Best time to visit the Philippines: The Philippines ‘ climate is tropical and characterized by high temperatures and high humidity levels throughout the year. The hottest time of the year is between March and October, and there’s a small drop by temperatures between November and February. The country is geographically spread out, average temperatures are mostly stable throughout, and range between the 20s°C & 30s°C (high 60s°F to mid-80s°F)
Weather in the Philippines
As it happens in other countries with tropical weather, the Philippines only has two seasons: rainy and dry. There are some exceptions to the present. For instance, while dry and rainy seasons are clearly differentiated within the western Philippines, the southeastern islands barely have a dry season. Generally speaking, dry season runs from November to April, and rain affects most of the country between May & October.
However, the weather in the Philippines is especially susceptible to climate effects like El Niño and La Niña, which alters normal weather patterns and conveys droughts and flooding respectively. Because this is often hit or miss weather phenomenon, it’s recommended that you simply do some research before traveling. So bear in mind that La Niña years are more likely to cause travel disruption.
Typhoons in the Philippines
Every year, up to 10 typhoons sweep across the Philippines. The typhoon season lasts from June to September, but some typhoons can hit as early as May. Chances of utmost weather increase during July and August, which are the wettest months of the year within the Philippines.
In addition to the strong winds, the typhoon season usually brings above-average humidity levels, landslides, and high tides. So overall, this might not be the best time to travel to the Philippines. Air and road transportation options could also be limited during a typhoon, or just not available at all. Also, people are advised to remain indoors, which may limit your sightseeing.
However, and since the Philippines consists of quite 7,500 islands that are geographically opened up , typhoons don’t affect the whole country equally. These storms usually move from east to west then head north, therefore the southern islands are less likely to be hit by a typhoon, or the effect could also be weaker.
When is The Best Time To Visit The Philippines
The best time to visit the Philippines is pretty straightforward since the country only has two seasons. So the dry season is the best time of year to go to the Philippines. January and February weather is characterized by cooler temperatures, so this might be an honest option if you struggle to deal with tropical heat. Keep in mind that it can still rain during the season, but showers are usually short-lived and unlikely to affect your travel plans.
Having said that, travelers do visit the country during the season too. If you decide to do this, you’ll consider visiting the areas that receive the least rainfall, which is mostly within the far south. While you’re there, be careful with weather warnings during your trip to see if any typhoons are on the way. Also, bear in mind that monsoon rains usually happen in the late afternoon, leaving the remainder of the day free for sightseeing and other outdoor activities.
Another option is to travel during the shoulder months, before heavy rains or high season arrive. May & November are the most shoulder months and are the second-best time to visit the Philippines.
When to visit the Philippines in winter
Winter weather within the Philippines is usually dry and warm. And the average temperature rarely drops below 20°C (60°F) and chances of rain are low, so this is often one of the best times of the year to visit the Philippines.
Winter within the tropics is ideal for hiking, sunbathing, swimming, and everyone sort of outdoor activities. this is often the perfect time to plan the best active holiday within the country’s top natural landmarks or to explore the Philippines’ cities and their rich historical and cultural heritage.
However, remember that great weather draws large crowds. Christmas & New Year are particularly busy with locals and tourists alike. During the winter holidays, just about all sorts of transportation are going to be full, so booking ahead is very important.
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Visiting the Philippines in December to February
The first two months of the year are the best time to visit the Philippines’ capital city, Manila.
Winter is additionally an excellent time to go to Cagayan de Oro, the journey capital of the Philippines. This southern city attracts outdoor enthusiasts trying to find an adventure within the tropics and is a hotspot for white water rafting.
Winter within the Philippines means clear skies, so this season may be the best time to explore the country’s mountain areas. Some destinations you’ll want to include in your itinerary are the hilltop town of Sagada, the Chocolate Hills in Bohol, and Mt Pinatubo, the Philippines’ most famous dormant volcano.
Other destinations for winter fun within the Philippines include:
- Davao, a bustling town known for its museums, night markets, wildlife sanctuaries.
- Samar island, which has one among the most impressive cave systems within the region.
- Jungle trekking within the wild forests of Puerto Galera.
When to go to the Philippines in spring
From March onwards, temperatures experience a gradual increase everywhere in the country. Spring weather within the Philippines is usually dry, so early spring is one of the best times to go to. This is often the time to discover the Philippines’ natural landmarks before the rainy season arrives.
March, April, & should also are brilliant months for beach hopping. During these months, stable winds and warm water temperatures create the right conditions for surfing, skin diving & snorkeling.
However, spring is additionally the busiest time of the year in terms of visitor numbers. Accommodation within the hottest destinations can get fully booked, so always plan ahead and make reservations beforehand.
Visiting the Philippines in March to May
These months are the hottest time of the year within the Philippines. It’s commonplace for daytime temperatures to be within the mid to high 30s°C (mid 90 °F). May is that the hottest month, especially in Manila and low-lying areas.
If you’d rather avoid the tropical heat, northern Luzon may be a good selection. The Cordillera region is full of interesting sights and blessed cooler weather within the months before the typhoon season. Baguio, which due to its altitude is usually cooler than other cities, is usually dubbed ‘the summer capital of the Philippines’, and the best reason!
Other attractive destinations with cooler weather are Cagayan Valley & the Banaue rice terraces. Located at 5,000 feet above water level, they display the foremost intense reminder green during April and should. you’ll also breathe cool and fresh air in Sagada, Mt Pulag Park & Kaparkan Falls.
When to go to the Philippines in summer
Summer brings the beginning of the typhoon season to the Philippines. Average temperatures are within the high 20s°C (80 °F), but on the plus side, cloudiness offers an opportunity from the extreme tropical sun.
The effects of typhoons are at their strongest in the northern Philippines, especially in Luzon and Bicol, also as within the Eastern Visayas. Flexible travel plans are a requirement if you visit these areas, particularly if they involve island hopping since at this time of the year boat schedules are altered and a few trips are canceled.
On the opposite hand, the areas least likely to experience disruptions are Palawan and therefore the Central and Southern Visayas.
Visiting the Philippines in June to August
Summer may be the best time to discover the Philippines extraordinary gastronomic heritage. Foodies won’t want to miss a visit to San Fernando Pampanga, nicknamed the Culinary Capital of the Philippines. Located approximately 70 km (43 miles) north of Manila, this town is straightforward to get to even within the rainy season.
Also within easy reach of Manila is Tagaytay. Here you’ll enjoy the views of Lake Taal and therefore the majestic volcano that carries an equivalent name. The area is additionally known for its cuisine, so it’s ideal for a gastronomic food-venture.
If you’re after a beach holiday, Siquijor may be a good option during the rainy Filipino summers. Although it does rain within the island between June and August, rains are often short-lived and leave many hours of the day clear and sunny.
Summer is that the best time to go to Palawan since typhoons rarely affect the area. This tropical paradise is best explored during the low season, as top destinations like El Nido are overrun with tourists at other times of the year.
One last recommendation is Siargao, which experiences significantly lower rainfall than other islands. Here, the dry season lasts until October, and since this is often the surfing capital of the Philippines, summer may be the best time to go to the beaches and catch some waves.
When to go to the Philippines in autumn and fall
The rainy season extends over the primary few months of autumn and fall. Typhoons and heavy downpours begin to tail off in mid to late October. To avoid last-minute cancellations or travel disruption, it’s best to avoid visiting the northern islands at this point of the year.
The weather begins to enhance in November, which is one of the best months to go to the Philippines. Transport connections become reliable again, and average temperatures occupy a pleasing 25°C (77°F), and humidity levels are less than within the stifling summer months. On the opposite hand, prices for accommodation and guided tours increase the closer you get to the peak winter season.
Visiting the Philippines in September to November
If you’re within the Philippines in early autumn or fall and need to avoid the top of the rainy season, Cebu is one of the safest bets. Cebu itself has many attractions to stay you busy for a couple of days and maybe a great destination for all kinds of tourists, from solo travelers to families with young kids. Using the town as a base, you’ll easily arrange day trips to Danasan Eco Adventure Park, Kawasan Falls, or Mactan Island.
The islands near Cebu are a guaranteed hit if you’re trying to find an unforgettable tropical holiday. Our suggestions? Bantayan, Panay & Dinagat, because all of them offer a beautiful mixture of relaxing and active outdoor pursuits.
Alternatively, consider Camiguin, a brief flight faraway from Cebu. Its small size makes it easy to explore everything this excellent island has got to offer: from postcard-perfect beaches and islands to volcano climbs and jungle treks.
Festivals in the Philippines
Festivals and celebrations are a very important part of Filipino culture. No matter once you visit, you’re likely to return across a festival, but especially so during the primary half the year – which is additionally the best time of the year to go to the Philippines weather-wise!
The February events calendar is full of Carnivals and Mardi Grass-like parades. The foremost remarkable is Suman Festival in Aurora, and Ati-Atihan in Kalibo (Panay).
Spring is celebrated known with important events, like Boracay International Dragon Boat Festival (in April), and Flores de Mayo, which celebrated everywhere the country in May.
Summer events like Pintados and Tinalak honour the country’s tribal culture and ancient traditions. And since the Philippines is a Catholic country, Christmas, New Year, and Easter is widely celebrated too.
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