4-Day Relaxation Itinerary from Papua New Guinea to Batanes, Philippines

  • Day 1: Basco Lighthouse
    20 minutes (5.5km) from Basco Airport

    The Basco Lighthouse, also known as the Naidi Lighthouse, is a popular tourist spot located on top of a hill. It offers a panoramic view of the town and the sea. Visitors can climb up the staircase to reach the top and enjoy the stunning view.

  • Day 2: Sabtang Island
    1 hour (20km) travel time from Basco Port

    Sabtang Island is a great destination for nature lovers. The stunning coastline, traditional stone houses, and the Ivatan culture make it a unique place to visit. Visitors can take a boat ride from Basco to Sabtang Island and hire a tricycle tour to explore the island.

  • Day 3: Vayang Rolling Hills
    15 minutes (4km) from Basco Town Proper

    Vayang Rolling Hills is a vast expanse of grass-covered hills that overlooks the West Philippine Sea. It offers a stunning view of the sunset and a perfect place for relaxation. Travelers can pack a picnic and spend the evening watching the sunset from the hills.

  • Day 4: Valugan Boulder Beach
    10 minutes (2.5km) bike ride from Basco Town Proper

    The Valugan Boulder Beach features rows of boulders along the coast that were formed by the eruption of Mt. Iraya. Visitors can relax on the beach and enjoy the beautiful scenery. The area is perfect for a leisurely bike ride and a picnic on the beach.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Basco Lighthouse (1 hour, free)
  • Sabtang Island (7 hours, PHP 1500 for the boat ride)
  • Vayang Rolling Hills (2 hours, free)
  • Valugan Boulder Beach (2 hours, bike rental PHP 100)
  • Total Estimated Costs: PHP 1600

Transportation

Travelers can take a flight from Papua New Guinea to Manila, and then another flight from Manila to Basco. Alternatively, they can take a ferry from Aparri to Calayan Island, and then another ferry from Calayan to Batanes.

The estimated travel time from Papua New Guinea to Batanes is approximately 12 hours by plane and ferry. The costs for the flights and ferry rides may vary depending on the airline and the season. Travelers should make arrangements and reservations ahead of time.

Useful Tips

If travelers have more time, they can explore more of the islands in Batanes, such as Itbayat, Batan, and others. They can also try local Ivatan food and learn more about the Ivatan culture.

If they have less time, they can choose to visit fewer locations or shorten their stay in Batanes. They should prioritize based on their interests and preferences.

Airports

The Basco Airport (BSO) is the main airport in Batanes, located approximately 2 kilometers from the Basco Town Proper. It has regular flights from Manila and other cities in the Philippines. The airport is small and cozy, with a souvenir shop and a snack bar.

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