Batan Island, part of the Batanes province

Mount Iraya by IntrepidWandererCom

Batan Island in Batanes is the cultural and economic heart of the province, known for its dramatic landscapes, stone-house villages, and peaceful Ivatan way of life.  Do not mistake this island with the Batan Island a part of Rapu-Rapu town in Albay province.

Batan Island is the second largest island in the Batanes archipelago and home to the provincial capital, Basco. It’s where most visitors begin their journey, and it offers a perfect blend of rugged coastlines, rolling hills, heritage villages, and postcard‑worthy viewpoints.

Demographic Overview

• Island Group: Luzon Island Group
• Region: 
•                 Cagayan Valley (Region II)
• Province:
  • Batanes
• Towns:
  • Basco (provincial capital)
  • Mahatao
  • Ivana
  • Uyagan
• Island Barangays: 18
• Island’s population 2020 census:  14,007 residents
• Land area: 76.50 sq. kilometers (29.54 sq. miles)
• Sea borders:  The island lies within the South China Sea.

by Travel Triology

The Towns of Batan Island

1. Basco – Provincial Capital and Gateway
2. 2020 population: 9,517 residents
3. Barangays: 6

Basco is where the airport is located and serves as the main hub for accommodations, restaurants, and tour services.

Highlights:

• Vayang Rolling Hills — sweeping green hills overlooking the West Philippine Sea.
• Mt. Iraya — a dormant volcano popular among hikers.
• Naidi Hills & Basco Lighthouse — iconic sunset spot.
• Kilometer Zero — a marker symbolizing the starting point of Batanes road networks.
• 2. Mahatao – Quiet, Scenic, and Cultural
• 2020 population: 1,703 residents
• Barangays: 4
• Mahatao is known for its serene landscapes and cultural heritage.

Highlights:

• Chawa View Deck — cliffside viewpoint with dramatic ocean vistas.
• Rakuh a Payaman (Marlboro Hills) — vast rolling hills often called the “New Zealand of the Philippines.”
• Mahatao Boat Shelter Port — a safe harbor for Ivatan fishing boats.
• San Carlos Borromeo Church — a National Cultural Treasure.
• 3. Ivana – Heritage and Coastal Charm
• 2020 population: 1,407 residents
• Barangays: 4
• Ivana is a small coastal town rich in history.
• Highlights:
• House of Dakay — one of the oldest surviving Ivatan stone houses.
• Honesty Coffee Shop — famous unmanned store based on trust.
• Ivana Port — jump-off point to Sabtang Island.
• 4. Uyugan – Rustic and Peaceful
• 2020 population: 1,380 residents
• Barangays: 4
• Uyugan is the least populated town on Batan Island, offering untouched landscapes and traditional villages.
• Highlights:
• Itbud & Imnajbu Villages — quiet communities with stone houses.
• Alapad Rock Formation — dramatic rock cliffs featured in films.
• Old Loran Station — a historic American-era site.

by Vin dela Cruz

Top Tourism Spots on Batan Island

Vayang Rolling Hills (Basco)

A must-see for its panoramic views of the sea, hills, and grazing cattle. Perfect for sunrise or sunset.

Chawa View Deck (Mahatao)

A cliffside viewpoint with a long staircase leading down to the rocky shore — ideal for photography.

Rakuh a Payaman / Marlboro Hills (Mahatao)

Endless green pastures, grazing animals, and sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean.

House of Dakay (Ivana)

A UNESCO-recognized heritage house built in 1887, showcasing Ivatan stone architecture.

San Carlos Borromeo Church (Mahatao)

A beautifully preserved church with a unique Spanish-era book archive called Maywang A Libro Du Vatan.

Alapad Rock Formation (Uyugan)

A dramatic rock wall carved by wind and waves — a favorite photo spot.

Basco Lighthouse (Naidi Hills)

One of the most iconic landmarks of Batanes, offering 360-degree views of Basco and the sea.

Why Batan Island Is Special

• Ivatan Culture: Warm, honest, and deeply connected to the land.
• Unspoiled Nature: Hills, cliffs, and coastlines untouched by mass tourism.
• Slow Living: A place to disconnect, breathe, and appreciate simplicity.
• Heritage Architecture:

by The Traveller’s Path