From Manila: 2-Day Buscalan Tour With Apo Whang-Od

Set out on a captivating 2-day adventure from Manila to the remote Buscalan village. Enjoy the rich culture of the Butbut tribe and meet the legendary 102-year-old tattoo artist, Apo Whang-Od. This tour offers a unique opportunity to witness the ancient art of hand-tapped tattooing and explore the stunning Cordillera Mountains. Whether you’re seeking a culture or an unforgettable experience, this tour promises to create lasting memories.

Key Points

• A 2-day Buscalan tour from Manila, priced at $126.90 per person, that includes roundtrip van transfers and overnight homestay accommodation.
• Opportunity to meet the legendary 102-year-old tattoo artist Apo Whang-Od and receive a hand-tapped tattoo from her.
• Guided trek through the stunning Cordillera Mountains to explore the remote Buscalan village and the local Butbut tribe’s customs.
• Visit scenic viewpoints like Banawe View Point and ATOK Viewpoint for breathtaking mountain vistas.
• Option to purchase handmade crafts and souvenirs from local artisans during the culture experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

About the 2-Day Buscalan Tour

The 2-Day Buscalan Tour offers travelers a unique opportunity to visit the remote village of Buscalan in the Kalinga region of the Philippines. Priced from $126.90 per person, the tour includes roundtrip van transfers from Manila, overnight homestay accommodation, and a guided trek to the village.

Key highlights include meeting legendary tattoo artist Apo Whang-Od, interacting with the Butbut tribe, and exploring the local customs and breathtaking mountain views.

The itinerary may vary due to weather, group dynamics, or site availability. While meals and personal tattoo costs aren’t included, the tour provides a chance to immerse in the cultural richness of Buscalan.

Highlights and Experiences

A key highlight of the 2-Day Buscalan Tour is the opportunity to meet Apo Whang-Od, the last remaining traditional tattoo artist of the Butbut tribe.

A rare chance to receive a tattoo from the legendary 102-year-old master artist Apo Whang-Od, the last of the Butbut tribe’s traditional tattooists.

Visitors have the chance to receive a hand-tapped tattoo from the 102-year-old master artist herself.

The tour also features:

1. A trek through the stunning Cordillera Mountains to interact with the Butbut people and explore their village and local customs.

2. Breathtaking views from vantage points like Banawe View Point and ATOK Viewpoint.

3. The chance to purchase handmade crafts and souvenirs directly from the local artisans.

Detailed Itinerary

The 2-day Buscalan tour begins with an overnight journey from Manila to the remote village of Buscalan, located in the breathtaking Cordillera Mountains.

The group will trek through the rugged terrain, arriving at the Banawe View Point or Northern Blossom. Next, they’ll explore the Buscalan community, meeting the locals and immersing in their culture.

The highlight is a tattoo session with the legendary Apo Whang-Od, the last traditional tattoo artist.

The tour also includes a visit to the ATOK Viewpoint, offering panoramic vistas.

While the itinerary is set, it may adjust due to weather, group needs, or site availability.

Inclusions and Exclusions

Roundtrip van transfers from Manila, overnight homestay accommodation, environmental and registration fees, and local guide fees are included in the tour package.

However, meals, personal tattoo costs (starting at Php 300), tips and gratuities, and any additional registration/entrance fees aren’t covered.

The tour package excludes:

1. Meals

2. Personal tattoo costs (starting at Php 300)

3. Tips and gratuities

Travelers should bring extra cash to cover these expenses during the 2-day Buscalan tour with Apo Whang-Od.

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Important Information for Travelers

Travelers should meet at the One Ecom Starbucks Mall of Asia, arriving 15 minutes prior to the scheduled departure.

Travelers should meet at the One Ecom Starbucks Mall of Asia, arriving 15 minutes prior to the scheduled departure.

Bring a valid passport or ID and wear comfortable clothing and shoes. This tour isn’t suitable for individuals with altitude sickness, or those over 95 or 70 years old.

Travelers can only bring one backpack; no additional luggage is allowed. The tour follows a set itinerary, but private tours are available for more flexibility.

Accommodation is shared with other guests, though a private room is available for an additional fee.

Be prepared to pay registration/entrance fees on-site.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

According to available reviews, the Buscalan tour with Apo Whang-Od has received mixed feedback from travelers. The tour holds an overall rating of 3.5 out of 5 based on 4 reviews.

Some key points:

1. Timing and accessibility issues: Certain travelers reported challenges in accessing Apo Whang-Od or experiencing the tattoo session due to scheduling conflicts or high demand.

2. Varied experiences: While some guests enjoyed the culture and interactions with the Butbut tribe, others felt the overall experience fell short of expectations.

3. Accommodation and logistics: A few reviewers noted room for improvement in the shared homestay accommodations and tour logistics.

Meeting Point and Transportation

The meeting point for the Buscalan tour is One Ecom Starbucks Mall of Asia.

Travelers should arrive 15 minutes early to meet the group. Roundtrip van transfers from Manila are included in the tour package.

The vans will transport the group from Manila to Buscalan, a moderate trek through the mountains.

Travelers should bring a backpack as only one piece of luggage per person is allowed.

Private transportation isn’t available, as this is a shared tour with a set itinerary.

However, private tours can be arranged for more flexibility.

Restrictions and Considerations

Individuals with altitude sickness, those over 95 years old, or travelers above 70 years of age may not be suitable for this tour.

There are a few important considerations to keep in mind:

1. Physical Ability: The trek to Buscalan village involves a moderate hike, so participants should be reasonably fit and able to navigate uneven terrain.

2. Luggage Policy: Only one backpack per person is allowed; no additional luggage is permitted.

3. Shared Tour: This tour follows a set itinerary, though private tours are available for more flexibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring Additional Souvenirs/Items on the Tour?

The tour has a strict one backpack per person policy. Additional souvenirs or items can’t be brought, as there’s limited space and weight capacity during the trek. Guests can purchase handmade crafts from the local community instead.

Is There a Weight Limit for My Backpack?

There’s a one-backpack-per-person policy for this tour. The tour operator doesn’t allow additional luggage, so travelers should pack light and only bring what they need in a single backpack. Exceeding the luggage limit isn’t permitted.

Will There Be Time for Hikes or Cultural Immersion in the Village?

The tour includes time for hiking in the mountains and culture in the Buscalan village. Travelers can explore the local customs, interact with the Butbut tribe, and purchase handmade crafts and souvenirs during their stay.

Can I Request a Private Tattoo Session With Apo Whang-Od?

Yes, you can request a private tattoo session with Apo Whang-Od for an additional fee. This provides more personalized attention and flexibility during the tattoo experience. However, availability is limited, so it’s best to book this in advance.

What Is the Refund Policy if I Need to Cancel the Tour?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Travelers can receive a full refund if they need to cancel their reservation within this timeframe. However, cancellations made after this period may incur fees or penalties.

The Sum Up

Embark on an unforgettable 2-day adventure to Buscalan and learn about the rich culture of the Butbut tribe. Meet the legendary 102-year-old tattoo artist, Apo Whang-Od, and receive a traditional hand-tapped tattoo, creating memories that’ll last a lifetime. With roundtrip van transfers, overnight homestay, and a guided trek through the stunning Cordillera Mountains, this tour offers an authentic cultural experience at $126.90 per person.

You can check availability for your dates here: