Information about Chavayan Village

Chavayan Village

Chavayan Village is one of the smallest villages on Sabtang Island in Batanes. The village is situated between the mountain ranges and the open sea, which help make farming and fishing the primary source of livelihood for the locals. 

The most prominent feature of the village is the small hut that serves as the shelter for the Sabtang Weavers Association and where visitors can rent a vakul for a photo op. Vakul is a headgear made out of abaca fiber used by women to protect themselves from the sun, rain, and wind.

Aside from the vakul, there are other handicrafts made out of grasses and palm trees displayed at the shed. Some of the crafts are abaca bags, purses, home decorations, and the Chavayan-made sandals called "chavayanas."

The primary dwelling of the locals in the village are stone houses lined along the narrow street, some of which are already more than 100 years old. The thick walls are made using powdered limestone and corals, while the roofs are made of thatched cogon grass. The edifices are considered Sinadumparan type of stone houses, one of the three classes of stone houses on Batanes. This style was introduced by the Spaniards when they landed in the province during the late 1800s.

There are no commercial buildings and cellular site around the area, and the life of the locals here are preserved and traditional.

Best time to visit

As with other spots in Batanes, it is best to visit this idyllic village from March to June when there are fewer chances of rainfall.