Luna

Tucked away in the scenic folds of the Cordillera mountain range, Luna, Apayao is a quiet paradise that sings with nature, echoes tradition, and charms visitors with its pristine beauty. As the capital of Apayao Province, Luna offers more than just government offices, it’s a doorway into one of the Philippines’ most underrated highland treasures.

Luna is your perfect jump-off point to Lussok Crystal Cave, a majestic cave system adorned with dazzling rock formations and navigable subterranean rivers, a top spelunking spot in Northern Luzon. Just nearby, Allabang Cave adds thrill to the mix with its mysterious underground chambers. Want something more laid-back? Marag Valley, often called the “Switzerland of Apayao,” offers breathtaking vistas and fog-kissed mornings that feel like a dream.

Home to the Isneg (or Isnag) tribe, Luna celebrates a rich indigenous heritage rooted in respect for nature, craftsmanship, and ancestral traditions. You’ll witness wood carving, woven textiles, and even bamboo instruments, all proudly made by hand. Traditional values still reign supreme, from bayanihan spirit to deep spiritual rituals tied to nature.

Ilocano and Isnag are widely spoken, but you’ll also hear Filipino and English in public spaces. This mix adds flavor to everyday conversations, a reflection of Luna’s unique cultural fusion.

Get ready for comforting, hearty highland dishes. Try etag (salted and smoked meat), pinikpikan (a ritual chicken soup), and Inanchila (Isneg rice cakes wrapped in banana leaves). It’s a rustic, flavorful ride, perfect for foodies seeking authentic northern cuisine.

Luna shines during the Say-Am Festival, an Apayao-wide celebration of culture, unity, and gratitude. Expect tribal dances, music, street parades, and locals in full traditional attire. It’s the ultimate showcase of the Isnag identity, vibrant, sacred, and full of life.

The music of Luna is rooted in tradition. Bamboo instruments like the paldong (nose flute) and gansa (gong) accompany chants and tribal dances. These aren’t just performances, they’re cultural expressions passed down for generations.

Luna is celebrated for its untouched natural landscapes, indigenous heritage, sustainable ecotourism, and warm community vibe. It’s where adventurers, cultural travelers, and peace-seekers find common ground. Whether you’re hiking caves, listening to tribal stories, or sharing rice cakes with locals, Luna leaves you with a heart full of wonder.