The Culture and Sites of Quirino Province: Must-Visit/Eat/Try

Quirino, a landlocked gem in northeastern Luzon, is named after the sixth Philippine President, Elpidio Quirino. Often dubbed the “Forest Heartland of Cagayan Valley,” this province is a haven for eco-adventurers, cultural explorers, and food lovers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences.

🛫🚌 Getting There from Metro Manila

Reaching Quirino requires a bit of travel magic:

🚌 Overnight bus to Maddela: Direct but long—perfect for those who love road trips.
✈️ Fly to Cauayan Airport (Isabela): Then take a scenic 1.5-hour van ride to Cabarroguis.
✈️ Fly to Tuguegarao City: Followed by a 3-hour van ride through lush countryside.

🧠 Trivia: Quirino became a full-fledged province in 1971, carved from Nueva Vizcaya. It’s one of the youngest provinces in the Philippines!

🌿 Top Tourist Attractions in Quirino

🌳 Aglipay Caves and Campsite

Explore eight chambers filled with dramatic stalactites and stalagmites. The caves are beginner-friendly but still thrilling, with tight passages and underground springs.

Fees: ₱25 (eco fee) | ₱250 (guide)
🧭 Tip: Bring a flashlight and wear sturdy shoes—some chambers are dim and slippery.
🧠 Trivia: The caves are named after Fr. Gregorio Aglipay, a revolutionary priest who once sought refuge here.

Watatrip The Culture and Sites of Quirino Province 02 — Watatrip // Aglipay Caves

🏄 Go Quirino Wakeboarding Complex

Located in Cabarroguis, this 9.5-hectare park offers tutorials and gear for adrenaline-pumping wakeboarding.

Rates: ₱3,500 (all-in package)
🧭 Tip: Best visited during dry months for optimal water conditions.
🧠 Trivia: It’s one of the few inland wakeboarding parks in the country, powered by natural spring water.

Watatrip The Culture and Sites of Quirino Province 03 — Watatrip // The Culture and Sites of Quirino Province

🚣 Governor’s Rapids

Cruise along the mighty Cagayan River, framed by towering limestone cliffs and lush greenery. Ideal for rafting, kayaking, and swimming.

Fees: ₱30 (environmental fee) | ₱150 (guide) | ₱450 (river tour)
🧭 Tip: Visit early morning for misty views and cooler weather.
🧠 Trivia: Named after a Japanese governor who reportedly drowned here during WWII.

Watatrip The Culture and Sites of Quirino Province 04 — Watatrip // Quirino’s Governor’s Rapis

🏛️ Quirino Province Museum

A cultural treasure trove showcasing the traditions of the Dumagat, Ifugao, Isinay, Bugkalot, Gaddang, and Ilocano communities.

🧭 Tip: Ask about the Bugkalot’s headhunting history—it’s a fascinating (and now symbolic) rite of passage.
🧠 Trivia: Quirino has one of the largest Igorot populations outside the Cordillera region.

Watatrip The Culture and Sites of Quirino Province 05 — Watatrip // Quirino Province Museum

🎉 Panagdadapun Festival

“Panagdadapun” means “gathering” in Ilocano—a nod to the province’s unity in diversity. This festival is held every September, this vibrant celebration marks Quirino’s founding. Expect parades, cultural performances, and dazzling traditional attire.

Watatrip The Culture and Sites of Quirino Province 06 — Watatrip // Panagdadapun Festival Quirino

💦 Hidden Waterfalls Worth the Trek

🌊 Ganano Falls (Diffun)

A 100-foot cascade surrounded by rainforest, accessible via a scenic trek from Baguio Village.

🧭 Tip: You’ll pass three smaller falls—Sabangaran, Sinipit, and Nantugaw—on the way!
🧠 Trivia: Ganano is considered the most sought-after waterfall in Quirino.

🌊 Mactol Falls (Nagtipunan)

A 50-meter-high waterfall spilling into a deep basin, perfect for swimming and nature photography.

🧭 Tip: Best visited during weekdays to avoid crowds.
🧠 Trivia: The surrounding forest is home to endangered flora and fauna.

🌊 Pensal Falls (Aglipay)

A three-tiered waterfall ideal for cliff diving and summer picnics.

🧭 Tip: Trek time is around 30 minutes—bring water and snacks!
🧠 Trivia: Locals believe the falls are enchanted and protected by forest spirits.

🍽️ Where to Eat in Quirino

🍴 Adobo de Pato at Palm Restaurant

Duck adobo with tender, flavorful meat—slow-cooked to perfection. But, here’s something you should know, duck dishes are rare in Luzon provinces, so that makes this a must-try specialty.

Watatrip The Culture and Sites of Quirino Province 07 — Watatrip // Palm Restaurant – Quirino Province

🍲 MJ Snack & Pancit Cabagan Restaurant 📍 Barangay Ponggo in Nagtipunan

Quirino’s twist on Pancit Cabagan features chorizo and chicken broth for a richer, meatier flavor. But, did you know that Pancit Cabagan originated in Isabela, but Quirino’s version is beloved for its bold taste?

Watatrip The Culture and Sites of Quirino Province 08 — Watatrip // The Culture and Sites of Quirino Province

🍬 Royal Tubikoy

A fusion of tupig, bibingka, and tikoy—this sweet treat is chewy, smoky, and delightfully nostalgic. Tubikoy is part of Quirino’s “One Town, One Product” initiative, promoting native delicacies.