Sabtang Island Travel Guide

Sabtang Island is a small island within the Batanes Islands archipelago. The scenery is rustic and similar to that found in the Scottish Highlands, with rolling hills and steep jagged cliffs.

Sabtang is also known as San Vicente, a name that dates back to the Spanish rule of the country. The only transport on Sabtang is carabao and other large, strong animals. There are only a handful of schools on the island, with many children having to clamber over the hills on a daily basis.

There are many criss-crossing paths running around the island making it easy to walk around and explore. You can see neighboring islands Ibuhos and Dequey from one of the many viewpoints and the port area is a good place to sit and watch local activities.

Getting There & Away

Sabtang is accessible from Basco by boat, taking just 30 minutes. There is a small airport in Basco and you can charter a private plane to Sabtang for a small fee, with journeys taking just 20 minutes. Manila hosts the nearest international airport, with flights to Basco every Tuesday and Saturday taking 1 hour, 30 minutes.

Things to Do

Sabtang Island Attractions

Stone houses

The island is full of old stone houses and they are the main attraction on the island.