How to Travel to Zambales 2021
If you’re looking to take a break away from the confines of your home just for a bit, then embarking on a short trip to Zambales might be just what you need! This province is famous for being one of the closest beach paradises to Metro Manila. Not only that, it has also become a popular camping destination.
Photo Credit: @moresaaay on Instagram
Before you make any concrete plans to visit Zambales, check out this short guide we’ve created for you so you’re aware of what you must do and bring before going there. Here, we’ll be discussing the local travel requirements, COVID-19 tests, safety precautions, and hotels!
Zambales Travel Requirements
- Get a QR-coded Tourist Pass from the Zambales VIS.I.T.A. website
- Pre-book a DOT-accredited accommodation establishment
- Negative RT-PCR test result (48 hours validity)
- Isolation in accommodation until release of results of the RT-PCR Test
Step 1: Getting a QR-coded Tourist Pass (QTP) from Zambales VIS.I.T.A.
Before embarking on your adventure to Zambales, the first thing that you must do is to register for a QR-coded Tourist Pass via the Zambales Visitor Information and Travel Assistance System. This is something that you will have to present at the Border in order to enter, so make sure to print it out and keep a copy on a mobile device.
IMPORTANT LINKS:
Step 2: Book your accommodation
Photo Credit: @kwentongdagat on Instagram
After you’ve secured your QR-coded Tourist Pass (QTP), you should secure an accommodation as well. Do note that it has to be accredited by the Department of Tourism (DOT) and must have a certificate to operate (CAOS), like Kwentong Dagat Resort and Camayan Beach Resort.
Once you’ve booked your accommodation, make sure to have a printed copy and mobile copy of your reservation to present alongside your QTP.
IMPORTANT LINKS:
Step 3: Get tested for COVID-19
The most important thing to do is to get tested before kickstarting your trip. For Zambales, you’re required to present a negative RT-PCR test upon arrival. Fortunately, visitors are given two testing options:
- Get tested at least 48 hours before your visit to the province, and you must get tested at an accredited lab. For your convenience, you can book an RT-PCR Test via Klook and you should receive your results within 24-36 hours.
- Or, you can take an RT-PCR Test at the Border of Zambales. If you are found to be exhibiting any symptoms, you may be denied entry or redirected to a nearby health facility.
IMPORTANT LINKS:
- List of DOH Accredited Laboratories: https://hfsrb.doh.gov.ph/
- Lowest Price for RT-PCR Home Testing on Klook: https://www.klook.com/en-PH/promo/ph-rt-pcr-antigen/
Step 4: Arriving in Zambales
If you opted to take the RT-PCR Test at the Border of Zambales, you will be required to go straight to your accommodation and isolate until you receive your results.
Once you’re in the province and have settled in your accommodation. Make sure to follow the safety protocols, such as wearing face masks and shields at all times, washing your hands and sanitizing frequently, observing social distancing, especially when inside establishments.
You must also have your travel documents (whether printed or digital) with you because they may be asked of you at hotels and establishments for the purposes of contact tracing.
Step 5: Arranging a tour itinerary
This step is optional but if you would like to take part in tours and activities around Zambales, you will need to get in touch with a DOT-accredited travel or tour agency with a Certificate of Authority to Operate, like Global Journey Travel and Tours as well as RCT Travellers Corner, to organize your tour. DIY tours are not permitted as of writing.
IMPORTANT LINKS:
- DOT-Accredited Travel/Tour Agencies: https://beta.tourism.gov.ph/
Important Travel Reminders
Photo Credit: @itsfantasticjoren on Instagram
Get Tested at a DOH-Accredited Laboratory
As mentioned earlier, being a responsible tourist is a must during this time of the New Normal. Always take RT-PCR or Antigen tests conducted by DOH-accredited labs. Klook offers convenient home testing packages in partnership with DOH-Accredited Lab Kairos Medical, so if you’re not sure where to start looking, you can simply check out our website or app and book your test beforehand. The Antigen package will get you results in 15 minutes, while the RT-PCR package will yield results after 24-36 hours.
Practice Minimum Health and Safety Protocols at All Times
You must also practice the minimum health and safety protocols of wearing face masks and face shields, sanitizing frequently, and practicing social distancing, especially indoors.
Always Have Your Travel Documents on Hand
Last, you must always have your travel documents with you to present to areas, hotels, and establishments that may ask for them. You will also need to present these at the border, whether you’re on the way to Zambales or returning home.
