Both the largest protected area in the country with more than 300,000 hectares of rainforest, and the lowest national forest...
The fifth-largest cave system in the country (and one of our best!) can be found in the barangays of Capisaan...
Don’t worry, there are no giant reptiles here! This island was named for its long, tapering shape. Here, visitors can...
Why visit one waterfall… when you can visit seven! This pristine and peaceful nature retreat in Quirino is home to...
Experience one of Batanes’ most charming traditions at the Honesty Coffee Shop, where the entire store operates on a simple...
Found in Santa Ana, Cagayan, this is a protected landscape and seascape managed by the Department of Environment and Natural...
This northernmost province of the Philippines is on the shortlist to become the next UNESCO World Heritage Site. Batanes is...
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Fun Things To Do
Sun and Beach
Cagayan Valley promises long days of friendly sunshine and warm waves for weary travelers! Check out Valugan Beach or Sabtang Island for a rejuvenating getaway and witness breathtaking rock formations polished smooth by the mighty Pacific Ocean. The paradise of Palaui Island is another destination that snorkel-lovers and beach campers love coming back to.
Nature and Adventure
Region II has countless wonders for travelers to discover-both high above the ground and under it. Walk over the pristine rolling hills of Vayang to get the selfie of a lifetime. Or dig deep and trek down into the caves of Callao and Sierra, Sierra, just a jeepney ride from the central market of Tuguegarao. Don't forget to visit the unforgettable Bluewater Falls in Baggao, Cagayan!
Food and Hospitality
As famous as the Cagayan River is, it still doesn't match the delicious reputation of the food in Region II! Try local delicacies like Tilapia and Pancit Batil Potun, sweet rice cakes such as Patupat and Binallay, Water Buffalo Milk Candy, Beef Tapa, and some of the best Pork Longganisa in the country. Make it a point to taste the hard-to-find Flying Fish while in Cagayan Valley!
Events and Culture
In this region, one can find traditions dating back thousands of years still thriving today. Discover the anthropological history of Cagayan Valley and find amazing pieces of tribal artisanry as well as the 67,000 year-old Homo Luzonensis at the Cagayan Museum. Make your visit fun by joining in the different festivals throughout the region that showcase centuries of Filipino tradition!
Top 5 Festivals
Bambanti Festival
Who knew scarecrows could be this fun?
Don't miss the Bambanti Festival in Isabela
which attracts both local and foreign
tourists. Witness grand performances
and cultural shows celebrating the good
harvest in the region.
WHEN: January 28-30
WHERE: Jones, Isabela
Grand Ammungan Festival: Nueva Vizcaya Day
People all over Nueva Vizcaya gather to
celebrate life and bounty during the
Ammungan festival. The province holds
various events like street dancing
competitions, beauty pageants, and a
talent show for returning OFWs.
WHEN: May 19-24
HERE: Province of Nueva Vizcaya
Ivatan Festival: Batanes Day
Fly north for Batanes Day and experience
the rich culture of the Islands. The festival
is known for cultural demonstrations
that show how Ivatan culture has
flourished and stood the test of time
and is now reaching the world outside
the province's islands.
WHEN: June 21-26
WHERE: Province of Bataan
Aggao Nac Cagayan: Cagayan Day
The month of June marks the anniversary
of Cagayan's local government.
The celebration is highlighted by festive
events like beauty pageants, parades,
and cultural showcases such as exhibits,
lectures, and an agro-industrial fair.
WHEN: June 23-29
WHERE: Province of Cagayan
Panagdadapun Festival
Get in a festive mood for a whole week
in Quirino's Panagdadapun Festival.
Join the locals in festival staples like
cultural parades and beauty pageants
and unique experiences like traditional
pet shows and the crowd's favorite, the
motocross event.
WHEN: September 5-10
WHERE: Province of Quirino
things to know
How to get there
Cagayan Valley is primarily served by Tuguegarao Airport, with regular flights from Manila. Cauayan Airport in Isabela provides additional access. Travelers can also reach the region by land through NLEX, SCTEX, and Maharlika Highway, with travel times of 8–10 hours depending on the destination.
How to get around
Transportation options include jeepneys, tricycles, vans, buses, and taxis in major cities. For exploring caves, mountains, and countryside attractions, travelers often hire private vans, motorbikes, or join guided tours. Coastal and island destinations like Palaui are accessed via boats and local charters.
Where to stay
Cagayan Valley offers a variety of accommodations: business hotels in Tuguegarao, riverside resorts in Cagayan, boutique stays in Isabela, and eco‑lodges in Nueva Vizcaya and Quirino. Options range from budget inns to full‑service hotels depending on the province.
Internet
Internet connectivity is reliable in major cities and town centers. Most hotels, cafés, and restaurants offer free Wi‑Fi, and mobile data from Globe, Smart, and DITO performs well in populated areas. Speeds may vary in remote mountain or coastal locations.
Language
The region primarily speaks Ibanag, Itawit, Ilocano, and Gaddang, depending on the province. Filipino and English are widely used in tourism, business, and transportation, making communication easy for visitors.
Currency
The official currency is the Philippine Peso (PHP). ATMs and banks are available in major cities like Tuguegarao, Cauayan, and Bayombong. Smaller towns, local markets, and rural attractions may prefer cash, so carrying pesos is recommended when traveling outside urban centers.
Timezone
Cagayan Valley follows Philippine Standard Time (PST), which is UTC+8. The Philippines does not observe daylight saving time, so the time remains consistent year‑round.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What makes the Cagayan Valley Region a unique destination?
Cagayan Valley is known for its vast mountain ranges, river systems, heritage towns, and natural wonders. Travelers visit for the dramatic landscapes of Batanes, the historic churches of Tuguegarao and Isabela, the caves and rock formations of Cagayan, and the agricultural heartlands of Nueva Vizcaya and Quirino. The region offers a refreshing mix of culture, nature, and adventure.
How do travelers usually reach the Cagayan Valley Region?
Most visitors fly into Tuguegarao Airport, the region’s main gateway, with direct flights from Manila. Cauayan Airport in Isabela also serves select routes. Travelers can reach the region by land via North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) and Maharlika Highway, with scenic drives leading to major cities and provinces.
What activities and attractions are popular in Cagayan Valley?
Top experiences include exploring Callao Cave, visiting the Basilica Minore of Our Lady of Piat, island‑hopping in Palaui Island, trekking the mountains of Nueva Vizcaya, and discovering the waterfalls and eco‑parks of Quirino. The region is also known for its food specialties like pancit batil patung and longganisa.
Is the Cagayan Valley Region suitable for families and first‑time travelers?
Yes. Cagayan Valley offers a wide range of family‑friendly attractions, safe road networks, and modern accommodations in major cities. Its mix of nature, culture, and gentle adventure makes it ideal for families, couples, and first‑time visitors seeking a quieter, more scenic escape.
