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From Manila: 2-Day Buscalan Tour with Apo Whang-od

By TravelExplr Travel and Tours
Free cancellation available
Price is €117 per adult

Features

  • Free cancellation available
  • 2d
  • Mobile voucher
  • Instant confirmation

Overview

  • Meet Apo Whang-Od, the legendary centenarian mambabatok and get a tattoo.
  • Receive a hand-tapped tattoo session by traditional Kalinga artists.
  • Trek through the mountains of Buscalan and among the Butbut Tribe.

Activity location

    • Manila
    • Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines

Meeting/Redemption Point

    • Mall of Asia Complex, Harbor Dr, Pasay, Metro Manila, Philippines | Meet up location is at One Ecom Starbucks Mall of Asia . Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled departure time. Please provide us with an active WhatsApp number for better communication. We will send the final pick up time and location day before your tour. The time and location of pick up changes from time to time but will keep you updated.
    • Pasay City, Metro Manila, Philippines

Check availability


From Manila: 2-Day Buscalan Tour with Apo Whang-od
  • Activity duration is 2 days2d
    2d
  • English
Language options: English
Starting time: 16:30
Price details
€117.28 x 1 Adult€117.28

Total
Price is €117.28
Until Thu, 19 Mar

What's included, what's not

  • What's includedWhat's included
    Return Van Transfers from Manila-Buscalan-Manila
  • What's includedWhat's included
    Overnight Room Accommodation (homestay)
  • What's includedWhat's included
    Environmental Fee
  • What's includedWhat's included
    Registration Fee
  • What's includedWhat's included
    Driver, Gas, and Toll Fees
  • What's includedWhat's included
    Local Guide's Fee
  • What's excludedWhat's excluded
    Personal Tattoo price depends on size and design. Price starts at Php 300 and above.
  • What's excludedWhat's excluded
    Signature Tattoo of Apo Whang-Od
  • What's excludedWhat's excluded
    Tips and Service charge
  • What's excludedWhat's excluded
    Other things not mentioned will be shouldered by the guest.

Know before you book

  • Not allowed: Alcohol and drugs
  • Not suitable for: People over 70 years, People over 95 years, People with altitude sickness
  • In accordance with EU regulations about consumer rights, activities services are not subject to the right of withdrawal. Supplier cancellation policy will apply.

What you can expect

Embark on an unforgettable journey to Buscalan Village, a remote and culturally rich destination nestled in the mountains of Kalinga. This two-day adventure offers an immersive experience into the traditions of the Butbut tribe, highlighted by the opportunity to meet the legendary Apo Whang-Od, the last and oldest mambabatok (traditional tattoo artist).

Travelling overnight from Manila, you'll witness the breathtaking landscapes of the Cordillera Mountains, where terraced fields, rivers, and misty peaks create a stunning backdrop. Upon arrival, a moderate trek leads you to Buscalan, a village where time seems to slow, and heritage thrives. Here, you'll gain insight into the customs and daily life of the Butbut people, experiencing their warm hospitality first-hand.

One of the most anticipated moments of the journey is meeting Apo Whang-Od, who continues to practice the ancient art of hand-tapped tattoos. Each design carries deep cultural meaning, symbolising bravery, personal milestones, and heritage. If you choose to receive a tattoo, you’ll not only carry a unique piece of Kalinga tradition but also become part of a centuries-old legacy.

Beyond the tattooing experience, your time in Buscalan offers opportunities to explore the village, interact with locals, and admire the spectacular mountain views. Handmade crafts and souvenirs provide a way to take home a piece of the community’s artistry and culture.

As the journey concludes, you’ll depart Buscalan with a heart full of memories and a deeper appreciation for the traditions that make this village so special. Whether through the sacred ink of Apo Whang-Od or the stories shared by the Butbut people, Buscalan promises an experience that will stay with you long after you leave.

Places to Visit:
-Banawe View Point if Banawe Road / Or Northern bLossom if Baguio Road
-Turning point/Jump off. Start Trekking
-Buscalan Community
-Tattoo Session
-Signature With Apo
-ATOK Viewpoint

NOTE:

  • Itinerary may change due to unavoidable circumstances.
  • Success of itinerary will depend on the time management, cooperation of the group, weather conditions and availability of the sites.

This tour is perfect for adventurous travellers seeking a deep connection with Filipino culture and heritage. Book now to experience the artistry of Apo Whang-Od and the beauty of Kalinga!

Location

Activity location

  • LOB_ACTIVITIESLOB_ACTIVITIES
    • Manila
    • Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines

Meeting/Redemption Point

  • PEOPLEPEOPLE
    • Mall of Asia Complex, Harbor Dr, Pasay, Metro Manila, Philippines | Meet up location is at One Ecom Starbucks Mall of Asia . Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled departure time. Please provide us with an active WhatsApp number for better communication. We will send the final pick up time and location day before your tour. The time and location of pick up changes from time to time but will keep you updated.
    • Pasay City, Metro Manila, Philippines