Ilocos Norte - Discovering Philippines

Travelling to Ilocos Norte

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Ilocos Norte, a pretty good destination in Philippines (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Ilocos Norte and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Ilocos Norte, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Philippines, here's everything to know about Ilocos Norte for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Ilocos Norte

Ilocos Norte is a province located in the northern part of the Philippines. It's known for its beautiful natural attractions and rich cultural heritage. Some of the popular destinations in Ilocos Norte include the historical Paoay Church, the sand dunes of La Paz, the white-sand beaches of Pagudpud, and the Bangui Wind Farm. It's also known for its traditional cuisine, including the famous Ilocano longganisa (sausage) and bagnet (crispy pork belly). The province has its own airport in Laoag, making it easily accessible for tourists.

What to visit in Ilocos Norte

Sure, here are some of the tourist attractions in Ilocos Norte with some basic info: 1. Paoay Church - also known as the St. Augustine Church, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest churches in the Philippines. It is known for its Baroque architecture, including the famous "earthquake baroque" buttresses.
2. Bangui Windmills - an iconic group of wind turbines along the beaches of Bangui, Ilocos Norte. It is known for its renewable energy production and scenic views of the coastline.
3. Cape Bojeador Lighthouse - a classic Spanish-colonial lighthouse that has stood on a hill overlooking the South China Sea for over 100 years. It is known for its picturesque view and historical significance as a navigational aid.
4. Sand Dunes - located in Laoag City, these rolling hills of sand offer adventurous activities such as off-road rides on 4x4 vehicles, sandboarding, and sunset watching.
5. Malacañang of the North - a presidential museum located in Paoay that served as the official residence of former President Ferdinand Marcos. It showcases the president's memorabilia and vintage collections.
6. Kapurpurawan Rock Formation - a natural wonder in Burgos known for its unique and stunning limestone rock formations that have been shaped by natural erosion.
7. Tinuy-an Falls - a majestic waterfall located in Pasuquin with a 30-meter drop that creates a pool for swimming and adventurous water activities. These are just a few of the many tourist attractions in Ilocos Norte. Visitors will find plenty of cultural, historical, and natural attractions to explore and enjoy.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Philippines, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Ilocos Norte.

When to go on holiday to Ilocos Norte

The best time to visit Ilocos Norte is usually between November and April as it is the dry season. During this time, the weather is typically sunny and pleasant, making it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. However, keep in mind that it is also peak tourist season, so prices for accommodations and tours may be higher. The months of May to October are considered the rainy season and typhoon season, so it is best to avoid traveling during this time.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Ilocos Norte

There are several ways to get to Ilocos Norte in the Philippines. Here are some of the most common ways: 1. By plane: The nearest airport to Ilocos Norte is Laoag International Airport. You can catch a flight from Manila or other major cities in the Philippines to Laoag. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to your destination.
2. By bus: You can take a bus from Manila to Ilocos Norte. It's a long journey that can take up to 10-12 hours. There are several bus companies that operate this route, such as Partas and Florida Bus.
3. By car: If you have your own car or are renting one, you can drive to Ilocos Norte from Manila. The journey takes around 8-10 hours, depending on traffic and the route you take.
Once you arrive in Ilocos Norte, you can hire a car or motorcycle to get around. There are also buses and jeepneys that run between the major towns and cities in the province.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Ilocos Norte, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Ilocos Norte

Here are some typical foods you'll find in Ilocos Norte, Philippines: 1. Bagnet - Deep fried pork belly that's incredibly crispy on the outside and still tender and juicy on the inside.
2. Empanada - A deep-fried or baked pastry filled with meat (usually ground pork), egg, and vegetables like bean sprouts and carrots.
3. Pinakbet - An Ilocano vegetable stew made with a variety of local veggies like eggplant, okra, and bitter melon, as well as fish or meat.
4. Longganisa - A sweet or garlicky sausage made with ground pork and often served with rice or eggs.
5. Dinengdeng - A soup made with fish and vegetables like string beans, bitter melon, and eggplant, seasoned with fish bagoong (a fermented fish paste).
6. Igado - A meat stew made with pork or liver, soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic, and usually served with rice.
7. Pakbet pizza - A unique dish that combines Ilocano flavors with Italian cuisine by topping pizza dough with pinakbet vegetables, longganisa, and bagnet.
8. Tupig - A sticky rice cake made with glutinous rice, coconut milk, and sugar, wrapped in banana leaves and grilled over charcoal.
You can find general info about typical foods in Philippines here.

Is Ilocos Norte an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other destinations in the Philippines, Ilocos Norte can be considered a bit more expensive. However, the cost of your trip will largely depend on your travel style and preferences. Here are a few things to keep in mind: - Accommodation: There are plenty of accommodation options in Ilocos Norte, ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. Prices tend to be higher during peak season (December to May), so if you're looking to save money, consider traveling during the off-season.
- Food: Eating out in Ilocos Norte can be relatively affordable, with meals costing around PHP 100-200 per person in local restaurants. However, if you're looking for more upscale dining options, expect to pay more.
- Transportation: Getting around Ilocos Norte can be quite inexpensive if you use public transportation, such as buses or jeepneys. However, if you opt to hire a private vehicle or take tours, the cost will be higher.
Overall, while Ilocos Norte may be more expensive than some other destinations in the Philippines, there are still plenty of ways to keep your trip within your budget.

Where to find accomodation in Ilocos Norte

It is best to look for accommodation in the cities of Laoag, Pagudpud, and Batac when visiting Ilocos Norte. These cities have a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels, and are conveniently located near the popular tourist attractions in the province, such as Paoay Church, Marcos Mausoleum, and Kapurpurawan Rock Formation.
You can check hotel prices at Ilocos Norte here:
Booking.com

Is Ilocos Norte a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Ilocos Norte is generally a safe place for tourists. However, just like any other tourist destination, travelers should always exercise caution and practice common sense safety measures. It is advisable to be aware of your surroundings, avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables, and stay in well-lit and populated areas especially at night. It is also recommended to travel with a companion or join a reputable tour group. Additionally, it's always a good idea to consult with local authorities, tour guides, or hotel staff about the current situation and safety measures in the area.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Philippines here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Ilocos Norte.

What type of travelers will enjoy Ilocos Norte the most?

Ilocos Norte is a great destination for all types of travelers including couples, young people looking for fun, and families. The province offers a mix of historical, cultural, and natural attractions that cater to different preferences. Couples can visit Paoay Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unique architecture, and the scenic Cape Bojeador Lighthouse for a romantic sunset view. Young people can have fun sandboarding in the coastal town of Paoay and surfing in Pagudpud. Families can enjoy exploring the 77-meter-tall Bangui Windmills and swimming in the turquoise waters of Saud Beach. Moreover, Ilocos Norte has a rich history that visitors can appreciate by visiting Malacañang of the North, Ferdinand Marcos Museum, and the Juan and Antonio Luna Museum. Additionally, foodies will love trying the province's famous delicacies including bagnet (crispy pork belly) and empanada (deep-fried pastry stuffed with meat and vegetables).

How to get around Ilocos Norte

There are several transportation options to move around Ilocos Norte, Philippines. 1. Tricycles - This is the most common mode of transportation in the city and is best for short distances. 2. Jeepneys - These are converted trucks or vans that act as shared taxis and follow specific routes. 3. Vans - Vans can be rented for private tours or used as public transportation on certain routes. 4. Buses - Buses can take you from Ilocos Norte to other provinces. 5. Cars or Motorcycles - You can rent a car or motorcycle if you prefer to drive yourself.

What to see around Ilocos Norte

Certainly! Here are some great places to visit on a day trip from Ilocos Norte, Philippines: 1. Paoay Sand Dunes - You can experience sandboarding, ATV rides, and 4x4 rides on a thrilling adventure in the Paoay Sand Dunes.
2. Cape Bojeador Lighthouse - Located on the northern coast of the province, this picturesque lighthouse is one of the oldest in the Philippines.
3. Burgos Windmills - These beautiful wind turbines are located in the municipality of Burgos and provide a great photo opportunity.
4. Kapurpurawan Rock Formation - These uniquely shaped limestone formations located on the coast offer stunning views of the sea.
5. Malacañang of the North - This beautiful historical mansion used to serve as the official residence of former Philippine President, Ferdinand Marcos.
6. La Paz Sand Dunes - Located in Laoag City, these sand dunes offer a unique landscape to explore.
7. Juan Luna Shrine - This museum is dedicated to the famous Filipino painter, Juan Luna, and showcases his life and works.
8. St. Augustine Church - Located in the town of Paoay, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its stunning Baroque architecture.
9. Patapat Viaduct - This breathtaking bridge is located along the scenic coastal drive and offers a stunning view of the sea.
10. Bantay Abot Cave - This natural cave formation offers a unique and beautiful view of the sea and surrounding cliffs.
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