Things To Do
in Isabela
Isabela is a province in the northern region of the Philippines known for its rich agriculture and natural resources. It is the second largest province in the country in terms of land area. Isabela boasts stunning landscapes of rolling hills, lush forests, and fertile plains.
The province is also home to diverse flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature lovers and adventurers.
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Oo" - Yes
- "Hindi" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $70
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $25 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the beautiful Black Sand Beach, enjoying the sound of the waves. After a morning swim, indulge in a hearty local breakfast at a nearby café.
Explore the stunning landscapes by renting a kayak or paddleboard. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach while taking in the incredible views.
Watch the sunset over the horizon, painting the sky with vibrant colors. Dine at a seafood restaurant and savor fresh catches of the day.
Kick off your day with a trek to the scenic Mt. Binarayan, taking in the lush surroundings. Capture stunning photos of the landscape as you ascend.
After your hike, enjoy a packed lunch at the summit or head back down to dine in a local eatery. Spend the afternoon exploring eco-tourism activities like bird watching.
Wind down your day with a visit to a local market, where you can shop for souvenirs. Enjoy dinner at a traditional restaurant featuring local delicacies.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural landscapes, including beaches, waterfalls, and mountains.
- Rich cultural heritage with diverse festivals and traditions.
- Abundant agricultural resources, making it a hub for food production.
- Growing tourism industry with opportunities for adventure and eco-tourism.
- Warm and welcoming local community.
- Limited infrastructure in some areas, which can affect accessibility.
- Vulnerability to natural disasters such as typhoons and floods.
- Some regions may have issues with poverty and access to basic services.
- Isolation from major urban centers, which can limit job opportunities.
- Environmental concerns, including deforestation and loss of biodiversity.
Best Activities in Isabela
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful islands and crystal clear waters of Isabela through island hopping tours.
Experience the waves at popular surfing spots such as San Juan Beach for an adrenaline-pumping adventure.
Enjoy a unique camping experience on the pristine shores of Isabela, surrounded by natural beauty.
Embark on scenic hikes and nature trails to discover the diverse landscapes and lush forests of Isabela.
Tours
Uncover the best of Isabela with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Isabela
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning coastal views and a great spot for photography
Panoramic views of the mountains, ocean, and surrounding area
Spectacular views of the coastline and the Pacific Ocean
Food in Isabela
Isabela Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A stir-fried noodle dish featuring miki noodles, sautéed with various vegetables, meats, and shrimps, typically seasoned with soy sauce and calamansi. Best enjoyed at local eateries and carinderias in the town of Cabagan.
Must-Try!
A traditional dish made of grilled pig’s face marinated in a special sauce, often served with a side of native vinegar and fresh tomatoes. Can be savored in barbecue stalls and street food vendors across Isabela.
A local delicacy made of steamed rice cakes, known for its fluffy texture and subtly sweet flavor. Visitors can purchase these delightful treats from stalls in the town of Calasiao.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Isabela better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market that comes alive at night, offering an extensive selection of street food such as barbecue skewers, grilled seafood, and delectable kakanin (rice cakes).
A bustling market where visitors can find an assortment of fresh seafood, fruits, and vegetables, providing a glimpse into the local ingredients used in Isabela's cuisine.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
One cultural norm in Isabela, Philippines is the emphasis on showing respect to elders. This includes using respectful language and gestures when interacting with older individuals.
Hospitality is highly valued in Isabela, and it is common to offer guests food and drinks as a sign of welcoming and respect. Visitors are expected to accept these offerings graciously.
In Isabela, it is respectful to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or attending traditional events. Revealing clothing may be considered inappropriate.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Isabela with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Isabela
Ensure a smooth experience
In Isabela, Philippines, tipping is not a common practice and is not expected in most establishments. However, if the service has been exceptional, a small tip of around 10% of the total bill may be appreciated.
Cash is the most widely accepted form of payment in Isabela, Philippines. Credit and debit cards may be accepted in larger establishments and hotels, but it is always advisable to carry cash for smaller businesses and local markets. Some establishments may also accept mobile payment methods.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Isabela.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Isabela is during the dry season, from December to May. During this time, you can expect warm and sunny weather with minimal rainfall. It is ideal for outdoor activities such as beach trips, snorkeling, and diving.
The rainy season in Isabela occurs from June to November, with increased rainfall and occasional typhoons. During this time, outdoor activities may be limited, and some areas may experience flooding. It's best to be cautious when traveling during the rainy season.
Isabela at Night
Hiking in Isabela
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
The highest peak in Luzon, known for its stunning sea of clouds and diverse flora and fauna. It offers various hiking trails suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers.
A popular local hiking destination that provides a panoramic view of Isabela's landscapes and is relatively easy to hike, making it accessible for casual hikers.
Located in the province of Occidental Mindoro, Mount Iglit is known for its diverse wildlife and challenging trails, perfect for adventurous hikers looking for a thrill.
While primarily known for its beach, the surrounding hills offer hiking opportunities with beautiful views of the cove and its natural surroundings.
A historical site that combines hiking with cultural experience, visitors can trek through the surrounding hills while exploring the unique rock formations.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Isabela through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Isabela by plane.
The main international airport serving Metro Manila and its neighboring regions, located approximately 350 kilometers southwest of Isabela.
An international airport located in Pampanga, around 280 kilometers southwest of Isabela, known for handling both domestic and international flights.
Located in Cauayan City, Isabela, this airport operates regional flights and is approximately 70 kilometers from the center of Isabela Province.
Situated in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte, this airport is about 380 kilometers northwest of Isabela and serves domestic and limited international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Isabela, the Ilocanos have a strong presence and cultural influence in the province.
This group is native to the province, and they have their own language and unique cultural practices.
A subgroup of the Ibanag people, they also contribute to the rich culture of Isabela.
A smaller community in Isabela, the Kankana-ey people have distinct traditions and customs.
Includes various smaller indigenous groups residing in remote areas of Isabela.
Comprising individuals from different provinces and regions in the Philippines, they contribute to the diversity of Isabela.
The Soul of Isabela
Discover the essence of Isabela through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is the most popular sport in Isabela, widely played in urban and rural communities, with many local leagues and tournaments.
Volleyball enjoys considerable popularity, especially among women, with schools and community clubs actively participating in competitions.
Football is gaining traction in Isabela, with the establishment of local clubs and growing interest in both grassroots and youth leagues.
Baseball has a rich history in Isabela, with many youth leagues and community teams competing in regional tournaments.
Sepak Takraw, a traditional sport similar to volleyball but played with a rattan ball, is popular in local communities.
Running events and fun runs are popular recreational activities, promoting health and community engagement.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Isabela.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat-centric, many local eateries and restaurants offer vegetable-based dishes such as pinakbet, mongo guisado, and ginisang pechay to cater to vegetarian and vegan preferences.
For those with gluten sensitivities, it's advisable to opt for rice-based dishes and communicate dietary requirements to ensure a suitable meal, as gluten-free specific offerings may be limited.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Isabela with these cultural adventures.
