The Ilocos region of the Philippines is located along the northwest coast of Luzon Island and encompasses limestone cliffs, pine covered mountains and open grasslands used mainly for rice farming.
There are four provinces in the region: Ilocos Norte, La Union, Pangasinan and Ilocos Sur. Pangasinan in the south is the most populous province and has an array of tourist attractions including Hundred Islands National Park, which actually has 123 small islands to see.
Throughout the region there are numerous Catholic churches built by the locals during the Spanish occupation. Some of the churches are beautifully constructed and well worth checking out. There are also a number of colonial houses and cobblestone streets in Vigan city, which have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Getting There & Away
The most common way to arrive in the Ilocos region is by air to Laoag City Airport. Flights from Manila arrive on a daily basis as well as some weekly flights from China and Taiwan. Flight time from Manila is approximately 1 hour. Buses are also available traveling from Manila although the trip can take upward of 10 hours. For getting around the region to other provinces and cities, there are buses, jeepneys or you can hire a car and self-drive.
Things to Do
Ilocos Region Attractions
- Manleluag Spring National Park
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The park is located seven kilometers uphill from malabobo in mangatarem. established in 1940, the national park offers an array of outdoors activities to enjoy.
- Ilocos Norte Museum
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The museum is a popular attraction with a wealth of information about the history and heritage of the region. there are fantastic displays of traditional tribal fare as well as hands-on exhibits and photograph galleries.