Batanes, Philippines

The province of Batanes, comprised of 10 islands (only 3 are inhabited) is a place of mystery and enchantment. It does not look like any other group of islands in the Philippines, which makes this place feel different. The people that live in Batanes are called “Ivatan”. They have a distinct language that is not associated with its own unique language not associated with the rest of the Philippines. Batan, the main island of Batanes is dominated by Mount Iraya, an active volcano which last erupted in 1454. The volcano spewed tons and tons of large boulders creating a unique landscape as seen below. 

Batanes is on the path of typhoons, and receives the most average rainfall in all of the Philippines, therefore the architecture of the Ivatans is unique and may not be seen anywhere else in the country. They use large stones and boulders to build their buildings, churches and houses to protect from strong winds caused by typhoons and storms. They also use cogon and reed roofs that are very effective against rain and wind.

Batanes has a very unique landscape dominated by grasslands and rolling hills making it very picturesque and sometimes are compared to the rolling hills of Scotland. Livestock such as cows and goats dominate the landscape keeping the grass trimmed and healthy.

Because of the abundance of rain, the Ivatans have a pretty unique attire specifically designed for this type of weather. They use a headgear made of abaca fiber called “vakul” to protect themselves from the sun and rain. 

The rugged cliffs and coastlines of Batanes, created by enormous waves and powerful storms resemble the cliffs and coastlines of the Big Sur on the California Coast. Batanes is truly magnificent because of the sparse traces of human interaction reminding you of the power of nature.

The local government also has an adequate road system unparalleled throughout the country. Making it very efficient for small vehicles to get around. The limited number of vehicles also keeps the roads maintained.

Batanes also has 3 picturesque lighthouses that are constructed using rubble masonry to withstand typhoons. This serves as guides for seafarers that are in the area and as a famous tourist attraction because of its unique architecture.

Basco Lighthouse

Tayid Lighthouse

Sabtang Lighthouse

The Spanish have built beautiful churches back in the colonial times that still stand today with a unique baroque style, that are very colorful showing the uniqueness and heritage of the people of Batanes.

Mahatao Church

Ivana Church

Basco Cathedral

Batanes is truly a one of a kind destination full of picture perfect sceneries, friendly people and raw nature that cannot be found anywhere else in the world, making it a must see destination. My trip with my mother and aunt was truly unforgettable, perhaps making it one of the most beautiful places I have ever been to. 

If you want to learn more about Batanes, the travel blogger The Poor Traveler has a detailed information of how to get there, what to do and how much to spend in Batanes.