By continuing to read this article, you agree to double check with the authorities or other concerned entities for the latest updates.

A more detailed, updated version of this article can be found here: Batanes Travel Guide

I spent only P6600 on my BATANES trip including airfare. Batanes isn’t really expensive, you just have to know your way around. Here’s how I did it.

What is it about Batanes really? Is it the elusiveness? After all, she’s the northernmost province in the country, even closer to Taiwan than Luzon. Is it the way she stands out? Not only is she the smallest and least populated, she is very in touch with her past and shows off the quirky sides to her personality. Is it the quietness? She may be surrounded by the most violent seas, but she enjoys virtually zero crime rate. Is it the physique? Everyone has heard of her natural beauty, the kind that effortlessly makes you feel insignificant.

It takes more than drive to get to Batanes. She’s distant and has one hell of a temper. You’ll be facing the biggest storms if your timing is not right. But if you know your way around her, it can be quite easy to get on her good side.

A word of caution: When the time comes that you have to leave Batanes, she will break your heart.

Batanes: Pure Beauty

How to Get to Batanes

The fastest way to reach Batanes is by air. However, the options are limited. Philippine Airlines and Skyjet Air fly to Basco, the capital town of the province. Travel time is 70-110 minutes, depending on your choice of airline.

You will be landing at Basco Airport. The town center is just a short walk away.

Year-Round Fares. Basco flights are notorious for being expensive. They can cost as much as your soul. Not really, but they can reach up to P15,000 or higher. Philippine Airlines’s average year-round fare is P7200 (roundtrip). Many travelers I know always point out that it is even cheaper to fly to Hong Kong and other ASEAN cities than Batanes. #Truth #NoLiesDetected

Just a moment ago, I did a mock booking with PAL and found out that the rates for a February 2015 travel costs P9500, roundtrip. (I found weekday promo roundtrip tickets for only P6500!) I tried booking the same dates with SkyJet, and the cost totaled P11,500.

Seat Sale/Promo Fares.  There’s hope! The key is to book early. Promo fares to Batanes are rare, but they exist. You just need to catch them when they’re up for grabs. How? Stalk Philippine Airlines. Like them on Facebook. Follow them on Twitter. Subscribe via email. This way, you’ll be the first to know when a big Basco sale is about to happen. Seat sales usually open at around midnight.  (For more information, read: How to Book Piso Fares.)

How much did it cost me to fly to Batanes? P1757, roundtrip. Yep! No kidding.

Breakdown of my Manila-Basco Fare. P288 SALE.
Breakdown of my Manila-Basco Fare. P288 SALE.

After months of waiting for a sale covering Basco, I was finally able to snag promo seats! It was a P288 base fare sale that amounted to P1757 with taxes and all.

Where to Stay in Batanes

Basco Town Proper has some really cheap inns and homestays that offer accommodations for as low as P150 per head. However, I have tried only Troy’s Lodge (homestay) and it was a pleasant experience. Some of my blogger friends also recommend Marfel’s Inn.

Klook TPT2024
Klook THEPOORTRAVELER

Troy’s Lodge
Rate: P700 per room (2-3 pax)
Contact No.: +63 938 976 2237
No wi-fi

Marfel’s Lodge
Rate: P700 per room (2 pax), P350/person for a single fan room
Contact No.: +63 908 893 1475
Wi-fi equipped

Both inns are located in the town proper of Basco and near the airport.

Where to Eat in Batanes

Basco

The well-known restaurants like Pension Ivatan and Shanedel’s in Basco all offer these authentic dishes. Prices usually range from P100-P200 per person, but the serving is big enough for two persons.

Lobsters, locally called payi, are ridiculously cheap in Batanes! Coconut crabs are also available but they are already a threatened species, so let’s spare the poor crab.

If you’re on a budget, you may try a carinderia where P50 can give you a good meal. In the town center, SDC Canteen is a popular choice although options are limited.

Sabtang

Paypanapanayan Canteen is the usual lunch stop in Sabtang. They offer lobsters and other seafood, vegetables, and bukayo for P350 per head. There are few other places near the port. Our guide took us to a small carinderia where we had the best meal of our trip. Unfortunately, for the life of me, I can’t remember the name of the place.

How to Get Around Batanes: Tours and Transportation

The faluwa that ferries passengers from Ivana to Sabtang, and the cogon-roofed tricycle.
The faluwa that ferries passengers from Ivana to Sabtang, and the cogon-roofed tricycle in Sabtang.

Here are the available transportation options:

Bicycle Rental. The bicycle is the cheapest way of going around the island, but make sure you have the stamina to match. The landscape is rugged and a bicycle ride can take you up and down the slopes of rolling hills a hundred times over. Not really a hundred, but you get the point.

  • Small bikes: P300/day
  • Mountain bikes: P500-P1000/day (depending on the type and how long you’re gonna use it).

Old ones are available for P25 per hour.

Bike!

Motorcycle Rental. For those who have a driver’s license and can drive a motorbike, then this is a good option. Rental costs P500-1000 per day. Gas is not yet included.

Tricycle Tours. If you’re a party of two or more, a good option is the tricycle. The good thing about this is that the driver already know where to go or have bits of local info about the place, making the tour more guided. The rate is usually P200 per hour. Given the time it takes to tour these zones, here are the estimated (and the usual) trike rates, good for two (2) persons:

  • North Batan: P1000
  • South Batan: P1500
  • Sabtang Island: P800

Our tricycle driver was:
Dale Veracruz, 0929 341 0941.

If you need a tour guide to further appreciate the history of the place, you may contact:
Ryan Cardona, 0998 988 5898

To get to Sabtang Island, you will need to board the faluwa at Ivana Port. Roundtrip tricycle transfers cost: P440.  The boat leaves some time between 6:00am to 7:00am and returns at 2:00pm. The driver will take you to the port in the early morning and will come to fetch you in the afternoon.

To get to Itbayat, you may travel by boat that leaves Basco at 6:00am. Travel time is 2.5 to 3.5 hours. Fare, P450.

You may also travel by plane. It takes only 10-12 minutes, but the cost is at P1800. For more information about traveling to and around Itbayat, read: Itbayat Travel Guide

Places to Visit

Batanes is a 10-piece archipelago, but only the three biggest islands are inhabited and are easily accessible to tourists. Basco, the capital, is in Batan Island, which is divided into four municipalities. However, for tourism purposes, Batan Island is divided into two: North and South.

Batan Island North (Basco)
For a description of tourist spots in Batan North, visit: 10 Incredible Places in Batan Island North

Valugan Beach

Chadpidan Beach

Basco Lighthouse at Naidi Hills

Vayang Rolling Hills

Tukon Church

PAGASA Weather Station

Dipnaysupuan Japanese Tunnel

Fundacion Pacita

Batan Island South (Mahatao, Ivana, Uyugan)
More information about the places listed below here: 12 Must-Visit Spots in Batan South

Marlboro Country

Diura Beach

Honesty Shop

Tayid Lighthouse

House of Dakay

Chawa Viewdeck

Homoron White Beach

Spanish Lagoon

Imnajbu Beach and Chapel

Alapad Pass

Songsong Ruins

Spanish Bridge

Mahatao Boat Shelter

Sabtang Island
More information about what to expect from a Sabtang Island Tour at: 6 Awesome Places in Sabtang

The iconic Mahayaw Arch
Morong Beach

Down to the cove!
Chamantad Cove and Tinyan Viewpoint

A stone house in Chavayan Village
Chavayan Village

A local woman wearing vakul on top of a hat.
Savidug Village

St. Thomas Aquinas Chapel
St. Thomas Aquinas Chapel

The Old Beaterio in Savidug
The Old Beaterio

A closer look
Sabtang Lighthouse

San Vicente Ferrer Church
San Vicente Ferrer Church

Itbayat Island

For what to expect in Itbayat, check out: Itbayat Travel Guide

More information about the amazing places to visit in Batanes:

Sample Itinerary

If will be spending only three full days in Batanes, here’s an ideal itinerary.

DAY 1: BATAN NORTH TOUR
06:00 am – ETD NAIA Terminal 3
07:45 am – ETA Basco Airport
08:10 am – Check in at lodge/inn
09:00 am – Start Batan Island NORTH Tour
02:00 pm – Late lunch
03:00 pm – Rest
05:00 pm – Sunset at Naidi Hills / Dinner at Bunker Cafe
07:00 pm – Back at inn

DAY 2: SABTANG ISLAND TOUR
05:30 am – Depart for Ivana Port
06:00 am – Arrive at Ivana Port
06:30 am – Boarding
07:20 am – Arrive at San Vicente Port, Sabtang
07:30 am – Start SABTANG TOUR
11:20 am – Lunch
01:00 pm – Back at Sabtang Port
02:00 pm – Boarding
02:40 pm – Arrive at Ivana Port
02:50 pm – Visit Honesty Shop and Ivana Church
03:10 pm – Leave for Basco
03:50 pm – Back at inn/lodge, rest
05:40 pm – Walk around town, watch sunset
07:00 pm – Dinner

DAY 3: BATAN SOUTH TOUR
07:00 am – Wakeup call
08:00 am – Start Batan SOUTH Tour
04:00 pm – End of tour, rest
07:00 pm – Dinner

DAY 4: DEPARTURE
06:00 am – Wake up
06:30 am – Check out
07:00 am – Walk to Airport
08:10 am – ETD Basco Airport
09:55 am – ETA NAIA Terminal 3

Budget Breakdown

Here’s a list of expenses that I made during my last trip to Batanes (4D3N) to give you a ballpark figure of how much budget to allot for this. This does not mean that you will be spending just as much on your trip because your spending habits may be different from mine. Note that we are a party of two.

  • P1050 – Troy Lodge (3 nights, divided by 2 pax)
  • P500 – North Tour (P1000/2 pax)
  • P750 – South Tour (P1500/2pax)
  • P400 – Sabtang Tour (P800/2 pax)
  • P220 – RT Basco-Ivana Port Tricycle (P440/2 pax)
  • P150 – RT Sabtang Island Boat Fare
  • P200 – Sabtang Environmental Fee
  • P1300 – Total Food expenses (Lunches, Dinners)
  • P4570 – TOTAL EXPENSES

Airfare and airport fees are not included above. But I spent only P1757 for the roundtrip ticket. So including the airfare and the terminal fees, I only spent a total of P6,600. Not bad for a dreamy Batanes trip!

You can still lower this cost in many ways. If you bike, it can bring down the cost of transportation significantly. You may also skip trying out some of the province’s native dishes for cheaper meals, although I discourage that. Any trip is just incomplete without digging into some local delicacies.

The number of people in the group also affects the overall cost, which means you might end up spending more if you’re traveling alone.

UPDATE! Starting 2017, tourists are charged P350 per person upon arrival at the airport. So make sure you include this in your computation.


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Jas U

bookmarked! :) thanks for the information..

yoshke

No problem! Let’s all wait for the next seat sale! Hahaha

gloria

paano po ba mag process ng papers or what na kakailanganin papuntang batanes? what if more than a month gusto ko magstay saan pwede magstay ??

joyce

pinas lang naman ang batanes, di mo na kailangan mag asikaso ng papers.. kung gusto mo tumira dun for good pwede din naman kasi marami pwede rentahan dun na apartment na mura lang at madami dn naman pwede pasukan n trabaho dun kya d din uso namamalimos dun.

marie

like anong pwede na trabaho na pwede pasukan sa batanes? Pangalawa beses na ako bumalik sa batanes. Gusto ko tumira dun

You are so helpful!

thanks for sharing!

yoshke

And thanks for visiting our blog! :)

kclarin

this is most helpful. salamat!

yoshke

Salamat din sa pagbisita! :)

malory

yey! very helpful.. thanks! :)

yoshke

Thanks, Malory!

CzarinaMaye

I am still struggling to find that seat sale for Basco but thanks for sharing!! ;) Really helpful post for those who want to discover Batanes. ;)

Jonver

I feel ya! I really don’t know how Yoshke finds these seat sales!

Len Driz

Same here! :) Hoping to visit Batanes this year..

yoshke

Haha, like PAL’s FB page. Then, choose “Get Notifications” so you would be the first to know when there’s a sale. Promo seats for destinations like Basco get sold out easily that when they launch at midnight, the seats are gone by dawn. :D

Cye

Waahh!! When did you book? Baka next time merun uli!!! This is my dream destination!!!

yoshke

I booked around October if I remember correctly. The flight was scheduled in February. :)

Micamyx|Senyorita

What a comprehensive guide! Enjoyed my bday trip last May and I am hoping to visit Itbayat soon :D

yoshke

Sabay tayo sa Itbayat! Pag may time. Haha

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[…] of a vacation in the Philippines … but on a budget? The Poor Traveler has an entertaining and comprehensive travel guide to Batanes, […]

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[…] of a vacation in the Philippines … but on a budget? The Poor Traveler has an entertaining and comprehensive travel guide to Batanes, […]

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[…] of a vacation in the Philippines … but on a budget? The Poor Traveler has an entertaining and comprehensive travel guide to Batanes, […]

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[…] of a vacation in the Philippines … but on a budget? The Poor Traveler has an entertaining and comprehensive travel guide to Batanes, […]

Gilbert Arjona

Nice akala ko sobrang mahal ang magtravel sa batanes now i know makakapunta din kmi dun soon

pai

when are the best months to travel to batanes? weather could be an issue…maybe seat sales are on months with bad weather? i hope not! i enjoyed reading this article. i am very much determined now to pursue my batanes trip!

hara

i really want to go in batanes. hirap ko lang matyempuhan ung promo fare ng pal going to basco… :(

marc

What month best travel to Batanes?

yoshke

December to May. :)

cj

hi yoshke! wanna know if 3 persons can fit in a tricycle for the tour? or is it only good for two?

thanks for this ultimate guide :)

yoshke

Two is the ideal number of passengers per tricycle. (That’s what I saw on the price list.)

But I have seen trikes carrying three pax so it is possible. But they might charge extra. :)

chelay

this is so nice!

kiko

do you think there’s a promo for the month of march?

Larah Keth Ansino

Place full of fun and adventure! Hope to book one of this days. Love love love!

Sica

This is nice. My fiance and I were initially planning to go to Bali for our honeymoon, pero mukhang mas gusto ko na rito. :)

Karen Ahappycook

Great post! Thanks for the information this helps me a lot in my planning!

shieryll16

Hello! What time did you travel to batanes?

gracey

travelling to batanes this coming nov. 26, 2014 reading your blog is such a big help thanks!

michelle

Hi, how much is your airfare?

michelle

Hi, i keep reading your blog and hoping that i could travel to Batanes with the same budget. But the available promo fare is still expensive.:(

Nita

complete! thanks!

Corine

Hi Yoshke! I was wondering if there are ferries that travels from somewhere in Ilocos to Batanes. Our group is planning to stay at vigan muna before we go to batanes eh.

Flor

when is the great time to visit batanes? by the way when din you travel having this kind of airfare promo (i mean the month of your travel)

Flor

thank you for this travel tip. it really gives me hope… :)

Arnel

We Got our ticket via sky jet at 7200 per head :) Not bad…

Mark

thanks for this very useful guide.. may i know how much did you you spend for this trip? or yung total budget mo na lang po… salamat…

dzaz

baka gusto nyang malaman yung total pag sinama yung pagkain, inumin..etc etc. Makahello naman.

Nick

There is a summary on the end of the article. *Facepalm

localite

Cant u read po ba? Hello

marian armada

Batanes is in my bucket list as must see. whats the best time of the year to visit this place.

nigameash

Awesome guide! I would love to visit and take guided tours of Philippines

cathy

wow! thanks! so detailed!

Samantha

Thank you for this guide! Batanes has always been one of the places that I would love to visit :)

phillippines traveler

WoW..! Awesome place it feels so relaxing. I’ll add this to my Bucket list for Next year…(:

yani

after reading this… i will definitely stalk PAL for promo fares. dream ko pumunta sa batanes, and your article is really a big help!

Kevin hart

The guide is usefull for many travellers to come.

Janine G. Gliban

Hello! When did you travel to Batanes? And was the ticket purchased online or via Travel Expo?

Wes

Hello! We’re selling Skyjet Travel Passes to and from Batanes for only 2,500 each. Check out: http://goo.gl/iQSKeb

Leonelle Ohao

2,500 all in?

Iren

What are the best months to go there?

jun

March to May (summer months) if you want a clear weather going there, going there in rainy seasons like June onwards is highly NOT recommended as Batanes is prone to typhoons

Chen Mencias

Did any of the people living in the villages where you went got some economic benefit from you? In as much as we want to save money on travel and find the cheapest way to visit such a high value destination, we also need to think of how we can contribute to the improvement of the lives of the people in the community. Traveling cheap may be good for the traveler but not making a dent to the destination, especially to those who matter most, the people living in the villages. Something to think about.

Raina

The simple fact that you visited the place already contributes to their economy. You’re not cheating anyone by trying to travel cheaply. The biggest expense in a Batanes vacation is airfare and that goes to the airline and not to the economy of the destination.

Besides, Ivatans are simple people. They’re not POOR! They have everything they need in those islands and they are happy and satisfied people.

From what I noticed during my two trips, most of them don’t aim for a lot of money or richer lives. They like living simple and that’s more than enough. They have 0 crime rate, the best seafood selection, and great beaches, what else could they ask for? Personally, if only internet was faster there, I would not think twice to live there.

Pissed at stupid.

Using the local tricycle driver as guide and pseudo tour operator helped one local resident. Eating in a local eatery helps a resident. That’s actually better than staying in a hotel run by a business group. Think about it.

riona

hmm.. i think the ones who will benefit more with the ‘not traveling cheap’ will be the airline companies.. i mean, come to think about it as well, these high value destinations that you are talking about are not gaining anything from the transpo costs but the ‘tourism’. so even if we book the cheapest flights, it’s no big deal because what we contribute — for example — is the promotion of the tourist destination (so that more and more people would want to visit these wonderful places) and the things that could be bought/hired in that place as well, where those who matter most, as you’ve said, the people living in the villages, will be the one to benefit.. no offense meant but just sayin’..

sexybebe

i wish i can find an airfare promo! my dad mentioned yesterday that he wants to visit Batanes. Hoping to make my old man’s dream come true (btw he is already 65 y/o)

Wes

Hello sexybebe! We’re selling Skyjet Travel Passes to and from Batanes for only 2,500 each. Check out: http://goo.gl/iQSKeb

Rave View

The link you provided us with cannot be found.

NewTraveller

Round trip na ba yung 2500? May additional pa po ba yan?

boni

so if the travel agent quote me for Php17,000 per head for full board this is too expensive for February trip?

Jean

Now I’m looking for accommodation and tour. They quote me for more than php 15000~20000 per head. I can’t imagine traveling like this blog.. I read several blogs, I think this is way too expensive.

jhay

Sino pupunta ng Batanes sa March 11, 2015? Solo traveler here

Vince Axl

Can you make it on August 2015? Looking for a travel buddy here.

alexander

Hi im.planning to go batanes on march 20 to 23, 2015. im a solo traveller..looking for travel buddy..i will truly pursue this trip to batanes even alone…

alexander

I already made the booking with
PAL this morning..tuloy na talaga ako
.march 20 to 23, 2015

rica

Chen Mencias added 2 new photos.
22 hrs ·

This is what we had been cooking for the last 2 months. Two unique Batanes community rituals will be opened to tourists for the first time. Be one of the 16 visitors who can participate. PM me to get the details of the newest product of Ecotourism Philippines. First group will be from Feb 28 to March 5, 2015. Second group will be from March 11 to 16, 2015. Hurry! 5 % discount will be given to the first 5 people who pay in full. Make sure you have a confirmed flight booking before you book this product

Lalaine Servañez Romero

me.. i want also to go, but mybe on april.. :)

shin shin

ako..hehehe. . .

jhay

march 11 ka din ba magtatravel?

sheila

we are planning to visit batanes on april. and uur blog helps-a lot.tnx.

trackback

What are the adventures you can do in Pampanga, Philippines?

There are a lot of things you can do in the Philippines. It depends on what you are into. If you want to go the beach, I suggest you go to Palawan. See link here: Provincial Government of Palawan. If you are into mountains/scenery, visit the Rice Terra…

riona

i’ve been looking for a ‘comprehensive guide’ to tour around batanes — i’ve read some — and your blog is the best one that i’ve read.. it’s very helpful since you’ve shared mostly what is needed and you even shared the budget that you had.. thanks a bunch! ^^,

Alice Devera Vasquez

i love batanes. it feels you are in heaven.try to go there.

Maria Catherine Canopin-Bacusmo Resuma-Leelian

one of my dream destinations…

Edwin Moore

Pretty interesting place, but the trip must be properly planned.

Mar Lyn

my hubby and i have always wanted to be here… <3 hopingvsoon

Finding My Island

I’m going next week, so excited to visit this remote part of the Philippines. Do you know if the boats are going to Itbayat at the moment or is the weather too rough?

John Michael Delfin

Charmaine Lovely Flip. Saktong sakto ang itinerary. Copyahin na lang natin ito. Thanks for this tip The Poor Traveler. =D

Arthur Arroyo

I’ve seen this place been here many years ago

Ma Isabel Alonso Talampas

love to explore this place

Rechel Tangcangco

Kristine, feb to june daw. We made the right decision!

Raina

Very few know about Rakuh-a-idi, the spring of youth in Batanes which can be done right after the Sabtang tour. It’s not included in the tours. People can only stay there up to 5pm and there’s a 15 to 20 minute walk to get there.

Maribeth Delfin Castaneda

I am interested. Is this in Sabtang or in Batan?

Ruby Juan

Thank you for sharing your trip. this will guide me in my Planned trip to batanes in the near future.

Patricia Velez- Gaid

Miss you mucho Batanes ! It’s been do loooong .

Joey Leo

Will be in batanes june 1-6…booked via pal’s promo fare(2,400 rt) solo traveler…hanap makakasabay para mas tipid.

Velardez Lui

May i join as well? But I’m planning to go there in the Feb 20th

Alexis Mendoza

When did you booked you RT trip? Planning to visit Batanes too but also solo here. :)

Joey Leo

Booked last november 2014…i guess promo fares are usually offered at least 6 months ahead bago biyahe.

Alexis Mendoza

Yeah looks like ganun nga. Will just wait for the next seat sale na lang siguro. Tickets are too pricey pag regular.

Ditos Atayde Alcain

be careful with Skyjet… flights might just be cancelled the night before and you will be uncertain of your return flight.

Luz Cruz Maniquis

MIRACLES are coming SOON !

Haya Cruz

1 sa lugar na gusto ko mapuntahan BATANES

Bertong Apoy

Mapupuntahan dn kita in time.

Janice Armiza

Mkakarating din ako dito

mingocarlo

i love batanes

Minerva Gomez Tarrayo

let’s go, Form a group!

Jim

Are there fishing guides available?

Chito Menguito Gayamat

6,600 for everything??? How could that be? Just for planefare via PAL EXPRESS i paid 12,000 +

Isabeau Jane Gomez

This is super awesome most helpful guide ever! Batanes is on top of my places to go!

Jovelyn Ramos Lapastora

pinaka best month na pumunta dyan ay March at April para wala tlagang ulan. nung pumunta kc kami dyan May na for 1week 3 days na umulan super lamig. pero napakaganda. marami ngang nagsasabi na dapat ng out of the country na lang kami kc mahal daw…. pero sabi super sulit kc lahat fresh….. para ka na ding nasa ibang bansa. sana yung ITBAYAT island mapuntahan nyo kc great experience, transpo pa lang ulam na ;)

Xiomsi

a fun and comprehensive article! thank you very much for this. been dreaming of Batanes since I was 14 and reading this encouraged me to go for it. Thanks again :)

Albert Marquez

ako kaso mag isa lng ako pwede b akong mkijoin gusto ko mga june ung end of june kung pwede lng

Guissepe Rocco Isidoro

wow…

darius__

very interesting and informative.. thanks!

Alejandro Taag

OMG! Thank you for this post!!!!!

Vince Axl

Hi. Any plans going to Batanes? Looking for a buddy here to travel on August 2015.

BeeCharm

we will be there Aug 1 – 4 :)

Vince Axl

Sayang! I already booked tickets for El Nido on July 31-Aug 3 travel. I’m planning to go to Batanes on August 8-11. Thanks, BeeCharm.

Karen Lumanog

hello im looking at mid august

Bekz Damz

AS a travel agent, hope makakuha ako ng 6,600 package na all in for the Batanes trip kagaya mo…

Maique Henry

One of my bucket list.. Thanks for sharing. Amazing Batanes! Matagal ko ng gustong puntahan iyan..

myn

inggit much…wanna be there also…my fil-am friend together with american friends frequently visit batanes …he said batanes is rich in limestone…

jay fernando

interested……………..

Nadine Vt

My dream place…

Leonor M. Fabricante

I need your help to book for 4 persons (2 seniors 78 yrs. old.) Feb.18-20. Same itinerary like yours. I don’t know how to avail the promos. Will you be kind enough to help me?

Kabo Yet

Ows!… Php1,757 round trip airfare? jackpot!…

Lisa Silla

start nang mag-ipon ngayon para pagsapit ng 2016 go na talaga.. batanes, my dream destination…:-)

Elsa G. Jambre

Only up to mid May. June is a rainy month. Flights can be cancelled.

Panfilo Manguera Jr.

got friends from that place and are so friendly…The late Monsignor Baltazar OP served in that place for a long time and is well loved by the people there..

nowel

hello po first time po sana nmin ggwin magasawa ang ganyan pwede po b malaman kung paano ggwin at yung ticket po paano po bibili salamat po..

Rosalyn

Thank you for the comprehensive guide.

Melita Layco

Wow nice place!!

Victoria A. Mendoza

Oh! I want to visit Batanes! My dream destination…

Jun Acupang

oh how i wish…

Rachel Allstrom

Not bad to dream. Why not. :)

Flor Siajuat-Cruz

We will be there on Mar 23 to 27, 2015

Bob Cruz

I want to go to Batanes!

Krris Razo

Postcard perfecf landscapes and seascapes plus the ever smiling, good natured people- nothing else. End of story.
NOW, if you want to experience tremendous hassle flight cancelations for 3 times (at least) due to weather conditions,regulatr 12-hour brownout a day, jurassic internet connection, unjustified accomodation rates, expensive foods and poor water supply then proceed!
The government should look on these matters to maximize the tourism readiness of the beautiful BATANES!
For the meantime (while the island is NOT YER READY FOR TOURISM) consider exploring mindanao like the luxurious DAKAK when you are in philippines and al rabat, morocco when ur here in mid east- worth the travel without sacrificing your comfort!

mina

thank you for a detailed and great write up. reading your article makes my travel to batanes almost done.

Francis Elizarde

my home land.dios mamajes du ivatan ..

Francis Elizarde

tiny group of island never conquered by taiwan and china ..all our great grand parents fight for them they stand hand in hand….thanks for the help of portuguese spanish priars and us armed forces…giving us freedom to live…

Jonnah Ong Buentiempo

See you in June 💚

Faye Fadrigon

So I got the best time, after all… 😸 march ang trip ko. Jamie De Jesus

El Cauntay

AWESOME Batanes! been there 5 yrs ago and planning to go back…

La Bong

I’m going home this May pwede yatang humabol ah!

Rutchiel Dormido

Pag malaki ang sariling atin gogogo its more fun in the philippines

Patricia Mirasol

Did you go during the summer months?

Bookmarked this post. Thanks for sharing all these useful tips! :)

Patricia Mirasol

Did you travel during the summer months?

Just bookmarked this post. Thanks for the useful tips! :)

Corazon Victoria Anel

How much round trip? How much for hotel? Do you have a package tour all inclusive? Please inform me. Many thanks.

Mayette Javellana de Vera

Gusto ko dn marating yan:)))

Capri Corn Noyago

sarap pumunta dyan!!

Bayani Cabling Sebastian

pangarap ko ring mapuntahan yan, kung loloobin.

Brian Santamaria

been there last week, will definitely be back soon. Dios mamajes

Ninfa Tenerife

One of the places i would really want to go to!

NANAY PILAR

cause of your article ,our trip to BATANES became so so enjoyable and fun!from your guide SIR DALE to MARFEL LODGE and almost identical tours we made ,the trip was hassle free for my husband and myself! by the way ,we are both senior citizens and lucky to fulfill our dream to visit BATANES!THANK YOU

Kate Ignacio

Very informative article, Thanks! :) ill be in Batanes on Feb 23-28, solo traveler din looking for a travel buddy to cut the tour cost. :)

Danz

hi ma’am kate! glad to read your comment… solo traveller here also but sched is Feb 24-28 . hope to hear from you as i also look for buddies as well to share some expenses :) Thank you

Kate Ignacio

hello danz, please leave me a pm, whatsapp or viber :) +966564086623

zeejay207

When in batanes, you can also try the newly opened Crisan Lodge. Contact kuya Mon Imperial at 09158490178.

Lordylie Garcia Escobar

my dream destination in the country..hope to see you… the soonest ^___^

Jun

I wish most of us Filipinos are like you, sharing to others the best in us! Thank you for this very educational guide inspiring us to visit other places in our country we dare not go before, due to some misconception and misrepentation in the media. God bless you, you deserved your awards!

Ian Ord

Wow!! I’ve been to Luzon a number of times, and never made it north of Luzon to Batanes! Your photos are incredible, and it looks like exactly the type of place I would love to visit in the Phils :) I’ve only been a few places (out of the 7107 islands), but have still loved everywhere I went there! Here’s some of the spots I checked out, if interested https://wheresidewalksend.com/category/guidebook/asia/philippines/

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[…] ThePoorTraveler.net – Their beautiful, insightful posts is another great inspiration as I prepared for our trip. Apart from such amazingly written articles and breathtaking photos, their entries are very informative too. The inn we stayed at and the trike tour we rented were all contacts I got from their posts. […]

Janice Hope

Hello. Thank you for this very extensive guide. May we ask when is the best time to visit batanes? Thank you so much

Chengay

Who is going on May 25? Maybe I can join you on a tour.

Karla

Went through your article and am now dying to go to Batanes but when exactly is the right time to fly? I mean, considering the weather conditions and all :) Was actually already inviting my sister to go with me but she said my chosen date falls on a rainy season (June). Any recommendations?

Anthony

rainy season usually starts mid July to November. December to February is the coldest months in Batanes while March till June is the most suitable time to roam around the islands… well, you might want to take with you atleast a jacket for the cold night. We went there mid may last year and it was kinda hot during the day but cold at night with the winds adding up to the coolness….

Gene

Thanks for sharing your experience. Anyone going to Batanes this March 30-April 2 during holyweek? Solo traveler also and would be happy to split the transpo. Anyone also has an info how is it like visiting Batanes during holy week (e.g. availability of transportation, open shops/resto.eateries, tourist season?) Would appreciate any info. Thanks

Vince Axl

I just checked PAL, August 9-11 flights costs P6,280 only (roundtrip). Anyone here has a plan to travel? I’m looking for a travel buddy.

Karen Lumanog

planning for august but mid august

barbie

ok kaya mag travel ng July? June kase ang uwi ko sa pinas.. gusto ko sana kahit man lang week before mag travel saka kami magpapabook para makita pa namin if may bagyo.. pwede kaya?

Pete Marvin Pañares

Hi anyone interested in December 2015? Let’s plan ahead.

Ramil

Hello everyone …Everyone interested on August? help me to find airfare promo and I’m looking for travel buddy.. 09173009312

Karen Lumanog

hello please interested on august hit me up in facebook karen lumanog thanks

King Navarro de Leon

I’m traveling on August… King Navarro de leon

Jess

can i go? we can part ways once we get there :-)

KQUEJ

hello! im planning to go this august too. what’s your desired dates?

Karen Lumanog

helo im planning to go there alone dates will be august 17-21 2015 thanks

Jess

please let me know the dates… how much will be the cost?

Jess

hi.. its up to you.. please let me know ur plans.. magakano kaya gagastusin?

Nads

THANK U FOR THIS! Bookmarked! Hope i can get cheap tickets too!

Pinky

Thank you so much for this information. I have questions though, when is the best time to travel in Batanes? How much was your pocket money?

K-zel de Mata

This 2015, we (My boyrfriend and I) start on travelling because of my new job. We’ve been to Pampanga, Baguio, Batangas, Calapan City, and Puerto Galera.

This April, we are inspired to go in Batanes by the movie of Coco Martin and Toni Gonzaga “Youre my boss”, and now we would like to treat ourselves a vacation in Batanes.

I was looking for a guide on planning things. I found and love your blog about Batanes. Now, we can prepare a how much we should budget and plan things with your guide. Thank you.

friendsie finaifai

wow. I wish I could go there next year! Will wait a good promo offer! Thanks for sharing.

Seyra Rico

Hi! Thanks for writing this post. Can I know when did you go to Batanes and when did you book your plane ticket? Thanks!

@iamKarst

Batanes is on my bucket list so definitely this article will be handy when I visit this place. I am also looking for a travel buddy, just notify me or send me an invite. G’day!

Nesha Mendoza

This is really helpful! Thank you :)

Dean Gamay

This article has really helped me on my trip last Sept ’14. Such an amazing place! I’ve done so many soulseach trips before and finally found myself in Batanes. HAHAA. Not a writer but the place was so exhilarating i decided to blog about it as well! http://neonontour.blogspot.com/2015_04_01_archive.html :)

Donald

hi any: is there a promo this year going to batanes?

Jess
Prince

Hi there. Thank you for the very informative blog about Batanes. Yeah, you’re right, the transpo is very expensive. Yet, given the beauty of Batanes, the experience would be much more important than the transpo expenses. Hoep to visit Batanes soon.

Karel Kosman

Nice page. I myself moved to this country 5 months ago and totally love it. Settled down in the north Palawan area, half way between El Nido and Coron. Two popular destinations but the gems in between them seem to have totally escaped the tourist radar. Helping some boat operator friends set up tours at http://www.islandhoppinginthephilippines.com/palawan/boat-tours/. In these rural areas, not only are the people super sweet, but easy to find accommodation for 200p a night!

JMT

haha! linapacan…listed as one with the clearest water in the world. will look for you when i get there :)

nicole

Sir saang airline po kayo nakakuha ng murang airfare?

Raina

Only PAL and Skyjet offers plane rides to Batanes. Unless you want to go to Tugegarao and get a Batanes plane ride from there. Try travel expo on Feb 2016 for cheap fares.

Jason Cruz

When is the best time to go to Batanes? The place are very beautiful as ever. We love to go in there, but I heard about that it is very prone by the typhoon. Very unpredictable weather that makes us think twice to go in there, but we love to visit the place.

http://www.pearlofthepacific.ph/contactus.php

Kathleen Cunanan

Hi, my airfare sale po ba for June 2016? for 2 pax? thanks

Raina

Try travel expo on Feb 2016.

Motski

why don’t you check the airline’s website from time to time instead of asking here?:D

Lhez

nice info for the travellers! this is really big help for tgose who love experience Phil travel.i wish i could visit Batanes sooner.its beautiful island. any 1 group travel? pls let me.

3x

thanks man! great read!

lone traveller

Just checked PAL fare, PHP8100, Skyjet PHP11,000
Plan to go 24-27 July (going into wet season, wish me luck)
Will sort out accommodation and land tour later
Thanks a lot for your detail write up

Yee Laniton

This post is my inspiration to travel in Batanes in Budget! Can’t wait for PAL’s promos on this :)

https://ayelaniton.wordpress.com/

trackback

[…] Despre Batanes și cum se ajunge acolo eu am mai citit pe wikipedia, aici si aici. […]

Lutchie Hermosa

hello ask ko lang po saan ka kumuha ng tour? dun na ba mismo sa batanes when you arrived?

Raina

Try Bisumi Tours. They are on Facebook.

Ichan Ichan

Hi, I’m planning to visit batanes kaso as we all know medyo may kamahalan para sa kagaya kong solo mgtatravel kaya I’m looking for a travel buddy, Jan – May (2016) are my desired months. Kindly text me at 09335880732 or pm me at FB fb.com/ichantaps if you’re interested. Thanks!

AndGoz

let’s do it on May Ichan

trackback

[…] learned about this travel agency through popular travel bloggers like The Poor Traveler, Pinoy Adventurista and Travel Junkie among others which had relatively good […]

Nicole

You gave me hope for Batanes Trip. Thanks for the info..

Sharm

Hey, anybody who knows special flight promos Manila-Batanes-Manila around summer 2016? Hope you can update me on my email: sharmineo(at)gmail(dot)com. Thanks in advance! :)

Raina

Try travel expo on Feb 2016.

trackback

[…] learned about this travel agency through popular travel bloggers like The Poor Traveler, Pinoy Adventurista and Travel Junkie among others which had relatively good […]

Kaye Dominguez

Wow..for real?

Jaja Molina

Mas epic to., envy

Onchie Cailas

been here june 2014 and planning to return this summer. di na to applicable, sa ngayon kasi 4k (one way) up na ang budget fare sa PAL, unlike last year na 2.3k lang one way. skyjet naman offers almost 5k and up one way.

Apple Santos

One of my dream destination in the Phils!

Junnyl Chris Nabua

Mahal na ng pamasahe papunta dito… tsk3

Caroline Yulo

I will visit this place one day…

Reynaldo Arce

Is there no other means of transpo getting there than by plane?

Grace Amoc

Its my dream to go there..

Virginia Cano

Magkano ang bayad papunta Batanes sa buwan ng June?

Anna Marie Temario Della

We are planning Feb 5-9 can you Help me?

Jenevy Monjardin Cornejo

How’s much if you will stay at F Pacita via PAL express for 3 days?

AndGoz

Batanes trip WoW!!! I’m looking for travel buddy(ies) on mid-May 2015.
– hobbyist/freelance photographer

Sheila Bucaneg

Hi! I’d love to experience Batanes as well. :) When do these airlines usually release promos like that? ;)

trackback

[…] Batanes Island is one of my favorite tips. It’s far north, even closer to Taiwan than to the Philippines themselves. Very remote islands! […]

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Madz

anyone wants to go to Batanes this coming November 2016? Mas lesser cost if I have some company..solo traveler here

Nye Nye

Hi Madz, natuloy kba last year? Kung dpa, Im looking for a travel buddy too. You may check me out at FB Maelin de Velez and PM me there. Thinking of a Summer get-a-way!

Tupe Diaz

this is a really helpful guide. i’m gonna follow your itinerary. thank you.

trackback

[…] now a thing of the past, what with national carrier Philippine Airlines flying out to Basco daily. Rent a bike for Php 300. and appreciate the breathtaking landscapes, the romantic lighthouses, and the beaches with ferocious waves. Be sure to sample local fare. As […]

Zoe Arro

BATANES my next trip

Cindy Dimayuga

We ❤️ Batanes

Sofia Phr

Pangarap na lang ‘yang sale ng airfare. Wala nang 2k sa PAL.

Len Agulto

kelan kaya ako makakapunta ng Batanes?

Ace Gramatica

Ganda tlaga

Froiland Steve

Going here is not an option for me if i dont have a promo ticket. Going here on a regular priced ticket is like going abroad LoL but i wish to visit this place someday. Kung may flight na ang cebu pac papunta dito bka kaya na ng budget haha

Ding Alb-Gerilla

been to many amazing places here in our country, hope ul be counted in someday :)

Nemie Müller

Mayroon bang Budget Travel Guide to Bohol from Manila or Clark?

Antonio J. Roa Montalvan II

Unless another airline has brought down the airfare. My trip there by Skyjet cost 18k roundtrip. The Ivatans prefer it that way. They do not want a horde of tourists destroying the pristine condition and culture of Batanes. I agree.

Kevin Garcia

Ignan bitaw dili mahal ang batanes John Neil..tuo lge sa akoa

Melanie B. Adolfo

Wow!! Dapat na ta magbatanes ;-)

RL Lagarde

Wishlist

MJ Munda Cayabyab

How many days?

Abby O. Garcia

Gusto ko marating ang place na ito.sana gift niya sa akin ito :)

Orafla Zerep Noraa Lemeoj

I love batanes

Orafla Zerep Noraa Lemeoj

Promoting Batanes

Mitzi Garcia

Asa airfare in 6600, (baka naman parachute haha jk what) Gab Dacasin

Jovelyn Geronimo

Lutia Galang oiiiii..ang mura nato grabe..

Jhoraine Aracena Aragones

wow ang ganda naman dyan,gusto kung pumunta dyan

Darlene Calixtro Pilon

Wooowwwww

Mariel Millendez Quijano

I wish to visit Beautiful Batanes one day!

Junie Omiping Sucalit

gusto kitang puntahan BATANES

Maria Bernadette Mendoza

Rozelle Mae Perez uyuyuy! Eto nalang kaya?

Ian King Cabansag

Very landscape place #naturelover very like

Christian Casidsid Dimaculangan

I wish someday I see that place…in my front. ….promise.

Nicolo Paolo Manzano

sobrang ganda talaga ng batanes..!!

Marian Sobinsky

so beuatiful place guiz

Desiree Orillosa Zulueta

My dream is to be in this place.

Normae Lucille Anne Avila

Mariel A. Vite Michelle Anne Vite Amie-Lyn Manalo Sisperez parang ung pinag-uusapan lang naten kanina. hahaha

Mon Resurreccion

Batanes has wonderful ..honest people….until the a bads became famous…….

Jenine De Jesus Malaylay

Robert De Los Reyes hangang dec bhest. pag meron pa. ipon na haha

Janna Lagutao

ganda tlaga s pilipinas

Natasha Leonardo

It’s so beautiful places

Shiela May

Tamara Bañez uy igoal naman natin to besh

Bethie V. Escala

The place I so dearly loved

Rosheene Nava

Ron Delos Santos Nolasco Turqueza Oh mura LNG pa batanes hahaha basahin nyo nga tinatmad ako iopen

Jayvincent Sarucam Atillo

looks like new zealand

betya ortega

Hi Yoshke, thanks for your blog. I really appreciate it and find it more helpful than the one done by pinaysolobackpacker. It is very detailed and i think, more updated. This gave me a good time planning for our trip in June. I think good travel blogs like yours should be compensated. Kahit 100pesos lang per reading, haha. Saves a lot of time and effort on planning a trip. But for now I’ll just give you my wishes – that your dream for a world peace would come true. Keep your passion burning!

yoshke

Thanks, Betya! Haha. We should probably add one of those Paypal Donation buttons. :P

Teresita Duncan

I will be there next year march 2017.my nephew’s graduation in college jashua carambias his 19 yrs old.

Teresita Duncan

Kumusta mga kabayan lalong lalo na sa mga taga gapo!!but don’t worry. I will be home sooner than you.all think

Necel Licardo

Very helpful, I learned many tips how to avail set sale thank you :-)

Gianena Kurdapya

Worth jud ang mu.adto sa Batanes te ingon sa ako kaila kay nakastay sya didto… :) Go dayun mo ni Luigi Anton Reyes Borromeo Maria Cynthia

Virgil Ribancos

I like to visit Batanes but the weather unpredictable.

Teena Daculan

Ker Lauron 2018 goals after ng isang taong pagkayod at pag-iipon hahaha

Michelle Workman

Ka Zak H Stan We should really go to this place someday. :)

trackback

[…] Photos Credits to: VisualTapestry and  ThePoorTraveler […]

Cha Villaraez De Guzman

My friend and I are planning to have 3 days tour at Batanes. How can we avail early booking at Piso Fare that cost 1757 roundtrip ticket

Veronica- Chase These Kids

Thanks for this informative post! Is there a direct boat ride from Sabtang to Itbayat?

Zark Fatah

Which is the best season to visit there?

yoshke

December-March!

ian | going places

Thanks for this very informative travel guide and budget trip as well! Very useful for my trip future trip to Batanes. But is it really cheap to do a tricycle tour of the province?

ian | going places

Meron bang beaches na pwede ding liguan sa Batanes kasi ang dami nila ding beaches pero no one blogs if you can swim on it.

yoshke

Hi Ian! You can swim in Homoron Blue Lagoon and Homoron White Beach. :)

Michelle

Hi, I am checking airfare and wondering when you booked tickets and when you went to Batanes? This place looks so surreal and amazing! I am planning to go in Jan for my birthday :)

J.C

Hi.. mag tatanung lang po ako.. kung mag kano ba usually ang payment sa isang tour guide per day…

J.C

Mag tutour kasi kami.. at ung pinsan ng friend ko ang tour guide namin.. hindi ko alam kung mag kano ba ibibigay sa kanya.. please wala akong Idea.. help me please ..bukod na po lahat ng gastos.. just the payment to the tour guide…

Peppajona

Thanks for sharing..what month did you book your plane ticket?

sara

thanks for posting about batanes.very informative..this gave more an interest going to this place.. :)

Elixir

Thanks a lot for sharing this very comprehensive information. I am really looking forward since then to visit this place and upon reading your blog it made me desirous to push through my plan with a friend. More power to your blog.

Pong Sam

bookmarking this blog for reference.
we will be in batanes this january.

Thank you very much! this is very helpful.

More Travel,
Pong

Gyra

Wow, great post! Very helpful! Salamat!

Waitiekaitie

Hi is solo travelling a good idea in batanes?