What Makes Quirino Province Popular for Tourists?

Want to hit pause on the nightlife and experience nature? Or are you a nature lover seeking to find adventure?

Don’t worry, Quirino Province has a lot to offer!

But first, here’s a little history lesson for you. The province of Quirino is a part of Region II of the Philippines and lies in the southeastern portion of Cagayan Valley.

The province was named after the late former Philippine President Elpidio Quirino in 1971. And it is known for its outdoor experience and ethnic culture history. 

Dubbed as the “Forest Heartland of Cagayan Valley”. Here are several tourist spots the municipalities of Quirino have to offer that a nature loving tourist like you would enjoy.

Aglipay Caves and Campsites

Hear ye spelunkers out there!

The municipality of Aglipay offers a series of 38 caves, 7 of which are developed as tourist spots. These caves interlink with each other and run about 20 meters deep. It is exhibiting spectacular formation of stalagmite and stalactite that just leaves you in awe and wonder. It is also surrounded by hills and vibrant forests, you can also swim in its underground springs with the help of experienced tour guides. The environment also provides opportunities to connect with nature through camping and outdoor activities for everyone. 

Pensal Falls

Located at San Benigno, Aglipay, these waterfalls stack three-tiers high with a nice rock formation suitable for cliff jumping for adrenaline junkies out there. If cliff jumping is not for you, Pensal Falls never fails to make up for the lack of activities you can enjoy. It has multiple layers of invigorating spring pools that can relax your stiff muscles from your trek. 

Mabo Falls

If you want to go literally chase waterfalls, Mabo falls may be perfect for your journey. The towering falls, measured at approximately 150 meters high, is located in the middle of the forest. Essentially making it a paradise. Getting here might be exhausting so better prepare some trail snacks to fuel your trekking adventure. 

Cabarroguis Quirino Watersports Complex

The Quirino Watersports Complex is located in the Provincial Capitol complex. It holds promise to be the future center of wakeboarding competitions. The world-class water playground hosts many water sports activities such as wakeboarding and winch park. It scenic pavilion and a hilltop infinity pool surrounded by greenery that is perfect for Instagram, special events and photo/video productions. 

Quirino Province Museum

As they say, one must not forget the past to preserve the future. Also located in Cabarroguis, the museum showcases not only history but also ethnic richness and diversity of cultures of all tribes in the province of Quirino. The vibrant colors and historical diversity entails the heritage and way of life of the Dumagat, Ifugao, Isinay, Bugkalot, Gaddang and Ilocanos that are part of the province’s communities. 

Ganano Falls 

One of the rising tourist attractions in Quirino. This towering waterfall is approximately 80 meters in height and is surrounded by stone formation, forests and fish sanctuary creeks. Along with the trekking journey, you can occasionally see exotic birds inhabiting the forest. 

Batumbaket Rocktower

Complementing Ganano Falls, the Batumbaket falls, also known as rocktower, reaches about 200 feet up into the sky. Because it is a remote tourist spot in the Quirino province, the surrounding forest preserves exotic flora and fauna. Of course, remember to leave only memories and not trash to preserve the pristine environment. 

Maddela’s Rapids and Nature Parks

Also known as the Governor’s Rapids, the rapids are found along a stretch of the Cagayan River. Which is also the longest and largest river in the Philippines. 

The cruise starts at the gigantic limestone formations that serve as the shelter for the conquerors of the raging rapids of Cagayan River. Just like a rollercoaster, you will encounter smooth waters and raging rapids that will make you scream your lungs out!

They say that you haven’t truly experienced the province if you did not ride the rapids of Cagayan River. Along with the experience comes stopovers where you can swim, cliff jump and explore shallow cave pools. 

Landingan Viewpoint

Before you indulge yourself in the rapids and other outdoor activities, it’s best to start your day by catching sunrise at the Landingan Viewpoint. The ambiance gives the essence of the beauty the province provides. Along with the view of mountain ranges and blooming flowers, it’s nice to breathe in the fresh air with a steaming hot coffee or chocolate. 

Panagdadapun Festival

If you’re familiar with Filipino culture, it’s always a great idea to join and experience the culmination of festivals. The Panagdadapun Festival is held every September 10 to mark the province’s foundation day. As expected of a Filipino festival, the streets of Quirino will be swarming with street dancing, foods and activities that showcase their own culture. 

If you’re captivated by their culture, the province always has a way to connect you with their indigenous people. Municipal authorities can arrange visits, particularly with the Bugkalots or Ilongots, where you can immerse yourself with cultural experiences and take home meaningful memories. 

Rider’s Paradise

Motorcycle enthusiasts promote Quirino as a haven for bike riders because of its long, country roads. Depending on your preference, you can have solo rides but it is best to enjoy the road with a bunch of friends or with a club for extra safety precautions. If you’re interested, you can join one of the country’s biggest motorcycle festivals “Quirino Motorismo” that is usually held in the month of March. 

Key Takeaway

Words cannot express the wonders that the province of Quirino holds. These are just some of the many attractions you must experience as a tourist because there are still many places in the province that are yet to be commercialized. Also, take into account the cardinal rule to “Take nothing but pictures, Leave nothing but footprints, Kill nothing but time”. In the case of transportation, there are many ways to get to the province via public or private transit. So, plan your trip and pack your bags because the best way to experience Quirino Province is definitely not by reading this article.