Things To Do
in Basco
Basco is the northern gateway to the Philippines, perched on Batan Island with wind-swept shores and Ivatan stone houses. The town blends a quiet, maritime charm with dramatic coastlines and rolling hills that frame striking sunsets. At its heart lies the Basco Lighthouse (Naidi) offering panoramic ocean views and a glimpse into Ivatan culture.
As a base for island hopping to Sabtang and Itbayat, Basco combines cultural heritage with accessible nature trails and gentle, scenic explorations.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Basco Airport and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and coastline as you make your way to your accommodation. After checking in, take some time to freshen up and relax after your journey. Stroll around the nearby area to get a feel for the local culture and atmosphere.
Head to Naidi Hills to admire the iconic Basco Lighthouse, where you can take plenty of photographs of the picturesque landscape. Enjoy a leisurely hike around the hills, soaking in the serene surroundings and panoramic views of the sea. Satisfy your hunger with a local lunch at a nearby café, trying delicacies such as Vunes and other traditional fare.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot on the beach to watch the spectacular colors of the sunset reflect on the water. Refresh yourself with a beachside dinner, sampling local seafood dishes and enjoying the sound of the waves. Wind down your evening by visiting a local bar or café for a drink and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere.
Take an early morning boat ride to Sabtang Island, known for its breathtaking landscapes and traditional Ivatan houses. Upon arrival, visit the traditional village of Savidug and immerse yourself in the local culture, learning about the unique architecture and lifestyle of the Ivatan people. Stop by the stunning Nakabuang Beach, known for its white sands and scenic rock formations.
After lunch, explore the Sabtang Lighthouse and take in the panoramic views of the coastline and the surrounding waters. Spend some time swimming and relaxing on the beach before heading to the lush landscape of Morong Beach, where you can bask in the sun or enjoy a beach picnic. Engage with local craftspeople to learn about traditional weaving and handicrafts.
Return to Basco in the evening and enjoy dinner in a local restaurant that offers authentic Ivatan cuisine. Engage in conversations with friendly locals about their culture and daily lives while relishing traditional dishes. Later, take a peaceful walk along the shore, listening to the tranquil sound of the waves lapping against the sand.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| ☕Coffee in local cafe | $2-4 |
| 🚕Short taxi or local transport ride | $2-5 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel per night | $40-70 |
| 🦞Fresh seafood meal | $6-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning coastal scenery and Ivatan culture
- Compact town makes for easy exploration on foot or by bike
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options
- Remote location can mean slower service and fewer amenities
- "Kumusta po?" - Hello, how are you?
- "Salamat po" - Thank you
- "Magkano ito?" - How much is this?
- "Saan ang pinakamalapit na ospital?" - Where is the nearest hospital?
- "Pakiusap, tulong po" - Please, help
Places to Visit in Basco
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic lighthouse perched on a seaside cliff with sweeping ocean views, perfect for sunrise or sunset photography and silhouettes of the beacon.
Gentle, grassy hills meeting the ocean horizon; a dramatic landscape shot especially at golden hour.
Historic church and town square with Ivatan stone walls; capture local life against a simple architectural backdrop.
Ancient stone fortress ruins in Ivatan settlements, offering rugged textures and maritime silhouettes for dramatic photos (accessible on day trips from Basco).
Food in Basco
Basco Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A light seafood stew cooked with coconut milk and local herbs, best enjoyed with warm rice at family-run eateries.
Must-Try!
Marinated and charcoal-grilled meat with regional herbs; typically served with rice and a tangy dip.
Fresh fish lightly seasoned and wrapped with coconut leaves for a subtle flavor infusion.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A hub to taste dried fish, kinilaw-style preparations, fresh produce, and quick local snacks; great for picking up island flavors.
Casual stalls offering bite-sized fried treats, coconut-based snacks, and seasonal fruits.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting towns and religious sites; ask permission before taking photos of people, especially elders; be mindful of local customs and share space respectfully.
Safety
Tipping in Basco
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected; rounding up or adding 5-10% for guides and drivers is common if service is good. No service charge is usually included in casual meals.
Cash is widely preferred, especially for markets and small eateries. Some mid-range restaurants and hotels may accept cards; confirm ahead of time.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March to May brings warm days with gentle breeze; comfortable to explore outdoors, but expect sunny and occasionally windy conditions near the coast.
Basco at Night
Hiking in Basco
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A challenging hike offering expansive vistas over Basco and the surrounding islands; best done with a guide.
Coastal-to-hill route offering photo-worthy landscapes, sea views, and gentle to moderate terrain.
Airports
How to reach Basco by plane.
Small domestic airport serving Basco; connects to Manila and other Philippine hubs via seasonal or scheduled flights.
Smaller island airport; flights are less frequent and typically require connections through Basco or other hubs.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Indigenous people of Batanes known for distinct stone houses, long houses, and strong maritime traditions.
Small communities of travelers, workers, and retirees who visit or live in Batanes seasonally.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport across the Philippines, commonly played in town courts and competitions in Basco.
Coastal activities and local fishing heritage support kayaking and sea-based sports for visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Basco.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer vegetable-based entrées and coconut-based curries; ask for dishes without fish, meat, or to avoid fish sauce. Vegetarian options often include rice bowls with local greens and root crops.