Travel Guide to Batanes: 5-Day Itinerary + Must-Visit Spots

 

Planning a trip to Batanes? Here’s a 5-day Batanes itinerary that covers everything you need- North and South Batan tour, 2-day Itbayat trip, travel tips and more. This guide will help you plan an unforgettable visit to the northernmost province of the Philippines.

WHY VISIT BATANES?

Batanes is so peaceful and picturesque, it feels like stepping into the postcard. Tucked in the northernmost tip of the country, Batanes is described as ‘where the sky meets the sea’. Picture a day so perfect- a place quiet as a nun’s face, lake that like silver threads ran through the green and gold of pasture lands, breeze soft as music she spoke and cliffs as breathtaking as a panoramic view. Batanes is an isle of Paradise, fair as gem- the beauty of its quiet life is like a rose in blowing.

Batanes, the home of the Ivatan people, is a beautiful and culturally rich place. Time appears to slow down there, honesty shops are still thriving, and visitors depart with their hearts full, and their camera rolls full. Batanes offers the vacation you didn't realize you wanted, whether your goals are unadulterated beauty, cultural immersion, or isolation.

HOW TO GET TO BATANES

The best way to get to Batanes is by flying from Clark International Airport to Basco Airport. If you’re coming from Manila, a bus-ride will take you to Clark in 2-3 hours.

5- DAY BATANES ITINERARY

Day 1: Arrival in Batanes + North Batan Tour

After landing in Basco, check in at Residencia du Basco. Then, begin your North Batan tour, which highlights the natural beauty and historical landmarks of Basco.

Top Places to Visit in North Batan:

Valugan Boulder Beach, Japanese Tunnel, Mt. Carmel Stone Chapel

• ·        Mt. Carmel Chapel (Tukon Church) – A peaceful hilltop chapel with panoramic views.
• ·        PAGASA Weather Station – Offers a wide view of the coastline and rolling hills.
• ·        Didawid Idiang – Ancient Ivatan fortress (viewing only).
• ·        Japanese Tunnel – A short WWII-era tunnel with historical significance.
• ·        Valugan Boulder Beach – A beach covered in smooth volcanic boulders.
• ·        Vayang Rolling Hills – Iconic postcard views of endless grassy slopes and grazing cows.
• ·        Naidi Lighthouse – Best place to catch a Batanes sunset.
• ·        Basco Cathedral – Historic church in the heart of Basco town.

Naidi Lighthouse, Baco Cathedral, Didawid Idiang

🍽️ Dinner Recommendation: Try Ivatan dishes at Jessica’s Place.

Must-Try Ivatan Food:

• ·        Uved – Banana trunk meatballs, packed with flavor.
• ·        Luñis – Ivatan-style pork adobo, best with turmeric rice.

Day 2: Boat Ride to Itbayat + Afternoon Tour

Take an early boat (about 2.5 hours) from Basco Port to Itbayat. This trip is for the daring; pack motion sickness medication and be ready for large waves.

Explore Itbayat's unspoiled cliffs and sceneries in the afternoon. (Stay tuned for a future blog article where we'll go over the entire Itbayat travel guide.)

Day 3: Full-Day Itbayat Tour

Explore Itbayat Island's unadulterated, untamed beauty. Connecting with nature and local culture is the main goal of this day, which offers peaceful seaside vistas, traditional towns, and prehistoric cave.

Day 4: Back to Basco + Café Chill

Ride the boat back to Basco in the morning and take the afternoon easy. Enjoy some downtime with a cup of coffee and support local artisans.

Little Cafe Batanes

Where to Go:

• ·        Lunch at Octagon Bed and Dine
• ·        Little Café Batanes – Great coffee, warm vibe, and local pastries.
• ·        Creative Hub Batanes – A cozy spot showcasing Ivatan creativity, crafts, and storytelling.
• ·        Dinner at Bunker’s Bistro

Creative Hub

Day 5: South Batan Tour + Flight Back

Save the best views for last with a South Batan Island tour. This is where you’ll find the most photographed places in Batanes.

Top Places to Visit in South Batan:

Miraculous Medal Chapel, Alapad Hills, Stone House

• ·        Racuh a Payaman (Marlboro Country) – Sweeping hills, blue seas, and free-roaming cows.
• ·        Alapad Hills & Rock Formation – Breathtaking cliffs, “Blow Ur Horn” signs, and dramatic scenery.
• ·        LORAN Station – A scenic viewpoint with WWII history.
• ·        Madangay Hills – Rolling terrain with postcard views.
• ·        Miraculous Medal Chapel – A peaceful roadside chapel.
• ·        House of Dakay – The oldest surviving stone house in Batanes.
• ·        San Carlos Borromeo Church (Mahatao Church) – A well-preserved Spanish-era church.
• ·        Blank Book Archive – Leave your thoughts behind in this interactive gallery of blank books.
• ·        Honesty Coffee Shop – No cashier, no fuss — just pure trust.

Mahatao Church, Honesty Store, House of Dakay

Blow UR Horn sign in Alapad

• ✈️ Flight back to Manila via Clark Airport in the afternoon.

FAQs and Travel Tips

How much should I budget for 5 days in Batanes?

Approx. PHP 15,000 to PHP 25,000, depending on your accommodation, food choices, and whether you're traveling solo or with a group. Airfare is around 5K-9K.

 

Best time to visit?

March to June is ideal. Typhoon season begins in July, and boat trips to Itbayat can be canceled.

 

What should I pack?

Light clothes, a windbreaker, sunblock, insect repellent, and motion sickness meds (especially for the Itbayat boat ride). Also, bring cash — ATMs are limited and sometimes offline.

 

Is there internet?

Signal is intermittent in some areas. Some hotels and cafes have Wi-Fi but consider it a digital detox destination.

 

Is Batanes solo-traveler friendly?

Absolutely. Locals are welcoming, and tours can be arranged with other travelers to save costs. It is highly encouraged to get a tour guide when visiting the many scenic spots of Batanes.

 

Pro-tips:

• ·        Book early! Flights and accommodations are limited. Mag-abang ng seat sale para tipid!
• ·        Be respectful. The Ivatan culture is built on simplicity, honesty, and community.
• ·        Don’t rush. Batanes is best enjoyed slowly—allow yourself to soak in its beauty and silence.

 

I WILL BE BACK!

Batanes isn't just a destination; it's a feeling—of awe, serenity, and quiet joy. In a world that moves too fast, it reminds us that there’s beauty in stillness and meaning in simplicity.

So go ahead, take that trip. Let the rolling hills, whispering winds, and honest hearts of Batanes show you what it truly means to travel with soul.

Stay tuned for our full Itbayat feature.

Huge thanks to the Tourism Promotions Board for inviting me on the Batanes Local Tourism and Marketing Workshop.

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