How To Get There?

Since Batanes is geographically isolated from the mainland Luzon, the only way to get there is by Air. However, the options are limited. Commercial flights via Philippine Airlines from Manila to Basco with estimated travel time 60-90 minutes and via Sky Pasada from Tugegarao, Cagayan to Basco with estimated travel time of 60 minutes. You will be landing at Basco Airport. Basco, is the capital town of Batanes.

Things You Must Know

Welcome to Batanes Islands, the northernmost inhabited islands in the Philippines! it is the home of the gentle-peace-loving Ivatans Indigenous people. They are among the 103 diverse indigenous communities in the Philippines. They speak two major languages, Ichbayaten as spoken by the people of Itbayat, and Ivatan as the language by the people of Batan and Sabtang. The Ivatan language has the Ivasayen and the Isamurong as its dialects.

Batanes is the only province in the Philippines to become protected in its entirety because of its unending spectrum of habitat types, rich and indigenous social and cultural qualities, high biodiversity, and unique landscapes and seascapes. Because of this, some restrictions as stipulated in RA 8991 are necessary. The guidelines are supported by a community who wants to keep the pristine beauty of thier place... YOUR HELP TO THIS END WILL ENSURE THAT BATANES WILL REMAIN SPECIAL:

1. A guided tour is necessary to fully appreciate the interesting stories of the sites and thier communities.
2. Become part of the environmental conservation initiatives of the locals by bringing all your plastic wastes with you when you leave Batanes, do not extract flora from sites, and avoid collecting natural endowments such as shells and stones.
3. Avoid buying items that are deemed endangered. Pleae always corrdinate with your guides/tour operators.
4. Flying drones and documentary and research projects should be coordinated with the tribal councils in order to process the Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC).
5. Observe proper decorum when entring Catholic churches which form parts of the many heritage sites.

Dangers and Challenges!

• While Batanes remains to hold a minimal crime rate on theft and robbery, keeping your things secured in public places is best to avoid attracting opportunities for theft.
• September to January can be challenging for the visitors due to inclement weather. Cancellation of flights may occur for days. It is best to bring enough money and clothing when planning a visit during this time.
• The winding, narrow, blind and cliffy roads can pose danger to motorists.

What to Buy?

• Namet and Ivatan Gold Accesories Tinon Attire.
• Garlic Batanes garlic as the main export product is organic and certified healthy.
• Processed Foods Wakay, Turmeric, Ginger, Rootcrops
• Arts and Crafts

Useful Ivatan Phrases

source - breathtakingbatanes official primer brochure