Brimming with rich culture and history, Vigan City is, without a doubt, a bucket list destination for every traveller. Finally, kutcheros are making their way back to the cobblestone streets of Calle Crisologo, awaiting tourists ready to push through Ilocos Sur travel requirements. The province now allows fully-vaccinated individuals to visit sans the mandatory swab testing and quarantine. Ready to visit Vigan City and more breathtaking destinations in Ilocos Sur? Here’s all you need to know.
Also read: Inabel, Buri, Longganisa: 10 Ilocos Products You Shouldn’t Miss Out On
Ilocos Sur travel overview
For the first time since the pandemic, Ilocos Sur has relaxed its travel requirements for domestic tourists. As of writing, the province is under Alert Level 2 until 28 Feb 2022.
Who can travel to Ilocos Sur?
Under Alert Level 2, Ilocos Sur allows tourists of all ages from areas under Alert Levels 1, 2, 3, GCQ, and MGCQ to stay at least overnight. Travellers coming from areas under Alert Levels 4 and 5 shall be treated as unvaccinated tourists.
Also read: 16 Must-Visit Historical Buildings & Heritage Houses in the Philippines
COVID-19 health and safety protocols
While Ilocos Sur is now mostly open for tourism, the province continues to adhere to health and safety protocols. Here are the Ilocos Sur travel protocols and guidelines you must remember while it is under Alert Level 2.
- Social distancing, wearing face masks, and regular handwashing are expected.
- Restaurants and other dining establishments may operate up to their 50% indoor and 70% outdoor venue capacity.
- Travel agencies and tour operators bringing inbound tourists must present a DOT accreditation prior to the approval of tours.
Ilocos Sur travel requirements
Domestic tourists may enter Ilocos Sur through the Tagudin Border or the Sinait Border. There, they shall present the travel requirements as stated below.
For fully vaccinated tourists
- COVID-19 vaccination card
- Valid ID
- Booking confirmation from a DOT-accredited hotel or travel agent
- Travel pass and QR code from S-PaSS or Tara Na!
For tourists who are not fully vaccinated
- Negative RT-PCR or antigen test result issued within 72 hours prior to arrival*
- COVID-19 vaccination card
- Valid ID
- Booking confirmation from a DOT-accredited hotel or travel agent
- Travel pass and QR code from S-PaSS or Tara Na!
*Children below 17 years old who are accompanied by fully-vaccinated parents will be treated as fully vaccinated.
Also read: How to Book an Angkas Saliva RT-PCR Home Service Test
Where to stay in Ilocos Sur
As per the latest executive order, tourists may not stay in a private residence. Those who have families or friends in Ilocos Sur must still book a DOT-accredited accommodation. We’ve handpicked a few establishments that have been provided with a Certificate of Authority to Operate (CAO) issued by the DOT:
- Balai Mestizo Travelodge
- Henady Inn
- Hotel Salcedo de Vigan
- Hotel Veneto de Vigan
- LaVie Hotel Vigan
- Regency Hotel de Vigan
- Vigan Plaza Hotel
- Villa Angela Heritage House
- Vitalis White Sands
Also read: 15 Must-Try Restaurants in Vigan City, According to True-Blue Ilocanos
Ilocos Sur travel resources
For more information and other official Ilocos Sur-related travel updates, you may visit these links:
Planning to explore more local destinations? Check out more of our COVID-19 travel guides:
- Siargao Travel Requirements for Domestic Tourists
- Boracay Travel Requirements for Domestic Tourists
- Baguio Travel Requirements for Fully Vaccinated Tourists
- Camiguin Travel Requirements for Domestic Tourists
- Bohol Travel Requirements for Domestic Tourists
- La Union Travel Requirements for Domestic Tourists
- Batangas Travel Requirements for Domestic Tourists
- Baler Travel Requirements for Domestic Tourists
Featured image credit: Earthly by Arpee via Canva Pro
