Things To Do
in Lasam
Lasam is a quiet agricultural town in the Cagayan Valley, known for its rural charm and welcoming communities. It sits amid rolling hills and river plains, offering scenic drives and easy day trips from nearby towns. The economy centers on farming, fishing, and traditional crafts, with markets that showcase fresh produce and handmade goods.
Visitors can experience warm hospitality, participate in local fiestas, and savor simple, comforting Ilocano- and Ibanag-influenced dishes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Lasam and soak in the local atmosphere as you check into your accommodation. Enjoy a traditional Filipino breakfast at a local café, tasting local favorites such as tapsilog or longsilog. Spend your morning exploring the quaint streets and mingling with the friendly locals while preparing for your adventure ahead.
Head to the local market to experience the vibrant scenes of daily life in Lasam, where you can shop for fresh produce and handmade crafts. Grab lunch at a local eatery, trying out the renowned sinigang na baboy, a delicious sour pork soup. After lunch, take a stroll along the nearby rice fields, enjoying the stunning views of the countryside.
As the sun begins to set, find a cozy spot to enjoy dinner, sampling local seafood dishes. After your meal, take a leisurely walk to the beach, savoring the cool breeze while listening to the rhythmic sound of the waves. To end your day, enjoy a traditional Filipino dessert, halo-halo, under the starry sky.
Wake up early for a breakfast of fresh local fruits and local coffee. Visit the nearby cultural sites, including centuries-old churches that reflect the town's rich history. Engage with local artisans and learn about traditional crafts that have been passed down through generations.
After lunch, participate in a cooking class where you can learn to prepare regional dishes using local ingredients. This interactive experience allows you to immerse yourself in the culinary traditions of the Philippines. Spend the afternoon exploring nearby waterfalls, taking in the natural beauty and perhaps enjoying a refreshing swim.
Return to the town for a lively dinner filled with Filipino favorites, followed by a cultural performance featuring traditional dances. Mingle with fellow travelers and locals, sharing stories from the day’s adventures. Conclude the evening with a peaceful walk through the town square, where you can enjoy the vibrant local ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| 🏨Budget hotel/guesthouse per night | $15-40 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚕Local transport (short ride) | $1-4 |
| 🎟️Entrance to attractions | $1-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm, welcoming local communities and a strong sense of place
- Rich rural landscapes with opportunities for authentic cultural experiences
- Limited nightlife and dining options outside the main town
- Rural infrastructure can mean slower transport and fewer English-speaking services
- "Kamusta" - Hello / How are you?
- "Magandang umaga" - Good morning
- "Pakiusap" - Please
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Paumanhin" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Nagsasalita ka ba ng Ingles?" - Do you speak English?
- "Nasaan ang banyo?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Magkano ito?" - How much is this?
- "Gusto kong mag-order" - I would like to order
- "Tulong" - Help
- "Naliligaw ako" - I am lost
- "Tubig, pakiusap" - Water, please
Places to Visit in Lasam
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft morning light over the plaza, with early market activity, colonial-style lamps, and gentle activity in the streets.
Expansive river views with golden skies at sunset and calm waters ideal for wide landscape shots.
Irrigation canals and fields reflecting light, perfect for symmetry and rural life photography.
Weathered walls and simple architectural details that tell the town’s history.
Food in Lasam
Lasam Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A vegetable stew with squash, eggplant, okra, and bagoong, usually served with garlicky rice.
Must-Try!
Crispy fried pork, often enjoyed with vinegar-chili dip or as a side dish.
A light vegetable stew flavored with fish or bagoong, common in northern Luzon.
Smoked river fish served with rice and citrus or local condiments.
Freshly caught fish, grilled with local herbs and calamansi.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market with fresh produce, fish, and regional snacks; ideal for trying fried items and sidings.
Lanes of street food offering fried fish balls, cassava chips, sweet corn, and local sweets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people politely with a smile and proper titles; ask before entering homes; accept food offerings with gratitude; dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
Use simple, respectful language; speak slowly if you’re using a common language like Filipino/Tagalog; learning a couple of local phrases goes a long way.
If offered food or drinks, it’s customary to accept and show appreciation; returning a small token or offering helps build goodwill.
Safety
Tipping in Lasam
Ensure a smooth experience
Cash is widely preferred in Lasam. In casual eateries and markets, tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; a small amount (5-10%) for good service is common. In more formal restaurants or guides, 10-15% is expected if service is satisfactory. Many rural shops may be cash-only, while larger towns and some tourist-oriented places accept cards or mobile payments where available. Always have small bills on hand for cents and tips.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry days with plenty of sunshine; hydrate frequently and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Frequent showers and higher humidity; brief afternoon storms are common—pack a light rain jacket and plan indoor alternatives.
Weather can be volatile with strong winds and heavy rains; monitor local alerts and adjust plans as needed.
Pleasant temperatures, especially at higher elevations; great for long walks and photography outdoors.
Lasam at Night
Hiking in Lasam
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle to moderate trails offering scenic views of fields and villages; suitable for a half-day hike.
Riverside paths with open skies and sunsets; easy walking and photography opportunities.
Short treks through rural landscapes with opportunities to observe wildlife and local farming life.
Airports
How to reach Lasam by plane.
Main regional airport serving Cagayan Valley; connects to Manila and other major hubs. From the airport, a roughly 1.5–2.5 hour road transfer by car or bus gets you to Lasam, depending on traffic.
An alternative in nearby Isabela province; useful for regional connections. Ground transfer to Lasam takes a few hours by road, with travel times varying by road conditions.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Ilocano and Ibanag-speaking residents with Catholic and local faith traditions.
Smaller groups with distinct customs, often concentrated in upland barangays and participating in traditional livelihoods.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in towns and barangays; informal games often happen after work or school.
Common in schools and community centers; casual tournaments and social play.
Local fishing activities and river-based recreation are popular leisure pursuits for residents.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lasam.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian visitors should opt for vegetable-centric dishes; request dishes without bagoong or meat stock, and ask for oil-based preparations when possible.