Batanes 2025 Budget Travel Guide: Most Beautiful Destination in the Philippines + Island Tour Vlog

Summary

Discover the hidden gem of the Philippines, Batanes, through this ultimate travel guide. From breathtaking rolling hills and dramatic cliffs to the unique beaches and rich culture, this compact province offers unforgettable adventures. Join Angelica and Eileen Wanders as they share budget-friendly tips, including affordable flights, local homestays, must-try authentic cuisine, and top activities like island hopping and visiting historic sites. Whether you’re an adventurer or a culture enthusiast, Batanes promises a memorable and scenic experience. Book your tours and get ready to explore this stunning destination!

Takeaways

• 😀 The smallest province in the Philippines, Batanes, offers breathtaking ocean views, dramatic cliffs, and a compact travel guide for adventure seekers.
• 😀 Philippine Airlines is the primary carrier to Batanes, but flights are expensive. Look for sales or try flights from Clark or Tuguegarao for cheaper options.
• 😀 The best time to visit Batanes is during the dry season (March to June) for clear skies and calm seas, while the rainy season (July to November) brings strong winds and potential cancellations.
• 😀 Staying in Basco is most convenient for first-time visitors, with a variety of accommodations ranging from budget homestays to high-end hotels.
• 😀 Budget travelers can opt for Iatan homestays, offering an authentic experience with prices as low as 500 pesos per night.
• 😀 The top things to do in Batanes include exploring the Rolling Hills, visiting unique beaches, island hopping to Sabtang and Itbayat Islands, and stepping back in time to explore historical sites.
• 😀 Batanes is famous for its scenic rolling hills, which are often compared to New Zealand's highlands, with the Malboro Hills offering postcard-worthy views.
• 😀 Beaches in Batanes, such as Valugan Boulder Beach and the Fountain of Youth, offer unique landscapes and peaceful, less touristy experiences.
• 😀 Island hopping is a must, with Sabtang Island’s famous Morong Beach and Itbayat Island’s rugged cliffs and mysterious caves standing out.
• 😀 The best food to try in Batanes is the traditional Iatan Kazin, including Vuno, a packed meal with beef, pork, fish, and UB meatballs, along with local turmeric rice and beef soup.
• 😀 If you're looking for a unique cultural experience, explore Batanes by renting bikes or motorbikes, or experience the traditional Iatan mode of transport, the Kontrá.

Q & A

What is Batanes known for?

Batanes is known for its breathtaking ocean views, dramatic cliffs, rolling hills, and unique beaches. It also offers a rich cultural heritage, with traditional Ivatan stone houses and local cuisine.

How can you get to Batanes from Manila?

The most convenient way to reach Batanes is by flying directly to Basco Airport. Philippine Airlines is the only airline offering flights from Manila, but flights are often expensive, ranging from 15,000 to 20,000 pesos. Cheaper alternatives include flying from Clark or Tuguegarao, but flights are generally costly.

What is the best time to visit Batanes?

The best time to visit Batanes is from March to June, during the dry season. The weather is ideal with clear skies, calm seas, and lush green landscapes. The rainy season from July to November brings strong winds and typhoons, while December to February is cooler but windy.

Where is the best place to stay in Batanes?

For first-time visitors, staying in Basco is the most convenient option, as it is close to the airport, restaurants, and tour agencies. Budget travelers can opt for Ivatan homestays, with prices ranging from 500 to 1,000 pesos per night, offering a cozy, local experience.

What are the must-visit spots in Batanes?

Must-visit spots in Batanes include the Rolling Hills of North Batan, Malboro Hills, Naidi Hills Lighthouse, Valugan Boulder Beach, the Fountain of Youth natural spring pool, Sabtang Island, and the historic Ivatan stone houses in villages like Savid and Chayan.

What makes the beaches of Batanes unique?

Batanes' beaches are unique due to their dramatic landscapes. For example, Valugan Boulder Beach is covered in large volcanic rocks, while the Fountain of Youth offers a tranquil spring pool with stunning views. The Hodon Blue Lagoon is a hidden gem with natural pools surrounded by cliffs.

What are some local dishes to try in Batanes?

Batanes' famous local dish is 'vuno,' a traditional packed meal wrapped in leaves, which includes beef, pork, fish, UB (banana stock meatballs), and turmeric rice. A popular restaurant serving this dish is Vong at Jessica’s Place, offering the meal for 400 pesos. Other local meals include organic Baco salad and Taiwanese pancakes.

How much does a typical Batanes tour cost?

A 4-day, 3-night budget-friendly private tour with Batanes Travel and Tours costs around 4,500 pesos per head for a joiner tour, including round-trip transfers, entrance fees, boat fees, meals, and a guide. Private tours are more expensive, but the price decreases with a larger group.

Can you explore Batanes independently?

Yes, you can explore Batanes independently. Renting a bike or motorbike is a great way to take in the scenic landscapes at your own pace. For a cultural experience, consider booking a Kon-TR, a local mode of transport that lets you explore Batanes while learning about Ivatan traditions.

What is the most popular restaurant in Batanes for ramen?

The most popular spot for ramen in Batanes is Nudes, known for its rich, flavorful ramen and quality sushi. It’s a must-visit for those craving authentic Japanese dishes.