Traveling to the Philippines often means exploring its stunning landscapes and vibrant cultures. This tour offers a chance to visit Buscalan, meet the legendary Apo Wang-Od, and discover the iconic Banaue Rice Terraces all in one memorable trip. Designed with both adventure and culture in mind, it’s a fantastic way for curious travelers to see a side of the Philippines few get to experience.
What makes this tour stand out? First, you get to meet Apo Wang-Od, the last of the traditional Kalinga tattoo artists—an opportunity that many travelers consider once in a lifetime. Second, the inclusion of a side trip to the Banaue Rice Terraces allows you to see an ancient marvel of engineering and agricultural ingenuity. Third, the trip is quite comprehensive, offering roundtrip transport from Manila, meals, and accommodation, all bundled into an accessible price point. The only caveat? It’s a joiner’s tour, so your group size and schedule are set, which might not suit travelers craving total independence.
This experience is perfect for those who seek to combine cultural insights, adventure, and scenic beauty, especially if you’re comfortable with basic group travel. If you’re an independent traveler or prefer private tours, this might not be your top pick, but for most, it offers a practical and enriching way to explore a remote part of Luzon.
Good To Know
- Cultural immersion with the last Kalinga tattoo artist, Apo Wang-Od
- Convenient roundtrip transportation from Manila
- Includes meals and shared accommodations, providing good value
- Optional tattoo sessions (additional fees apply)
- Side trip options to Banaue Rice Terraces or Atok Northern Blossom
- Tour is suitable for travelers aged 10 and above, not pregnant women or those with back problems
An Introduction to the Tour Experience
This 2-day tour offers a robust introduction to some of the Philippines’ most captivating sights and traditions. The journey begins with a pickup in Manila, making it straightforward and hassle-free to start your adventure. The group size tends to be manageable, and you’ll enjoy the comfort of modern transportation, including tolls and other fees already included in the price.
We particularly love the way it combines cultural discovery with scenic sightseeing. Meeting Apo Wang-Od, the last master of the traditional Kalinga tattoo art, is a highlight that adds an authentic touch to your trip. You get the chance to observe her art up close (picture fees apply), and if you’re feeling brave, even get your own tattoo—though that’s an extra expense and not included in the base price.
Another aspect worth mentioning is the side trip options. Whether you choose Banaue Rice Terraces or Atok Northern Blossom, each offers a distinctive view of the region’s natural beauty and agricultural ingenuity. The rice terraces are often described as a breathtaking sight that makes you feel connected to the land’s history and ingenuity.
While the experience comes with well-organized logistics, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour is a joiner experience. If you prefer a more private, personalized itinerary, this might feel a bit less flexible. Also, the tattoo sessions are optional, and some travelers noted that taking photos with Apo Wang-Od costs extra, which is helpful to plan for.
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Detailed Itinerary Breakdown
Day 1: From Manila to Buscalan
The journey kicks off early, with a pickup at STARBUCKS ONE ECOM MOA. From there, you’ll board a comfortable van that whisks you away to the northern part of Luzon. The drive is broken up by a stop for breakfast, often in Banaue or Atok, giving you a taste of local flavors and a chance to stretch your legs.
As you arrive in Buscalan, check-in to your shared accommodation, typically a simple but cozy space meant for two to four people. This is a chance for some pre-tattoo or sightseeing exploration—it’s a small, rustic village with a friendly, welcoming vibe. You’ll have a late lunch—usually featuring traditional Filipino fare—plus unlimited Buscalan coffee, which many reviews highlight as a delightful local brew.
In the afternoon, the highlight: meeting Apo Wang-Od. She’s a revered figure, known for her intricate tribal tattoos. Observing her work and chatting with her provides a genuine insight into Kalinga culture. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can opt for a tattoo session (additional fee), which many travelers find to be a profound and memorable experience. Dinner follows, often enjoyed communally with fellow travelers, exchanging stories under the stars.
Day 2: From Buscalan Back to Manila
The early morning starts with breakfast, after which you’ll queue for a tattoo if you’ve decided to participate. This is often a slow process, but for many, it’s worth the wait to get inked by the last Wang-Od. If tattoos aren’t your thing, you can still enjoy the scenery or take photos. Keep in mind that picture-taking with Apo Wang-Od requires a fee, so plan accordingly.
Post-tattoo, you’ll enjoy lunch before checking out of your accommodation. The journey back to Manila includes stops for souvenir shopping, providing an opportunity to pick up unique tribal art or handmade crafts. Finally, you’ll return to the city in the evening, tired but enriched by a deep dive into Filipino indigenous traditions and stunning landscapes.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Value of This Tour
This tour offers a mix of culture, scenic beauty, and convenience. At $174 per person, it delivers a well-rounded experience that covers transportation, meals, and accommodations, which might otherwise be tricky to arrange independently. The inclusion of iconic sights like the Banaue Rice Terraces adds considerable value for travelers eager to see more than just the typical tourist spots.
It’s perfect for those who enjoy organized group travel but still want authentic encounters. The guide and coordinator are experienced, ensuring smooth logistics and meaningful interactions. Reviewers mention the friendly, helpful guides who “made all the difference,” and the comfortable transportation which reduces the stress of long drives.
The tour’s balance of adventure (tattooing) and scenic beauty makes it a genuinely enriching experience. Plus, the chance to savor traditional Filipino dishes and local coffee keeps the culture alive throughout.
Considerations
One potential downside is the fixed schedule—if you’re a traveler craving complete flexibility or private arrangements, this could be limiting. The tattooing process can be slow and may involve additional fees for photos or the actual tattoo, so budget accordingly. Also, the shared accommodation might not suit those seeking luxury, but it’s clean, basic, and culturally authentic.
Who Should Consider This Experience?
This tour is best suited for adventure-seeking travelers interested in indigenous cultures and scenic landscapes. It’s suitable for teenagers and adults over 10, but not recommended for pregnant women or those with back problems, given the rural terrain and travel demands. It’s a wonderful choice for history buffs, art lovers, and anyone wanting an authentic, immersive experience outside typical tourist trails.
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for children under 10?
No, the tour is not recommended for children under 10 due to the rural setting and physical demands.
Are the accommodations comfortable?
They are shared, simple rooms, usually for two persons, offering basic but adequate comfort for an overnight stay.
How long does the drive from Manila take?
The exact duration isn’t specified, but the journey involves a long drive with a stop for breakfast, so expect several hours each way.
Can I get a tattoo from Apo Wang-Od?
Yes, tattoo sessions are available but are optional and come with additional fees. You can choose to just observe or take photos (fees apply).
Is it easy to buy souvenirs during the trip?
Yes, there are stops along the way where you can purchase local crafts and tribal art, making it a good opportunity to pick up unique keepsakes.
What should I pack for this tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, water, insect repellent, and suitable clothing for rural outdoor conditions.
Final Thoughts
This Buscalan and Banaue Rice Terraces tour offers a rare chance to connect with indigenous Filipino culture and see some of the most scenic parts of Luzon. It’s a well-priced, thoughtfully organized experience that combines adventure, cultural discovery, and natural beauty. While it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with group travel and basic accommodations, those seeking an authentic, immersive glimpse into Filipino tradition will find this journey deeply rewarding.
For anyone eager to tell stories about the last Wang-Od, explore ancient rice terraces, and enjoy genuine local flavors, this tour ticks many boxes—delivering memorable moments and meaningful encounters that go beyond typical sightseeing.
Note: Always check current travel advisories and tour availability before booking to ensure a smooth trip.
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