Discover Apayao: A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
The Philippines is blessed with natural wonders, but one province stood out this year. The landlocked, mountainous province of Apayao in the Cordillera region was designated as one of the 11 new “biosphere reserves” for 2024 by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization or UNESCO.
Hutungan River in Pudtol, Apayao. Photo by the Department of Tourism – Cordillera Administrative Region
The Apayao biosphere reserve, which has an area of 3,960 square kilometers, “is divided into two distinct regions: the Upper Apayao sports rugged terrain with towering peaks, plateaus and valleys, whereas the Lower Apayao features flatlands adorned with rolling hills and plateaus,” according to the UNESCO.
It added the province also houses the Apayao River, which “nurtures 18 tributaries across the province” with a stretch of 180 kilometers.
UNESCO also noted that “ecotourism is progressing in Apayao.”
At present, the provincial government of Apayao aggressively promotes its natural attractions as part of efforts to make tourists consider this province as their next destination.
Being a mountainous province, Apayao boasts attractions perfect for hikers, adventure seekers, and nature lovers who want to witness and experience something different.
Its “dense forests, cascading waterfalls, and serene rivers” make Apayao an “escape from the modern world,” said the Department of Tourism’s Cordillera Administrative Region (DOT-CAR) office.
Apayao’s seven towns – Sta. Marcela, Luna, Calanasan, Pudtol, Flora, Conner, and the provincial capital Kabugao – host majestic waterfalls that tourists can enjoy. Calanasan has Carmela Falls, while Kabugao has Gololan Falls, Anito Falls in Conner, and Pinsal Falls in Flora. Whichever waterfall tourists choose, travelers seeking peace can get refreshed in its cool waters and be amazed by the abundance of trees surrounding it.
For travelers who want to see caves, the Lussok Crystal Cave and Underground River in the municipality of Luna offer more. The cave, named after the Ilocano word for “hole,” houses “amazing forms of stalactites and stalagmites, including bats,” according to the Apayao Provincial Tourism Services Office. Also, it has an “underground river with crystal clear cool water that discharges into a blue lagoon suitable for boating, kayaking and swimming.” It also hosts an eco-park, which is “ideal for nature hikes and birdwatching.”
One destination worth the hike is the Dupag Rock Formation, which sits at a 30-meter hill in the Marag Valley in the town of Luna. Visitors will be welcomed to a maze of seven- to eight-foot wavy and sharp limestone rocks. Hikers can even sit on top of the pointed rocks and marvel at the amazing view of the Marag Valley.
Also worth discovering is Mount Sicapoo, trekked through a trail in the municipality of Calanasan. A major attraction here is the Mount Sicapoo Monolith, a huge boulder that is seemingly pointed to the sky as if guiding guests on which way to look if they want to see breathtaking views.
Another attraction off the beaten path is the Hutungan Hidden Paradise in the municipality of Pudtol. This place features giant rocks, true to its name that came from the Isnag local language, along a river where clear blue water flows. The breathtaking scenery surrounding the area makes it one of Apayao’s most picturesque destinations.
Aside from basking in its natural wonders, tourists itching to get an adrenaline rush can also find a thrill in Apayao. The Tacang Small Water Impounding Project (SWIP) in the town of Sta. Marcela offers activities such as ATV rides and kayaking for visitors.
Travelers can also immerse in the culture of the Isnag people, one of the many indigenous communities in Apayao. Known for their love for nature and warm hospitality, UNESCO said the community “upholds the Lapat system, a unique customary practice regulating the use of natural resources and protection of the environment.” This system involves tribal leaders that “prohibit” or “regulate” excessive use of natural resources.
In congratulating Apayao for its UNESCO biosphere reserve recognition, DOT Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco said it “serves as a testament to the ecological importance and conservation efforts within the province.”
“The Department of Tourism remains committed to strengthening initiatives aimed at preserving the natural treasures of the Philippines noting that alongside the nation’s vibrant culture and rich heritage, the diverse natural landscapes play a pivotal role in establishing the Philippines as a distinctive and sought-after travel destination,” she added.
At present, the DOT continues to engage with local governments and tourism stakeholders, especially in Apayao, giving them an edge when it comes to campaigning for their respective areas as tourist destinations. Apayao joined Mangan Taku 2024, a food festival featuring popular dishes and delicacies from the Cordillera region organized by the DOT-CAR. Also, the Marag Tourism Village – where the Dupag Rock Formation is found – was awarded as a runner-up in DOT-CAR’s Search for the Best Tourism Village.
Apayao joins the provinces of Albay and Palawan, as well as beach and dive spot Puerto Galera – all popular tourist destinations in the Philippines – in the list of UNESCO’s biosphere reserves.
A gem waiting to be discovered, Apayao has proven to be another reason to love the Philippines. With its unspoiled natural beauty, travelers will learn the value of preserving nature for more generations of tourists, both Filipino and foreign, to see and appreciate.
Apayao can be reached from the Philippines’ capital Manila by both public and private transport by land, which can take 13 hours. It is best to visit the province from February to May when the hot season prevails across the country.
For more information about the Philippines, visit https://thephilippines.online or download the Travel PH app on Android and iOS.
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