Hey friends, welcome to FunFam Travels! Join us as we explore the stunning and historically rich provinces of Laoag and Vigan in Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur. From adrenaline-pumping activities to breathtaking heritage sites, this tour is packed with unforgettable experiences!
Kicking Off the Adventure: Ilocos Sand Dunes
Our journey begins with a convenient hotel pickup, setting the stage for an exciting day ahead. Our first stop is the Ilocos Sand Dunes, a thrilling must-visit for adventure seekers. Suba pioneered the sand dunes experience here, making it a prime destination for those looking for an adrenaline rush.
For ₱2,500 per 4×4 jeep, you get an hour-long ride across the sandy terrain, plus the chance to try sandboarding. Each jeep accommodates five passengers in the back and one in the front. Don’t miss our Sand Dunes Adventure Experience in one of our videos!
A Glimpse of History: Malacañang of the North
Next, we visit Malacañang of the North, the historic mansion of the Marcos family. Now a museum, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. The entrance fees are quite affordable:
- ₱70 for adults
- ₱50 for seniors & students
- Free for kids
Don’t forget to check out our virtual tour of Malacañang of the North in one of our videos!
Paoay Church: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Our next destination is the iconic Paoay Church, also known as San Agustin Church of Paoay. This 17th-century Baroque-style church is a true architectural gem and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993.
Standing in front of the church, visitors are welcomed by the famous “PAOAY” sign, an ideal spot for stunning photos. Constructed from coral stones, bricks, and mortar made from sugarcane juice and lime, this church has withstood the test of time for over 300 years.
A Quick Stop: Marcos Family Ancestral Mansion
We made a brief stop at the Marcos Family Ancestral Mansion, but unfortunately, it was closed for visitors.
Off to Vigan, Ilocos Sur
After a delicious lunch, we embarked on a 1.5-hour drive to Vigan. Our first stop? The Bantay Watchtower, also known as Bantay Bell Tower. Built in the 16th century, this tower served as a lookout post against pirates and invaders during the Spanish colonial period.
Right in front of the church, you’ll find the “BANTAY” sign, another great spot for capturing memorable family photos. We also visited the nearby St. Augustine Parish Church, a beautiful and historic site.
Hands-On Experience at RG Jar Factory
Next, we explored the RG Jar Factory, home to Vigan’s famous burnay (clay jars). Crafted using time-honored techniques, these jars were traditionally used for storing water, grains, and even fermenting vinegar and wine.
Visitors can try their hand at pottery, guided by a skilled local potter. It only took us less than five minutes to mold a small jar! The souvenir shop here is a must-visit for beautiful clay jars, pots, and decorative pieces – perfect as keepsakes or gifts.
Baluarte Zoo: A Wildlife Adventure
We then made our way to Baluarte Zoo, where we experienced an up-close encounter with various animals! We availed of Package A, which included a shuttle service to help us navigate this expansive zoo.
Our adventure began at the feeding area, where we interacted with camels, goats, and even ostriches! One of the highlights was seeing an adorable baby tiger. We also explored the Safari Gallery, showcasing a massive collection of taxidermy animals from Chavit Singson’s hunting expeditions. The gallery featured deers, antelopes, lions, leopards, jaguars, rhinoceroses, bears, and even an elephant. We also passed by the reptile area, home to snakes and crocodiles!
Stepping Back in Time: Calle Crisologo
Our final stop in Vigan was the picturesque Calle Crisologo. This famous cobblestone street, spanning over 500 meters, is lined with well-preserved ancestral houses that beautifully blend Spanish and Filipino architectural styles.
To fully immerse ourselves in history, we hopped on a kalesa ride for ₱200, a charming way to explore the area. Our coachman even shared fascinating stories about Calle Crisologo’s past! We strolled through the street, enjoying its unique mix of historic charm and modern conveniences.
Surprisingly, we found a Starbucks right in the heart of this historical district! Of course, we couldn’t leave without buying some pasalubong—chichacorn and souvenir magnets from the local shops.
Wrapping Up an Unforgettable Trip
That concludes our Laoag-Vigan adventure! From thrilling sand dunes to historical landmarks and vibrant streets, this journey was nothing short of amazing. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, a history buff, or a family traveler, this trip offers something for everyone!
Have you been to Laoag and Vigan? Let us know your favorite spots in the comments! Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more travel adventures. See you on the next trip!