Here is your complete travel guide to Nueva Vizcaya tourist spots including the best things to do.
Nueva Vizcaya comes as a refreshing hotspot in the Philippine tourism map, owing to its abundant supply of oranges. In fact, it is the country’s citrus capital. You’ll surely love visiting the farms and picking the fresh fruits for yourself.
But there is more to that.
Nueva Vizcaya is also a premium ecotourism destination. From cascading waterfalls, majestic mountains, unspoiled caves, crystal-clear rivers, and brooks, to historic churches and sacred sites, Nueva Vizcaya offers an adventure of a lifetime.
Here is a list of the can’t-miss tourist destinations in Nueva Vizcaya. Take note. Many of these are off-beaten and unspoiled by the impacts of mass tourism.
Behold Nueva Vizcaya’s Tourist Spots:
1. Imugan Falls
Imugan Falls is one of the most popular tourist spots in Nueva Vizcaya due to its accessibility. It only requires an easy trek across pristine forests. The waterfall cascades for more than 35 feet towards a beautiful catchbasin.
Its crystal-clear waters are so inviting that one can’t help but take a plunge and experience a refreshing swim. Many locals come here not only to escape the simmering midday heat but to enjoy its healing effects. They claim that the waters can cure common colds, skin diseases, and other ailments.
If you wish more explorations, you can hire a guide to take you further upstream to catch sight of flora and fauna species plus more unspoiled waterfalls. Expect to see different kinds of birds including blooming orchids and wild flowers.
- Location/Jump-off: Brgy. Imugan, Sante Fe, Nueva Vizcaya
- Trekking Time: 30 minutes
2. Capisaan Cave System
If you’re looking for the ultimate spelunking experience, then you should not miss visiting Capisaan Cave. It is one of the most visited tourist spots in Nueva Vizcaya and considered one of the best caves in the country.
Conquering the 4.2 kilometer-cave takes around 4 hours and you’ll trail across 8 interconnected caves. Breathtaking stalactite and stalagmite rock formations line the way. One could just wonder how nature crafted these earthen masterpieces that will leave you jaw-dropped at every turn.
Expect unique and rare formations found nowhere else. Capisaan Cave is dubbed as a “geologist’s paradise” although it remains off-beaten. This makes it a popular destination for those who prefer less touristy and raw settings. Bat’s and other rare creatures also inhabit the cave, making it an important ecological sanctuary.
- Location/Jump-Off: Brgy. Capisaan, Kasibu
- Trekking Time: 4 hours
3. Mt. Ugo/Mt. Ugu
Mt. Ugo soars to more than 2,150 meters above sea level, making it one of the highest mountains in the province although it’s shared with neighboring Benguet province. It takes 2-3 days of an arduous hike to reach its peak and back.
Expect to trail across pine and mossy forests and witness beautiful sunrise and sunsets. You’ll also catch sight of a stunning sea of clouds. The mountain was the site of an airplane crash and in the past, headhunting was a rampant activity.
According to legends, many Spanish invaders lost their lives on the mountain because of relentless attacks and ambushes by the natives. They would then cut the heads and start a celebration to signify their victory and offer their petitions to the local gods. But with the spread of Christianity among the natives, headhunting became a thing of the past.
The mountain is safe as long as you follow protocols and guidelines. It is one of the emerging tourist attractions in Nueva Vizcaya.
- Location/Jump-Off: Kayapa
- Trekking Time: 2-3 days
4. Dum-liing Falls
Considered as the tallest single-drop waterfall in the province, Dum-liing falls cascades like a roaring tiger for more than 98 meters. It drops on the face of a massive cliff towards massive boulders that are visible from afar.
According to a local legend, spirits used to live here, however, an earthquake caused them to disappear. The native inhabitants also share that the waterfall was much higher in the past but raging waters and landslides upstream caused its gradual degradation. But it remains a breathtaking sight beyond compare.
Dum-liing falls is only recommended for extreme hikers or adventurers as the path is not fully developed. It is one of the remotest tourist destinations in Nueva Vizcaya. It takes an extra dose of adventurous spirit to reach it and expect to trail on dense forests and steep terrains. But it’s all worth it.
- Location/Jump-off: Brgy. Balete, Kayapa
- Trekking Time: 1 to 2 hours
5. Mt. Palali
Mt. Palali is one of the most popular hiking places in Nueva Vizcaya, towering for more than 1,715+ meters above sea level. It’s not part of the grand Cordillera mountain range, thus, it offers a unique perspective of the surrounding landscapes.
Home to endangered wildlife species, Mt. Palali offers a rewarding trail across dense forests, boulders, and cogon grasslands. Haring Bato, a huge boulder along the trail, offers one of the best views of the province.
From here, you can see the Magat River, vast rice fields, and towering mountains. Make sure to keep your eyes alert as you go on hiking. Who knows? You’ll catch sight of blooming orchids or monkeys hopping around.
Hopefully, ecotourism and other sustainable industries will promote the conservation of Mt Palali’s vanishing ecosystem. Not only are these wildlife sanctuaries but are important source of ecological services such as steady water supply for irrigation.
- Location/Jump-Off: Bayombong
- Trekking Time: 6-9 hours
6. St. Dominic Cathedral
Also known as Bayombong Cathedral, St. Dominic Cathedral is one of the premium historical tourist spots in Nueva Vizcaya.
Built during the 18th century, the cathedral features a Baroque architecture with its imposing facade and octagonal bell tower. It survived various earthquakes and fire incidents.
Every August 8, the Catholic faithful celebrate Saint Dominic’s feast, the town’s patron saint.
- Location/Jump-off: Bayombong
7. People’s Museum and Library
Considered as one of the cultural tourist spots in Nueva Vizcaya, the People’s Museum and Library showcase the rich history and heritage of the locals. It exhibits different indigenous materials such as hand-woven textiles, antique jars, and many other artifacts.
Surely, you’ll walk through and have a visual experience of the rich culture of the people of Nueva Vizcaya when you visit here. The site where the museum now stands used to house the Provincial Government.
- Location/Jump-off: Bayombong
- Entrance Fee: None
- Opening Time: Monday to Sunday (8:00 am to 5:00 pm)
8. Lower Magat Eco-tourism Park
Lying on the lower part of the scenic Magat River, this ecotourism park covers more than 1,120 hectares. It features various landscapes, plants, and different types of colorful flowers.
Here, you can experience different activities such as swimming on a huge pool, boating in a small lake, and fishing on a pond including a wildlife sanctuary.
If you’re after adventure, there are hiking trails that will take you to the forests which host birds and other species.
There is also a vast camping ground, offering various accommodations if you plan to stay overnight.
- Location/Jump-off: Diadi
- Entrance Fee: Php 50
9. San Vicente Ferrer Church
Just like St. Dominic Cathedral, San Vicente Ferrer Church was built during the Spanish period in the 18th century. Also called Dupax del Sur Church, the church was designated as a National Cultural Treasure by the National Museum of the Philippines.
It also showcases a Baroque architecture and one could not help but gaze on its stunning facade and majestic bell tower.
Within the church compound, you can find an 18th-century acacia tree which is considered as the oldest of its kind in Luzon.
- Location/Jump-off: Brgy. Dopaj, Dupax del Sur
10. Balete Pass National Shrine
Balete Pass National Shrine is also one of the recognized historical tourist spots in Nueva Vizcaya. It is a mountain pass connecting Nueva Vizcaya and Nueva Ecija. It was the site of a fierce battle between the combined Filipino and American forces against the Japanese imperial army.
At the peak of the mountain pass is the Balete Pass Tourism Complex where you can find the Balete Pass National Shrine. There is also a view deck that offers a panoramic view of the surrounding mountain ranges and forests.
- Location/Jump-off: Sante Fe
11. Lintungan Falls
Lintugan Falls is one of the best eco-tourism spots in Nueva Vizcaya and visiting here would lead you into a rustic experience. The waterfall has four layers, each with beautiful pools to offer. Its crystal-clear waters come from mossy forests upstream.
Dipping on the waterfalls will give you an invigorating moment. From time to time, you’ll also catch sight of different wildlife such as birds.
- Location/Jump-off: Brgy Runruno, Quezon
- Trekking Time: 10-20 minutes via a motorbike or tricycle
- Entrance Fee: Php 10 – Php 30
- Contact: Ms. Veronica Banih, Brgy Secretary, 09075941079/ 09175940080
12. Senora Falls
Senora Falls is another rustic destination you should not miss when visiting Nueva Vizcaya. It’s also easily accessible and even bachelors can reach this waterfall without so much hassle.
Locals and tourists alike love to come here for swimming and picnic. It measures around 15 feet high but it carved a wide and very deep pool.
But don’t worry, there are shallow portions where non-swimmers can take a dip. There is also another waterfall upstream which is much higher. It takes 1.5 hours of hike to reach it.
- Location/Jump-off: Bayombong
13. Gulon Peak
Gulon Peak is the highest peak in town. It is just a few hundred meters away from the municipal hall, making it one of the most accessible Nueva Vizcaya hiking tourist spots.
While atop, you’ll catch panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ranges. If you’re lucky, you’ll chance on a stunning sunrise view coupled with a sea of clouds.
- Location/Jump-off: Brgy Poblacion, Ambaguio
- Trekking Time: 20-30 minutes
14. Salinas Salt Spring
Salinas Salt Spring is located on a hill. Before the July 1990 earthquake, the whole hill appeared like a mound of snow because of salt covering it from top to bottom.
Today, however, only a small part of the hill is covered with salt. Fortunately, the salt spring is slowly regenerating and growing in diameter and height.
- Location/Jump-off: Brgy. Manamtam, Bambang
15. Naruron Falls
Naruron falls is a series of beautiful cascades, collectively measuring more than 200 meters.
The lowest cascade alone measures more than 30 meters and one can pose at its base while the drizzle-like waters give a rejuvenating massage. The entire waterfalls can be seen from a local highway.
- Location/Jump-off: Brgy. Oyao, Dupax del Norte
- Entrance Fee: None
- Trekking Time: 30 minutes
16. Dampol Bridge
Dampol Bridge is one of the remaining historical tourist spots in Nueva Vizcaya. Built in 1818 by the Spaniards, the bridge connects Dupax Sur and Dupax Norte towns.
The locals long campaigned for the preservation of the bridge due to its historical and cultural value.
- Location/Jump-off: Dupax Sur and Dupax Norte
17. Benay Bridge
18. Mt. San Vicente
To get to its peak, you’ll need to conquer a 350-stairway. But don’t worry, it’s not as challenging as you think compared to other hiking destinations. Even bachelors can definitely assault this mountain without much hassles.
While atop, you’ll get a panoramic view of the mountains and forests of the municipality.
- Location/Jump-off: Dupax Del Sur
- Trekking Time: 30 minutes to 1 hour
19. Dopaj Statue
20. Nabubungan Cave
While Capisaan cave is the main spelunking destination in Nueva Vizcaya, it’s not the only cave found in the province. There are other caves worthy of exploration such as the Nabubungan cave.
It’s not fully open to the public to date because it is still undergoing assessment by the local authorities. Inside, there are also various stalactite and stalagmite rock formations.
- Location/Jump-off: Ambaguio
21. Mt. Pullol
Rising to more than 1,400 meters above sea level, Mt. Pullol is one of the least known tourist spots in Nueva Vizcaya. But it’s a promising hiking spot, owing to its pristine mossy forests.
It’s recommended for extreme hikers and adventurers. On its peak, you can view the towering peaks of Mt. Pulag and the Cordilleran mountain range including the towns of Tinog in Ifugao.
The Kalanguya tribe protects the said mountain, helping promote sustainable management.
- Location/Jump-off: Ambaguio
- Trekking Time: 6 hours
For Your Information
If you need more information that may help set up your itinerary to the tourist spots in Nueva Vizcaya, do contact the following:
- Provincial Tourism Office: (078) 321 2609
- Email: nuevavizcayatourism@yahoo.com
