Introduction to Batanes

Batanes is a group of islands located in the northernmost part of the Philippines, closer to Taiwan than Manila. It is known for its natural beauty, rich culture, unique history, and friendly locals. Batanes is often called the “Scotland of the Philippines” because of its rugged landscapes, rolling green hills, craggy cliffs, and stone houses. It’s a place like no other in the Philippines, offering a glimpse into a simpler, slower way of life.

Weather Information

Batanes has a generally pleasant and mild weather throughout the year, with an average temperature ranging from 20°C to 30°C. However, the islands are prone to strong winds, typhoons, and heavy rains, especially during the rainy season which lasts from June to October. During the rainy season, Batanes experiences monsoon weather, with strong winds that bring heavy rainfall.

However, there is a phenomenon known as “little summer” that occurs during the months of September to October, which is a brief period of good weather in the midst of the rainy season. During this time, the islands experience calm winds and sunny weather, making it a great time to visit if you don’t mind some occasional rain. This weather phenomenon is unique to Batanes and is attributed to its geography, which causes the islands to be situated in an area with complex wind patterns and ocean currents.

During the little summer, you can expect a sudden shift in the weather conditions, with clear blue skies and calm winds replacing the usual rainy weather. This period usually lasts for a few days to a week and is a welcome respite from the rains. It’s worth noting that even during the little summer, the weather remains unpredictable, so it’s always best to check the weather forecast before planning any outdoor activities.

If you plan to visit during the rainy season, it’s important to be prepared for the possibility of typhoons and monsoon weather. Make sure to bring appropriate clothing and gear, including a rain jacket or poncho, waterproof footwear, and a hat. It’s also important to check the weather forecast and to follow the advice of the local authorities in case of any severe weather warnings.

In summary, while Batanes generally enjoys moderate and pleasant weather throughout the year, it is prone to heavy rains and typhoons during the rainy season. However, the little summer phenomenon that occurs during September and October offers brief periods of good weather, making it a great time to visit if you’re willing to take the occasional rain showers.

Best Time to Visit Batanes

The best time to visit Batanes is during the dry season, which typically takes place from November to May. During this time, the weather is generally calm, sunny, and warm, making it perfect for exploring the islands’ natural beauty, taking part in outdoor activities, and enjoying its unique culture and traditions.

The months of March to May are considered the peak season for tourism in Batanes, as they offer the best weather and a plethora of events and festivals, such as the Ivatan Festival, which celebrates Batanes’ unique culture and traditions. This period can be more crowded compared to other months, which means that prices for flights, accommodations, and tours may also be higher.

If you’re looking to avoid the crowds and save some money, you may want to consider visiting Batanes during the shoulder season, which takes place from September to October. This period is considered a transition season, where the little summer phenomenon occurs and the rainy season is ending. The weather during this time can be unpredictable, with occasional rain showers, but there are also periods of good weather. Prices for flights and accommodations are generally lower during the shoulder season compared to the peak season.

If you don’t mind getting wet but want to experience Batanes in a different light, then visiting during the rainy season from June to August might be for you. While the weather can be challenging, this period can bring lush green landscapes and fewer crowds. Just like during the shoulder season, you can also expect lower prices for flights, accommodations, and tours.

In summary, the best time to visit Batanes is during the dry season from November to May, with the peak season between March to May when the weather is at its best. However, if you’re looking to avoid the crowds and save some money, the shoulder season from September to October might be a better choice. Alternatively, if you don’t mind occasional rain showers and want a more peaceful experience, the rainy season from June to August can bring quieter surroundings and more vivid scenery.

Budget Considerations

While Batanes is considered an expensive destination compared to other parts of the Philippines, it is still possible to enjoy a memorable trip without breaking the bank. The total cost of your trip will depend on several factors such as the time of year you visit, the type of accommodations you choose, and the activities you plan to do.

Airfare

The cost of flights to Batanes varies depending on the airline and the time of year you plan to visit. Flights from Manila, Cebu, and Clark operate daily through Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and SkyJet. Generally, the best way to save money on airfare is to book your flights well in advance and to look for promotions and discounts.

Accommodation

Accommodation options in Batanes range from budget-friendly inns to high-end resorts. Prices for accommodation vary depending on the location, amenities, and time of year you plan to visit. Midtown Inn Batanes, a budget-friendly option, offers rooms starting at around PHP 2,000 per night. If you’re looking for something more luxurious, the Fundacion Pacita Batanes Nature Lodge, with rooms starting at around PHP 5,000 per night, is an excellent choice.

Food and Drink:

Food and drink expenses in Batanes are comparable to the prices in other parts of the Philippines. There are many options for dining in Batanes, including local restaurants, carinderias, and cafes. Expect to spend anywhere from PHP 100 to PHP 250 per meal, depending on where you eat and what you order. For drinks, you can find bottled water and soft drinks for around PHP 20 to PHP 35.

Activities:

The cost of activities varies depending on the type of experience you’re looking for. A private island hopping tour can vary from PHP 2,500 to PHP 4,500 per person, while a guided cultural tour can start at around PHP 1,000. Trekking tours can start at around PHP 1,500, while bike rentals can cost around PHP 250 to PHP 500 per day. Many of the natural attractions such as hills, beaches, and lighthouses are free to visit on your own, so you can save money by creating your itinerary and exploring on your own.

Batanes is generally considered an expensive destination, there are ways to save money on your trip. To save money, consider visiting during the shoulder or rainy season, staying in budget-friendly accommodations such as Midtown Inn Batanes, and exploring the natural attractions on your own. As always, it’s important to budget carefully and to research your options to get the best value for your money.

Transportation

While Batanes is a remote and isolated destination, it is still relatively easy to get to and to navigate once you arrive. There are several transportation options available for travelers to get around the islands, including:

1. Flights: The fastest and most convenient way to get to Batanes is by plane. There are daily flights from Manila, Cebu, and Clark. Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and SkyJet are the major airlines that operate flights to Batanes.
   
2. Tricycles: Tricycles are the most popular form of transportation in Batanes. They are affordable and convenient, and can take you to most places in the towns of Basco, Ivana, and Sabtang. Fares usually start at around PHP 10 per person, per kilometer.
   
3. Motorbikes: Renting a motorbike is also a convenient way to get around the islands, especially if you want to explore the more remote parts of Batanes. Rental fees usually start at around PHP 500 per day, depending on the quality of the bike and the rental company.
   
4. Bicycles: Bicycles are also available for rent, and are a great way to explore the islands at a leisurely pace. Rental fees start at around PHP 200 to PHP 250 per day, depending on the quality of the bike and the rental company.
   
5. Private Tours: Private tours are also available for travelers who prefer a more customized and guided experience. These tours usually include transportation in private vans, English-speaking tour guides, and other amenities such as snacks and drinks. Prices for private tours vary depending on the type of tour and the number of people in the group.

Overall, getting around Batanes is relatively easy and convenient, with several transportation options available to suit different needs and budgets. Tricycles are a cheap and easy way to get around the towns, while renting a motorbike or hiring a private tour is a great way to explore the more remote areas and natural attractions. Regardless of your preferred mode of transportation, Batanes is a beautiful and unique destination that is worth the effort to visit.

Accommodations

Batanes offers a variety of accommodation options that cater to different budgets and preferences, from budget-friendly inns and guest houses to high-end resorts and lodges. Here are some of the top accommodation options in Batanes:

1. Midtown Inn Batanes: This budget-friendly inn is located in the heart of Basco, the capital of Batanes. It features clean, comfortable rooms with air-conditioning, free WiFi, and cable TV. The lowest room is the Standard Triple Room start at around PHP 3,000 per night tax inclusive, making it a great option for budget-conscious travelers. Includes complimentary breakfast for 3 persons, Basic bathroom toiletries plus an upgraded SMART TV.

2. Marfel’s Lodge: This charming guest house is located in the town of Ivana, just a few minutes from the airport. It offers a range of rooms, from shared dormitory rooms to private rooms with air-conditioning and hot showers. Prices start at around PHP 600 per person, per night.

3. Fundacion Pacita Batanes Nature Lodge: This luxurious lodge is located on a hilltop overlooking the town of Basco and the Pacific Ocean. It features beautifully-designed rooms with modern amenities, including air-conditioning and hot showers. The lodge also has an outdoor pool, a restaurant serving local and international cuisine, and a bar. Prices for rooms start at around PHP 59,000 net rate for a typical 3D/2N of stay

4. Batanes Resort: newly-renovated that has 6 stone houses having 2 rooms each house and can accommodate 3 guests each room. Located on the mountain slopes, every room gives a spectacular view of the sea – in the town of Ivana, and offers a range of rooms and suites with air-conditioning, cable TV, and hot showers. Prices start at around PHP 17,850 for the minimum 3D/2N.

5. Bernardo’s Hotel and Resort: This family-owned hotel is located in the town of Basco, and features air-conditioned rooms with cable TV, free WiFi, and hot showers. The hotel also has a swimming pool, a restaurant serving Ivatan cuisine, and a garden. Prices start at around PHP 3,500 for a room with breakfast.

In summary, Batanes has a range of accommodation options that cater to different budgets and preferences. Midtown Inn Batanes and Marfel’s Lodge are good options for budget-conscious travelers, while Fundacion Pacita Batanes Nature Lodge and Batanes Resort offer luxury accommodations for those who want to splurge. Bernardo’s Hotel and Resort is a good option for travelers who want a balance between comfort and affordability. Regardless of where you stay, you can expect warm Ivatan hospitality and breathtaking views of Batanes’ natural beauty.

Activities

1. Island Hopping

Island hopping is the most popular activity to do in Batanes. It allows travelers to explore the breathtaking beauty of the islands’ coastlines, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque landscapes. From the Midtown Inn Batanes, you can easily arrange a private boat or join a guided tour to the neighboring islands of Sabtang and Itbayat.

On Sabtang Island, you can visit the Sabtang Heritage Village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and take a walk back in time to the Ivatan way of life where you can experience living in traditional stone houses with thatched roofs called “vakul.” The village features a collection of well-preserved traditional Ivatan houses. The vernacular architecture is a combination of European and Asian styles, with thick walls made from limestone and cogon grass that can withstand strong winds and typhoons. You can also visit the centuries-old church of San Vicente Ferrer, which was built in 1785 and still stands today, a rare example of early Spanish colonial architecture in the Philippines.

On Itbayat Island, the largest island in the Batanes group, you can enjoy a scenic view of the Batanes Strait and the Pacific Ocean as you approach the island by boat. Itbayat is known for its rocky terrain and rolling hills, and is the perfect location for a nature trekking adventure. The island features an array of natural wonders such as the Torongan Cave, with its intricate rock formations, and the Nakabuang Beach, which boasts turquoise waters and white sand beaches.
During the island hopping activity, you can also visit the Basco Lighthouse, which offers a stunning panoramic view of the town and the sea. It is the most popular lighthouse in Batanes and a favorite spot for sunset viewing. Other popular landmarks that can be visited during island hopping are the Tukon Chapel, a unique structure made of limestone and wood, and the Valugan Boulder Beach, where smooth boulders and rocks have been washed up by the waves over time.

2. Cultural Tour

A cultural tour is a must-do activity in Batanes, as it allows you to learn more about the unique culture and traditions of the Ivatan people. The Ivatans are known for their resilience, creativity, and exemplary way of life in the face of natural disasters and the challenges posed by life in the islands. The tour usually starts with a visit to the restored Spanish-era structures such as the San Vicente Ferrer Church, which typifies the fusion of Spanish and Ivatan architectural styles. The church is notable for its thick walls made of limestone and its dual cross-topped belfries.

The tour will also take you to the House of Dakay, the oldest stone house in Batanes, built more than 200 years ago. It showcases the traditional architecture of the Ivatan people and their skills in constructing enduring and sustainable homes.

3. Nature Trekking

Batanes is ideal for nature trekking enthusiasts, with its rolling hills, verdant pastures, and tranquil landscapes. The island’s unique geography offers a range of trekking options that are suitable for both experienced trekkers and beginners.

One popular trek is to the Marlboro Country, which features a beautiful view of the hills and the sea. The trek will take you through the traditional villages of Uyugan and Imnajbu, where you can expect to see traditional Ivatan houses and terraced farmlands. The trek to Marlboro Country is not for the faint-hearted, as the terrain is challenging and steep, but it offers a rewarding experience for nature enthusiasts.

Another exciting trekking option in Batanes is a visit to the Vayang Rolling Hills. These hills are famous for their undulating terrain, green pasturelands, and breathtaking panoramic views of the nearby sea. The trekking trails in Vayang are well-established and beginner-friendly, making it a great destination for families or group travelers.

Overall, these three activities, island hopping, cultural tour, and nature trekking, will give you a comprehensive overview of Batanes’ awe-inspiring natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and tranquil way of life. It is important to note that there are many other activities that you can do in Batanes such as biking or renting a motorbike to visit traditional villages, sampling Ivatan cuisine, and swimming or surfing in the beaches.

Conclusion

Batanes is without a doubt one of the most beautiful destinations in the Philippines, boasting a unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a seasoned adventurer, Batanes has something to offer for everyone. With the right budget and planning, you can enjoy a memorable vacation in this idyllic paradise. And with a cozy and comfortable accommodation like Midtown Inn Batanes to come home to, you’re sure to have a relaxing and worry-free stay in Batanes.