Jump to: About Quirino | How to Get There | Things to Do in Quirino | Sample Itinerary | Budget and Expenses | Where to Stay | Travel Tips
About Quirino Province
Quirino is a landlocked province in Cagayan Valley, known for its untouched natural wonders like waterfalls, caves, rivers, and forest reserves. It’s an off-the-beaten-path destination perfect for eco-adventurers and backpackers seeking raw landscapes and fewer crowds. By the way, it's my 81st Province in the Philippines.
How to Get to Quirino
- From Manila: Ride a bus (Florida or Five Star) to Santiago City, Isabela. Then take a van to Cabarroguis, Quirino’s capital.
- By Car: Via NLEX-SCTEX-TPLEX, then Maharlika Highway to Quirino (~9–10 hrs)
Top Things to Do in Quirino
- 🌊 Explore Siitan River via bamboo raft or kayak
- 🪨 Visit Aglipay Caves – multi-chamber cave system
- 💧 Swim at Governor’s Rapids in Maddela
- 🏞️ See the stunning Nagbukel Natural Rock Formation
- 🌲 Camp at Pensal Falls or Victoria Clara Falls
Trekking to Ganano Falls makes the event a bit extreme. The trails are surrounded by trees, shrubs, bamboo, and other greens so the trek was relaxing. Not only that, there are flowers and butterflies making our journey colorful. After an hour, we were rewarded with a tantalizing view of the waterfalls. The tranquillity is preserved because of the trees. There are gigantic rock formations and towering limestone cliffs. It’s a paradise.
Governor’s Rapids in Maddela is definitely one of the most visited tourist destinations in Quirino. It is part of the Cagayan River, the longest river system in the Philippines, so natural beauty and rock formations can be found here. You can’t leave the province without trying its own version of water tubing and rafting. Hearing them shouting while holding onto the tube is proof that they are enjoying it, hhmm, maybe. Other parts of the tour are hidden falls, a cliff jump, and a Tarzan swing.
Another top destination in the province is Landingan Viewpoint, a colorful place in Nagtipunan. Situated on top of the hill, this area became prominent because of its vibrant and stunningly beautiful flowers. There’s a wide view of the province, including the Sierra Madre mountain ranges.
After the tiring journey, it’s time to feed our stomachs. Tubikoy is the most unique delicacy in the province. It’s a combination of tubig, bibingka, and tikoy. Aside from its mouthwatering taste, what I love about this deli is the toasted part on the side that gives me some sort of crunchiness. Second is the Pancit Cabagan, historically, it originated in Cabagan, Isabela, because of its unique taste, the flavour travelled to its neighbouring provinces such as Quirino.
Sample Quirino Itinerary (2D1N)
Day 1 – Arrival & River Adventure - Morning: Travel to Cabarroguis - Noon: Lunch, check-in - PM: Bamboo rafting at Siitan River - Sunset: Quick visit to Pensal Falls - Night: Local food trip or camp Day 2 – Caves and Waterfalls - Morning: Aglipay Caves tour - Noon: Lunch at local eatery - Afternoon: Visit Governor’s Rapids or Victoria Clara Falls - Evening: Return to Santiago or ManilaSample Budget and Expenses
- Bus Fare (RT): ₱1,200–₱1,500
- Van/Trike Transfers: ₱200–₱500
- Accommodation: ₱500–₱1,000 per night
- Entrance Fees: ₱30–₱100 per attraction
- Guide Fee (Aglipay Caves): ₱300–₱500
- Food: ₱150–₱300 per meal
- Total: ₱2,500–₱4,000+ for 2D1N
Where to Stay in Quirino
- Cabarroguis: Capitol Plaza Hotel, GH Eco Lodge
- Maddela: The Palace Hotel, Red Dot Lodge
🏨 Book your hotel in Quirino via Agoda here.
Travel Tips
- Best months to visit: November to May (dry season)
- Mobile signal may be weak in remote areas
- Local guides enhance your cave or river experience—hire them
- Bring waterproof bags and dry clothes for river and cave activities
Final Thoughts
If you're looking for raw, off-grid adventure, Quirino is the place. From wild rivers and hidden waterfalls to quiet towns and forest trails, it’s a hidden gem worth discovering in Northern Luzon. Go now before it becomes the next mainstream destination! Want to explore more places like this? Here’s my full travel guide after visiting all 82 provinces in the Philippines.
Peaceful river adventure at Siitan River, Quirino
Also read: 9 Days Solo Backpacking in Mindanao – ZamBaSulTa, Region 9, and Misamis Occidental
