2 Weeks in Philippines

What You Should Know Before Going On A Philippines Tour

Best Time to Visit the Philippines

Philippines travel is ideal between November and April, when temperatures are pleasant and the region is experiencing its dry season.

December is an especially wonderful time book a tour to the Philippines for a couple of reasons. First, the locals are busy Christmas shopping and preparing for the holiday celebrations, so the areas within the country that are popular with both international travelers and domestic tourists are far quieter.

Second, Filipinos love Christmas! Locals are in jolly moods, decorations are abundant, and you’ll get to bask in the local Christmas spirit during your visit.

Some cities in the Philippines are known for their extravagant annual celebrations, so you may want to plan your Philippines tour to overlap with one or more of these citywide festivals.  January brings the Ati-Atihan Festival in Kaliba, the Sinulog Festival in Cebu, and the Dinagyang Festival in Iloilo City—all Mardis Gras-style celebrations with elaborate costumes, singing and dancing, parades, and city-wide festivities.

In February, Baguio City enjoys the Panagbenga Flower Festival, a celebration of springtime and the start of the growing season. MassKara festival, which translates to “Festival of Many Smiles,” happens each October in the city of Baguio and includes carnivals, dancing, concerts, sports, food, and a garden show.

Weather in the Philippines

The Philippines archipelago consists of more than 7,000 islands across a geographic expanse of 100,000 square miles, so weather patterns vary greatly among various parts of the country. The eastern Visayas region experiences heavier rainfall than the rest of the country due to its increased exposure to the open ocean, for example.

The southern Mindanao region that lies close to the equator has consistently high temperatures year-round, while the northern reaches of the Luzon region experience cooler temperatures in the winter months. Generally, though, the greater Philippines region is affected by similar weather patterns throughout the year.

Weatherwise, December, January, February, and March are the most pleasant months in the Philippines, especially the lowland jungles and beaches. Temperatures range from the mid-70s to the high 80s (F) across most of the islands.

During May and June, rainfall increases across the region as the monsoon season begins. Heat, humidity, and rain make this time of year less that ideal for visits to the beach, and by the time July arrives, monsoon season is in full swing. Temperatures in the 90s are common, along with stifling humidity. This time of year can be more pleasant in mountainous regions like Baguio, where the temperatures are milder and the green mountain sides reach peak lushness.

Avoid planning your visit during August and September, when the Philippines experiences typhoon season. Dangerous weather patterns are common, so not only is your safety a risk, but your Philippines tour itinerary may change unexpectedly.

Usually, the rain slows down in October, but some years it persists through the end of the month, and typhoons are still a risk.

Who Will Enjoy Traveling in the Philippines?

If you’re yearning for a warm breeze across your skin, a fresh fruit cocktail in your hand, the soothing rustle of palm trees in the wind, and a colorful beach spread out on the horizon before you, you’ll love visiting the Philippines. This tropical island wonderland is world-famous for its beaches, bays, and lagoons, including all the activities that accompany those locales: swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, diving, kayaking, and fishing.

The Philippines is also a worthy destination for hikers and outdoor adventurers who want to climb to the top of a lofty peak or splash into a waterfall deep in the jungle.

With overnight accommodation options ranging from luxurious, all-inclusive resorts to bargain-hunting backpacker huts, the Philippines welcomes international travelers of all styles.

Is it Safe to Travel in the Philippines?

In short, yes, it is safe to travel in most parts of the Philippines, but you’ll need to make wise choices about where and when to travel. There are a few important things to consider before booking your Philippines tour.

As in many other major metropolitan cities of the world, petty crime can be an issue in big cities like Manila Metro and Cebu City. Theft and pickpocketing may occur on buses or in crowds. Travelers are advised against walking city streets at night alone, especially with cash.

Certain regions in the southern Mindanao region of the Philippines have been afflicted by terrorist activity in recent years. The United States Department of State has issued a travel advisory discouraging travel in the Sulu Archipelago, the Sulu Sea, and Marawi City.

Weather in the Philippines can be dangerous during the months of August and September when typhoons strike the eastern Pacific Ocean. 

Plan your Philippines guided tour with an established, trusted travel company to stack the deck in your favor when it comes to safety.

Travelers should take note that there have been 3 confirmed cases of coronavirus in the Philippines.

Common Questions

How do I travel around within the Philippines?

There are three primary modes of travel for visitors within the Philippines. 

Buses are common ways to get from one part of an island to another, or to get around within a metropolitan area. Buses are affordable, although they may not always leave or arrive on time. Bus routes through hilly or mountainous areas can result in carsickness—pack anti-nausea medicine if you’re susceptible to motion sickness.

If you plan to do any island-hopping, you’ll probably need to take a flight at some point. Flying is the fastest and most reliable way to get from island to island.

Of course, taking a boat between islands is something you’ll want to do while you’re there. Ferries range in size and shape, although most are fashioned from old fishing boats. Some ferries are designed for sight-seeing while others simply offer quick transport. You may also want to paddle your own boat during your visit to the Philippines, where kayaking and paddling is a popular visitor activity.

Is bartering expected in the Philippines, or are prices strictly set?

Street vendors and souvenir shops are very open to bartering and negotiation, as are taxi drivers.

Don’t expect to barter when it comes to food and drink—although you likely won’t feel the urge, as restaurant prices are incredible affordable. A nice lunch may only cost you $2 or so.

Do I need a visa?

If you’re a U.S. citizen planning to visit the Philippines for 30 days or less, you won’t need a visa. Just make sure your passport is current. You may also need to provide proof of your plans to return home (airline tickets, for example).

Is it expensive to travel to the Philippines?

The most expensive part of your Philippines travel will likely be your international flight to arrive there. Generally, all-inclusive Philippines tour packages range from $100-200 per day, although there are some priced as low as $70 per day, and some luxury experiences may increase past $300 per day. Independent travelers can explore with a budget of $35-50 per day, but need to be prepared for the additional costs of ferries and airplanes to explore various islands.

Can I use my cell phone? 

You can use your cell phone while traveling through the Philippines, but coverage may be unreliable or nonexistent in rural areas, or out at sea. Be sure to sign up for an international usage plan with your provider before you leave home to avoid exorbitant international rates. Wifi, which is widely available in cities, is always free. 

Packing Suggestions for the Philippines

The warm, temperate climate of the Philippines is good news for travelers who like to pack light. You’ll probably feel comfortable with just a few loose-fitting summer outfits. If you plan to do any significant walking or hiking, you’ll want a supportive pair of shoes with sturdy soles.

Beach visitors will want wide-brimmed hat for protection from the sun’s powerful rays in this equatorial region, as well as high-SPF sunscreen.

Expect cooler temperatures in the mountains and high-elevation zones, especially at night—bring long sleeves and pants to stay warm if your Philippines tour package includes a visit to these areas.

Philippine Languages

Filipino (Tagalog) is the official language of the Philippines, but many first-time travelers to the Philippines are surprised to learn that the use of English is ubiquitous throughout the country. There are over 120 languages and dialects spoken throughout the island archipelago, some of which are mutually unintelligible.

English acts as a lingua franca across the entire country, and almost everyone speaks at the conversational level, if not fluently. Public signs and traveler brochures are always provided in English.