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Unlocking the Wonders of Itbayat

2 days ago 7

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Batanes is a dream destination for many travelers, famed for its windswept landscapes and breathtaking views. While some have explored the rolling hills and dramatic cliffs of Batan and the stone houses of Sabtang Island, few get the opportunity to experience the remote beauty of Itbayat, the farthest inhabited Island in the province. Although Itbayat can be reached by a 2.5-hour boat ride across the often-rough Balintang Channel, the journey is known to be both thrilling and challenging—a true test of adventure for intrepid visitors.

After spending a restful night in Basco, we rose before dawn, eager to begin our adventure. Our journey started with a challenging boat ride from the bustling Basco Port to the remote Valanga Port in Itbayat on our second day. Although there’s an option to fly between the islands, plane tickets are not only pricey, but flights are frequently canceled due to unpredictable weather conditions.

The Tourism Promotions Board invited us, together with fellow travel writers, content creators, and local tour guides, to Itbayat for a two-day workshop designed to provide destination resiliency training for local stakeholders, tour guides, and the local government unit (LGU).

Arriving in Itbayat, Batanes by boat is an unforgettable adventure, thanks to the Island’s remote location and dramatic, rugged coastline. Our transportation was the traditional Ivatan faluwa, a sturdy boat expertly crafted to withstand the often-choppy waters that separate the islands. As we journeyed across the untamed sea for 2.5 to 3.5 hours, we enjoyed sweeping views of open water, striking limestone cliffs, and caught sight of flying fish gliding across the waves.

We arrived ahead of schedule, thanks to clear skies and favorable winds. The waves were truly exhilarating! It felt like being on a roller coaster at sea, with the boat climbing and plunging with each crest and trough. It was a heart-pounding adventure, though it was daunting for those with sensitive stomachs. The ocean felt alive, demanding a firm grip from everyone aboard. Despite the wild ride, the experienced boatmen skillfully navigated the waters, ensuring that everyone remained safe and sound during our thrilling voyage.

Upon our arrival at Itbayat, we were met by a striking and untamed landscape—the Island soaring abruptly from the deep blue sea, its cliffs imposing and sheer, with not a single natural harbor softening its periphery. Our boat eased up to a sturdy concrete port, where a dozen crew members stood ready, reaching out to steady us. The swell crashed against the cement, demanding that we time our leap perfectly when the boat, momentarily lifted with each wave, drew close enough to the dock. Adrenaline surged as salty spray misted our faces, and our hearts raced—you cannot help but feel both exhilarated and humbled, standing on the weather-battered edge of one of the Philippines’ most isolated inhabited islands.

The town center lies roughly 10 minutes from the port, and as we arrived at the event venue, a relentless downpour soaked the streets, blurring the distant outlines of hills beyond. Undeterred by the rain, we ventured out to explore several of the Island’s most breathtaking scenic spots.

Itbayat is known for its dramatic, otherworldly landscape. Unlike most islands, Itbayat lacks sandy beaches along its perimeter; instead, it is encircled by towering cliffs that soar between 30 and 100 meters high, plunging sharply into the deep, churning sea below. The entire Island rests upon an ancient limestone outcrop, its rugged terrain and striking contours lending Itbayat a wild, untouched beauty that sharply distinguishes it from the other islands of Batanes.

The landscape extends endlessly in every direction, featuring vast rolling grasslands painted in vibrant green shades. Herds of cows and goats graze peacefully, moving with a relaxed and leisurely grace that suggests the entire Island belongs to them. The rugged landscape is dotted with clusters of wildflowers and resilient shrubs, along with dramatic rocky outcrops that catch the sunlight. Sweeping, uninterrupted views of the deep blue sea and an endless sky heighten the sense of isolation, casting the landscape in an atmosphere that feels both peaceful and untouched by modern development.

We began our journey at Mauyen Cliff—a breathtaking viewpoint reserved for the bold. From this spot, towering limestone cliffs drop steeply into the sea, unveiling sweeping vistas of a boundless blue horizon and the rugged coastline beneath.

Rising to about 100 meters, the cliff often induces vertigo, especially as strong winds sweep its edge. Rolling hills and unique coralline rock formations surround the area. Although we visited in the early afternoon, sunrise is truly spectacular here, with golden light washing over the cliffs and clouds drifting across the horizon—a favorite setting for photographers and quiet reflection.

Although reaching Mauyen Cliff from the paved road involves a hike, you’ll be rewarded with an unforgettable encounter with the wild, unspoiled scenery of Itbayat.

One of the must-visit spots is The Rapang Cliff, renowned for its dramatic landscape of rugged limestone formations shaped by the elements over time. The area boasts lush, grassy hills, rocky outcrops, and natural bonsai-like trees scattered throughout the scenery. Trekking to the cliff is an adventure in itself, taking you through rolling hills and open fields before revealing panoramic views of the Island and the vast sea beyond.

Reaching the summit, we found ourselves surrounded by surreal, almost otherworldly scenery: wind-carved cliffs, a natural stone bell that rings when struck, and an overall tranquility that perfectly showcases Itbayat’s raw beauty and peacefulness.

We also visited Cavaywan Lake, renowned for its peaceful ambiance and natural beauty. Surrounded by lush hills and vibrant vegetation, this tranquil freshwater lake offers an ideal setting for relaxation, quiet reflection, and leisurely walks along its scenic shores.

Discover a tranquil freshwater lake bordered by tall grasses and native trees, which provide a habitat for a diverse array of birds and wildlife. This area welcomes both nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.

The lake’s tranquil ambiance invites visitors to enjoy simple picnics, indulge in birdwatching, or bask in its untouched beauty. The journey to Cavaywan Lake is an adventure, requiring a trek through Itbayat’s rolling landscapes, where you can catch glimpses of rural life and take in breathtaking panoramic views.

We also visited one of the newest tourist attractions on the Island, the Umawen Arch. This stunning natural rock formation, situated along the rugged coastline, is famous for its impressive arch shape, which has been sculpted over centuries by wind and sea erosion. The picturesque landmark showcases the Island’s raw, untouched beauty and is celebrated for its serene and dramatic seaside views.

A favorite destination for photography and sightseeing, Umawen Arch stands as a symbol of the Ivatan people’s resilience and their profound bond with the land. It beautifully embodies the fusion of natural artistry and the Island’s distinct geological history.

Melo at Torongan Burial Mounds and Cliff

The Torongan Burial Mounds and Cliff is among the most historic and captivating attractions on the Island. This significant archaeological site is thought to have served as the burial ground for ancient settlers. It showcases distinctive boat-shaped stone markers, which illustrate the early funerary practices of the Ivatan people.

Located near Torongan Cave—recognized as the oldest dwelling in Batanes and believed to be the first landing site of Austronesians from Taiwan around 4000 BC—this area is of great historical and cultural importance. It features breathtaking views of the surrounding cliffs and the sea. The burial mounds, situated in a dramatic cliffside location, offer valuable insights into the ancient migration and traditions of the Ivatans, making this a stunning and historically significant destination in the Philippines.

Another must-visit destination is Tachimus Port, renowned for its rugged beauty and significance in local transportation and access to the Island. One of its iconic landmarks is the leaning Arius tree, a local symbol that the Island’s persistent strong winds have dramatically shaped.

This tree not only symbolizes the resilience of the local environment but also embodies the enduring spirit of the Ivatan people. As a well-known landmark, it provides visitors with a unique, Instagram-worthy backdrop that captures the essence of Itbayat, even amid challenging natural conditions.

Itbayat is an ideal destination for disconnecting and immersing yourself in nature to enhance well-being. As a digital nomad, I find unreliable internet connectivity to be a challenge. However, other than that, the Island’s only distraction is its very lack of distractions.

Alberto T. Gadia, Domestic Tourism Project Officer at the Tourism Promotions Board, emphasizes that a destination resiliency workshop equips Batanes’ local stakeholders with essential skills to prepare for and recover from challenges like natural disasters. This initiative also promotes sustainable tourism practices to protect the Island’s unique environment and culture.

By engaging social media influencers and travel writers, the Island gains valuable exposure as they share authentic stories and stunning visuals with large audiences. This not only promotes responsible travel, but also helps establish a positive image for Itbayat. This collaborative strategy increases visitor interest and ensures the tourism growth is resilient, community-driven, and sustainable, enhancing the Island’s appeal and long-term viability as a destination.

Why visit Itbayat? As the northernmost inhabited Island of the Philippines, Itbayat captivates visitors with its pristine, untouched landscapes. Majestic limestone cliffs rise dramatically above the turquoise sea, and lush, rolling hills extend beneath wide, open skies. Secluded freshwater lakes nestled within verdant valleys offer serene escapes, remaining untouched by modernization and large tourist crowds.

In this place, time appears to slow down as you immerse yourself in the genuine Ivatan culture, where friendly locals are eager to share their traditions and way of life. Adventurers will be drawn to explore rugged geological wonders, such as the imposing Rapang Cliff and scenic Mauyen Cliff, accessible by winding trails that promise breathtaking panoramic views and a true sense of discovery.

Nestled amid untouched wilderness, this secluded Island offers an extraordinary escape, with pristine beaches, lush forests, and crystal-clear waters. It serves as a peaceful sanctuary for travelers yearning for tranquility, adventure, and an authentic immersion in the Island’s vibrant natural beauty and rich local traditions.