Jump to: About Bataan | How to Get There | Top Tourist Spots | Sample Itinerary | Budget & Expenses | Where to Stay | Travel Tips
About Bataan
Bataan is a province in Central Luzon filled with historic landmarks, World War II memorials, and scenic beaches. Known for the infamous Bataan Death March and Mount Samat Shrine, it’s also a go-to destination for weekend beach trips, mountain hikes, and heritage tours. Whether you're a history buff or nature lover, Bataan is a rewarding escape just a few hours from Manila.
How to Get to Bataan
- By Bus: Genesis, Bataan Transit, and Victory Liner offer daily trips from Manila to Balanga or Mariveles (3–4 hours)
- By Car: Take NLEX → SCTEX → Dinalupihan exit
- By Ferry: 1Bataan Ferry from MOA Seaside to Orion Port (1 hour)
Top Tourist Spots and Things to Do in Bataan
- ⛰️ Mount Samat Shrine (Dambana ng Kagitingan) – Iconic WWII memorial with panoramic views
- 🏖️ Morong and Bagac Beaches – White sand beaches great for weekend getaways
- 🏛️ Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar – Spanish colonial heritage village by the sea
- 🌊 Five Fingers Cove – Cliff diving, trekking, and island hopping in Mariveles
- 🚴 Bataan National Park – Hike, bike, and camp in a protected forest area
- 🏞️ Tala Viewdeck and Mountain Trails – Great for sunrise photography and trekking
- ⚓ Zero Kilometer Death March Marker – Start point of the historic march
Sample Bataan Itinerary (2 Days / 3 Days)
Day 1: Heritage and History- Travel to Balanga or Bagac
- Visit Mt. Samat Shrine
- Explore Las Casas Filipinas
- Sunset at Bagac or Morong Beach
- Five Fingers Cove tour (cliff dive, boat ride)
- Side trip to Bataan National Park or trail hike
- Optional: Visit local museums in Balanga
- Island hopping or beach bumming
- Shopping for local delicacies and pasalubong
Sample Budget and Expenses
- Bus Fare (RT): ₱600–₱900
- Accommodation (1 night): ₱500–₱1,500
- Entrance Fees: ₱20–₱200 (varies per site)
- Las Casas Day Tour: ₱1,500+ (optional overnight)
- Five Fingers Tour: ₱999–₱1,200 (joiner)
- Food: ₱200–₱300 per meal
- Total: ₱2,500–₱4,500+ (2D/1N)
Where to Stay in Bataan
- Budget: Enriquez Hotel, Crown Royale Hotel (Balanga)
- Mid-range: The Oriental Bataan, Playa La Caleta
- Luxury: Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar (Bagac)
Browse hotels and beach resorts in Bataan on Agoda.
Travel Tips
- Weekends get busy — book accommodations early
- Bring sun protection and drinking water when trekking
- Respect heritage sites — no vandalism or littering
- Try Bataan's local delicacies like tupig and bagoong
- Plan your Five Fingers trip ahead with a registered guide
Final Thoughts
Bataan is where nature, history, and adventure come together. From its WWII landmarks and Spanish houses to hidden coves and mountains, the province offers a diverse experience that’s both educational and fun. It’s a must-visit for weekend warriors, solo backpackers, or anyone wanting to reconnect with heritage and the outdoors. As someone who has visited all 82 provinces in the Philippines, I’ve created a complete guide to help you explore each one. Check out my Philippines 82 Provinces Travel Guide here.