Travel Blogging Academy

Introduction

I love to go on expeditions to experience a new culture. The sound of drums, the smell of ancient rituals, and mysterious eyes. There is still a tribe that preserves the unique lifestyle of their ancestors, traditions, and deep connection with nature. Do you want to meet them as a travel blogger? To find the smallest indigenous community in the Philippines, you need to take a flight to Palawan Island, rent a tricycle, catch a local bus, find a guide, and go for a long hike to reach the village hidden in the heart of the jungle. Ready for your adventure?

Who are the Batak people?

You probably want to know as a travel blogger if the Batak tribe are cannibals? No worries they will not eat you. But don’t bring a boar with you because it’s their favorite meal! The Batak tribe is one of the indigenous groups that call the mountains and jungles of Palawan their home. Their name “Batak” translates to “mountain people,” which describes their remote lifestyle. Do you want to know more about them?

Traditions

The Batak people have many customs that reflect their spiritual beliefs and social structure. One such custom is the “Pagdiwata,” a ritualistic celebration of the spirits and deities that govern their world. This ceremony involves dance, music, offerings, and prayers, all practiced harmoniously with the natural elements. The Batak people believe in the balance between the physical and spiritual realms. Can you imagine writing a travel blog post about their rituals?

The art to survive

Living in harmony with the dense rainforests and rugged terrain of Palawan, the Batak have developed unique survival skills. Their knowledge of medicinal plants, hunting techniques, and resource management is inspiring. As a travel blogger, you can experience it with your own eyes. The Batak tribe uses bamboo, rattan, and other natural materials in a sustainable way to create tools, shelter, and crafts. What would you take with you into the jungle to survive?

What is dangerous?

The Batak people face challenges in preserving their cultural heritage. Modern urbanization, environmental changes, and the recent typhoon pose threats to their traditional way of life. However, efforts are being made by local organizations and concerned individuals to ensure the sustainability of the Batak culture. Survival International organizes campaigns to help the Batak community. You can donate as a travel blogger to set your footprint in protecting the tribe.

How to reach the Batak tribe?

”It was not easy for me.” Getting to the Batak tribe of Palawan involves some preparation and planning due to their remote location and the need to respect their culture and environment. The Batak tribe resides in the mountainous regions of Palawan, Philippines. I will give you a travel guide on how to find the hidden community.

Research & Respect

Before visiting the Batak tribe, it’s essential to research their customs, traditions, and any guidelines provided by local authorities or organizations. Respect for their culture, privacy, and environment is very important to protect their cultural heritage. You can call the Batak Visitor Center: +63 955 996 9991 to get more practical information.

Obtain Necessary Permits

Some areas where the Batak tribe resides may require special permits to access. It’s not always allowed to go alone as a travel blogger. Check with local authorities or tourism offices to find out if you need any permits or permissions before your visit. The laws can change so find reliable sources of information. Visit the Puerto Princesa Tourism Website.

Responsible tour guide

Search for tour operators that prioritize sustainable and responsible tourism practices. These operators should have experience working with indigenous communities, ensuring that your visit respects the tribe’s way of life and benefits the community. I recommend visiting the Batak tribe with a private tour guide or going with a group using GetYourGuide.

Travel to Palawan

Reach Palawan by flying to Puerto Princesa, the capital city. The Puerto Princesa International Airport is well-connected to major Philippine cities. Going around the city you will notice it’s a typical port city with many fishermen and an industrial atmosphere. The best way to get around is by using a tricycle. You will find also many cafes with reliable WiFi to work remotely from on your travel blogging project.

The journey to the tribe

Hire a local guide or driver who is familiar with the area to take you to the Batak community. Take a bus from Puerto Princesa to the highway. The journey can be quite rugged and may require a 4×4 vehicle, especially if you’re traveling off the main roads. But most likely you will go hiking. I recommend taking flip-flops instead of hiking boots because you need to pass the curving river all the time during your hike.

Where to sleep?

If staying overnight, consider camping or staying in designated accommodations that are eco-friendly and respect the environment & Batak community. I stayed personally in Puerto Princesa at Nober Pension House. You can find your base camp on Booking, Hostelworld, Facebook groups, or Airbnb. Feel free to ask locals for other recommendations or homestay experience.

Cultural Sensitivity

Once you’re in the Batak community, interact with the tribe members with respect. Observe their customs and traditions, ask for permission before taking photos, and engage in a meaningful and sensitive way. All the pictures that I took were with permission. My guide helped me to translate so I could communicate with the Batak people. If you want to learn more about other tribes around the globe definitely check out the travel blog from Tranquil Journeys.

Leave no trace

Practice responsible tourism by leaving no trace of your visit. Dispose of waste properly and minimize your impact on the environment. I would recommend not taking any plastic bags with you and investing in a LifeStraw water bottle that is environmentally friendly. It’s important to know that the Batak people live from the nature around them. Use eco-friendly sunscreen, avoid perfume, and pack your food in metal containers. Be respectful.

Travel Blogging Academy

Would you like to bring your travel blog to another level? Become a story hunter! Join our tribe of creative individuals to grow together in a like-minded community. Are you ready for your call to adventure? Check out The Travel Blogging Academy!

Conclusion

My journey as a travel blogger into the heart of the Batak tribe was a soul-changing experience that left me humbled and rich in new knowledge. Their calmness, deep connection to nature, and commitment to their cultural heritage serve as an inspiring example for all of us. As story hunters, we have a responsibility to protect indigenous communities. Let’s tell their stories to gain global awareness. Check out the travel blog from Michael Turtle to read about his Batak tribe experience.

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