Basco
,Basco is the capital of Batanes, a group of remote islands in the northernmost part of the Philippines. It is known for its stunning landscapes, rugged coastlines, and traditional Ivatan architecture. The town is small and charming, with a population of around 8,000 residents.
Basco serves as the main gateway for tourists visiting Batanes, offering a serene atmosphere and opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and diving.
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Oo" - Yes
- "Hindi" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $25 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Explore Basco's Beaches
morning
:Start your day with a visit to Valugan Boulder Beach, where you can enjoy the views of the stunning boulders. Take a relaxing walk along the shore to appreciate the natural beauty.
afternoon
:Head to Dipnaysupuan Beach for some sunbathing and swimming. You can also indulge in local snacks from nearby vendors.
evening
:Wrap up your day with a sunset view at Naidi Hill. Enjoy a picnic dinner while watching the sky change colors.
Cultural Heritage Tour
morning
:Visit the Basco Cathedral, an iconic landmark rich in history. Take some time to appreciate the architecture and peaceful surroundings.
afternoon
:Explore the Casa Real and learn about the local history of Batanes. Engage with local guide services for an immersive experience.
evening
:Dine at a local restaurant and enjoy Ivatan cuisine. Try their famous clam dish while soaking in the island's ambiance.
Highlights
Good
- Beautiful natural landscapes and scenery, including beaches and mountains.
- Rich cultural heritage with unique traditions and local festivals.
- Friendly and welcoming local communities.
- Opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, diving, and snorkeling.
- Low cost of living compared to many urban areas.
Bad
- Limited access to healthcare facilities and services in remote areas.
- Job opportunities may be scarce, leading to economic challenges.
- Infrastructure may not be as developed as in larger cities.
- Transportation options can be limited, affecting mobility.
- Vulnerability to natural disasters, such as typhoons and earthquakes.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Kayaking
Explore the pristine waters and scenic coastlines of Basco by kayaking. This allows you to get close to the beautiful natural landscapes and marine life.
Hiking to Naidi Hills
Hike up Naidi Hills for stunning panoramic views of the surrounding islands and the famous Basco Lighthouse. It's a great spot for photography and appreciating nature.
Visit to Sabtang Island
Take a boat trip to Sabtang Island, known for its traditional villages, stunning beaches, and scenic landscapes. It's perfect for a day of exploration and relaxation.
Biking Around Basco
Rent a bike and ride around Basco to discover its charming streets, local culture, and beautiful coastal views.
Surfing at Valugan Boulder Beach
Experience the thrill of surfing at Valugan Boulder Beach, where you can ride the waves or simply enjoy the unique landscape of boulders and lush greenery.
Visit the Basco Lighthouse
A must-see landmark, the Basco Lighthouse offers stunning views from its vantage point. Enjoy a picnic while soaking up the captivating scenery.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Basco with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Naidi Hills
A picturesque viewpoint offering panoramic views of Basco, the surrounding islands, and the ocean. The iconic Basco Lighthouse is located here, making it a perfect spot for photography.
Valugan Boulder Beach
Known for its unique landscape of large boulders and crashing waves, this beach provides a stunning backdrop for photos, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Chavayan Village
A traditional village showcasing the native stone houses of Batanes. Its serene environment and cultural heritage make it ideal for capturing authentic local life.
Tukon Church
This church, located on a hill, offers a charming architectural view against the backdrop of rolling hills and the ocean, making it a favorite for photographers.
Dukit Rock Formation
A unique rock formation that stands against the rugged coastline, providing incredible photo opportunities with its dramatic sea waves and clear blue skies.
Basco Port
The harbor area offers stunning views of fishing boats, the surrounding cliffs, and the vibrant colors of the sunset, perfect for capturing the essence of local maritime life.
Sabtang Island Viewpoint
While technically on a nearby island, the view of Sabtang from the ferry offers breathtaking sights and is a great way to capture the beauty of the region from the sea.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Uvud Balls
A traditional Ivatan dish made from pounded gabi (taro) leaves, coconut, and a variety of spices, then formed into balls and cooked in coconut milk. Best enjoyed at local eateries like Vatang Grill.
Must-Try!
Vunong
A hearty soup made with seafood, pork, and a range of local vegetables, often served with traditional Ivatan rice. Visit Pension Ivatan for an authentic taste.
Lunyis
A local delicacy of Ivatan-style sweetened pork, braised until tender and caramelized. Try this savory-sweet dish at Hiro’s and Marlboro Country Bar & Bistro.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Basco better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Basco Public Market
Explore this bustling market to find fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and local snacks like turmeric-infused rice cakes and fried banana cues.
Street Food Stalls at Naidi Hills
As you explore Naidi Hills, be sure to sample skewered barbecue, fish balls, and bibingka (rice cake) from the street food vendors for an authentic taste of Basco.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect for Elders
In Batanes, which includes Basco, a deep respect for elders is prevalent. It is customary to greet older individuals with honorifics and to offer them the first seat or the first bite of food during meals.
Traditional Handshakes
When meeting someone, a gentle handshake is common, but always be mindful of the context. In more traditional settings, a traditional greeting like 'mano' (placing the elder's hand on your forehead) can be a sign of respect.
Personal Space and Communication
Filipinos, including those in Basco, generally have a comfortable personal space but may stand closer during conversations than Westerners are used to. It's important to be aware of non-verbal cues and maintain a friendly demeanor while communicating.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Basco with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Basco, as in many parts of the Philippines, tipping is generally appreciated but not necessarily expected. For services such as dining in restaurants, it is common to leave a tip of around 10% of the bill. However, in smaller local eateries, tipping may not be customary, and customers might simply round up the bill. Service charges may already be included in some restaurant bills, so it is advisable to check before tipping.
Payment
Payment practices in Basco can vary depending on the establishment. Cash is the most commonly accepted form of payment, especially in smaller shops and markets. However, larger hotels and restaurants may accept credit and debit cards. Mobile payment options are gaining popularity, but it's wise to carry cash, as not all places may support card transactions. Additionally, in local markets and street vendors, haggling over prices is quite common.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Basco.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry Season (November to April)
This season offers the best weather for visiting Basco, with minimal rainfall, plenty of sunshine, and mild temperatures. It’s ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and exploring beaches.
Wet Season (May to October)
During the wet season, Basco experiences increased rainfall and occasional typhoons. While it may not be the best time for outdoor adventures, visitors can enjoy fewer crowds and lush landscapes. Travelers should be cautious of outdoor plans due to possible heavy rains.
Peak Tourist Season (December to February)
This period is popular among tourists, especially during the holidays, resulting in vibrant local festivities. Accommodation may be more expensive and harder to secure. Visitors can expect cultural events and local celebrations.
Shoulder Season (March to May)
This timeframe is a transition from the dry to the wet season. It's a great time to visit for those looking to avoid peak crowds yet still enjoy pleasant weather, with warm temperatures and moderate tourist activity.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Naidi Hills
A scenic hiking spot with panoramic views of the sea and the surrounding landscapes, featuring rolling hills and lush greenery.
Tukon Church and Eco-Trail
A hike that leads to Tukon Church, offering an eco-trail with beautiful views of the ocean and unique rock formations.
Marlboro Hills
Known for its cool climate and stunning views, Marlboro Hills is a popular hiking destination, especially for sunrise treks.
Vayang Rolling Hills
A picturesque location with rolling grasslands, perfect for hiking and enjoying the scenery, frequently visited by locals and tourists.
Patapat Viaduct
While primarily a scenic drive, the area offers nearby trails for hiking enthusiasts looking to explore the stunning coastal views.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Basco by plane.
Clark International Airport (CRK)
Located in Pampanga, about 299 kilometers from Basco, Clark International Airport is one of the largest international airports in the Philippines, serving numerous international and domestic flights.
Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL)
Situated in Manila, approximately 450 kilometers from Basco, Ninoy Aquino International Airport is the primary gateway for international travelers to the Philippines.
Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB)
Located in Cebu, around 580 kilometers from Basco, Mactan-Cebu International Airport is the second-largest international airport in the Philippines, facilitating flights to various international destinations.
Davao International Airport (DVO)
Situated in Davao City, approximately 860 kilometers from Basco, Davao International Airport serves both domestic and international flights, catering to the southern region of the country.
Iloilo International Airport (ILO)
Located in Iloilo, about 650 kilometers from Basco, Iloilo International Airport connects the Visayas region with international destinations and offers several domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Batanes Ibanag
The dominant demographic group in Basco, known for their traditional culture and practices.
Visayan
A significant cultural group, contributing to the diversity of languages and traditions in Basco.
Tagalog
This group has a presence in Basco, due to migration and intermarriage over the years.
Chinese
A smaller demographic group involved in commerce and trade within the community.
Other Ethnic Groups
Includes various indigenous and migrant groups contributing to the multicultural fabric of Basco.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball
A widely popular sport in the Philippines, basketball is played in various communities in Basco, with many local courts available for both recreational and competitive play.
Volleyball
Volleyball is commonly played in schools and community events in Basco, enjoyed by both men and women, and often featured in local tournaments.
Surfing
Due to its natural beaches and waves, surfing is a popular activity in Basco, attracting both locals and tourists to the shoreline.
Traditional Games
Local traditional games like 'sipa' and 'patintero' are played, representing cultural heritage and fostering community engagement.
Soccer
Soccer enthusiasts in Basco enjoy the sport, with grassroots initiatives and friendly matches held among the youth.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan
While traditional Ivatan cuisine heavily features seafood and meat, some restaurants and cafés in Basco offer vegetable-based dishes and can often accommodate requests for vegetarian or vegan options. Bunker's Café and Beehan Café are great places to inquire about plant-based dishes.
Gluten-Free Options
Visitors with gluten restrictions can find some relief at Beehan Café, which offers gluten-free baked goods and is attentive to dietary needs. Additionally, many restaurants in Basco are accustomed to accommodating dietary preferences, so communicating your requirements is recommended.