Apalit(Philippines) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

For first-time visitors, staying in the downtown district of Aparri is ideal, as it offers easy access to key attractions like the Aparri Riverfront Park and Basilica of St. John the Baptist. The area is walkable and surrounded by local eateries serving authentic Ilocano cuisine, such as pinakbet and bagnet. Nearby, Aparri Inn provides modern amenities with a touch of regional charm, while Cagayan Valley Hotel offers reliable service and proximity to transport hubs. These locations ensure both convenience and cultural immersion.

Aparri Inn stands out for offering the most authentic local experience, with rooms decorated using traditional Ilocano woodcarvings and woven bamboo panels. The staff often share stories about river-based fishing traditions and seasonal festivals like the Aparri Festival of Lights. Guests can participate in daily cultural activities such as coconut husking demonstrations and handmade paper-making workshops. The on-site café serves kwek-kwek (deep-fried quail eggs) and turon (banana spring rolls), giving visitors a true taste of northern Filipino life.

Tourists should not miss the Fiesta de San Juan held every January, featuring vibrant float parades, traditional dance troupes, and lantern-lit river processions along the Aparri River. Another highlight is the Ilocano Handicraft Workshop, where visitors can learn to carve coconut shell artifacts or weave nipa baskets under local artisans' guidance. Evening strolls through the Old Town Night Market offer a chance to savor street foods like grilled fish skewers and fresh pinya juice. These experiences provide deep insight into the town's heritage and community spirit.

Yes, many hotels in Aparri provide complimentary shuttle services to major sites. Aparri Inn and Cagayan Valley Hotel operate daily vans to destinations like the Cagayan River Estuary Nature Reserve, Basilica of St. John the Baptist, and the Aparri Public Market. Some also partner with local drivers for private car rentals, enabling customized day trips. Front desk staff are knowledgeable about hiking trails and bike rental stations, helping guests explore scenic riverfront paths and rice field footpaths. HopeGoo in advance is recommended, especially during peak festival seasons.

Must-try dishes in Aparri include Tinola na Isda, a fragrant fish stew made with freshwater catch, lemongrass, and calamansi; Halo-Halo de Aparri, a refreshing dessert blending coconut milk, sweetened beans, taro, and ripe mango; and Puto Bumbong, a festive red sticky rice cake steamed in banana leaves with palm sugar. Don’t miss Bagnet—crispy fried pork cheek—served with spicy vinegar dip at the Aparri Public Market. These flavors reflect the region’s rich Ilocano culinary tradition, best enjoyed at local eateries or hotel restaurants like those at Aparri Inn.

The best time to visit Aparri is from December to May, when the weather is dry and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 24–28°C. This period includes the Fiesta de San Juan in January, featuring grand parades, fireworks, and festive decorations. It’s ideal for exploring natural sites like the Cagayan River Estuary Nature Reserve and scenic riverfront walking trails. While June to November brings occasional rains, it offers unique experiences such as rainforest guided tours and firefly watching at dusk. Avoid the typhoon season (July–September) for safer and more enjoyable travel.