CAGAYAN. What comes in your mind when you hear or read about Cagayan? (photo) Some says, it is their Pancit Batil Patong of Tuguegarao City while some mention the longest Cagayan River that exits via Aparri. Others could have mentioned that it is known to register one of the hottest heat index in the country. A whole lot of different narratives and excerpts that boils down to a single narrative – a tourism hotspot in the country’s northern edges.
The Northeastern Province must not be confused with Mindanao’s Cagayan de Oro, howbeit, both possess unique natural beauty and vibrant culture. Occupying the northeastern corner of Luzon Island and a vast land area, the Cagayan Province boasts its whopping number of natural attractions that begins from the island’s backbone, the Sierra Madre Mountains to its long snacking mighty rivers, the seemingly boundless rolling hill landscapes, the patched farmlands and the shorelines of different character and vibes. All of these are evident once you peered out through your window seat as you land from your flight at the Tuguegarao City Airport.
Hence, Cagayan is not just one hot and humid province, but a “complete package” destination that awaits your visit. Check it yourself and you would be spell bound by the sheer number of options you can experience at Cagayan.
Why should you pack your bags and set your sights on Cagayan? Here are the top destinations per municipalities I visited that will ignite your wanderlust and fuel your desire to explore this enchanting province. Mind you, this list barely scratches its tourism landscape. This list is derived from the Cagayan Tourism experience by the Provincial Tourism Office in partnership with Philippine Airlines.
- PEÑABLANCA
- PIAT
- BAGGAO
- STA. ANA
- LAL-LO
- ALCALA
- BUGUEY
- GATTARAN
- AMULUNG
- FLY VIA PHILIPPINE AIRLINES
- HOW TO GO TO CAGAYAN
PEÑABLANCA
Callao Cave and Pinacanauan River
A well-frequented Cave System destination that is developed to cater much of tourists. The Callao Cave is usually paired with the Pinacanauan River due to their proximity and well-coordinated tour guides that allows you to experience the best of both worlds.
Stepping into the first chamber of the Callao Cave system feels like stepping into a realm of ancient mystique and natural grandeur. As you make your way through the dimly lit passages, the air carries a faint scent of earth mingled with the gentle scent guano mixed with limestone. The soft echo of your footsteps reverberates off the cave walls, creating a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack to your journey deeper into its chambers.
One of the most captivating sights within Callao Cave is the cave chapel, a serene sanctuary nestled within the rugged beauty of the cavern. As shafts of sunlight pierce through crevices in the ceiling, they illuminate the altar with a celestial glow, casting ethereal shadows that dance across the stone floor. One must visit on a perfect time to catch this moment.
Descending the staircase outside the cave’s entrance, you are greeted by a breathtaking panorama that unfolds before your eyes. Rows of seats carved into the stone offer a place to rest and take in the majestic views of the Pinacanauan River meandering gracefully through the verdant landscape outside. The cool breeze that drifts through the cave carries with it the faint sound of rushing water, adding to the enchanting ambiance of this natural wonder. From this vantage point, you cannot help but feel a profound connection to the timeless beauty of the surrounding wilderness, a reminder of the enduring power and majesty of Mother Nature herself.
PIAT
MINOR BASILICA OF OUR LADY OF PIAT
This famous church located in Poblacion of Piat municipality is considered as the Pilgrimage Center of Northeast Luzon. The monicker is hailed due to the sheer number of pilgrims that flock to the church during the Feast of Our Lady of Piat, additionally, the Sambali Festival.
The minor basilica’s stately brick façade, featuring elegant arches and intricately detailed carvings, exudes an aura of timeless beauty. Upon entering the basilica, you are enveloped in an atmosphere of tranquility and grace. Soft, diffused light streams through the stained glass windows, painting the interiors in hues of crimson, blue, and gold. The light gently dances across the polished tiled floors and ornate pews, creating an ethereal play of colors that enhances the sense of spiritual intimacy.
The focal point of the basilica is the revered image of Our Lady of Piat, a dark-skinned statue of the Virgin Mary draped in richly embroidered robes and crowned with a golden halo. This sacred place holds a special place in the hearts of the local community, and devotees located elsewhere in the country.
BAGGAO
Baggao Bluewaters and Lipit Canyon
Personally, this is my go to adventure destination while in Cagayan. The Baggao Bluewaters entailed their community as their trail guides and had utilized their skills to translate the beauty of nature through walking tours either by the river or through the forest trail. As you approach the lagoon from the short developed foot trail, you are enveloped by the sounds of the rainforest: the gentle rustle of leaves, the soothing music of the rushing clear waters, the melodic calls of birds, and the soft hum of insects creating a harmonious symphony.
The Bluewater Lagoon is a breathtaking sight to behold. The crystal-clear waters shimmer with a mesmerizing azure hue, reflecting the verdant greenery that surrounds it. The surface of the lagoon is smooth and still, with only the occasional ripple disturbing its mirror-like tranquility. As you dip your toes in, the water feels cool and refreshing, a welcome reprieve from the tropical heat. The lush canopy above provides a natural shade, dappled sunlight filtering through the leaves and casting dancing shadows on the water’s surface.
Exploring the area around the lagoon and waterfalls is a sensory journey like no other. The trail winds through lush foliage, with the scent of wildflowers and the distant calls of exotic birds guiding your way. As you follow the trail, you may stumble upon hidden pockets of beauty—small pools of water, playful streams, and colorful butterflies dancing through the air. The Bluewater Lagoon and Waterfalls in Baggao offer a serene retreat into nature’s embrace, leaving visitors with a sense of wonder and deep appreciation for the pristine beauty of this hidden gem.
STA. ANA
PALAUI ISLAND AND CROCODILE ISLAND
Palaui Island, located off the northeastern coast of the province of Cagayan, is a pristine paradise that captivates with its rugged beauty and untouched landscapes. As you approach the island by boat, the sight of its rolling hills rising from the deep blue sea creates a sense of excitement and wonder. The air is bracing and salty, with a gentle breeze carrying the invigorating scents of the ocean and lush vegetation.
Once you set foot on Palaui Island, you are surrounded by the vibrant greenery and warm hospitality as the island guides are ready to assist you. As you make your way toward the island’s most iconic landmark, the Engaño Lighthouse, the anticipation builds as you ascend on the staircase offering sweepings views of the island and the sea.
Perched on a rocky promontory, the Engaño Lighthouse stands as a sentinel over the island, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding sea and landscapes. The lighthouse itself is a weathered but majestic structure, its concrete facade contrasting beautifully against the vivid blue sky during our visit.
As you stand near the lighthouse, the sheer beauty and raw power of the natural surroundings leave you with a feeling of awe and reverence. Palaui Island, with its Engaño Lighthouse, offers an unforgettable experience that showcases the untamed splendor of Cagayan’s coastal wonders. For travelers seeking an escape into nature’s wild embrace, this island is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
Where to Stay in Sta. Ana? Blue Coast Hotel
LAL-LO
Tocolana Ruins
A once majestic edifice that bore witness to centuries of violent history, the old church of Tocolana could have told the history it bore. Erected amidst the 17th century, its grandeur was marred by the relentless forces of nature. The fateful tremors of November 30, 1619, shook its foundations, sending it crashing to the earth below to what we see today as individual or separate mini towers of bricks.
Since that era, the vestiges of Tocolana Church have stood as silent witnesses to the ebb and flow of time, their crumbling facades a poignant reminder of the impermanence of human endeavor. Yet, amidst the decay, there lies a quiet beauty, as meticulously tended lawns and quaint flower gardens now grace the site, inviting visitors to contemplate its storied past and ponder the resilience of the human spirit.
Connecting these century-old ruins are well-kept pocket gardens and green lawn that invites travelers and tourists to stay longer at the site with picnic activities. This very site also features panoramic view of the Cagayan River. Best time to visit is during sunset or golden hours.
St. Dominic de Guzman Parish Church
Do not skip on visiting this neo-Renaissance style church of Lal-lo town, the St. Dominic de Guzman Parish Church if you are in Lal-lo. It was the original home of the famous Our Lady of Piat when the image was transported to the Itawes motherland until such time enshrine in Piat.
The church structure features brick style wall with thick buttress and an attached bell tower with a steep tetrahedral roof. During our visit, the internal church structure is undergoing maintenance works. However, the golden retablo outshined the ongoing works. Its intricate details is truly imbibes the local’s reverence to their faith.
Its historical significance has led the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) to install a marker in 1939 which you can see at the facade.
Magapit Bridge River Cruise
Wishing to marvel at a suspension bridge in the Philippines? Visit the town of Lal-lo. The Magapit Bridge is one of the picturesque suspension bridge in the Philippines made even more iconic with the mighty Cagayan River gushing under its belly and the distant mountain ranges that fringe your views. After gaining ownership of its own MV , the local tourism office offers cruise tours during sunset hours. This is an experience we missed but reeling to go back at Lal-lo for this.
ALCALA
PUSSIAN FOREST LAKE
The lake itself is a stunning body of water with a mirror-like surface that reflects the surrounding greenery. Few floating rafts dot the water, each one a rustic and charming vessel that offers a peaceful way to lounge or briefly navigate the lake. From the floating rafts, you can catch glimpses of the huts nestled above the accessible upstream slope. These huts are a cozy and inviting sight, their thatched roofs blending harmoniously with the pocket in full blooms when we visited. The huts provide the perfect vantage point to take in the serene expanse of the lake below, as well.
Pussian Forest Lake is a hidden gem in Alcala, offering visitors a tranquil escape into nature’s embrace. The serene waters, picturesque rafts, charming huts, and carefully designed spillway come together to create a sensory experience that leaves you feeling refreshed and inspired by the natural world.
St. Philomene Church
The St. Philomene Church in Alcala town, Cagayan province, stands as a magnificent exemplar of Spanish colonial architecture fused with Filipino craftsmanship. Constructed in the late 18th century by Augustinian friars, this edifice is a testament to the enduring legacy of Catholicism in the Philippines. Its façade, characterized by a harmonious blend of Baroque and Neoclassical elements, captivates visitors with its intricate detailing and symmetrical proportions.
The interior, adorned with ornate altars, intricately carved wooden furnishings, and majestic stained glass windows, exudes an aura of timeless grandeur. Every corner of this architectural marvel tells a story of faith, resilience, and cultural synthesis, inviting visitors to delve into the rich tapestry of Philippine history and spirituality.
Ponce Ancestral House
We were blessed with luck when the Ponce Ancestral House in Alcala opened its doors to us to marvel at its antique grandeur. Located few strides away from the St. Philomene Church, you would easily identify the Spanish Colonial Architecture at the street corner. Even though it was night when we visited, we found easily the old house and we were welcomed by today’s matriarch of the clan and her nephews.
The structure features two levels. The second level which is accessible from a main grand staircase linked directly from the road level featuring a spacious living area. One that is recognizable from its ceiling are holes from the war remnants, indicating that the structure had clearly survived the tumultuous era. Leading to the lower level is through the staircase leading to the dining area. Another staircase leads to a basement level which I forgot to ask about.
The entire house is surrounded by spacious lawn. Additionally, the clan curated some of their important religious artifacts, personal memorabilia and items. Some antique pieces such as religious images and photos and old dolls were displayed inside glass encased shelves. The upper level is overall eerily quiet since the dwelling relatives reside at its lower level.
BUGUEY
Crab Hotel – seafood lunch
A sumptuous seafood buffet was prepared for our visit at Buguey town held at The Crab Hotel inside the El Presidente Beach Resort Complex. Among the welcoming party is none other than their own Municipal Executive Head, Hon. Mayor Licerio “Cerry” Antiporda III. When we alighted from our assigned vehicle, the champion streetdance contingent from the recent Crab Festival performed their winning piece. Despite the heat of the noontime sun, their exuded grace and constant energy throughout their performance.
We were escorted to the The Crab Hotel Restaurant Outlet where we devoured the crab-stuffed lechon and other delectable seafood dishes with large prawns and humongous and fatty crabs. After our hearty lunch, Mayor Cerry shared valuable information about Buguey’s agricultural status, future projects and the reasons why his administration pushed to create different festivals not just alone to showcase their bountiful harvests but a reminder to support the grassroot level food producers to promote and sustain food security in their region. The good mayor as well is placing added focus and support to more in depth research on different farming and aquaculture sectors to further improve their agricultural ecosystem and supply chain to foster increased resilience and to mitigate future ill-effects of droughts and other human or nature-induced catastrophe. It was an insightful discussion with him instilling us more ideas about forward thinking in agricultural.
Buguey is such a quiet town at the far edge of Luzon Island’s northern borders but the town itself harbors critical research projects that would benefit only their town’s agricultural sector, but the entire nation.
GATTARAN
Gattaran Visitors Pavilion
It is deeply intertwined in the Filipino culture to bring home gifts, souvenirs or trinkets from the destination they visited. The OTOP (One Town One Product) Hub located in the Gattaran features much of the product lines that the Cagayan province produces. During our quick visit, I observed my tourmates to excitedly rummage through the aisles and displays. After which, a lot of items were sold out. Among on sale are keychains, ornamental displays, finger foods, locally made dips, coffee and cocoa varieties, bags and other common accessories. The store is fully airconditioned and has toilet stalls nearby. It is located beside a common transportation terminal where commuters gets easy access with it.
If you visited the Northern Destinations in Cagayan such as Sta. Ana, Lal-lo, Buguey, Sta. Praxedes or Aparri, surely, you will pass by this OTOP Hub in Gattaran. More than its OTOP Hub, the town of Gattaran hosts a lot of waterfalls. These are the things that always keep my eyes toward Cagayan province.
AMULUNG
Cagayan Farm School and Agritourism Center
Located in the quaint yet charming town of Amulung, we arrived at the Cagayan Farm School and Agritourism Center few minutes before the sunset. It is a sprawling complex of different buildings, structures, pocket gardens, plantation areas and a natural view deck.
During our visit, we were invited to lounge at their office where we enjoyed fresh fruit pickings and juices while we refreshed after quite a long transit from our previous destination. Nothing beats the relaxing ambiance surrounded by natural blooms as we devoured slices of fresh watermelon, melon, cucumber and local glutinous delicacies coupled with their icy cucumber juice.
A quick walking tour ensued highlight the different plantation and farm sections used for education and tourism purposes. Recommending to the aspiring agri-entrepreneurs and eco-enthusiasts alike to flock at this green haven to glean insights about holistic farming methods while indulging in the serene beauty of the countryside.
FLY VIA PHILIPPINE AIRLINES
Ready to embark on your Cagayan adventure? Let Philippine Airlines be your wings to this captivating destination. With convenient flights to Tuguegarao and back to Manila, the gateway to Cagayan Province, Philippine Airlines offers seamless access to all the wonders that await. Philippine Airlines‘ renowned heartfelt hospitality and top-notch service will ensure that your journey is as comfortable as it is memorable. Book your flight today and prepare to discover the magic of Cagayan Province with Philippine Airlines. And for even more travel inspiration, explore our list of top destinations in the Philippines, where every corner of this beautiful archipelago beckons with adventure and excitement.
- PR 2014 Manila to Tuguegarao that departs at 8:05 AM daily
- PR 2015 Tuguegarao to Manila that departs at 9:50 AM daily
Cebu Pacific is an alternative airline that links also Manila to Tuguegarao City. (5J 504 6:15 AM daily and 5J 506 MNL-TUG 11:00 AM daily) and (5J 505 8:05 AM daily and 5J 506 TUG-MNL 12:40 AM daily)
HOW TO GO TO CAGAYAN
LIST OF BUS COMPANIES BOUND TO CAGAYAN
From Manila With Online Direct Booking System
- GV Florida Transport Incorporated: Abulug, Aparri, Baggao, Ballesteros, Buguey, Claveria, Enrile, Gattaran, Lasam, Sto.Niño, Sta. Ana, Sta. Praxedes, Tuao
- Email: gvfloridatrans@gmail.com
- Landline: +63 2 493 7956
- Deluxe Trip Schedule: (schedule and fare may change without prior notice)
- 6:00 PM Manila to Ballesteros (Sleeper) (Fare: Deluxe Php1,295 Sleeper Php1,600)
- 3:00 AM Manila – Sta Ana via Ilagan (Deluxe)
- 4:00 AM Manila- Tuguegarao (Deluxe)
- 5:00 AM Manila – Tuguegarao (Deluxe)
- 6:00 AM Manila – Tuguegarao(Deluxe)
- 8:00 AM Manila – Appari via Ilagan(Deluxe)
- 9:00 AM Manila – Tuguegarao via Ilagan(Deluxe)
- 10:30 AM Manila – Tuguegarao via Ilagan / Aparri (Deluxe)
- 11:30 AM Manila – Tuguegarao via Ilagan (Deluxe)
- 12:30 PM Manila – Tuguegarao / Sta Ana via Roxas(Deluxe)
- 2:00 PM Manila – Tuguegarao / Aparri via Ilagan(Deluxe)
- 2:30 PM Manila – Tuguegarao via Roxas(Deluxe)
- 3:00 PM Manila – Tuguegarao / Sta Ana via Roxas(Deluxe)
- 3:30 PM Manila – Tuguegarao via Ilagan (Deluxe)
- 4:00 PM Manila – Tuguegarao / Gonzaga via Roxas (Deluxe)
- 4:30 PM Manila – Tuguegarao / Lasam via Ilagan (Deluxe)
- 5:00 PM Manila – Aparri / Buguey via Roxas (Deluxe)
- 5:30 PM Manila – Tuguegarao / Gonzaga via Roxas (Deluxe)
- 5:45 PM Manila – Tuguegarao / Piat / Tuao/ Faire via Ilagan (Deluxe)
- 6:30 PM Manila – Tuguegarao / Sta Ana via Roxas (Deluxe
- 6:30 PM Manila – Tuguegarao / Sta Ana via Roxas (Deluxe)
- 6:45 PM Manila – Tuguegarao / Baggao via Ilagan (Deluxe)
- 7:00 PM Manila – Tuguegarao / Aparri via Roxas (Deluxe)
- 7:30 PM Manila – Enrile / Sta Maria/Tuguegarao via Roxas (Deluxe)
- 7:45 PM Manila – Tuguegarao via Roxas (Deluxe)
- 8:00 PM Manila – Tuguegarao via Ilagan (Deluxe)
- 8:30 PM Manila – Tuguegarao / Aparri via Roxas (Deluxe)
- 9:00 PM Manila – Tuguegarao / Nabaccayan via Roxas (Deluxe)
- 9:30 PM Manila – Tuguegarao via Roxas (Deluxe)
- 9:45 PM Manila – Tuguegarao via Ilagan (Deluxe)
- 10:35 PM Manila – Aparri / Tuguegarao via Roxas (Deluxe)
- Executive/Sleeper Bus Trip Schedule
- 5:15 PM Manila – Tuguegarao (SuperDeluxe)
- 6:00 PM Manila – Ballesteros (Sleeper)
- 6:15 PM Manila – Tuguegarao / Aparri via Ilagan (SuperDeluxe)
- 7:15 PM Manila – Tuguegarao / Aparri via Ilagan ( Sleeper )
- 8:15 PM Manila – Tuguegarao via Ilagan (Super Deluxe)
- 8:35 PM Manila – Tuguegarao via Roxas (Sleeper)
- 9:15 PM Manila- Tuguegarao via Ilagan ( Super Deluxe )
- 10:15 PM Manila – Tuguegarao via Ilagan (Sleeper bus)
- Victory Liner: Aparri, Claveria, Tuao, Tuguegarao
- Contact Numbers:
- 24/7 Customer Service Hotlines: +63 2 8842 8679
- 24/7 Customer Service Mobile Number: +63 998 591 5102
- 24/7 Customer Service Viber Number: +63 917 842 5463
- Cubao Ticket Booth: +63 2 727 4534
- Trip Schedule
- 6:30 PM Kamias to Aparri via Ilagan (First Class Fare Php1,300)
- 3:30 AM Kamias to Aparri via Ilagan / Tuguegarao (Regular Aircon Fare Php1,000)
- 7:30 PM Kamias to Tuao via Tuguegarao (Deluxe Fare Php1,006)
- 4:00 PM Kamias to Tuao via Tuguegarao (Regular Aircon Fare Php955)
- 6:00 PM Kamias to Tuao via Tuguegarao (Regular Aircon Fare Php955)
- 6:30 AM Kamias to Tuguegarao via Ilagan (First Class Fare Php1,150)
- 9:15 PM Kamias to Tuguegarao via Cauayan (First Class Fare Php1,150)
- 5:30 AM Kamias to Tuguegarao via Ilagan (Regular Aircon Fare Php886)
- 11:00 AM Kamias to Tuguegarao via Ilagan (Regular Aircon Fare Php886)
- 1:00 PPM Kamias to Tuguegarao via Ilagan (Regular Aircon Fare Php886)
- 5:00 PM Kamias to Tuguegarao via Ilagan (Regular Aircon Fare Php886)
- 7:45 PM Kamias to Tuguegarao via Ilagan (Regular Aircon Fare Php886)
- 8:15 PM Kamias to Tuguegarao via Ilagan (Regular Aircon Fare Php886)
- 9:45 PM Kamias to Tuguegarao via Ilagan (Regular Aircon Fare Php886)
- 10:30 PM Kamias to Tuguegarao via Ilagan (Regular Aircon Fare Php886)
- 11:30 PM Kamias to Tuguegarao via Ilagan (Regular Aircon Fare Php886)
- Contact Numbers:
- Partas Bus: Tuguegarao
From Manila with Traditional or Regular Booking System
- Dalin Bus Line Inc.: Aparri, Baggao, Ballesteros, Tuguegarao
- Trip Schedule (may change without prior notice)
- Cubao to Solana 3:00 PM
- Cubao to Baggao-Deluxe 4:00 PM
- Cubao to Tuguegarao-Deluxe 7:00 PM
- Terminal Address: HM Transport Inc., Mary Land Street, Immaculate Concepcion, Cubao, Quezon City
- Mobile Number: +63 995 822 8288
- Bus routes via Bulacan, Nueva Viscaya, Santiago, Alicia, Ilagan, Tumauini, Cabagan, Tuguegarao
- Details as of February 14, 2024 per official Dalin Facebook Page Post
- Ballesteros Bus Line Corp.: Ballesteros, Lasam, Tuguegarao
- Mobile Number:
- Ballesteros Terminal: +63 916 760 9931
- Manila Terminal: +63 935 591 0288
- Trip Schedule
- Manila to Ballesteros – 05:30 PM as per BBLC 2022 Facebook Post
- Ballesteros to Manila – 2:00 PM as per BBLC 2022 Facebook Post
- Mobile Number:
- LBS Bus Lines: Gattaran, Sta. Ana, Tuguegarao
- Trip Schedule: Daily 8:30 PM
- Fairview to Sta. Ana 8:30 PM via Gonzaga via Gattaran / Tuguegarao /Cabagan / Tumauini / Cauayan / Santiago / Nueva Viscaya
- Sta. Ana, Cagayan to Fairview/Cubao 11:30 PM
- Gattaran to Fairview/Kamias 3:00 PM
- Mobile Number: +63 945 406 7832
- Services
- Accepts Walk In Passengers
- Advanced Booking or Reservation
- Pick Up Passenger Also Accepted
- Trip Schedule: Daily 8:30 PM
- Five Star Bus Co.: Piat, Tuguegarao
- Cubao to Tuguegarao Trip Schedule (as of January 1, 2024 FB Page post)
- First Trip: 8:30 AM
- Last Trip: 11:30 AM
- Contact Numbers:
- Customer Service: +63 927 712 4349
- Booking Hotline: +63 975 973 5497
- Piat Terminal Contact Number: +63 905 857 0857
- Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/fivestarbus/
- Cubao to Tuguegarao Trip Schedule (as of January 1, 2024 FB Page post)
From Baguio to Tuguegarao
- GV Florida Bus
- Route: Baguio City via Tuao bound to Kabugao, Apayao 4:00 PM (Fare: Php1,500)
- Kabugao via Tuao to Baguio City 3:00 PM (Fare: Php1,500)
From Laoag to Tuguegarao
- GV Florida Bus
- Trip Schedule
- 8:00 AM
- 10:00 AM
Our heartfelt thanks to the Cagayan Tourism Office, headed by Ms. Jenifer T. Junio, for the unforgettable Endless Fun experience in Cagayan and with Philippine Airlines, through Ms. Jasmin Viloria.