1.

Dupag Rock Formation

Dupag Rock Formation in Luna. One of the tourist spots of Apayao.

Dupag Rock Formation is a cluster of jagged limestone boulders at barangay Marag. The
boulders measure around 7 to 8 feet high. Climbing to the peaks presents a real challenge
especially if you are not an ardent hiker. But surely, the thrill and the wonderful view atop will
make up for that.

Due to the rough and sharp texture of the boulders, visitors/tourists must wear proper footwear
and protective gear. The highest peak is known as Father Rock. It provides an entrancing view of
the surrounding fields, valleys, forests, and rivers.

The topography of Dupag rock made it a favorable hiding place of the locals and insurgents
during the wars and uprisings. It, therefore, plays a major historical role in the area. To get here,
one needs to hike for some 30-45 minutes. It is now one of the most featured tourist spots in
Apayao.

Location: Luna, Apayao

Status: Closed

2. Bayugao Falls

Bayugao Falls are a series of mini-waterfalls with naturally-built pools. Their cool and crystal-
clear waters cast a rejuvenating sight complementing the surrounding forests.

Location: Luna, Apayao

Jump-Off Point: Brgy Turod

Trekking Time: 30 minutes

3. Lussok Cave & Underground River

Lusok cave in Luna, Apayao.

Containing several chambers, Lussok cave showcases nature at its best. It has a wide opening,
reminiscent of a cathedral’s dome. To get inside the cave, one needs to ride a boat. Yes, it has an
underground river, like that of Palawan.
The view of the river itself is breathtaking. It reflects the color of the surrounding forest. Yes,
that’s fresh and pristine waters emanating from the cave. It is a perfect spot for swimming and
immersing with nature.

Once inside, one can catch sight of stunning stalactite and stalagmite rock formations. One
could simply wonder how such beauty formed. In addition, numerous bats inhabit the cave.
These indicate the rich biodiversity inside the cave and the surrounding area. To date, this is one
of the most popular tourist spots in Apayao.

Location/Jump-off: Brgy Dagupan, Luna, Apayao

Open: 8 am to 4pm

Entrance Fee: 120 php/head, 25 php – Parking Fee

4. Calanasan Philippine Eagle Sanctuary

Calanasan forest in Apayao.

The vast lowland forests of Calanasan host the iconic Philippine-Monkey Eating eagle, a
critically-endangered species. Thus, Apayao provides a home for the continuing survival of the
species. So far, there are around 25 eagles documented in the area.

Calanasan’s forests also host a rich diversity of other flora and fauna species including the
Northern Luzon cloud rat. Giant Rafflesia flowers can also be spotted. In many areas, giant
dipterocarp trees such as lawaan dominate. They can be as tall as a 10-story building. It would
even take around 20 people hurdling together to circle their massive buttresses.

These keystone species must be protected from both legal and illegal loggers. After all, they play
a crucial role in both the natural environment and the local communities. Fortunately, the local
authorities are taking initiatives to do just that.

5. Gololan Falls

Gololan Falls of Kabugao. One of the tourist spots of Apayao.

Gololan falls cascades for more than 33 meters. On sunny days, it projects a small rainbow,
thanks to rock cliffs that trap the sunlight on the bottom. The falls’ waters carved a deep and
wide pool. This is a perfect spot for swimming. The surrounding boulders provide an ideal spot
for jumping or diving.

To get here, one must hike for some 30-45 minutes. Take note. This is a downhill trek. But along
the way, nature’s surprises such as orchids, birds’ calls, and trees’ rustle would constantly relieve
you. Among the tourist spots in Apayao, this one must definitely make it to your bucket list.

Location/Jump-Off: Brgy EKB, Kabugao, Apayao

Trekking Time: 30-45 minutes

6. Abulog/Apayao River

Apayao River. One of the tourist spots of Apayao.

Apayao River traverses all the municipalities of Apayao except Conner. It extends for more than
181 kilometers, making it the longest river in the said province. It emanates from the
hinterlands of Calanasan and grows bigger as it passes through the different municipalities.

Apayao River ranks as one of the cleanest rivers in the country and one of the largest river
systems. It provides a home to a plethora of marine species. In fact, big fishes can be seen
swimming. Hardwood trees and dense forests also grow on some parts of its banks.

In addition, this river can be tapped for whitewater rafting activities. Aside from the forests,
visitors can catch sight of beautiful waterfalls spilling on it. Interestingly, it is the Isneg’s culture
called Lapat which preserved the beauty and bounty of the river.

7. Mt. Kilang

Mt. Kilang. One of the Tourist Spots of Apayao.

Mt. Kilang rises to more than 1, 656 meters above sea level (MASL). This makes it one of the
highest peaks of Northern Apayao. It can be viewed from the boundary of both Apayao and
Ilocos Norte. The best time to view its majesty is from 4 am to 5 am. However, if you are looking
for a challenge, you can try assaulting its summit.
To get to Mt. Kilang’s peak, you need to trail on dense mossy forests. On some parts of the
trails, you can catch sight of amazing rock formations. Some of these are jagged so take extra
caution to avoid wounds or skirmishes.

The trek takes hours from the usual trailheads. However, clear sunny days would reward you
with breathtaking views of the vast forests of Apayao and the mountain ranges of Ilocos. Sea of
cloud formations also frequently appear.

Location/Jump-Off: Solsolano-Apayao Rd., Calanasan, Apayao

Height: 1,656 MASL

8. Maton River

Pudtol, just like Calanasan, hosts vast areas of dipterocarp forests. These forests feed numerous
brooks and streams which then join to form the locally-famed Maton River.

Maton River is now creating a fuss among the tourist spots in Apayao. In fact, its more than a
favorite getaway for the local communities. It is now a rising come-on of Pudtol.

The river features numerous pools. These are fit for swimming and boating. Along the lower
Maton, there is a favorite pool with a small cascade. Its waters are cool and crystal-clear. There
are numerous rock formations in the area. These are ideal spots for jumping. Oh, the highest of
these is a 15-foot outcrop. This is a must-try for every daredevil.

Location/Jump-Off: Brgy Maton, Pudtol, Apayao

Entrance Fee: Free

Guide Fee: Donation

9. Girgira Falls

Considered as the biggest waterfall within the municipality, Girgira falls measures around 30
feet high. The pristine falls of Girgira emanate from Mt. Magitalan.

Because of its huge water volume, the falls carved a pool that is twice as big as an Olympic size
swimming pool. It unfurls successive falls, stretching as deep as 30 meters or more.
Location/Jump-Off: Calanasan, Apayao

Trekking Time: 2 hours

10. Macota Underground River

Macota Underground River complements the more popular Lussok Underground Cave. It also
boasts of equally-interesting features. To get inside the cave, you need to take a boat until a
point where the deep level ends. From here, hike your way to get deeper into the cave.

Inside, you’ll find imposing stalactite and stalagmite rock formations including a waterfall. The
cave’s underground river teems with various marine life such as eels, fishes, and shrimps.

Along with other tourist spots in Apayao, this fragile ecosystem warrants protection and
sustainable management.

Location/Jump-Off: Luna, Apayao

11. Mt. Solo

Mt. Solo towers to over 1,336 meters above sea level, making it the highest peak in Apayao.
From here, one can view the extensive forest cover of Pudtol and its neighboring municipalities.

It takes hours to days of a strenuous hike to reach its summit, depending on where you are
coming from. Tourism is not yet fully established in the area. That is why trails are not well-
established. In fact, only a few locals and hunters were able to assault its summit.

Location/Jump-Off: Brgy Upper Maton, Pudtol; Brgy Lt. Balag, Kabugao

12. Purit Cave

Purit cave has lower and upper chambers with vertical clearances of 6-8 feet high and 10-12
feet wide. There are not so much rock formations here. However, it serves as a sanctuary for
numerous bats. Guano deposits abound here. Thus, it is locally known as the “Bat Cave.” Before
its mouth, there is a natural reception on the sides. Thick forests surround the cave.

Location/Jump-off: Calanasan, Apayao

The sanctuary offers a thrilling and challenging adventure for nature lovers, mountaineers, or
even biologists. It takes at least 10 hours of hike to get here.

Along the way, you’ll encounter various flora and fauna species such as deer, wild pigs, and
hornbills. Who knows? You’ll even catch sight of the elusive Philippine eagles inhabiting its old-
growth forests.

For those who are still up for a more extreme challenge, they can pursue their trek to Mt. Sicapo
for another four hours. Hopefully, the local authorities continue to implement strict measures to
protect and sustainably manage such resources.

Location/Jump-Off: Kabugao, Apayao

14. Agora Wildlife Sanctuary

Agora Wildlife Sanctuary covers much of the landscape of Pudtol. It contains one of the most
intact dipterocarp forests in Apayao. Unique flora and fauna species also thrive here.

The forests feed brooks and streams leading to the Apayao River. Locals say that the untamed
jungles hide numerous gems such as limestone rock formations and uncharted caves. Different
waterfalls can also be found here.

Unfortunately, logging activities, both large-scale and small-scale, are threatening the rich
biodiversity of Agora. Thus, some locals developed initiatives aiming to curb destructive
activities.

Indeed, it is important to preserve this sanctuary since it does not only protect wildlife species
but also boost sustainable and community-based development.

Location/Jump-Off: Pudtol, Apayao

Special Feature: Home to the Philippine Monkey-Eating Eagle

15. Banselan Cave

Banselan Cave is one of the most famous tourist spots in Apayao. From barangay Cupis proper, it
takes around 30 minutes of a hike to get here. The trail passes along the picturesque
Bagumbong river. Three chambers with different magnificent stalagmites and stalactites
formations compose the cave.

On one of these chambers, three mini-waterfalls can be found. Their pristine waters flow on
crystalline boulders. Animals such as bats, crabs, rare spiders, and others also inhabit the cave.
Just like other caves in Apayao, this offers opportunities for spelunking, trekking, and even
picnic activities.

Location/Jump-Off: Brgy Cupiz, Conner, Apayao

Trekking Time: 30 minutes

16. Buguit Falls

Buguit falls measures around 20 feet high. It cascades gently on the face of a boulder. It has two
decks of natural pools. Local love coming here because of its cold and crystal-clear waters.

Location/Jump-Off: Conner, Apayao