Sign – A well-known road sign in Batanes, adding a touch of local charm.

Additional Notable Attractions

• Marlboro Country (Racuh A Payaman) – Known for its expansive rolling hills and breathtaking vistas.

• Alapad Hills and Rock Formation – Offers unique geological formations and stunning views of the coastline.

• Valugan Boulder Beach – A remarkable shoreline covered in smooth boulders, shaped over time by strong waves.

For a more detailed guide, watch the full tour here at our YouTube channel

NOTICE: This article serves as a general guide for informational purposes only and may not reflect the latest updates. Please verify details with the respective establishments. Some links may be affiliate links that help support our website. Thank you for your support!