Breathtaking Batanes (North Batan Tour)

Blog Updated on April 24, 2026 by Aldrick ‘chiki’ Agpaoa

Being the 82nd province in my personal quest for #Project82PH, Batanes is really a dream destination for me (and for many others, too!) Comprising 6 municipalities nestled in 3 inhabited islands, this archipelagic province is not just breathtaking – it is a paradise waiting to be discovered! Here are some of the places I have been to during my North Batan Tour.

Read also: Breathtaking Batanes Travel Guide

Here are some of the places I have personally been to in NORTH BATAN when I visited my 82nd province:

Places to See and Things to Do in North Batan Island, Batanes

BASCO

Basco Airport

Basco Airport (IATA: BSO) is the main and fastest gateway to the province of Batanes. This 1244-meter runway airport mainly connects to Clark International Airport (CRK) and other parts of mainland Luzon (such as: Tuguegarao, Binalonan, and San Miguel, Bulacan). It also has regular trips to the island of Itbayat.

Tukon Chapel (Mt. Carmel Chapel)

One of the picturesque chapels in North Batan (Basco), this community-built chapel is also one of the popular places of worship in the province. With a perfect backdrop of Mount Iraya, Tukon Chapel sits beautifully on top of a hill, surrounded by endless greens.

Tukon Radar Station (PAGASA Weather Station)

The Tukon Radar Station was destroyed by several typhoons (notably typhoon Ferdie in 2016 and other subsequent typhoons). Given its present state, it still gives visitors a nice panoramic view of North Batan Island. It is often referred to as the “last weather station in the North.”

Didawud Idjang

Also referred to as “North Idjang” or “Basco Idjang,” Didawud Idjang is an ancient fortress settled by the Ivatans during wars. This old settlement, situated about 100 meters from the ground, served as a citadel and safe space for native Ivatans in times of need.

Dipnaysuhuan Japanese Tunnel

The Dipnaysuhuan Japanese Tunnel tunnel served as a nice vantage point for the Japanese forces during World War II and was also used to store water and armaments. Carved by Ivatans by force, this tunnel currently has five discovered entries / exits, though some locals believe there could be more that is yet to be discovered.

Valugan Boulder Beach

Valugan Boulder Beach is one of the unique shorelines in North Batan. In Ivatan dialect, “Valugan” means “East” as it is located on the eastern side of Batan Island. Since the island is volcanic in nature, these boulders are evidence of the activity of nearby Mount Iraya for centuries past, as early as 325 B.C. The three-kilometer stretch is locally known as “Chanpan” and is considered as a sacred fishing port of the Ivasay people during the fishing season called “Paypatawen” which happens during March to May.

Vayang Rolling Hills

If you are in for a road trip to the “end of the Philippine Road,” you would want to pay a visit along the Vayang Rolling Hills in North Batan (Basco). This panoramic viewpoint features winding roads and endless greens and is the point where you will see the end of the Philippine road – literally a cut road section where it abruptly stops at one point and the trail continues as a dust road leading to private farmlands. The rolling hills are also home to countless cows and other agricultural animals and it also gives you a nice view of the West Philippine Sea and the nearby Dinem Island and Itbayat Island.

Basco Lighthouse and Naidi Hill

The Basco Lighthouse and Naidi Hill is also one of the most picturesque tourist attractions in your North Batan tour. Popular as a wedding venue and reception, the lighthouse is strategically located on one of Batan Island’s highest points, giving fishermen a guiding light during fishing season. It overlooks the capital town of Basco and the Basco Bay. This is also a must-go place to view the island sunset!

Welcome to Basco Sign

Welcome to Basco Sign serves as the entry point into the main town of Basco in the island of Batan. This welcome arch is also a popular sunset spot especially on a clear day.

Basco Plaza

Basco Plaza is the main public space area in the capital town of Basco. It comprises a public oval for public events and fairs and the public park mainly for recreation. It is also adjacent to the Batanes Provincial Capitol and Basco Municipal Hall.

Kilometer Zero (Batan Island)

This landmark serves as the reference point in the island of Batan. The Kilometer Zero Sign is found between the Batanes Provincial Capitol and the Basco Municipal Hall.

Batanes Provincial Capitol

The Batanes Provincial Capitol is the seat of the province’s government. Situated right at the heart of Batan Island, in the municipality of Basco, this is the northernmost provincial capitol in the Philippines.

Cathedral of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception

Also known as the Basco Cathedral, the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception is the main and biggest place of Christian worship in Batanes (part of the North Batan Tour). It is also dedicated to Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, who is the province’s patron saint.

Tawsen Souvenir Shop

Unknown to many but Tawsen Souvenir Shop is one of the nicest and cheapest places to buy Batanes souvenirs. From local delicacies to native products like bags, shirts, accessories, ref magnets, keychains, mugs, and other items, this place has got it. It basically is a one-stop shop when looking for a remembrance from Batanes.

Where to Eat in North Batan, Batanes

BASCO

Beehan Food Enterprise

One of the most popular restaurants in Basco is Beehan Food Enterprise as it offers typical Filipino dishes and popular Ivatan dishes such as Luñis, Uved Balls, and their signature Paco Salad. I also tried their Halo-Halo during my visit.

Centi’s Honesty Store

Centi’s Honesty Store is just a typical sari-sari store located just along the viewdeck in Valugan Boulder Beach. It offers some basic snacks and drinks when you are visiting the boulder beach.

Chillout TeaZone Batanes

If you are a sweet tooth like me, Chillout TeaZone Batanes has sweet drinks such as multi-flavored Milk Teas and Frappes. It is a cute and refreshing cafe just near the port area and public plaza.

Cafe Pampayukay

One of the most popular cafes in Basco is Cafe Pampayukay. Its rustic vibe fills up the space and the atmosphere is just vibing. They offer sweet drinks, finger food, burgers, and ‘unli rice’ offering good for either 1 or 2 persons.

Vunong at Jessica’s Place

If you want to experience an authentic Vunong serving, Vunong at Jessica’s Place is one of the places that serve this specialty. Their set meal is made of typical vunong servings such as Turmeric Rice, Bulalo or Nilagang Baka, Luñis, Uvud Balls, Ivatan Bistek, Fried Fish, Pako Salad, and Maruya or Camote Fritters.

This set meal is then wrapped and served in kabaya leaves. Vunong at Jessica’s Place is strictly by reservation only. You can contact Ms. Jessica Salamagos at +63 999 991 9447 or message them on their Facebook Page “Vunong Dinette – Batanes” to secure your reservations.

Where to Stay in Basco, Batanes

BASCO

Time Travel Lodge

When I visited Batanes, my guide, Kuya Dennix, billeted me at Time Travel Lodge, just around 2 blocks from Basco Airport. This simple hotel is surprising because the room is so wide that it can fit around 3 people in one regular room. The hotel also has fast Wi-Fi connection, so that is a win since Basco proper has a weak reception signal for both Globe and Smart users.

Sample Itinerary when Visiting Batanes

If you have the luxury of time when visiting Batanes, a 5-day, 4-night itinerary would work with a lot of rest time / free time. Here is a sample 5-day itinerary to all the 6 municipalities of Batanes (the itinerary I followed when I visited). *Note that there are some places that are not on the list as I have not visited them personally (a sign for me to come back! 🙂)

Day 1

North Batan Tour

BASCO

*check-in at accommodation

*Brunch – Beehan Food Enterprise (must try: Meal Set A)

*Tukon Chapel (Mt. Carmel Chapel)

*Tukon Radar Station (PAGASA Weather Station)

*Fundacion Pacita

*Didawud Idjang

*Dipnaysuhuan Japanese Tunnel

*Valugan Boulder Beach

*Basco Rolling Hills

*Naidi Basco Lighthouse

*Dinner – Shanedel’s Inn and Cafe

*Souvenir Buying – Tawsen Souvenir Shop

Day 2

Sabtang Island Tour

*Port of Sabtang

*San Vicente Ferrer Church

*Chamantad-Tiñan Viewpoint

*St. Thomas Aquinas Chapel

*Savidug Stone Houses

*Morong Beach

*Mayahao Arch

*Nakabuang Cave

*Lunch – Pananayan Canteen and Catering Services

*Sabtang Lighthouse

Day 3

South Batan Tour

BASCO

*Welcome to Basco Sign

*Basco Plaza

*Basco Municipal Hall

*Batanes Provincial Capitol

*Kilometer Zero (Batan Island)

*Cathedral of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception (Basco Cathedral)

*Lunch – Cafe Pampayukay

MAHATAO

*Chawa Viewdeck

*Mahatao Shelter Port

*San Carlos Borromeo Church (Mahatao Church) – try writing at the “Blank Page Archives”

*Huhmurun Blue Lagoon

*Maydangeb White Beach

*Toblerone Hills

*Lunch – Marconine’s Food Catering

*Racuh-a Payaman (Marlboro Country)

*Tayid Lighthouse

IVANA

*Welcome Ivana Sign

*Bridge of San Jose (Old Spanish Bridge)

*House of Dakay

*San Jose el Obrero Church

*Ivana Lighthouse

*Brunch / Snack – Honesty Coffee Shop – also souvenir buying

*Radiwan Port

UYUGAN

*Welcome to Uyugan Sign

*Mutchung Viewpoint – “I Love Uyugan”

*Our Lady of Miraculous Medal Parish Church

*Alapad Hills and Rock Formation – Famous “Blow UR Horn Sign”

*National Museum – Batanes

Day 4 and 5

Itbayat Tour

*Valanga Port

*Tachimus Port

*Famous Windswept Arius Tree

*Torongan Cliff and Torongan Cave

*Cavaywan Water Reservoir

*Mauyen Cliff and Port

*Itbayat Airport

*Lunch and Dinner – Pagsit Farm

*Itbayat View Deck – Mount Carabooban

*Rapang Cliff – try their “stone bells”

*St. Joseph Husband of Mary Chapel

*Itbayat Municipal Hall

*Umawen Arc

*There are a lot of food and accommodation options when visiting Batanes. Just ask your preferred tour guide where you want to stay and eat. It is also recommended that you have your own tour guide to accompany you throughout your visit to lessen the burden of paying all the necessary fees and to have a hassle-free trip! You can contact my guide, Kuya Dennix Ferido Cantor of Naidi Hills Tour Services (click on his name to direct you to his Facebook profile. Just tell him I referred him to you!) and have an amazing Batanes trip!

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*Note that the places, prices, and information written as of publication date and time are true and are given best during my visit. Changes may occur without prior notice. If you notice any changes to the information given above, you can e-mail me here so we can dish things up!*

We’re born to travel!