Planning a trip? Those who love to travel know the essence of all travel is about you and your enjoyment. Travelers know that the destination is a major part in planning a trip, experiencing and delving deeper into unfamiliar places, people and culture is paramount.
Expand your horizons and set your sight to the Philippines, an off the beaten path travel site! An undiscovered paradise made of thousands of islands and white sand beaches all around! A tiny dot in the map of the world, and yet a haven for travelers, backpackers, retirees and even passersby.
It offers awesome tourist attractions, magnificent beaches, hot spring resorts, colorful festivals, hundreds of scenic spots and world-class hotels and facilities. Not to mention the tropical climate, the affordable prices as well as the friendly and hospitable, English-speaking people! You will be glad you came, and we’re sure, you WILL come back for more FUN in the Philippines!
INTERESTING SITES
Hemmed in the towering mountain ranges of the Ilocos on the west and the Cordillera in the east, the province of Abra occupies the western portion of the Cordillera region. This landlocked province is a melting pot of the lowland people of dominant Spanish ancestry and the unique ethnicity of the upland Tingguian tribe.
Insulated by the mountainous gazebo, nature has remained prestine in Abra and life goes on in a relaxed pace away from the humdrum of urban cosmopolitan living. The seat of the provincial government is at Bangued, its capital town which is four hours from Baguio City and 10 hours from Manila.
Abra River
Abra River is the most popular river among the numerous rivers criss-crossing the valleys of the province, being the biggest and longest. An ideal place for swimmers as well as those fond of fishing with spacious and clear water. Read More…
Libtec Underground River
Photo from: http://doloresonline.gov.ph/?page_id=899
Libtec Underground River is an enchanting underground river located in Barangay Libtec, Dolores.
From a distance, this enchanting underground river looks like a cave protruding at the surface of a seemingly empty field. Underneath the surface though is actually a flowing underground river that mirrors the jutting stalagmites. Believed to be a home to mysterious water creatures, this river is located inside a cave and surrounded by extruding stalagmites that provides both a feeling of wonder and eerie among the visitors. Read More: https://www.christianfilipina.com/forum/thread.php?id=6645
Boliney Hot Spring
Boliney Hot Spring is ideal for swimming. The place boasts of its hot springs located in a rich natural setting. Traveling to the site amidst the mountains also offers a memorable experience for the tourists.
Kimkimay Lake
Photo from: http://philatlas.com
The Kimkimay Lake is a favorite picnic ground of both local and foreign travelers as it has clear waters suitable for family gatherings and sport fishing. This is one of the several lakes of the province located at Taquib, Villaviciosa. It covers an approximate area of one hectare amidst hills bordering barangays Taquib and Callao, both in Villaviciosa. KimkimayLake, according to legend carried by word of mouth was formerly a dwelling where several families lived. These families were however engaged in many vices so they were punished by the gods by sinking their community, submerging it in cool water. Today, the lake is a favorite place for town picnickers using the lake as a swimming pool and place for fishing. This place can be reached from Bangued travelling along a 32 kilometer winding Penarrubia-Villaviciosa- Pilar Road which as similar to the famous Kennon Road.
Tugot ni Angalo
Photo from: missosology.info
Tugot ni Angalo is located in Kabaruyan, San Quintin, Abra, Philippines. The name translates to “Footprints of Angalo,” Angalo being the Adam or First Man in Abra mythology. Locals believe that Tugot ni Angalo is the set of footprints of a real giant in San Quintin. The set measures around 15 meters long, five meters wide, and ten feet deep. On a clear day, it can be seen visibly even from a distance.
Sibud-Sibud Cave
Photo from: philatlas.com
Sibud-Sibud Cave is located along the newly constructed road of Tineg, Abra, Philippines. tourists can go spelunking at the Sibud-sibud Cave. Although the cave is little explored, the entire place however is very ideal for nature lovers as it is sited amidst lush greenery. It can be reached after a 33 kilometer or 1 ½ hour travel.
Limbo Lake
Photo from: philatlas.com
Limbo Lake is located in Villaviciosa, Abra Philippines. For travelers who wants to have a taste of the outdoors, Limbo Lake is the perfect tourist destination. It’s more accessible, and suitable for camping and hiking. While not as popular as Kimkimay Lake,it offers an ideal place for campers and hikers as it can not be reached by jeepney or bus although the distance needed to be traveled is negligible.
Tangadan Tunnel
A popular landmark, the 40-meter Tangadan Tunnel cuts through the hills in the Abra-Ilocos Sur and was made into a pop culture icon by Coca Cola’s “Carl Kalabaw” commercial (June 2005).
Oyas ni Igat
One of the most interesting natural attractions that can be found in Abra is the Oyas ni Igat. Folklore has told the legend of a giant eel that crossed the mountains from Lenneng Binongan River to Lingas River, which resulted to leaving its mark on the mountain tops. This is what the locals attribute the split cuts, and from then on referred to it as the Oyas ni Igat. – localphilippines.com
Victoria / Cassamata Park
Photo from: http://www.edmaration.com/2012/05/bangued-abra-victoria-park-where-i.html
Victoria National Park is located in Bangued, Abra, Philippines.
In the park you will see the shrine of the Blessed Mother cradling the Infant Jesus. The shrine is built near the reservoir of the Bangued waterworks. Next to it is a swimming pool. Guests can take a dip anytime.
Located on top of a hill, the park gives guests a good view of the town of Bangued and neighboring municipalities such as Tayum, La Paz, Pidigan, and Penarrubia. – localphilippines.com
Banaaw Lake
Photo from: http://ph.geoview.info/banaaw_lake,62575376p
A natural spring at the top of a mountain. Hike up to this emerald green lake and enjoy a spot of fishing, rafting, swimming or just chilling in a hammock between two coconut palms. The lake makes the ideal setting for a picnic with family or friends. Read More: https://silverbackpacker.com/top-seven-things-luba-abra/
Caungugan / Kaungugan Cave
Photo from: https://www.facebook.com/pg/lubatourism/posts/
Sabnangan Foot Bridge
Photo from: https://medium.com/@geraldinebriones/la-paz-abra-607fa91e4c48
A lot of communities in Abra are separated because of the river. Because of this, the locals are used to riding rafts when they cross the area. But the place is not always safe, especially when the high tide comes or rain is imminent. Because of this, a footbridge was built so people can cross the area when crossing the river becomes too risky.
But that’s not all. With a length of at least 580-meters, this is considered as one of the longest hanging footbridge in the country. Read More: http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/newstv/biyahenidrew/588165/history-of-a-hidden-haven-a-biyahe-ni-drew-itinerary-in-abra/story/
Pine Forest
Photo from : http://moviephilippines.blogspot.com/2015/09/the-ancient-hill-and-sea-tribes-of.html
Enjoy some fresh, cool air in the Pine Forest of Sitio Botot. From here there are awesome views over to Sta.Maria and the coastline of Ilocos Sur.
This is also a good place to camp if you want to spend a couple of days hiking in the area, or spelunking in the nearby Caungugan Cave. Read More: https://silverbackpacker.com/top-seven-things-luba-abra/
Boni Falls
Photo from: https://silverbackpacker.com/top-seven-things-luba-abra/
Boni Falls is just a short walk from Poblacion. There is something here for everyone. You can choose to stay at the bottom levels or be more adventurous and climb up to the higher levels. There are meant to be more than fifteen levels with pools and falls, and not one is the same. Test your endurance skills as you boulder, rappel, and climb the multi levels of Boni Falls.
It is advisable to take a guide if you decide to try and reach the upper levels. Wear proper footwear and carry snacks for the way. Read More: https://silverbackpacker.com/top-seven-things-luba-abra/
Piwek Rock Formations
Piwek Rock Formations is a scenic natural rock formation in a river in Tineg. Getting here and back involved a rough jeepney ride, river crossing, hiking and scrambling down the rock surfaces. The whole place resembles Tinipak River in Daraitan, Minalungao in Nueva Ecija, and Siitan River in Quirino. It’s a beautiful natural spot. Visiting this was the highlight of our trip to Abra. Read More: https://www.traveling-up.com/travel-guide-abra/
Kaparkan / Mulawin Falls
Photo from: http://ph.junctionnews.com/register-of-deeds-declines-council-invite-anew-rues-being-unfairly-judged/
This waterfall is one big reason to go to Abra. Not because of its size, but its extraordinary appearance. Unlike most waterfalls in the Philippines, which are formed by roaring cascades, Kaparkan Falls is distinguished by multi-tiered spring pools/terraces that gently cascade down the forest.
Kaparkan / Kaparcan / Caparkan Falls is also known as Mulawin Falls. Read More: https://www.detourista.com/guide/abra-best-places/
Ar-Arbis Falls
Photo from: https://silverbackpacker.com/maar-arbis-falls-lagayan-abra/
Abra is full of Adventure and the hike to Ar-Arbis Falls doesn’t disappoint. There is so much to see and learn along the way. The Palsuguan River is the biggest source of local exotic fish such as – Ludong, Kampa, Igat, Bolidao, Ikan, and Fresh Water Shrimps as big as Tiger Prawns. Traps called Bukatot, made from bamboo and held in place by piles of large rocks can been seen at strategic intervals along the river. Read More: https://silverbackpacker.com/maar-arbis-falls-lagayan-abra/
Lusuac Spring
Photo from: https://steemit.com/travel/@annesaya/81-provinces-an-ultimate-tour-around-the-philippines-1-15
Lusuac Spring is a well-landscaped resort, it is a good place to hold picnics and bonding with family and friends. It is open to the public with 50 pesos per head for adults and 20 pesos for children’s entrance fee. There are also cottages in the area available for rent, prices ranges to 150 to 350 pesos, with a slide on the edge of the pool for kids and kids at heart. They also have a place for you to change your clothes and a comfort room. Read More: http://upindecordero.blogspot.com/2015/04/abras-hidden-gem-lusuac-spring.html
Ikmin River and Waterfalls
Photo from: https://kayakthephilippines.wordpress.com/river-notes/abra/ikmin/
Wild, rough and raging, the Ikmin River plays a huge role in the local legends and culture of Boliney. It is where their goddess ‘Bolinayan’ took a bath. The name of the town was derived from the goddess’ name. It is adjacent to the Bani Hot Spring. Read More: http://www.edmaration.com/2014/05/abra-61-tourist-spots-attractions-and.html?m=0
Pakiling Cave
Photo from: https://limbonisku.wordpress.com/category/pakiling/
Pakiling Cave is located in Manabo, Abra Philippines.
Pakiling Cave is a great tourist attraction in Manabo, a town known for its forest resources. – localphilippines.com
Abualan / Guano Cave
Photo from: https://darlenefaithtravelblog.wordpress.com/2016/12/12/kweba-sa-san-juan-abra-philippines/
The people of Barangay Abualan call this place “Guano Cave.” It is a cave bat and a refuge for the locals during the World War II. It is a prospective major tourist attraction, but it is not yet developed.
Cabato Falls
Cabato Falls is located in Tineg, Abra. It is one of the few falls found in Tineg, Abra. A vision of beauty, Cabato Falls is a must see while visiting the town.
Guirem Falls
Located in Tineg, Abra Philippines, Guirem Falls is a great spot for a relaxing dip in the hot springs, it is a favorite tourist spot in Tineg.
Kili Falls
Photo from: http://www.pinsdaddy.com/abra-philippines-attractions_BrRoVzFmxcFUAPEJhSxSuENb4vWnrYUFVpt61OCTiO8/
Kili Falls is one of many beautiful places in Abra that you can visit all year round. The main attraction here is not just the waterfall. Hidden behind the main cascade is a hot spring that flows into an icy-cold river. The locals had made a wading pool beside it. The temperature is perfectly warm for a dip! Most times of the year, you can have this relaxing spot all to yourself. Kili Village does not attract a lot of tourists because of its remote location in the hinterlands of Tubo, the southernmost town of Abra. The trail to the waterfall from the village crosses scenic rice fields and a few hanging bridges similar to what you would find in Banaue, Ifugao, Benguet or Mountain Province. Read More: https://www.detourista.com/guide/abra-best-places/
There are more interesting sites in Abra that are not included in this list yet. We will update this page as we find out more information about them. Please send us their names if you know some so we can do some research. Thank you.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR)
Abra – Natural Dye Capital of the Philippines