Things To Do
in Capas
Capas is a quiet municipality in northern Tarlac, Philippines, nestled at the foothills of central Luzon and serving as a gateway to rugged natural beauty. It blends agricultural sincerity with growing eco-tourism, making it a good base for day trips to Mt. Pinatubo and surrounding landscapes. The town center offers markets, carinderias, and a warm, welcoming vibe that reflects everyday Filipino life.
With easy access to Clark and other neighboring hubs, Capas invites visitors to slow down and explore at a relaxed pace.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café before venturing out to the Capas National Shrine. This site commemorates the heroism of Filipino and American soldiers during World War II, and you can spend the morning exploring the beautifully landscaped grounds and learning about the historical significance. Be sure to take plenty of photos of the impressive monuments and memorials that dot the area.
After a guided tour of the shrine, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant serving traditional Filipino dishes. Post-lunch, visit the nearby Capas Heritage Museum, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Capas through various exhibits and artifacts. Take your time to engage with local historians and discover stories that shaped this vibrant community.
As the sun sets, head to a local eatery for dinner, where you can sample regional specialties such as adobo or sinigang. After your meal, stroll through the quiet streets of Capas and indulge in some local street food as you soak in the evening atmosphere. Conclude your day by visiting a local bar for a refreshing drink while enjoying live music from talented local artists.
Rise early and prepare for an exciting adventure to Mount Pinatubo, one of the Philippines' most famous volcanoes. Enjoy a scenic drive to the jump-off point, where you’ll meet your guides and set out on a thrilling trek through lush landscapes and rugged terrain. Be sure to capture stunning views of the surrounding mountains as you make your way to the crater lake.
Upon reaching the crater, take time to appreciate the breathtaking turquoise waters and the dramatic cliffs that surround it. Enjoy a packed lunch by the lake while soaking in the natural beauty, and if you're up for it, take a refreshing swim in the cool waters. After lunch, embark on a leisurely hike around the crater to explore its unique geological formations.
Return to Capas in the early evening, where you can share stories and experiences from your adventure with fellow travelers. Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, perhaps trying out some grilled seafood or chicken inasal. Wind down the day by relaxing at your accommodation, reflecting on the stunning landscapes you witnessed.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive local restaurant | $4-7 |
| 🚲Local transport (short ride; tricycle/jeepney) | $0.50-2 |
| 🛏️1 night in a mid-range hotel | $25-60 |
| 🍽️Dinner for two at a casual restaurant | $15-30 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $20-80 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, authentic small-town experience with easy access to nature
- Close proximity to Mt. Pinatubo and other natural sights
- Affordability and straightforward travel logistics
- Friendly locals and a relaxed pace
- Limited nightlife and fewer high-end dining options
- Smaller tourist infrastructure than major hubs
- Public transit options can be limited outside the town center
- Weather can be hot and humid, with seasonal rainfall and typhoons
- "Kamusta po?" - How are you? (polite)
- "Magandang araw po." - Good day.
- "Salamat po." - Thank you.
- "Magkano ito?" - How much is this?
- "Saan ang Capas National Shrine?" - Where is the Capas National Shrine?
- "Opo / Hindi po." - Yes (polite) / No (polite).
- "Pwede bang makatulong?" - Can you help me?
- "Maaari bang makatipid?" - Is this price negotiable?
Places to Visit in Capas
Visit one of these nice places.
A solemn historical site set among trees and open spaces; ideal for respectful memorial photos, especially in the early morning or late afternoon light.
Dramatic volcanic landscapes with turquoise crater lake in favorable conditions; capture wide-angle panoramas and rugged lava formations.
Golden-hour scenes along farm lanes and seasonal fields; quiet backdrops for landscape and casual street photography.
Food in Capas
Capas Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Pork or chicken braised in soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and bay leaves; a staple found in most eateries.
Must-Try!
A vegetable medley simmered with fermented shrimp paste, often featuring squash, okra, and eggplant.
Herb- and spice-seasoned roasted chicken, commonly found in casual dining spaces.
A sour soup typically made with pork or shrimp and a tamarind-based broth, great with rice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A hub to sample fresh produce, grilled skewers, fried snacks, and daily staples.
Banana cue, turon, boiled corn, and peanuts offered along the town streets, especially in the evening.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use polite language, say po/opo when addressing elders, and greet others with a smile and a handshake or a nod.
Ask permission before photographing people, particularly in residential areas or religious sites.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or rural communities; be mindful of personal space and local customs.
Safety
Tipping in Capas
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common for good service in restaurants and tour guides, typically 5-10% if no service charge is included. It's not expected in markets or casual street stalls.
Cash (Philippine peso) is widely preferred; some larger establishments may accept credit cards. ATMs are available in town, but carry cash for smaller vendors and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with high daytime temperatures; bring sun protection, hydration, and lightweight clothing. Ideal for outdoor trekking like Mt. Pinatubo if you’re prepared for heat.
June to October sees frequent rain showers and possible typhoon activity; expect slick roads and mud on trails; carry a light rain jacket and waterproof bag.
Intermittent rain is common; humidity remains high; offers lush greenery and fewer crowds—great for photography and cultural walks.
Capas at Night
Hiking in Capas
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular trekking destination offering volcanic lava landscapes and a dramatic crater lake; typically a day trip with a guide.
Accessible hiking option within a reasonable driving distance; provides forested trails and elevated viewpoints.
Airports
How to reach Capas by plane.
Located in the Clark Freeport Zone, about a one- to two-hour drive from Capas, providing regional and international connections with convenient road access.
A major hub in Manila; reachable by road or bus/rail connections, used for international and domestic flights. Plan extra travel time when connecting to Capas.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly Filipino families engaged in agriculture and small-scale commerce; Tagalog-speaking with local influences from nearby Kapampangan and Ilocano communities.
Predominantly Catholic with community events centered on local churches and festivals; respectful participation is appreciated during celebrations.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A nationwide favorite; local gyms and courts in towns host informal leagues and pickup games.
Popular in schools and community centers; recreational play is common in the evenings.
Common in parks and sports facilities; often played in youth and adult groups.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Capas.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Dishes may feature shrimp paste and meat; ask for vegetable-heavy options like pinakbet, laing, or tofu-based dishes, and request no meat or seafood in adobo-style preparations.