Things To Do
in Conner

Conner, officially part of Apayao province in the Philippines, sits in a rugged highland landscape where rice terraces and pine-covered slopes meet rushing rivers. The town is remote and sparsely populated, offering unspoiled scenery and a slow-paced rural lifestyle. Visitors can experience warm Cordillera hospitality, walkable town centers, and a mix of Indigenous and Ilocano-influenced culture.

The climate is cooler than many parts of the country, making it ideal for hiking and river adventures year-round.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the historic St. Joseph the Worker Parish Church, known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere. After soaking in the spiritual vibes, wander through the nearby local market where you can sample fresh local produce and engage with friendly vendors. The morning is perfect for capturing stunning photographs of the vibrant surroundings and the daily life of Conner's residents.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the Conner Museum, which showcases the rich history and culture of the area. The museum features artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Conner's indigenous communities and their traditions. Following your visit, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local eatery, savoring traditional dishes like pinakbet or sinigang.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to a local café for a relaxing evening with a view of the vibrant sunset. Enjoy a cup of locally brewed coffee or a refreshing halo-halo while mingling with locals and travelers alike. End your day with a stroll through the town square, where you can enjoy live music or street performances.

day 2
Adventure in the Great Outdoors
morning
:

Start your day with an invigorating hike to Mount Caguioa, where you can experience breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The early morning mist adds a magical touch to the trek, making every step feel like an adventure. Pack a light breakfast to enjoy at the summit while taking in the stunning vistas.

afternoon
:

After your descent, spend the afternoon exploring the nearby riverbanks, where you can engage in activities like swimming or picnicking. The clear waters and lush greenery provide a perfect natural backdrop for relaxation and fun. As you unwind, keep an eye out for local wildlife, which often makes appearances in this serene environment.

evening
:

As evening approaches, return to the town and visit a local restaurant known for its grilled specialties. Enjoy a hearty dinner of grilled meat and fresh seafood, all seasoned with local spices. To wrap up your day, find a cozy spot to watch the stars come out, appreciating the tranquility of the rural night.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$5-8
Coffee$1-3
🥗Lunch for two at a mid-range restaurant$10-15
🏨Budget hotel per night$20-40
🧶Local crafts souvenir$5-25

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Quiet, scenic landscapes and authentic Cordillera hospitality
  • Low-key, uncrowded travel experience
  • Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure
  • Rugged roads and long travel times to larger cities
  • "Kumusta ka?" - Hello, how are you?
  • "Agyamanak" - Thank you
  • "Saan a maawatan" - I don’t understand
  • "Pakiusap" - Please
  • "Mabisin kenyam?" - Do you understand?

Places to Visit in Conner

Visit one of these nice places.

Abra River Viewpoint near Conner

Panoramic views of the river winding through a lush valley with terraced fields below.

Hilltops above Barangay X

Open ridge trails with dramatic mountain scenery and sunrise opportunities.

Town Market and Old Church

Streetscapes, colorful market life, and colonial-era church architecture.

Rice terraces fringed by pine forests

Seasonal patterns of planting and harvest provide striking geometry and color.

Culinary Guide

Food in Conner

The Cordillera region features hearty, home-cooked meals built on rice, corn, fresh river fish, and vegetables grown on terraced fields and hillside gardens.

Conner Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pinikpikan-inspired chicken stew

A slow-cooked chicken dish using locally raised birds, often prepared with vegetables and native spices.

Must-Try!

River fish with calamansi and greens

Freshwater fish simply grilled or stewed with local greens and citrus.

Corn-based dishes and vegetables

Dishes made from locally grown corn and root vegetables.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Conner Market (town center)

A small market where you can buy fresh vegetables, dried fish, corn, rice, and fruit; try snacks from street vendors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Cool to mild year-round due to high elevation; dry season from November to April; wet season from May to October with heavy rain and occasional typhoons. Nights can be chilly, especially in elevated areas.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and respect for elders

Greet with a smile and use respectful terms when addressing elders; ask permission before photographing people or ceremonies.

Dress modestly in rural areas

Modest clothing; cover shoulders when visiting churches or temples; remove hats indoors.

Safety Guide

Safety

Take standard travel precautions: carry water, sunscreen, and a basic first-aid kit; roads can be rough and weather-dependent; be cautious of wildlife and road hazards; keep valuables secure and travel with a local guide when exploring remote areas.

Tipping in Conner

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated in sit-down restaurants and for guide services; 5-10% is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used; smaller towns may not accept cards; carry small bills and coins.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Dry, sunny days with cooler air at higher elevations; occasional afternoon showers.

Rainy Season

Frequent rain, lush green landscapes, potential road washouts; plan for mud and slower travel.

Nightlife Guide

Conner at Night

Nightlife in Conner is quiet and local-focused, with family-run eateries, small cafés, and informal gatherings rather than bars or clubs. You may find traditional music or karaoke at community centers or at homes during patronage events; late-night options are limited outside the town center.

Hiking in Conner

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Conner Ridge Trail

A popular nearby hike offering sweeping views of the valley and forests.

Forest loop near barangay X

Short loop through the forest with opportunities to spot wildlife and tropical birds.

Airports

How to reach Conner by plane.

Tuguegarao Airport (TUG)

Nearest regional airport with domestic flights; about a few hours by road from Conner depending on routes.

Cauayan Airport (CIQ)

Alternative regional option in Isabela; schedule varies.

Getting Around

Walkability

Conner is walkable in the town core with sidewalks and markets; stepping out to surrounding hills and villages requires a vehicle or local transport; plan for uneven terrain and some uphill sections.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Itneg Indigenous communities

Indigenous groups with rich cultural traditions and crafts; many residents are involved in agriculture and weaving.

Ilocano and Tagalog-speaking settlers

Other residents from nearby regions who contribute to the local economy and culture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Widely played in local courts and schools; evenings are common for games.

Volleyball

Community games and recreational play in barangay centers.

Trail running and mountain biking

Varied terrain suitable for endurance activities.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is light in Conner; main roads can be narrow and winding; public transport consists of jeepneys, tricycles, and vans; plan for delays during heavy rains or holidays.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Conner.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Focus on vegetables, corn, and rice; request dishes with no meat; ask for vegetable stir-fry or veggie stews.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic health facilities exist in Conner through Rural Health Units; for major care, travel to the provincial capital or nearest city with hospitals; carry essential medicines and travel insurance.

Discover Philippines

Read more in our Philippines 2025 Travel Guide.

Philippines Travel Guide