If you’re looking for an adventurous and scenic trek, you should definitely consider visiting Mount Iraya.
Located on Batan Island, it is renowned for being the highest point in the province and the northernmost active volcano in the country. Needless to say, Mount Iraya is one of the best tourist spots in Batanes you should visit!
In this guide, we will discuss everything you need to know about Mount Iraya, from where it is, how to get there, whether it is family-friendly, how long it takes to hike, and the best time to visit.
Mount Iraya in Batanes – Overview
Let’s start with the essentials, such as Mt Iraya’s location, how to get there, and everything you should know before coming to Batanes.
Mount Iraya Stats
- Duration: 3 to 4 hours
- Length: 12.5 miles roundtrip
- Hike difficulty: Challenging
- Elevation gain: 1,009 meters (3,310 ft) above sea level
Where is Mount Iraya?
Mount Iraya is an active volcano located on Batan Island, one of the Batanes Islands, in the north of Luzon.
The mountain is the biggest and most noticeable thing on Batan Island, which is 20 kilometers long in the Luzon Strait, which stretches between Luzon and Taiwan.
With an elevation of 1,009 meters, it’s also the highest point in Batanes, offering breathtaking views and an unforgettable hiking experience.
How to Get to Mount Iraya?
Many tourists visit Batanes to explore Mount Iraya. This natural wonder stands tall on Batan Island, and it takes approximately 30 minutes from Basco Airport to reach the base of the mountain.
You can reach the island through regular flights from Manila, which are usually 1 and a half hours long.
If you plan to hike Mt Iraya, I recommend contacting Bisumi Tours, which organize group tours. Prices start at 3,600PHP for 1 person and increase by number of people in your group.
Is Mt Iraya Batanes Worth Visiting?
Yes, Mt Iraya in Batanes is definitely worth visiting. This majestic mountain towers over the idyllic province of Batanes, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
You’ll have to get prepare for trekking to the summit of Mt Iraya but the experience and view are both rewarding.
Is Mt Iraya Batanes Family-Friendly?
Hiking Mount Iraya may not be advisable for small children as it can be challenging. However, adults and older children who are up for the adventure will find the trek worthwhile.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Mount Iraya is from March to June, where there is a smaller chance of rainfall. It allows hikers to experience better visibility and optimal picturesque views of the mountain.
Nevertheless, I recommend checking the weather forecast before going on your hike to avoid the possibility of experiencing heavy rainfall or strong winds.
Also, the best time to start the hike is between 6 and 7am, before it gets too hot!
What To Expect at Mount Iraya
You’ll start the day near Basco Airport, which is where the hike starts, and you can take a tricycle from Basco Town.
Don’t be fooled by its minor climb classification, hiking to the pinnacle of Mount Iraya is a challenge, even for the more experienced hikers.
The trail was fairly muddy and slippery, and I highly recommend you take hiking shoes. I started the hike around 7am, which is the recommended time, and I started slowly taking photos of the wildlife on the way.
Apart from that, you’ll also see the Basco lighthouse and Valugan Boulder beach from afar, which only added some uniqueness to the trip!
While most of the trail was a little muddy, after 3.5 hours of steady climbing, the view from the top was nothing short of breathtaking, and you’ll love the views.
That being said, the clouds cover most of the landscape below, and I recommend taking your time at the summit having lunch or a snack, so they might disappear before you head back into town!
All in all, this was a challenging trek but I recommend it if you come to Batanes for a short weekend or longer.
Summary – Mount Iraya in Batanes
In conclusion, Mount Iraya is a gem that is worth exploring in Batanes, Philippines. From its stunning and picturesque views to its rich history and culture, it is not just a challenging hike, but also a fulfilling experience.
By following the right precautions and joining tours with trained guides, a hike to the summit of the mountain can be a memorable experience for family and friends.
All in all, it was one of my highlights in Batanes, and I highly recommend you try it yourself!
