Batanes

Where the Earth Meets the Sky

At the northernmost tip of the Philippines lies Batanes, a province where rolling hills, stone houses, and endless horizons define the landscape. Composed of ten islands, three of which are inhabited—Batan, Sabtang, and Itbayat—Batanes offers an experience like no other. Here, life moves with the rhythm of the wind and the waves. Simplicity is a way of life, and beauty is found in every quiet moment.

Culture, Cliffs, and Coastal Roads

Batan Island, home to the capital Basco, serves as the main entry point for travelers. A scenic loop around the island reveals some of Batanes’ most iconic sights. In North Batan, visit Valugan Boulder Beach, where massive boulders meet crashing waves beneath Mount Iraya. Stop at Basco Lighthouse, perched on Naidi Hills, and watch the sun dip into the horizon. In the town of Basco, the Mt. Carmel Chapel and Vayang Rolling Hills offer stunning views and a sense of calm rarely found elsewhere. South Batan is equally magical. The winding roads to Mahatao, Ivana, and Uyugan lead to old churches, scenic coves, and timeless Ivatan villages. Highlights include the San Carlos Borromeo Church, Honesty Coffee Shop, and the breathtaking view of the sea and cliffs from Alapad Rock Formation. The well-preserved House of Dakay, built in 1887, remains one of the oldest stone houses in the province.

Living Ivatan Heritage

A short boat ride from Ivana Port brings you to Sabtang Island, where time seems to stand still. Explore Savidug and Chavayan villages, known for their traditional stone houses, cobblestone streets, and vakul-wearing locals. The vakul is a traditional headgear made from vuyavuy palm fibers, worn by Ivatan women to protect them from sun and rain. Sabtang’s natural wonders are just as captivating. Morong Beach with its Ahaw Arch Rock Formation, and Tinyan Viewpoint, offer postcard-perfect coastal views. Life here is quiet, intimate, and deeply respectful of both culture and nature.

Remote and Untamed

For the truly adventurous, Itbayat, the largest and most remote of the inhabited islands, offers raw, rugged beauty. Reached by a boat ride from Basco or a small chartered flight, Itbayat is a raised coral island with jagged cliffs, sinkholes, and caves. Explore Torongan Cave, believed to be one of the first settlement sites of the Ivatans. Visit Rapang Cliff and the natural rock formations of Chinapoliran Port. Here, nature is vast, and the sense of isolation is profound.

A People of Resilience and Grace

The Ivatans, the indigenous people of Batanes, are known for their resilience, honesty, and deep connection to the land. Their stone houses with thick cogon roofs are built to withstand typhoons and earthquakes. Their values of community, simplicity, and respect for nature shine through in daily life. Visitors are warmly welcomed and often moved by the sincerity of local hospitality.

Experience Batanes

Whether you are gazing across wind-swept hills, walking through centuries-old villages, or watching the waves roll onto a rocky beach, Batanes reminds you that peace still exists. It is a place where tradition is preserved, nature is revered, and beauty is quiet but unforgettable. Come to Batanes not to escape, but to return to what matters most.