Cagayan Valley (Region 2)

Situated between the Sierra Madre and Cordillera Mountain Ranges, the Cagayan
Valley is considered as the largest region in the Philippines. Its area includes the
northernmost islands of Batanes and Babuyan. Cagayan River, the longest in the
Philippines, runs through the center of the region and empties into the Luzon Strait.

Cagayan Valley is agricultural and the coastal towns are involved in fisheries. The
region claims to be the Tilapia Capital of the Philippines, with production growing in
huge proportions in recent years.

Key Attractions:

Palaui Island

The Palaui Island Protected Landscape and Seascape is a protected area and national
park in the town of Santa Ana in Cagayan, Philippines. It is located off the
northeastern extremity of Luzon Island, the largest island in the country. Palaui Island
is one of the emerging tourist spots in Cagayan valley. Located off the coast of
mainland Luzon, this rustic paradise offers an experience of a lifetime, especially for
nature lovers and adventurers. Pristine rainforests cover most of the island and here,
there are monkeys, wild pigs, numerous bird species, and giant Narra trees. On its
coasts, you can find white beaches and blue lagoons. It’s the perfect getaway if you
prefer less touristy destinations.

Source: 
ASR
World
Travel
and Tours
 Callao Cave

Callao Cave is one of the limestone caves located in the municipality of

Peñablanca, Cagayan province, in the Philippines. The seven-chamber show cave
is one of 300 caves that dot the area and the best known natural tourist attraction
of the province. The town is named as Peñablanca for the presence of white
limestone rocks in the area. Callao Cave is located in the Barangays of Magdalo
and Quibal in Peñablanca about 24 km northeast of Tuguegarao City, the capital
of the Province of Cagayan. A newly-described species of human living between
50,000 and 67,000 years ago, Homo luzonensis, discovered in the cave was
confirmed in 2019. Callao and the other caves are situated in the western
foothills of the Northern Sierra Madre Mountains of the Philippines. They are
situated within the Peñablanca Protected Landscape and Seascape, which
stretches from the caves to the eastern shores of the Pacific Ocean.

Millions of Bat Assembly

Yes, you’ve read that right. The forests and giant caves of Cagayan is home to some
of the remaining refuges of endemic bat species. Known as the Circadian Bat Flight,
this phenomenon involves millions of bats going out from the cave and forming
spectacular formations as they make their way for foraging. These bats are visible
when cruising the Pinacanauan River near Callao Cave. Location/Jump-
off: Peñablanca

 Magat Dam

Magat Dam is one of the recognized man-made tourist spots in Isabela and is
considered one of the largest dams in Asia. Magat River which emanates from the
Cordilleran mountain ranges feeds the dam. Tourists who want to enjoy the Magat
Dam’s scenery can stay at Camp Vizcarra. Location/Jump-off: Ramon town

Mororan River
Aside from its crystal-clear waters, the Mororan River features numerous mini-
waterfalls along its entire length. Huge boulders add to the scenic view of the river.
Locals and travellers alike love coming here to enjoy pure water from the distant
forests.Location/Jump-off: Tumauini

Palanan Rainforest

Palanan Rainforest is the Philippine’s largest remaining lowland forest. Today,

however, massive logging and commercial farming is shrinking its size and
endangering countless species such as the Philippine Eagle. Ecotourism, if properly
developed, could help promote its conservation while boosting local development.
Location/Jump-off: Palanan

Sinavulluan Caves

Sinavulluan Caves feature spectacular stalactite and stalagmite rock formations

including enchanting lattices. It is a perfect getaway for avid spelunkers and
explorers. It is one of the protected tourist spots in Isabela province. Location/Jump-
off: Brgy Antagan, Tumauini
Our Lady of Atocha Church

The Our Lady of Atocha Church dates back to the Spanish times and is one of the best
known historical tourist spots in Isabela. It boasts of a Castilian architecture. During
the Holy Week, thousands of local and foreign pilgrims troop here. Location/Jump-
off: Alicia

Saint Mathias Church

This is one of the many

churches found in Isabela with
walls made entirely of
bricks. It has a four-layered
facade which gives the church
an imposing view. Location/Jump-off: Tumauini

Shrine of Our Lady of La Salette

The chapel sits on the highest point in Santiago City. It is also a major pilgrimate site
during the Holy Week.  Location/Jump-off: Santiago City

Pinacanauan River

Pinacanauan River is one of the largest tributaries of the Cagayan River, considered
the longest and mightiest river in the Philippines. Its crystal-clear waters come from
vast dipterocarp and mossy forests upstream. Whitewater rafting, boating, and
kayaking are among the prime activities done here. It is also home to endemic marine
species such as eels. The locals hold a boat rowing race called Bankarera here every
April 12. Location/Jump-off: Peñablanca
Baggao’s Blue Waterfalls and Caves

Baggao features a series of beautiful cascades with beautiful pools reflecting the blue
sky. There are mini-underground rivers here where bats and birds dwell. Here, you’ll
also find different rock formations. It’s best to come here during the summer months
of March to April to enjoy the best views. Location/Jump-off: Baggao

St. Peter’s Cathedral

Image Source: Siervo Romero via Tuguegarao City 101

St. Peter’s Cathedral is one of the historical tourist spots in Cagayan valley. It seats
the Archdiocese of Tuguegarao and is considered the biggest Spanish-style church in
the province. Daily masses are celebrated here and every year, thousands of pilgrims
visit the church. Location/Jump-off: Tuguegarao City

Calvary Hills

If you’re a Catholic pilgrim, you should not miss visiting this spot. It is one of the
most popular religious tourist spots in Cagayan valley. Not only does one experience
a spiritual connection but also the natural beauty of the place. Location/Jump-
off: Iguig
 San Vicente Mangrove Forests

San Vicente’s mangrove forest is one of the most preserved nature tourist spots
in Cagayan valley. You’ll get to see them when you ride a banca (boat) along
narrow water passage. Expect to see birds of different kinds such as herons and
egrets. Organizers usually include the forest as part of a tour package to Anguib
Beach. Location/Jump-off: Brgy San Vicente, Santa Ana

Basco Lighthouse

Basco Lighthouse is a lighthouse in the town of Basco in Batanes, the

northernmost province in the Philippines. Located in Naidi Hills in Barangay San
Antonio, the lush green hills and the open sea provide a beautiful backdrop for
the lighthouse. The place can easily be reached by a 1.2-km hike from the Port of
Basco

Anguib Beach

Anguib Beach ranks as one of the premium tourist spots in Cagayan province.
Although popular, it is generally off-beaten compared to highly commercialized
destinations like Boracay or El Nido in Palawan. It’s one of the most pristine beaches
in the country. Although it is hard to reach, you’ll get instant relief from gazing at its
crystal-clear waters, white sands, and stunning rock and reef formations.
 Mount Iraya

Mount Iraya, is an dormant volcano on Batan Island and the highest point in the
province of Batanes, Philippines.  Iraya is a heavily forested stratovolcano, with an
elevation of 1,009 metres (3,310 ft) asl, and a base diameter of 5,500 metres
(18,000 ft).Adjacent volcanic edifice is Mount Matarem.
Mount Iraya last erupted in 1454, and the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and
Seismology (PHIVOLCS) considers it as one of the active volcanoes in the
Philippines.

Mount Iraya is a sacred mountain for the Ivatan people. There are two
contrasting tales regarding the mountain, the first tale states that the mountain is a
mother overlooking her children (the Ivatans) for their protection,while the second
tale states that if a ring of clouds appear on top of the mountain, Iraya is notifying
the people for preparation due to an inevitable death of an elder, usually due to
natural causes.

Taggat Lagoon

Taggat Lagoon is not just an ordinary lagoon. It has a mystery of its own but I’ll leave
that up to the locals to share. Aside from the breathtaking sea landscape, you can find
here two rock formations called Lakay Lakay and Baket Baket. There’s a reason why
they are named as such. That is why there is a sense of enchantment when you visit
here
 Cape Engaño Lighthouse

Cape Engaño Lighthouse, also known as Faro de Cabo Engaño, is a historic

lighthouse located at the Palaui Island in the town of Santa Ana, the province of
Cagayan, Philippines. Located at the northernmost part of Luzon Island and
situated atop the summit of a hill, 92 meters above sea level, the lighthouse
provides a 360-degree view of Babuyan Island and the Dos Hermanas Island on
the North, Pacific Ocean on the West and Engaño cove on the East. Cape Engaño
Lighthouse is now under the supervision of the Department of Transportation
and Communications through the Philippine Coast Guards' lighthouse division.

Morong Beach

Scenic beach & a natural stone arch

Of all the beaches fringing the coast of Sabtang Island, Morong Beach is probably the
most well-known. Thanks to the large rocky arch that has become an icon not just of
the island but Batanes as a whole. The natural formation is called Nakabuang Arch.
(The beach is also commonly referred to as Nakabuang Beach.)

Morong Beach is a favorite among Batanes tourists for many reasons. The sand here
is much fairer than other beaches in the province. The waves are also less ferocious;
they are friendly enough for a swim. Bookmarked by grass-carpeted small hills, it is
actually a pretty short stretch, you can walk from one end to the other in a matter of
minutes.
Bagsang Falls

If you’re into chasing waterfalls, don’t miss visiting this spot. Bagsang falls may
demand extra effort and time but as soon as you’ll reach it, it’s all worth it! This small
but charming waterfall has cold and crystal-clear waters that can soothe your muscles
after the long trek. Then there’s the surrounding forest which teems with flora and
fauna species. Location/Jump-off: Brgy Santa Clara, Gonzaga

Atulu Pottery Village

If you want to experience pottery or watch how it’s done, then you should see Atulu
Pottery Village. The locals here have been making clay pots of different designs and
sizes for centuries. They use a rare type of red clay which is found in the area.
Location/Jump-off: Brgy Atulu, Iguig

 Nassiping Church Ruins

If you’re fond of historical or cultural treasures, do visit Nassiping Church Ruins.

Sitting on a site where both the mighty Chico and Cagayan River meets, this ancient
structure was built by the Spaniards. Some parts of the church such as stone side altars
and the bell tower are still intact. Location/Jump-off: Brgy Nassiping, Gattaran
Zinagu Cove

Similar to those in El Nido and Coron, Palawan, Zinagu Cove is one of the premium
natural tourist spots in Cagayan valley. Limestone mountains and rock formations rise
above the sea, creating a breathtaking scenery. Take a boat and tour around these
masterpieces and you’ll find yourself lost in time. Location/Jump-off: Sta. Ana

 Our Lady of Piat Basilica

Our Lady of Piat Basilica is one of the most visited religious tourist spots in Cagayan
province. It houses the patroness of Cagayan valley which originally came from
Macau, China. Location/Jump-off: Piat
Calayan Island

Calayan Island is one of the most popular tourist spots in Cagayan valley. It features
raw and unspoiled destinations such as white beaches, stunning corals, pristine
forests, and scenic rock formations.

Duba Cave

Duba Cave is one of the caves found in Baggao. A river with crystal-clear waters runs
inside the cave. Expect to get wet when you come here. The river leads into a
beautiful spectacle called Skylight Falls. Location/Jump-off: Brgy San Miguel,
Baggao

Kalimudinan Falls
Measuring more than 100 meters high, Kalimudinan falls is one of the highest falls in
the entire province. It’s pristine waters come from the forests of the Sierra Madre. It is
one of the remotest tourist spots in Cagayan province. Expect to trek on dense forests
before getting here.Location/Jump-off: Sta. Margarita, Baggao

Malaueg Chur
ch

Malaueg
Church is one of the
oldest historical
tourist spots in
Cagayan province, dating back to the Spanish period. It is a favorite pilgrimage site
among the locals and even tourists. Location/Jump-off: Rizal

Governor’s Rapids and Caves

Photo by: Governor’s Rapids FB Page

These are found along a stretch of the mighty Cagayan River, the longest and largest
river in the Philippines. Gigantic limestone rock formations enhance the beauty of
these rapids. This part of the river is also a recognized site for adventure kayaking,
rafting, and boating. Location/Jump-off: Maddela

Landingan View Point

Landingan View Point is one of the newest tourist spots in Quirino province. Here,
catch a stunning view of the verdant mountains and blooming flowers. It’s best to
come here during sunrise. Location/Jump-off: Landingan