What to do in the Batanes Islands

By Alberto Quintero

The Batanes islands are known as the smallest province in the Philippines in terms of population and land area. Basco is the capital of Batanes, which is 280 kilometers north of Apari, Cagayan and only 190 kilometers south of Taiwan. In the measureless waters of the Pacific Ocean where it meets the China Sea is where this beautiful collection of emeralds is set. For generations it has been almost isolated from the rest of the Philippines. There are only 10 tiny islands and islets in this group: Batan, Sabtang, Itbayat, Mavudis, Siayan, Diogo, North Island and Y’ami. Only Batan, Sabtang, and Itgayat are populated.

Striking and captivating, these islands are like no other in the Philippines. Due to the miles of forceful waters between the country and the Batanes islands, the Ivatans (the indigenous people) developed a different culture. Their heritage and land are things of pride to them. They have been described as brave and robust, as well as polite, gentle, and honest.

Very similar to New Zealand – steep cliffs, rolling hills, deep canyons and bolder-lined shores – makes the Batanes islands markedly different from other Philippine provinces. The most noticeable difference from the other provinces is the style of the houses –thick thatched roofs and stone walls to hold up through the battering of typhoons.

The sights and activities are various in the Batanes: swim or enjoy the never ending beaches, visit the fishing villages, lighthouses and churches, island hopping, but the best is that it is a striking place to reflect and admire the flora and fauna. To visit Batanes gives a person a feeling of time standing still, an experience that will last with the visitor for as long as they remember their visit. This experience gives an appreciation of the simpler things in life, and a deeper connection with them. Once you arrive, you’ll never want to leave.