Things to Do and Enjoy in Ilocos

Are you a culture seeker, nature lover, foodie, or an adrenaline junkie? Or a combination of them? There’s a place for you called Ilocos. This is located in the northern part of the Philippines and you can get there from Manila by land for about 10-12 hours travel time or by air for about 1 hour travel time. Here are the activities to do and places to visit in Ilocos.

1. Calle Crisologo. This is a place lined with Spanish-era ancestral houses.

Calle Crisologo at dawnThe street with Kalesa, a horse-driven carriage

2. Churches. The Spanish influence can be greatly seen through the amazing churches in Ilocos.

Paoay Church in Ilocos NorteBantay Church in Ilocos SurThe old bell tower of Bantay

3. La Paz Sand Dunes Adventures. If you are an adrenaline junkie, you should visit this place and try sandboarding and 4×4 trail ride. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen for skin protection.

4×4 trail ride by the beachUnder the heat

4. Burnayan (Pottery-making). You can also watch the locals making pots in Ilocos Sur. And buy them if you want.

The owner starting making a potAlmost doneBuy them if you want

5. Beaches and waterfalls. Ilocos has beautiful beach spots and waterfalls for nature lovers.

Bangui windmills in Pagudpud, Ilocos NorteOne of Pagudpud’s beachesKabigan falls in Pagudpud, Ilocos NorteThe beach at sunset

6. Kapurpurawan Rock Formation. The white rock formations are not man-made but sculpted by oceanic and weather forces.

White rock formations

7. Museums. Ilocos is also great for those who are interested in studying and learning about a place’s history and culture.

Crisologo MuseumMarcos Museum and MausoleumAn old car inside Crisologo Museum

8. Food. Ilocos is known for bagnet and longganisa. You will have a lot of choices to eat in Ilocos from cheap to costly restaurants depending on your budget.

At Kusina Felicitas, not the best breakfastCheap but good bagnet near the market

There are a lot more places to visit and things to do in Ilocos. Whenever you plan on travelling there, I recommend you to stay there longer.

*Photo credits to my friends