Don’t Visit Batanes Until You Read This

So you’ve seen those dreamy rolling hills and lighthouse shots on your feed and thought, “Okay, I’m booking Batanes.” Wait. Not so fast! Batanes is not the kind of place you just wing. The weather changes fast, flights get cancelled, and if you don’t plan right, it can get pretty expensive.

And here’s what makes Batanes different from most touristy spots in the country: the locals don’t chase after crowds. They actually value their environment and wellness more than the number of tourists who come in. For them, less is more.

There, locals are already frustrated with traffic, overcrowding, and the way tourism disrupts daily life. In Batanes, you won’t see that same resentment, because the community has been clear about protecting their culture and pace of life. Which, honestly, is the opposite of places like Baguio where residents are now mad at tourists for causing traffic and messing up their daily lives.

You’ll notice it right away in how people live. The streets are clean, the communities are disciplined, and respect is a big deal. Batanes even went viral for its “Honesty Store” in Basco — a tiny shop with no cashier, just goods on display and a box for payment. And it works, because people really do pay.

Land in Batanes is also sacred. Ivatan families don’t just sell their property to outsiders, even when money is tempting. That’s why the province still feels untouched, unlike other places where developers take over. Tourists aren’t treated as kings here, but as guests who need to adapt.

So before you book that ticket, remember: you’re not just visiting another island. You’re entering a community that takes pride in preserving its culture and land.

Image credit: laviniaxcn | Unsplash

Batanes looks like a paradise all year, but the weather is the real boss here. Since the airport is small and planes are tiny, everything depends on whether skies are clear or not.

• Dry Season (Feb to June): The safest bet. Clear skies, perfect landscapes, but crowded and pricey.

• Wet Season (July to October): Risky but quiet. Flights get cancelled often, so only go if you’re ready to adjust plans.

• Cooler Season (Nov to Feb): Windy and magical. If you want that “Scotland-but-in-the-Philippines” feel, this is your time.

Also read: 10 Must-See Batanes Tourist Spots for First-Timers

Image credit: yvonneassen | Unsplash

You’ll definitely spend time just staring at the hills and coastline, but here’s what you should not miss:

• Basco: Explore stone houses built to survive typhoons. Drop by Basco Lighthouse and Mt. Carmel Chapel for stunning views.

• Chawa View Deck: Watch waves slam into cliffs and feel like you’re standing at the edge of the world.

• Sabtang Island: Ride a boat to see UNESCO-listed stone houses, relax at Morong Beach, and check out traditional Ivatan weaving.

Image credit: lawaritao | Unsplash

Going during the dry season sounds perfect, but here’s the truth:

• Perks: You can hike, bike, and explore without stressing about storms. The vibe is also lively since more travellers are around.

• Downsides: Batanes is tiny, so flights and hotels run out fast. Prices jump, and attractions can feel crowded.

Image credit: rexysnaps | Unsplash

If you want to save money in Batanes, you should definitely try travelling off-peak or on weekdays when flights and hotels are usually a bit lower. You can actually cut costs by eating in local carinderias too, since Ivatan meals are filling and won’t drain your budget. Another thing you should do is bring your own essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle, because those things are either expensive or hard to find once you’re there. Honestly, it helps a lot to set a budget before you go. Just know how much you’re willing to spend on flights, food, and tours so you don’t end up overspending once you’re already on the island.

Also read: 10 Batanes Airbnb Homes for an Unforgettable Island Escape

Image credit: littlemissengineer | Unsplash

Batanes is breathtaking, but it comes with quirks. Flights are limited, weather is moody, and prices spike when everyone wants to go at the same time. If you plan wisely, you’ll see why people call it the Philippines’ version of New Zealand or Scotland. If not, you’ll just be stressed and broke.

So here’s the honest advice: time your trip well, prepare your budget, and go with patience. Batanes isn’t going anywhere, but once you get there at the right time, it will feel like a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Featured image credit: renesanz | Unsplash