Things To Do
in Calanasan
Calanasan is a remote municipality located in the province of Apayao in the Philippines. It is known for its lush landscapes, including mountains, forests, and rivers. The town is predominantly agricultural, with rice farming as the main livelihood of the residents.
Calanasan is also home to several indigenous communities, adding to its cultural richness.
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Oo" - Yes
- "Hindi" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $30
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $25
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the local market to experience the vibrant culture and fresh produce. Grab some breakfast from a local eatery to fuel up for the adventures ahead.
Head to the stunning rivers in the area for a refreshing swim or some relaxing time by the water. Consider renting a kayak for a bit of adventure on the river.
Enjoy a peaceful dinner at a local restaurant, sampling traditional dishes. Take a leisurely stroll through town to soak in the night ambiance.
Visit nearby cultural sites and learn about the rich traditions of the local communities. Engage with the locals to understand their way of life.
Partake in a workshop where you can learn traditional crafts or cooking. This hands-on experience will deepen your appreciation for local culture.
Dine with a local family, experiencing their hospitality and flavors. Share stories and enjoy a unique dining experience under the stars.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and local traditions
- Beautiful natural landscapes and biodiversity
- Friendly and welcoming local communities
- Low cost of living compared to urban areas
- Opportunities for eco-tourism and outdoor activities
- Limited access to modern amenities and services
- Poor infrastructure in some areas
- Vulnerability to natural disasters such as typhoons
- Limited job opportunities for specialized professions
- Travel restrictions and challenges in transportation
Best Activities in Calanasan
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful mountain trails around Calanasan, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes and a chance to experience the local flora and fauna.
Ride through the rugged terrains and scenic paths of Calanasan, suitable for both novice and experienced cyclists looking for an adventure.
Enjoy an overnight camping experience under the stars in designated camping areas, perfect for reconnecting with nature and enjoying the tranquility of the wilderness.
Visit nearby waterfalls, such as the famous Tappiya Falls, for a refreshing swim and a perfect spot for picnics.
Engage with the local communities and learn about the indigenous cultures, traditions, and crafts through guided tours.
Capture the stunning landscapes, vibrant sunsets, and rich biodiversity of the region, making it ideal for photography enthusiasts.
Tours
Uncover the best of Calanasan with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Calanasan
Visit one of these nice places.
A popular hiking destination offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The sunrise views are particularly breathtaking.
A stunning waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. It provides a perfect backdrop for photography with its clear blue waters and rocky landscape.
A famous landmark featuring a massive boulder believed to be thrown by a giant. The unique rock formation and the scenic surroundings make it an ideal spot for photos.
These picturesque rice terraces offer stunning views, especially during the planting season. The vibrant green fields create a beautiful contrast with the sky.
The town center provides a great opportunity to capture local life and culture. Colorful markets and traditional houses are great subjects for photography.
Food in Calanasan
Calanasan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Cordilleran dish featuring chicken, salt, and sometimes, lemon grass. The chicken is beaten with a stick before cooking to give it a unique texture and flavor.
Must-Try!
Salted pork preserved in a clay pot, then boiled or fried. It's a popular dish in the region due to its long shelf life and rich flavor.
A stir-fried noodle dish made with thick, fresh egg noodles, mixed with vegetables, shrimp, and topped with sliced boiled egg.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Calanasan better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where visitors can find an array of fresh produce, meat, and local delicacies. Be sure to try the grilled street kebabs and bibingka, a traditional rice cake.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Calanasan, as in many parts of the Philippines, showing respect to elders is paramount. Address older individuals with appropriate titles such as 'po' and 'opo' to convey politeness. It's also common to seek their advice and listen carefully to their opinions.
Dress modestly, especially when visiting places of worship or during community events. Wearing clothes that cover the shoulders and knees is considered respectful. Traditional attire may also be appreciated during local festivities.
Engagement in local customs and community practices is valued. Whether it's joining local celebrations, observing traditional rituals, or simply learning about native cuisine, showing interest in the culture fosters goodwill and respect among the residents.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Calanasan with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Calanasan
Ensure a smooth experience
In Calanasan, Philippines, tipping is not a common practice as it is in many Western countries. Service charges may be included in bills at restaurants or for services. However, if a customer is particularly satisfied with the service, they may choose to leave a small tip as a gesture of appreciation.
Payment methods in Calanasan often include cash transactions, as electronic payments are less prevalent in rural areas. Some establishments may accept mobile payments or bank transfers, but these options can vary. It's advisable for visitors to carry cash, preferably in small denominations, for ease of transactions at local markets and small businesses.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Calanasan.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the best time to visit Calanasan as the weather is generally dry and pleasant. Expect sunny days, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the natural beauty of the area. This season is also less humid, making it comfortable for tourists.
This period experiences higher rainfall, especially from June to September. Expect occasional heavy downpours, which may lead to muddy conditions and limit outdoor activities. However, the landscape becomes lush and green, providing stunning scenery for those who enjoy a quieter atmosphere.
These months can be unpredictable as the weather transitions between wet and dry. Visitors may encounter some rain, but there can also be plenty of sunny days. It's a good time for travelers looking to avoid the peak tourist season while still enjoying mild weather.
Calanasan at Night
Hiking in Calanasan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination known for its stunning views and diverse flora and fauna, Mount Pulag is located in the Cordillera region, not too far from Calanasan.
Mount Kalaw offers various trails with beautiful pine forests and panoramic views. It is a great spot for both beginners and experienced hikers.
Known for its scenic landscapes and challenging trails, Mount Cagayan is a great choice for adventurers looking for an exciting hike.
Located near Calanasan, Banaoang Trails offers a variety of hiking routes with scenic views, perfect for a day trip.
This area features a series of lesser-known trails that lead to breathtaking viewpoints and natural landscapes, ideal for those seeking a quiet hike.
Aiports
How to reach Calanasan by plane.
Laoag International Airport is located in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte, and serves as a gateway to the northern Philippines.
Clark International Airport is located in Pampanga and serves as an international airport for the Manila area and central Luzon.
Ninoy Aquino International Airport is the main international airport serving Manila and its surrounding areas.
Cebu Mactan International Airport is situated in Cebu and serves as one of the major international airports in the Visayas region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Ifugao are among the indigenous peoples of the Philippines, particularly residing in the mountainous regions of Luzon, including parts of Calanasan.
Igorot is a collective term for various ethnic groups in the Cordillera region with unique cultures, and Calanasan is part of this region.
The Kankanaey people are one of the major ethnic groups in the Cordillera region, known for their rich cultural heritage.
Bontoc is another ethnic group in the Cordillera, primarily associated with traditional rice farming and crafts.
The Mundok is a smaller ethnic group, contributing to the rich cultural diversity in the region.
Due to historical influences, Spanish and English speakers are also present in varying degrees, particularly in administrative and educational contexts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely played sport in Calanasan, basketball is popular among both youth and adults, often played in local courts and during community events.
Volleyball is a favorite among many residents, especially among women, and is commonly played in schools and local tournaments.
This traditional sport, which combines elements of soccer and volleyball, is popular in the region and showcases remarkable agility and skill.
Running is a popular activity during community celebrations, and local schools often host track and field events to encourage youth participation.
Locally, traditional Filipino games such as patintero and sipa are still enjoyed, especially during fiestas and community gatherings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Calanasan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional dishes often feature meat or fish, many restaurants in Calanasan offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly options. Locally grown vegetables are prevalent in the cuisine.
Rice is a staple in Filipino cuisine, and many dishes in Calanasan are naturally gluten-free. However, it's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly when dining out.