Region 2 Philippines: Cagayan Valley Tourist Spots
Want to take on the road less traveled? Imagine a place where adventure, history, and breathtaking views come together. Welcome to Region 2 Philippines, also known as the beautiful Cagayan Valley. If you are a beach lover, a hiking enthusiast, or simply someone who loves to eat until you drop, Region 2, Philippines has something for you. Let’s explore the hidden treasures of this amazing region!
What You Need to Know About Region 2, Philippines
Before you start packing for your road trip, let’s do a quick background check. Region 2, also called the Cagayan Valley, is tucked in the northeastern part of Luzon. It is not too crowded like other touristy places, like Region 1. Perfect if you want a peaceful escape.
This region is made up of five provinces: Batanes, Cagayan, Isabela, Quirino, and Nueva Vizcaya. These places are rich in natural wonders, historical sites, and cultural gems. You will surely fall in love.
The area stretches from the Sierra Madre mountains to the Cordillera. That means you will find mountains, rivers, and beaches waiting for you to explore. Totally worth the trip!
Cagayan Valley Region 2 Map
When traveling, do not forget to bring your IslaDry portable bath towel. It dries fast, is super lightweight, and doesn’t consume so much space in your backpack, so you can put all your travel essentials for your trip. Perfect for all your Region 2 Philippines adventures.
Getting to Region 2 Philippines
Before you can enjoy all the Cagayan Valley tourist spots, you need to get there first. You have options! You can fly, drive, or ride a bus if you want that classic "Pinoy road trip" experience.
If you are feeling a little "sosyal", you can take a flight to Tuguegarao in Cagayan. There are direct flights from Manila. But if you want that full "road trip" vibe, the drive will take about 10 to 12 hours. So prepare your snacks, good music, and of course, your IslaDry microfiber towel for freshening up during stopovers.
Pro tip: Download the map on your phone. Waze and Google Maps work, but the signal can be tricky in some areas.
Top Tourist Spots in Cagayan Valley Region 2
Region 2 Philippines has so many beautiful places to visit. You will never run out of things to do here. If you want to make the most out of your trip, here are the top Cagayan Valley tourist spots you should not miss.
Batanes: A Dream Come True
Sabtang Island, Batanes
Batanes is every traveler’s dream. You will feel like you are in a movie. The rolling hills, the stone houses, the super friendly Ivatan locals—everything is just magical.
Batanes is the northernmost part of Region 2 Philippines. You can visit Basco Lighthouse. Explore the old stone houses in Savidug and Chavayan. If you are feeling adventurous, you can even bike around the whole island.
Tourist Spots in Batanes:
■ Basco Lighthouse
■ Marlboro Hills (Rakuh A Payaman)
■ Valugan Boulder Beach
■ Sabtang Island (Stone Houses of Savidug and Chavayan)
■ Vayang Rolling Hills
■ House of Dakay (Oldest Stone House)
■ Honesty Coffee Shop
■ Chawa View Deck
■ Itbayat Island
■ Mt. Iraya
■ Morong Beach and the famous Mahatao Arc
■ San Jose de Ivana Church
■ Tayid Lighthouse
■ Alapad Rock Formation
Cagayan: Land of Hidden Wonders
Palaui Island, Cagayan
Cagayan is bursting with hidden wonders waiting for you. Located at the heart of Region 2 Philippines, it is full of caves, rivers, and beaches. One of the most famous spots is Callao Cave. Yes, the one with the church inside the cave! It’s absolutely stunning.
You can also explore Palaui Island. It’s perfect if you want that "Survivor" adventure vibe. Palaui boasts white sand beaches and hiking trails. Always bring your IslaDry microfiber bath towel after a refreshing swim.
Tourist Spots in Cagayan:
■ Callao Cave
■ Palaui Island
■ Cape Engaño Lighthouse
■ Anguib Beach
■ Baggao Blue Waterfalls and Caves
■ Tuguegarao Cathedral (Saint Peter Metropolitan Cathedral)
■ Iguig Calvary Hills
■ Magapit Suspension Bridge
■ Basilica Minore of Our Lady of Piat
■ Nangaramoan Beach
■ Duba Cave
■ Portabaga Falls
■ Malaguipo Hot Spring
■ Sanchez Mira Beaches
Check out our beach vacation packing list here.
Isabela: The Queen Province
San Pablo Church, Isabela
Isabela is massive. It feels like its own world. It is famous for endless rice fields, mountains, and stunning waterfalls. One top tourist spot you must visit is Magat Dam. It is so huge that you will feel like you are in another country.
When you visit Isabela, prepare your cameras. Every corner is Instagram-worthy.
Tourist Spots in Isabela:
■ Magat Dam
■ Dicotcotan Beach
■ Bonsai Forest in Dinapigue
■ Our Lady of the Pillar Church (Cauayan Church)
■ Tumauini Church (San Matias Parish Church)
■ Palanan Wilderness Area
■ Northern Sierra Madre Natural Park
■ Ilagan Japanese Tunnel
■ Sta. Victoria Caves and Eco-Tourism Park
■ Fuyot Springs National Park
■ Pinzal Falls
■ San Pablo Church (oldest church in Isabela)
■ Mayric’s Hot Springs in Palanan
Quirino: The Adventure Capital
Governor’s Rapids, Quirino
If you are an adrenaline junkie, Quirino will not disappoint. This province in Region 2 Philippines is low-key but packed with activities. Try river tubing in Siitan River. Go spelunking in Aglipay Caves. For a bigger thrill, try cliff diving in Governor’s Rapids.
You will definitely need your IslaDry travel bath towel after all the wet and wild adventures. You would not want to walk around feeling "malagkit", right?
Tourist Spots in Quirino:
■ Siitan River
■ Aglipay Caves and Campsite
■ Governor’s Rapids
■ Nagbukel Cave
■ Victoria Falls
■ Maddela Falls
■ Pensal Falls
■ Landingan Viewpoint
■ Ganano Falls
■ Cagayan River in Quirino side
■ Manuela Falls
■ Diamond Cave
■ Susong Dalaga Mountain
Quirino may not be as famous as others, but it will surely capture your heart.
Nueva Vizcaya: Gateway to the Cordilleras
Capissaan Cave, Nueva Vizcaya
Nueva Vizcaya is a haven if you love mountains and culture. It is known as the Gateway to the Cordilleras. There are tons of hiking spots like Mount Ugo and Mount Pulag (if you’re taking the Ambaguio Trail).
If you prefer to relax, you can dip in the soothing Magsaysay Hot Springs. Do not forget to bring your IslaDry quick-dry bath towel for that cozy feeling after a warm bath.
Tourist Spots in Nueva Vizcaya:
■ Mount Ugo
■ Mount Pulag (Ambaguio Trail access)
■ Imugan Falls
■ Lower Magat Eco-Tourism Park
■ Capissaan Cave System
■ Dalton Pass
■ Saint Dominic Cathedral (Bayombong Cathedral)
■ People’s Museum and Library in Bayombong
■ Salinas Salt Spring
■ Mt. Palali
■ Magsaysay Hot Spring
■ Dumlao Boulevard
■ Alayan Cave
Nueva Vizcaya is also known for its delicious local dishes. Try their "tilapia" and "pinikpikan" when you visit.
Why You Should Explore Region 2 Philippines
Looking for a long weekend getaway? Region 2 Philippines is a hidden gem. It is not overcrowded. You will not have to wrestle with crowds just to take a good picture. Plus, the locals are very welcoming. You will feel right at home.
You also get to experience raw, unfiltered beauty. Nature here feels untouched. It is pure bliss. You will find yourself saying "sana all" as you take in the stunning views.
If you are tired of the usual destinations like Boracay and Palawan, or even Baguio, Region 2, Philippines should be your next stop. And wherever you go, your IslaDry portable bath towel will be your ultimate travel buddy.
Best Time to Visit Region 2 Philippines
The best time to visit Region 2 Philippines is during the dry season. That is from November to May. You would not want to be caught hiking or island hopping in the middle of a storm.
Summer is great for beach adventures in Palaui or Batanes. Cooler months like January and February are perfect for mountain hikes.
Always check the weather forecast before your trip. And always pack your trusty IslaDry microfiber bath towel.
Travel Tips for Region 2, Philippines
■ Bring cash. Not all places have ATMs, GCash, and credit/debit cards.
■ Prepare for long travels. Provinces here are big. It is not just one "tricycle ride away". Make sure to check out our travel essentials checklist so you don’t end up stressing out during your trip.
■ Respect the locals and nature. Always leave no trace. Practice CLAYGO (Clean as you go).
■ Carry your IslaDry portable bath towel. Not all accommodations provide towels, especially in less-touristy places like Region 2. Have your bath towel ready at all times.
Your Next Adventure is in Region 2, Philippines
Region 2 is waiting for you. It is full of breathtaking Cagayan Valley tourist spots and unforgettable experiences. From the peaceful Batanes to the thrilling caves of Quirino, you will never run out of things to love. Pack smart. Bring your essentials. Never forget your IslaDry microfiber bath towel. IslaDry will keep you fresh and ready.
Ready to make new memories? Discover the magic of Region 2, Philippines. Freshness, fun, and adventure await. Enjoy your trip to Region 2 in Luzon!
For more road trip destinations neear Manila, click here.