Information about Marlboro Country

Marlboro Country (Racuh a Payaman)

Marlboro Country, locally called Racuh a Payaman, is a vast pastureland situated in the island of Batan in Batanes. It is one of the most visited tourists’ attractions in the island. Tourists often call the place “Marlboro Country” because it was highly associated with the setting of Marlboro cigarette’s commercial.

Located in the municipality of Uyugan just between Mahatao and Imnajbu in the east-central Batan Island, Marlboro Country serves as a protected site open for tourists and locals alike. It is a vast green pasture uphill where tourists can relax and breathe in the fresh air.

With the green grass covering the hill, the landscape provides a spacious and open area for cows, water buffalos, and horses where they can freely graze and wander about. The government allows free use of the pastureland for locals who want to raise their cattle and carabaos in the area.

The site is protected by the NIPAS Act (a law securing the proper use of protected lands in the country) and the Batanes Protection Act of 2000 (a law stipulating a Batanes as a cultural heritage and ecotourism zone). Therefore the protection of the environment is strictly enforced in the area. 

The view on top of Marlboro Country is what attracts most tourists to the spot. From the top of the hills, visitors can see a clear view of the coastline below, the Pacific Ocean on the horizon, Tayid Lighthouse to the north, Mt. Iraya on the far north, and the Dingo island close by.

How to get there

This attraction can be reached by tricycle from Basco Airport or Basco Town Proper. You can also hire a tricycle for a tour of South Batan, which includes a stop at Marlboro Country.

Best time to visit

This attraction can be visited anytime of day.