travel philippines june

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• Philippines In June: A Wonderful Time To Visit The Asian Nation

23 Mar 2023

Everyone wants to visit a breezy holiday spot during their holidays. The Philippines is one such destination that will deliver on the “slice of paradise” promise. You can go on a trip through the metropolis of Manila, the capital city and walk on the grand Palawan beaches, and admire the extraordinary volcanic peaks and waterfalls in Mindanao. This is just a hint of what the country has to offer. A holiday in this country can provide a little something for everybody. Manila helps make the ideal opening to this eternally fascinating country. Shiny skyscrapers and a multi-ethnic cultural scene mingle with splendid Spanish mansions that belong to the Colonial-era and the Intramuros city.

Weather In Philippines In June

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In June, the damp season is underway all over the country. Heavy rainfall is expected as well. The southern islands of Cebu, Bohol and Siargao are not entirely dry, but experience less rain compared to the central and northern regions.

The rains start with bringing in some beautiful and striking modifications to the landscape. The Chocolate Hills of Bohol will have shed their characteristic brown tint and have turned into a green shade, while Banaue’s rice terraces become greener than ever. The standard humidity levels and temperature drop a bit lower from the heat of the preceding months, but you can experience 30 Degree Celsius highs around Manila.

Why Should You Visit Philippines In June

Even after the “Fiesta May Month” is over, the celebration still continues in various parts of the Philippines. The Filipinos get by somehow to find reasons to showcase their traditions and culture.

The festivals and fiestas in the country are typically linked with religious traditions to intensify the faith of the people. Numerous other festivals are celebrated as well to pay tribute to history; to pay respect to forebears, to agriculture; boost the local economy; to take a pause and be thankful and happy for the blessings.

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1. Pinyasan Festival

This Pineapple Festival is held at Daet, Camarines Norte from June 15-24. It is a festivity devoted to the sweet pineapple [Pinya] farmers that is cultivated only in this region. This celebration of “Pinyasan ” as acknowledged by the Daetenos features sports competition, cultural shows, street-dancing contests, food fair and vibrant floats that highlight Dates agricultural products. One of the things to do in Philippines in June is to be a part of this lively event and witness the local culture.

2. Naliyagan Festival

Naliyagan means “the chosen one” and this festival is held for a week in Agusan Del Sur. One of the most amazing things to do in Philippines is attending the festival. This festival corresponds with the founding anniversary of the province on the 17th of June. It is an expression of loyalty of the people in Manobo to Datu Lipus Makapadong, their tribal head. You can expect this festival to feature the culture of Agusan Del Sur with the music and dance, sports and native products of the indigenous people.

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3. Parade ng Lechon

The festivals do not get inclusive without Lechon. This festival is held on 24, June in Balayan, Batangas and the tradition is all about the celebration for the golden-brown and crisp roasted pigs. They are decorated and paraded on the town’s streets. The festivity is the feast day of St. John The Baptist as well and so you should anticipate people to toss water on everyone representing the St. John’s baptism of Jesus Christ. Once the celebration and parade is over, you can feast on the Lechon for at no cost.

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4. Piat Sambali Festival

Piat Sambali Festival held in Cagayan is commemorated from June 25-30 every year. This festivity honours the Itawes region of Cagayan’s Christianization. The best part of this festival is the cultural shows, a beauty pageant and street dancing. Sambali means to the indigenous people’s war dance who got converted to Christianity. It is considered to have taken place through the intervention of the Piat Lady whose feast day is honoured on the first 2 days of July. [July 1 and 2

Suggested Read: 8 Magnificent Places To Visit In Philippines In October For A Surreal Trip

5. Pintados- Kasadyaan Festival

Philippines during June is a delight if you’re planning to have a culturally enriching experience. Pintados- Kasadyaan Festival is a religious and cultural festival of Tacloban for Senor Santo Nino de Tacloban, the patron saint of this region. Pintados- Kasadyaan Festival is held on June 29. It began as the Pintados Festival during the 1980’s stimulated by the early tattooed warriors who were known as “Pintados”. Kasadyahan, the Bisayan word meaning happiness was later added in the year 1996.

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6. Travel On Budget

During your June visit, spend some nights in the capital before you begin to explore the south or north regions of the country to get varied experiences. You can Trek on the celebrated Chocolate Hills of Bohol or make the most of the first-class diving and tranquil powder-soft beaches in the Visayas. You can visit the Philippines during the month of June to get the best hotel deals since fewer tourists visit the country at this point in time.

Suggested Read: Cebu In August: The Perfect Season For A Getaway To The Philippines

5 Places To Visit In Philippines In June

If you’re wondering where to go in Philippines in June, visit Boracay, this island is deemed to be the Philippines’ beach capital. This small island situated in the west Visayas region is perfect for people who love to visit beaches to relax in the sun or engage in water activities. On the island’s west side is the White beach that has a dynamic and energetic reputation. Cagban Beach is a tranquil spot located nearby caves that are reported to still have treasure chests. If you’re looking for surfing in Philippines in June, this is the place for you.

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This island is situated in the central Visayas region and this destination showcases the Philippines’ natural beauty. The Chocolate Hills located in Carmen is a UNESCO-protected site that has over 1200 geological formations that develop into brown colour during the dry season, thereby bearing a resemblance to chocolate candy kisses landscape. The place is home to a sanctuary for the small Tarsier primate, acknowledged for its large attractive eyes.

Suggested Read: Cebu Travel Guide: For A Peek Into This Beautiful City Of Philippines

This island is situated in the central Visayas region as well and is regarded as the port to the best snorkelling and diving in the country. Among the best places to visit in Philippines, Cebu is an appropriate choice for excursions that take you up-close to coral reefs, sea turtles and whale sharks. The sea caves near Cebu are one of the most stunning scenery that creates a centre of attention for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers.

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Banaue’s rice terraces are one of the most remarkable things to observe in the country and Banaue is among the most serene places to visit in Philippines in June. The green terraces are a farming wonder and you can see them in their prime condition at sunrise when the fog and clouds depart from the mountain to disclose the terraces’ complex landscape. The Bangaan Rice Terraces and the Batad Rice Terraces are both UNESCO-protected World Heritage Sites.

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This historical city situated in the northern part of the country is one of the most delightful towns to visit. The culture of this city is a mix of Spanish and Chinese influences that originated from settlers to this area. You can go up to the Bantay Bell Tower to see the best view of the city. You can also walk to the nearby historic district called the Calle Crisologo where you can see numerous local craftsmen and observe historical architecture.

Suggested Read: The Perfect Davao City Travel Guide For A Planned Vacation In The Philippines

6. The San Agustin Church

This church, situated in Manila, is an astonishing building which was constructed in the Spanish Colonial era. It is the 3rd building that has been built in this area as the 1st and 2nd churches made of wood were demolished by fire. This building is made of stone now and has endured 7 major earthquakes. Numerous people come here to discover its amazing history and see the magnificence of the church.

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7. Mayon Volcano

Mayon Volcano is an active Volcano located on Luzon Island which is otherwise called Mount Mayon. It was nicknamed “Perfect Cone” owing to the symmetrical cone shape of the volcano. There are regular volcanic eruptions that caused large evacuations of the towns in the neighbourhood as the mud and ash rains down over the people. This volcano and the adjacent areas are a division of a national park that is worth visiting when you visit the Philippines.

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8. Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park

If you wish to visit a special area then you should consider taking a trip to this park to get a sensation that you have observed incredible things. This area is guarded and comes with a complex cave system. A river flows through these caves for around 8 km before running into the sea. You can opt for a paddleboat ride to see the Puerto Princesa Underground River [one of the 7 wonders of Nature] and find about the formation of rocks and the thousands of bats that reside there.

9. Fort Santiago

Fort Santiago situated in Manilla is a fortress that was erected during the Spanish era as a defence citadel surrounded by the city’s walls. This fort is popular with visitors and possesses a great story as well. Jose Rizal, a national hero of the Philippines was imprisoned here until his capital punishment in 1896. When you explore the fort you can examine the bronze footprints embedded into the ground to define the final steps of the prisoners before execution.

Suggested Read: Philippines Islands: 23 Spectacular Spots That Have Been Carved By The Gods Themselves!

10. The Tubbataha Reef

If you are into diving, then you should visit the Tubbataha Reef. This dive spot was found out in the 1970s by divers and since then has turned into a famous spot for its astonishing coral reefs. Owing to the remote nature of the location, you need to opt for a liveaboard boat to reach here. Once you start experiencing the underwater sights and marine life, your trip is sure to be worthy of it. You need to visit this place during the middle of June since the dive season is quite short.

Further Read: Nightlife In Philippines: An After-Dark Abode For Party Lovers

You can see the wide variety of innumerable exquisite beaches and stunning landscapes on your trip to the Philippines . The country is an archipelago of over 7000 islands that can be approximately divided into 3 separate geographic regions. They are connected by frequent internal flights and ferry crossings to make it possible for you to trek through traditional mountain villages and dense jungle on one day, and then take in the beautiful scenery at an exceptional beach resort on the next day.

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Philippines in June 

Is it peak season in the Philippines in June?

No. the peak season ends in April. Most of the tourists visit the Philippines from December to April. Therefore it is less crowded in June.

Is it cheap to visit the Philippines in June?

Yes. June is among the least expensive months to visit the Philippines.

Does it rain a lot in the Philippines in June?

The rain varies from year to year. One may see some rain during the later half of June.

What are the best islands to visit in June in the Philippines?

Caramoan and Siargao islands have the best weather among all islands in the Philippines in the month of June.

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• Philippines Weather in June 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers

June marks the beginning of the truly wet season in the Philippines. Popular destinations like Boracay, Luzon, and even Palawan receive high levels of rainfall, while others like Cebu, Bohol, and the capital city of Manila remain relatively drier. As for the average temperatures in the country during June, highs of 32°C (90°F) and lows of 24°C (75°F) can be expected.

June is the low season for tourism in the Philippines. It's wetter than it has been at the beginning of the year, and most schools are back in session by the time June rolls around, thereby resulting in a further decline in domestic tourism. All of this results in far fewer crowds of tourists in most parts of the country, and generally favorable prices for everything from accommodation to entertainment.

Since June is the beginning of the rainy season in the Philippines, make sure you pack a light raincoat you trust, an umbrella you can have with you at all times, and a poncho that will help you keep your backpack dry. Other items that should make their way to your June packing list for a trip to the Philippines should include plenty of linen or cotton tops and shorts, dresses, sturdy footwear including sandals and shoes, swimwear, sunglasses, reef shoes, sunscreen, a sunhat, mosquito repellent, and a couple of scarves that will come in handy in covering your shoulder and legs for when you visit temples and churches.

To better understand what the Philippines is like when it comes to climate and weather conditions during the month of June, continue reading below.

• 1. Weather Overview
• 2. Best Places to Visit
• 3. Crowds and Costs
• 4. What to Wear

The Philippines Weather in June: Overview

• Average temperature range: 24°C (75°F) – 32°C (90°F)
• Rainfall: 95 mm (3.5 inches) in Manila; 105 mm (4 inches) in Palawan; 70 mm (3 inches) in Cebu; 305 mm (12 inches) in Boracay.
• Rainy days: 14 in Manila; 19 in Palawan; 15 in Cebu; 21 in Boracay.

It's rainy in the Philippines during June but some areas get more rain than others, as is highlighted in the chart below. June also marks the beginning of the typhoon season in the country and these typhoons have only been becoming more and more unpredictable in timing and intensity due to climate change. It's especially important during this time to check local weather reports and forecasts to know what conditions are like where you are and where you're headed.

Average temperatures also differ from region to region in the Philippines during the month of June. The average maximum temperature in the metropolitan area of the capital, Manila, is around 32°C (90°F), 30°C (86°F) in Palawan, 30°C (86°F) in Cebu, and 32°C (90°F) in Boracay. The average minimum is around 26°C (79°F) in Manila, 26°C (79°F) in Palawan, 26°C (79°F) in Cebu, and 25°C (77°F) in Boracay.

While it certainly does rain during June, you can plan your itinerary to focus on traveling to just those places that don't get poured on and stay relatively dry. If you don't mind a little rain here and there, this will result in a laid-back beach holiday, and plenty to see without the massive high-season crowds.

Weather of the Philippines' Major Cities in June

Best places to visit in the philippines in june.

Cebu remains largely sheltered from the worst of the rains that occur during June. It's also one of the best places in the country if you're looking to snorkel, dive, or explore some of the nearby islands. If you're looking to spend some time outside and in the world-famous Filipino waters, Cebu is a must-visit.

Just be sure to ask a lot of questions of the tour companies and do your fair share of research if you're looking to partake in the ever-popular activity of swimming with Whale Sharks. We suggest this as there have been reports of tour companies and individuals overfeeding the animals to prevent them from migrating, as is their natural behavior, and an action that could negatively affect the long-term prospects of the species.

Bohol also remains largely dry during June, especially when compared with some other parts of the Philippines. The island isn't just home to some pristine beaches, it's also where the Chocolate Hills are located. These hills were formed thousands of years ago from dead corals, and they get their name because of the color they assume over the preceding dry months of the year. If you're looking for a place where you can spend time on the beach, swim, but also get some hiking in, Bohol is a great bet!

Palawan makes this list even despite the rains it receives during June. The main reason for this is that when compared to some other islands on the list, this island's white sand beaches don't get quite as wet as some of the others in the country. It will rain in Palawan in June, yes, but it's never for large periods or torrential in nature. So, if you don't mind the odd rain here and there, and are in the mood to spend time in one of the Philippines' top-rated beach destinations, Palawan is certain not to disappoint.

June Crowds and Costs

June is the low season for tourism in the Philippines. Most foreign tourists don't want to risk traveling in the wet season and most Filipino schools are back in session by the time June rolls around, so domestic tourism is also not rampant during this month.

All of this results in fewer crowds when sightseeing or hanging out at the beach, and favorable prices for most things including accommodation, entertainment, and transportation.

June Events in the Philippines

Pintados-Kasadyaan: Celebrated on June 29th every year in Tacloban, Pintados-Kasadyaan is a festival commemorating the well-preserved, indigenous, tradition of body art and tattooing that was adorned by the local, pre-colonial, chieftains and warriors, or pintados . Thoroughly interesting celebrations in the form of parades, dances, and body paintings by participants wearing decorative costumes and colorful masks can be seen today.

What to Wear in the Philippines in June

June marks the beginning of the rainy season in the Philippines. You should make sure you bring a raincoat you trust, an umbrella you can easily always carry with you, and a poncho to keep your backpack dry.

The rains will also result in an increase in humidity in most parts of the country and this, couple with the steady rise in summer temperatures, means you should pack plenty of clothes made of soft, breathable, fabrics like linen and cotton. Opt for lighter colors as these will help keep you cool and comfortable.

A comprehensive packing list for a trip to the Philippines during June should include plenty of shorts and tops, sturdy sandals, comfortable shoes, dresses, swimwear, reef shoes for when you go swimming, sunglasses, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and a couple of scarves that will help you cover your shoulder and legs for trips to churches and temples.

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When to go to the Philippines

Apr 15, 2021 • 7 min read

It's never a bad time to grab a beach towel and head to the Philippines © John Seaton Callahan / Getty Images

With over 7000 islands spread over 300,000sq km, there’s never a bad time to grab a beach towel and head to the Philippines . The country is renowned for its strips of golden sand, and even during the height of the rainy season you’re still likely to find an island where the sun is shining. On top of this is a calendar chock-full of fiestas and events, offering a unique cultural highlight for visitors whichever month they visit.

Whether you’re looking for the best time to hit the beach, dance up a storm at a festival, or simply avoid the worst of the tourist crowds, here’s our guide to the best time to visit the Philippines.

Editor's note: during COVID-19 there are restrictions on travel and opening hours may vary. Check the latest guidance in the Philippines before planning a trip, and always follow local health advice.

High season: November-April

The high season is dry season for most of the country, with December, January and February the coolest, most pleasant months for travel, which brings crowds to popular beach areas like El Nido and Coron , and competition for hotel beds.

Celebrations around Christmas, New Year and, notably, Holy Week, in the build up to Easter, make it a colorful and fascinating time to visit the country, but many resorts triple rates around these popular periods.

Shoulder season: May-October

Shoulder season tends to be short and sweet in the Philippines, often just a month either side of the popular dry season and quieter rainy months. Accommodation savings are available if you time it right and tourist crowds are thinner; however, end-of-term school holidays in April and May bring high levels of domestic tourists during this period.

Exciting events like the month-long Magayon Festival in Legazpi in May, with nightly street markets, pop-up bars and live music, and MassKara Festival, which brings flamboyant outfits and frenzied dancing to Bacolod in late October, add extra incentive for a shoulder season trip.

Low season: June-September

Low season means less crowds and cheaper accommodation prices, but rougher seas and a greater chance of bad weather, with passing typhoons sometimes causing days of torrential rain. This won’t, however, dissuade seasoned boarders, with big wave surf season starting at Siargao ’s Cloud Nine (the country’s most famous break) in August.

For the best chance of beach lounging weather, head to the Eastern Visayas , which are often dry when almost everywhere else is drenched – though this region is susceptible to tropical storms so keep an eye on the forecast. 

New Year is a ‘superpeak’ period, and hotel rates can quadruple in resort areas. Away from the eastern seaboard, the weather is usually pretty good – relatively cool and dry, although rain can linger into January. It’s also party season: Ati-Atihan Festival , a week-long mardi gras in Kalibo on Panay , is one of the Philippines’ most famous and riotous festivals and peaks in the third week of January, while Sinulog Festival , the granddaddy of Cebu ’s fiestas, brings dancing and processions on the third Sunday of the month. Key events : Ati-Atihan Festival, Sinulog Festival

It’s peak season for foreign travellers, so book ahead. The Christmas winds continue to howl, thrilling kite-surfers, while surf season continues in San Fernando (La Union) and butanding (whale shark) activity picks up in Donsol . On-land, the Chinese lunar new year in late January or early February is celebrated with gusto even among non-Chinese Filipinos, with dragon dances, street parties and fireworks in Manila . Up in the northern mountains of Luzon (the largest island in the Philippines), a more serene celebration takes place as the Panagbenga Flower Festival sees spectacular flower-covered floats meander through the streets of Baguio . Key events : Chinese New Year,  Panagbenga Flower Festival

Temperatures start to rise significantly in March, making city-sightseeing tough but beach-lounging ideal. Tourist numbers are not as high as January or February but things are still pretty busy.

Everything shuts down during Holy Week, which leads up to Easter, when sinakulo (passion plays) and pasyon (a recitation of the Passion of Christ) are staged throughout the country. This is a fascinating time to be in the country, though resort prices again hit ‘superpeak’ levels, during what is the last month of the typical high season. For a less conventional Easter experience, head to the island of Siquijor , where faith healers and witch doctors gather around a big pot on Holy Saturday, preparing a medicinal concoction some say cures all that ails you. Key events : Easter, Lenten Festival of Herbal Preparation

Though shoulder season means a drop in price for accommodation, scorching heat, beaches packed with vacationing locals (April and May are school holidays in the Philippines) and light winds can make this an uncomfortable time to travel. Consider cooler highland destinations such as the Cordillera of North Luzon. Festivals include the traditional Flores de Mayo which sees girls around the country strewing flowers around images of the Virgin Mary, and the month-long Magayon Festival in Legazpi, Bicol region, with nightly street markets, pop-up bars, music stages, dance performances, chilli-eating contests and more. Key events : Flores de Mayo, Magayon Festival

The onset of the wet season brings welcome respite from the heat. June also marks the start of typhoon season, so check the radar and reroute if there’s a big red blob heading your way. But it’s not all doom and gloom, Baragatan Festival sees residents of Puerto Princesa , Palawan, flood the grounds of the Provincial Capitol Building in a massive display of merrymaking, while Pintados-Kasadyaan in Tacloban celebrates pre-Spanish traditional tattooing practices, albeit using water-based paints for the festival’s body decorations. Tourist crowds and accommodation prices drop around the country. Key events : Baragatan Festival, Pintados-Kasadyaan

Slap bang in the middle of low season with few large-scale festivals to speak of, July is not the most popular month to visit the country. Savvy travellers, however, make their way east to spots like Samar and Leyte , which remain dry when the rest of the country is getting drenched. Around the country, scenery is lush and green and crowds are thin.

It’s the rainiest month (except for on the eastern seaboard, where it’s the driest), so you’ll get fabulous discounts on accommodation. Durian season begins in Mindanao and surf season launches in Siargao . The third week of August also sees Davao ’s showcase its Muslim, Chinese and tribal influences during the Kadayawan sa Dabaw Festival with parades, performances, and fruit and flower displays. Key events : Kadayawan sa Dabaw Festival

Heavy rain continues, particularly in the north of the country. Visitors who chance it could get lucky with a break in the rain, and be rewarded with low accommodation prices and quiet beaches. The Eastern Visayas are still mostly dry.

Things start to dry out after the heavy rains of August and September, but typhoons are still common. The early part of the month is a good time to travel with lower accommodation costs and fewer crowds, but high-season prices kick in towards the end of the month. Christmas music is already ubiquitous in the malls. On the streets of Bacolod , capital of Negros Occidental , mischievous masked men in feathery outfits stir the masses into a dancing frenzy as part of the MassKara Festival during the weekend closest to 19 October. Key events : MassKara Festival

November marks the return to high season with the arrival of good, dry weather for most of the country. Families laden with food gather at the local cemetery on the first day of the month to spend Todos los Santos (All Saints Day) remembering their departed loved ones. It’s a surprisingly festive occasion. Key events : Todos los Santos

High season is in full swing as the Christmas music reaches a crescendo and the northeast Christmas winds ramp up, launching kite-surfing season in Boracay and surf season in northwest Luzon. In Cotabato on the island of Mindanao , Shariff Kabungsuan Festival celebrates the arrival of Islam in the region and includes river parades of decorated boats from 15 to 19 December. The end of the month is a super peak period, which lasts across Christmas and New Year. Key events : Christmas, New Year, Shariff Kabungsuan Festival

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• Philippines Tours
• Philippines Travel Guide
• When to visit the Philippines

Philippines in June : Weather, Tips and More

• ~ mins read

June sees the start of the monsoon season in the Philippines, but that doesn’t mean it’ll rain non-stop every day. More likely, you’ll get a heavy downpour over a few hours in the afternoon, then warm, sunny weather for the rest of the day. June days are hot and humid when the sun is out, then cool right down when it rains.

What’s more, school is back in session and most foreigners don’t dare brave a Filipino monsoon. That means you can expect thinner crowds and lower prices at the most sought-after destinations. If you want to escape the rain during your trip to the Philippines in June, try Camiguin Island or Cagayan de Oro in Mindanao.

To learn more about touring the Philippines in June, keep reading.

• Tom Walters
• From England

Philippines Weather in June

So, how much does it rain in the Philippines in June? Quite a bit, though much less than the peak monsoon season months. June is notoriously hot and sweaty, especially when the clouds clear and the sun blazes. Expect average daily highs of about 34°C (93°F) during your trip. High humidity means you’re guaranteed to get sticky.

In Luzon, expect an average rainfall of 130 millimeters per month, much less than the August peak of 432 millimeters. Down in the Visayas, an average of 170 millimeters of rain falls during June, which is about as wet as the region gets (October is the rainiest at 200 millimeters). The monsoon starts in northern Luzon, usually at some point during June, and then gradually makes its way south.

While typhoons can occur year-round, the season runs from June and September. So keep an eye on the weather forecast and be prepared to switch up your itinerary at short notice. Filipino typhoons aren’t something to trifle with.

For a complete seasonal overview, see our article on the best time to visit the Philippines .

Why Visit the Philippines in June

While the general rule of thumb is to visit the Philippines during the dry season, which typically runs from January to May, there are still several advantages of planning your trip during the wet season. Here are some reasons as to why you should consider visiting the Philippines in June.

• Fewer tourist crowds: You won’t meet many international tourists in the Philippines in June. The start of the monsoon scares most foreign holidaymakers away, even though it doesn’t bring all that much rain.
• Cheaper prices: Low demand means hotels drop their rates, and airlines offer hefty discounts on international and domestic routes. That makes travel in the Philippines even more affordable.
• Luscious landscapes: The onset of the monsoon transforms the parched countryside into a lush, verdant landscape. This is your chance to capture the best holiday snaps.
• Festivals: From Independence Day to the Mudpack Festival and the Parada Ng Lechon, a host of intriguing events take place during June. Don’t miss the Baragatan Festival held in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan province, featuring parades, parties, and cultural shows.

Where to Go and What to Do in the Philippines in June

Looking for things to do in the Philippines in June? Add these relatively dry and always-amazing destinations to your itinerary

Tour Palawan while in the Philippines in June. This long and skinny island gets hit by fewer tropical typhoons, making it a safer bet for a disaster-free holiday. With some of the best tropical scenery on earth, it’s also a top spot to visit. Don’t miss El Nido, Coron, Puerto Princesa, the Underground River, and Port Barton.

In Cebu, the Visayas main island receives a decent amount of protection from the monsoon, making it a popular place to visit in June. Island-hopping adventures await along far-flung coastlines while waterfalls thunder inland. West of Cebu, Negros is a large Visayan island that also remains relatively dry in June. Hit Dumaguete for seaside city living or Apo Island for a secluded tropical paradise.

On the other side of Cebu, Bohol is a classic Visayas destination with many places to explore. For next-level scenery, visit the Chocolate Hills, Panglao Island, and the Loboc River. The Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary is a world-class wildlife encounter. Little-known Mindanao receives few foreign visitors due to an ongoing insurgency, although the area around Cagayan de Oro is safe. The stunning Camiguin Island receives little rainfall in June and has a wide range of resorts.

What to Bring

Pack rain gear or a portable umbrella for June in the Philippines to stay dry in unpredictable weather.

Hot and humid weather means you’ll get sweaty in the Philippines in June. Pack loose-fitting, lightweight clothing in a breathable, preferably sweat-wicking fabric. As you’re bound to encounter rain, bring a poncho and a waterproof lining for your bags.

The monsoon sees mosquitos breed, so bring plenty of insect repellent too.

Planning to tour the Philippines in June?

Although it signifies the start of the Filipino monsoon season, June isn’t a total washout. August, September, and October see far heavier rainfall (and more frequent flooding), especially in the large northern island of Luzon.

Most days, you can expect an hour or so of reasonably heavy rainfall, followed by sunny or overcast weather. Just keep a keen eye on the news for typhoons and be ready to skedaddle should one start brewing near you.

Check out our Philippines travel guide for more information. If you’d like a helping hand with your upcoming trip, contact our team of expert travel consultants for your customized trip to the Philippines today.

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Discover Paradise in June: The Best Places to Visit in the Philippines

Discovering the philippines: the perfect destination for your june vacation.

The Philippines is a tropical paradise that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. It is an archipelago of more than 7,000 islands, offering endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation. With its crystal-clear waters, picture-perfect beaches, lush mountains covered with greenery and rice terraces, and vibrant culture – the Philippines has something for everyone.

Why June is a perfect time to visit the Philippines?

June marks the beginning of the rainy season in the Philippines , which may not sound like a great time to travel. However, this season also brings cooler temperatures and less crowded destinations making it an ideal time to explore this beautiful country.

Rainfall tends to be short-lived and can add an extra layer of charm to your trip with lush landscapes and refreshing showers. Another reason why June is a perfect month to travel here is because many schools are closed during this month due to summer break so popular destinations tend to have fewer tourists which can mean lower prices on flights and accommodations.

No matter what you’re looking for – breathtaking natural beauty or cultural immersion – you’ll surely find it here in the Philippines ! From pristine beaches with crystal blue waters where you can laze around all day or immersive experiences interacting with local communities – there’s no shortage of experiences awaiting!

The Best Places To Visit in June

The only tough part about planning your trip will be deciding where to go first. Here are some suggestions:

Boracay: Paradise Island Vibes for Everyone

Boracay Island is known worldwide as one of Southeast Asia’s top beach destinations . Its powdery white sand beaches attract visitors from all over the world seeking rest & relaxation within a tropical paradise.

This picturesque island is also great for water sports enthusiasts, with opportunities for parasailing, kayaking, and snorkeling amid colorful coral reefs. And when the sun sets, the island comes alive with its vibrant nightlife and parties that cater to people of all ages.

Palawan: Natural Wonders at Every Turn

Palawan Island is one of the most popular destinations in the Philippines , thanks to its clear blue waters surrounding beautiful limestone cliffs and rock formations. The island offers a wide range of activities from swimming to diving amidst thriving marine life, exploring underground rivers or lagoons by boat, or just relaxing on white sandy beaches. El Nido and Puerto Princesa are two famous cities in Palawan that you could visit during your stay here.

Sagada: A Mountainous Adventure

If you’re an adventurer looking for something different than those picture-perfect beaches then Sagada might be your next stop. Located in the Cordillera Mountains northwest of Manila this town offers hiking trails through pine forests leading to stunning waterfalls like Bokong or Pongas Falls etc, The area is also home to cave systems such as Sumaguing Cave (aka “The Big Cave”), known for its limestone formations and hanging coffins; making it a perfect spot for those seeking something off-the-beaten-path.

Cebu: Adventures on Land and Sea

Cebu Island is another must-visit destination in the Philippines offering not only stunning beaches but a variety of experiences such as visiting historical landmarks like Magellan’s Cross or Fort San Pedro; canyoneering through Kawasan Falls where you’ll encounter challenging cliff jumps; or snorkeling with whale sharks just off Oslob . The sumptuous lechon roasted pig dish hails from Cebu and is considered a must-try for every foodie.

Tacloban City: Colorful Celebrations

If you’re looking for an authentic Philippine cultural experience during your trip, head to Tacloban City in Leyte . The region celebrates festivals like the Pintados-Kasadyaan Festival where locals don vibrant costumes and engage in street dancing. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in local traditions while having fun with the locals.

There are many other destinations to explore in the Philippines , but these are some of the best places that should be on top of your list during your June travels. So pack your bags and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!

Beaches and Islands

Boracay: white sand beaches, water sports, nightlife.

Boracay is undoubtedly one of the most popular beach destinations in the Philippines . With its powdery white sand beaches stretching for miles, it’s no surprise that it attracts thousands of visitors every year.

Apart from sunbathing and swimming, Boracay offers a variety of water sports activities such as parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boat rides. At night, Boracay transforms into a vibrant party scene with beach bars and clubs lining up.

You can dance the night away under the stars while sipping on tropical cocktails. The atmosphere is lively and fun- perfect for young travelers who want to let their hair down.

Palawan: Island Hopping, Snorkeling and Diving, Natural Wonders (e.g. Puerto Princesa Underground River )

If you’re looking for a more laid-back island experience, Palawan should be on your list. Dubbed the “last ecological frontier” of the Philippines , Palawan boasts pristine beaches surrounded by crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life.

The best way to explore Palawan is through island hopping tours that take you to some of its most beautiful islands such as El Nido and Coron . Here you can snorkel or dive in rich coral gardens while admiring exotic sea creatures such as turtles and colorful fish.

A must-visit attraction in Palawan is the Puerto Princesa Underground River- one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature. This natural wonder features an 8-kilometer river that flows beneath towering limestone cliffs adorned with stalactites and stalagmites.

Siargao: Surfing, Island Exploration, Laid-back Vibe

Siargao is a small island located in the eastern part of the Philippines , known for its world-class surfing waves. Here you’ll find surfers from all over the world riding its famous Cloud 9 wave.

Aside from surfing, Siargao offers a laid-back island vibe that’s perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. You can spend your days exploring nearby islands such as Naked Island and Daku Island or simply lounging by the beach.

In the evenings, you can stroll around General Luna- Siargao’s main town- where you’ll find restaurants and bars serving up local cuisine and refreshing drinks. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, making it easy to make friends with fellow travelers.

Mountains and Nature

Batanes: where scenic landscapes meet cultural immersion.

Batanes is a hidden gem in the northernmost part of the Philippines . It’s known for its breathtaking landscapes which consist of rolling hills, cliffs, and rocky shores that are perfect for hiking, strolling, or just taking a moment to admire the view.

Batanes is also rich in culture and history as it’s home to the Ivatan people, who have their own unique architecture, language, and customs. The Ivatan houses are made out of limestone and cogon grass that can withstand strong winds and heavy rain.

To immerse yourself in the local culture, you can visit Batanes’ museums like the Ivatan House or Sabtang Weavers Association. You can also witness how traditional fishing boats called faluwa are made or try out some of their local delicacies such as coconut crab.

Sagada: Hiking Trails and Caves Exploration

Sagada is a quaint town located in the Cordillera Mountains that offers scenic views of lush forests and mountains . It’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hiking trails with varying degrees of difficulty leading to mesmerizing waterfalls like Bomod-ok Falls or swimming spots like Bokong Falls.

Sagada is also popular for its caves where visitors can go spelunking (cave exploration) such as Sumaguing Cave. Apart from outdoor activities like trekking and caving, there are plenty more things to do in Sagada such as visiting St Mary’s Church known for its intricate woodcarvings, or tasting Sagada oranges which are sweeter than regular oranges.

Banaue Rice Terraces: UNESCO World Heritage Site

Banaue Rice Terraces is a must-see attraction located in Ifugao province which was declared by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. These rice terraces were built more than 2,000 years ago by the Ifugao tribe using only their bare hands and simple tools, and are still in use today. The terraces form a stair-like structure that follows the contours of the mountains , making it not only an engineering marvel but also a masterpiece of the landscape.

Trekking is the most popular activity when visiting Banaue Rice Terraces , where you can witness the rice terraces up close and personal while getting a workout in! There are different trails to choose from depending on your skill level, but all offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

With its stunning landscapes, unique culture, and abundant outdoor activities, it’s no wonder why travelers flock to these mountain regions of the Philippines . Whether you’re an adventure seeker or just want to relax in nature’s beauty and soak up some local culture and history while enjoying Filipino hospitality at its finest – Batanes , Sagada , or Banaue Rice Terraces should definitely be on your travel bucket list.

Festivals and Events

Independence day celebrations (june 12th).

The Philippines celebrates Independence Day on June 12th every year. It marks the country’s freedom from Spanish colonization. This day is a public holiday, and Filipinos all over the country commemorate it with patriotic activities.

The flag-raising ceremony takes place early in the morning, and schools conduct programs to showcase the country’s history. You will see flags hanging in almost every street corner, and people wearing clothes that have the colors of the Philippine flag – blue, red, yellow.

Filipinos also love to celebrate by having cultural shows or parades during this time of year. In Manila , one of the most popular events is at Rizal Park where people come together for concerts, fireworks displays,s and a ceremonial raising of the Philippine flag.

Pintados-Kasadyaan Festival in Tacloban City: Street Dancing and Colorful Costumes

Tacloban City is famous for its Pintados-Kasadyaan Festival which takes place every June 29th. This festival is a colorful spectacle showcasing traditional dances and costumes featuring body paint designs called “pintados”.

It’s a lively event with lots of music, dancing, food stalls selling local delicacies, and an overall festive atmosphere that attracts visitors from all over. The Kasadyaan Festival is also held simultaneously with the Pintados Festival.

During this celebration, tribal groups compete against each other as they showcase their cultural heritage through colorful costumes and intricate dance routines. The participants’ energy is contagious as they march through the streets accompanied by upbeat rhythmical music.

Food and Drink

Cebu lechon: roasted pig dish that’s a must-try.

Filipinos love their roasted pig dish or lechon . And when it comes to lechon , Cebu is the place to be.

The city is famous for its signature dish, which is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The secret to its deliciousness lies in the way it’s cooked – over a fire pit with charcoal for hours until it’s perfectly roasted.

Cebu lechon can be enjoyed in many ways – as part of a celebratory feast, served with rice and vegetables, or even on its own as a snack. It’s so popular that there are many restaurants and stalls specializing in this dish all over the city.

If you’re visiting Cebu , make sure to add lechon to your food bucket list. It’s definitely something you won’t regret trying!

Halo-Halo: Popular Filipino Dessert With Shaved Ice and Various Toppings

Halo-halo is an iconic Filipino dessert that combines shaved ice with various sweet toppings such as beans, jellies, fruits, and milk. The name “halo-halo” means “mix-mix” in Tagalog, which refers to the way the dessert is prepared.

It’s perfect for hot summer days as it cools you down while satisfying your sweet tooth at the same time. Every region in the Philippines has its own version of halo-halo but some of the best can be found in Manila where there are plenty of restaurants offering this popular treat.

The beauty of halo-halo lies in its versatility – you can customize it according to your preferences by adding more or less of each ingredient. It’s definitely worth trying at least once during your visit to the Philippines .

San Miguel Beer: Iconic Filipino

San Miguel beer is the oldest and most popular beer brand in the Philippines . It’s been around since 1890 and has become a staple in Filipino culture . San Miguel beers come in many varieties such as Pale Pilsen, Red Horse, and San Mig Light.

Many Filipinos enjoy San Miguel beer as part of their social gatherings – whether it’s hanging out with friends at a local bar or enjoying a cold one with family during meals. It’s also a common sight during festivals and celebrations all over the country.

If you’re a beer lover, make sure to try San Miguel during your visit to the Philippines . It’s refreshing and pairs perfectly with the country’s delicious cuisine.

The Philippines is truly a gem when it comes to travel destinations . With its stunning beaches, breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and delicious food, there’s always something new to discover. June is an excellent time to visit as it falls within the country’s “summer season”.

There are plenty of festivals and events happening all over the country during this month and many tourist spots tend to be less crowded compared to peak season. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, there are plenty of places in the Philippines that cater to different types of travelers.

And what better way to cap off your trip than by indulging in some of the country’s best dishes? So pack your bags, book your tickets, and get ready for an unforgettable journey!

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Philippines Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Best Time to Go to the Philippines

• January to March | Ideal Months to Travel in the Philippines
• April to June | Summer and Peak Season in the Philippines
• July to October | Rainy and Off-Peak Season in the Philippines
• November to December | Holiday Season in the Philippines

Geography of the Philippines

• Arriving at Manila Airport: What You Need to Know

How to Get Around the Philippines

Hotels in the philippines, best hotels and resorts in luzon, best hotels and resorts in visayas, best hotels and resorts in mindanao.

• Best theme hotels and resorts in the Philippines

Must-Visit Tourist Spots in the Philippines

• Manila | The Capital of the Philippines
• Palawan | Gateway to the Best Islands in the Philippines
• Boracay Island | Tropical Paradise
• Cebu | Islands, Diving, Historical Sites, and More
• Bohol | Countryside and Island Tours
• What to Eat in the Philippines
• Suggested 2-Week Itinerary in the Philippines
• Frequently Asked Questions about Traveling to the Philippines

Discover the treasures of the Philippines from beaches and islands, highlands, historical spots, and must-try food and fun activities. Find out the best time to visit and the best tourist spots. Learn how to get around from the Manila airport. Discover the best places to eat. Take inspiration from a 2-week itinerary that will take you around the best destinations in the country. Read this article for an introduction to traveling around the Philippines. 

It can be difficult to decide where to travel first in the Philippines. There are so many beautiful, postcard-worthy white sand beaches and pristine islands all over the Philippines, complete with crystal clear waters and rich and diverse marine life.

• Explore the widest collection of Philippine tours for your vacation
• Check out flights to the Philippines

Travelers who love swimming would find it hard to leave, as idyllic  beach trips , exciting  island-hopping adventures , and incredible  diving tours  are abundant here. The Philippines' beaches are among the best in the world as well, whether it's white sand, black volcanic sand, or even pink sand in some places. 

See our popular Top Tours in the Philippines

Boracay island hopping shared tour with lunch, kawa hot bath & snorkeling package, coron island hopping tour to kayangan lake & barracuda lake | palawan super ultimate package, shared puerto princesa underground river tour in palawan with lunch & hotel transfers.

• Find the best Philippines vacation packages for a hassle-free trip
• See destinations for solo travel in the Philippines

You can also take your pick from the Philippines' best festivals  that showcase the locals' culture and experience unique food trips that will get you craving for more Filipino food . 

If you're traveling to the Philippines soon, this ultimate guide has everything you need to know to plan your trip. 

The Philippines has two distinct seasons, wet and dry. The dry season starts from November until June. These months are considered the best time to travel to most destinations in the Philippines .

The wet season, on the other hand, is from July to October. During this time, an average of nine typhoons hit the Philippines and may cause flooding and landslides in some areas. While not all typhoons make landfall, the heavy rains may still affect your trip, so make sure to check weather forecasts. 

• Check out our  2-week Philippine itinerary packages

Note, though, that it doesn’t rain every day, nor does it rain the whole day during the wet season, unless there is a typhoon. It's still best to check the weather forecast for your Philippine destinations when planning a trip. Weather-wise, here’s what you can expect when traveling in the Philippines and where to go.

See our popular Best Philippines Itinerary Tour Packages

January to march | ideal months to travel in the philippines.

January to March is usually the ideal period to travel to the Philippines. Even if there are bigger chances of precipitation, these are the months of the year when the temperature is cooler. The month of March also signals the upcoming festivals and the long weekend of Holy Week (Easter).

These months also highlight some of the biggest and grandest festivities:

The province of Aklan, where Boracay Island is located, commemorates the Ati-Atihan Festival in the second week of January. Check Boracay tours  and Boracay tour packages with hotel and airfare for your island getaway.

The highly anticipated annual Sinulog Festival   in the province of Cebu is celebrated every third Sunday of January. Check Cebu activities  and Cebu packages  for your trip.

Millions of devotees gather in Quiapo in  Manila City to join the procession during the Feast of the Black Nazarene on January 9.

The Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Festival is usually every February or March. For 2024, it will be held in New Clark City, Tarlac. Read our Philippine Hot Air Balloon 2024 guide to learn more.

See our popular Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Tickets & Packages

3-day relaxing boracay package at feliz hotel with airfare from manila or clark & breakfast, hassle-free 4-day el nido palawan package at lime resort with airfare from manila or clark, incredible 4-day coron palawan package at two seasons coron bayside hotel with airfare & tours.

The Summer Capital, Baguio City , parades beautifully-adorned floats with flowers during the Panagbenga Festival in February. Check Baguio tours  and Baguio package deals with hotel  to make your trip more fun and hassle-free.

There are weeklong religious activities during Holy Week (Easter) in March or early April all over the country, but more specifically in Pampanga . Check Pampanga experiences  to make the most of your vacation.

April to June | Summer and Peak Season in the Philippines

During this time, the temperature and humidity levels are highest. This marks the summer season in the Philippines. Locals plan beach getaways or vacations in their hometowns. Expect that beach resorts will most likely be fully booked and have higher rates. 

The sun is the strongest from April to June, so precautions are needed when spending most of the time under the sun. Lather sunblock every two hours to avoid sunburn.

See our popular Island Hopping Tours

Boracay island hopping package private tour with lunch, snorkeling gear & kawa hot bath, palawan coron malcapuya, banana & bulog dos islands shared tour with lunch & transfers.

Some popular summer destinations in the Philippines include:

The natural, scenic, and hidden gems of Palawan. Check some Palawan activities  and learn more about the province in this Palawan travel guide . 

The white beaches, crystal clear waters, and extreme water sports of Boracay . 

The surfing paradise of La Union , Baler, Zambales, and Siargao. Check  Siargao adventures  and   learn more about Siargao in this guide . Book Siargao tour packages with airfare . 

The beaches and diving spots in Batangas . Explore the marine life of Batangas through an Anilao diving tour. Check other Batangas escapades .

• Check out our article on the Best Beaches to Visit in the Philippines

Aside from beaches and  island hopping tours in the Philippines, here are other summer season activities you can try:

Watch the Moriones Festival in Marinduque and how the people in Pampanga  celebrate the season during Holy Week. Check some activities in Marinduque and tours in Pampanga .

Taste the freshest catch in Dagupan City during Bangus Festival every April.

Head to Quezon Province and witness the colorful Pahiyas Festival, a thanksgiving festival held every 15th of May.

Witness the festivities and watch the beautiful women of the country all dressed up during Flores De Mayo.

Take part during the different pistang bayan (town fiestas) in the provinces of Batangas and Bulacan. 

In June, take part in the combined Pintados-Kasadyaan festivals of Tacloban City that features a sailboat race, the Subiran Regatta, and the religious rite Balyuan. Join a Tacloban city tour to get the full experience.

Join the celebration of St. John the Baptist's feast day, where locals get doused with water on June 24th. It’s officially called the Wattah Wattah Festival or Basaan Festival in Filipino. It's usually celebrated in Batangas, Bataan, and Nueva Ecija, to name a few.

July to October | Rainy and Off-Peak Season in the Philippines  

The volume of rainfall in the Philippines increases from July to August . These months are considered the wettest months, although it does not necessarily mean that it will rain all day long.

When typhoons hit, most of the islands in the country are affected, making trips around the country (depending on where the typhoon hits) difficult. Expect flight delays and even cancellations in some cases.

Philippine flights to different islands and beach resorts are cheaper during these months. Go to the beach, enjoy a food trip, or visit museums and historical places. Here are some other rainy season activities in the Philippines that you can try:

Go surfing and island hopping in Siargao . Browse our Siargao tour packages with airfare . 

Watch the dramatization of the blood compact between Sikatuna and Legazpi in Bohol during the Sandugo Festival. Check some  Bohol activities  and Bohol package deals for your escapade.

Catch the colorful Pagoda Festival in Bulacan.

Witness the street parades and dances in the Kadayawan Festival in Davao City . Check Davao activities to best experience the province.

Observe the Fluvial Parade of the Nuestra Señora Peñafrancia in Naga City.

Watch the elaborate and colorful MassKara Festival in Bacolod City. Check some Bacolod tours and learn more about the province in this Bacolod travel guide .

For Filipinos, Christmas or the holiday season starts as early as September or the beginning of the -ber months. Some establishments start to decorate their stores with Christmas ornaments as early as September 1st.

November to December | Holiday Season in the Philippines   

November marks not only the beginning of the dry season but also the start of the long holiday celebration in the Philippines. These are the best months to visit Philippine cities because of the night markets, light and sound shows, and Christmas bazaars.

• Read our article on the Top Philippine Christmas holiday destinations

November to December are the best months to do your holiday shopping, as most malls are on sale and extended operating hours. However, there are other things you can do too:

Watch the Higantes Festival (giant paper effigies) in Rizal. 

Appreciate a grand Christmas experience in San Fernando, Pampanga, and its Giant Lantern Festival. 

Enjoy the cold weather and admire the views of Banaue Rice Terraces while sipping a hot cup of tea or coffee in Benguet . 

Choosing the best time to visit the Philippines depends on what kind of activity you want to do. Come at different times to appreciate everything the country has to offer.

See our popular Sagada-Banaue Tour Packages

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The Philippines' geography  is divided into three island groups: Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Before planning a trip to the Philippines, it's important to know where your chosen destinations are. Your transportation, schedule, and budget will depend on the distances between each place. You can also book all-inclusive Philippines vacation packages that will take you around the top tourist spots in the country. 

If you're outside the Philippines, your first destination will most likely be Manila , the Philippine capital located in Luzon.  Most connecting flights to other destinations in the countries continue from  Manila Airport .

The Luzon island group also includes other big islands and island groups like Palawan, Batanes , Baguio, and Vigan . Top Luzon activities include city sightseeing, beach adventures, and some island-hopping trips. Check out the top Luzon tourist spots that you should visit. 

See our popular Luzon Tour Packages

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Visayas   is located   in the central part of the Philippines. Cebu is the main gateway to other Visayas destinations. Visayas is home to destinations like Boracay, Bohol, Iloilo, Negros Region, Leyte, and Siquijor. The top activities and best tourist spots in Visayas include idyllic beaches, island-hopping, outdoor adventures, and food tours.

See our popular Visayas Tour Packages

Mindanao is located in the southern part of the Philippines. Davao City is the main gateway to other destinations in this island group, which includes Siargao, Camiguin, Zamboanga, and Cagayan de Oro, to name a few. Top things to do and best tourist spots in Mindanao include outdoor adventures, beach escapades, and island-hopping.  Check out our Davao tourist spots itinerary if you're exploring Davao City and Samal Island .

• Not sure where to start? Check out our guide to the Top 15 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in the Philippines

Given the number and variety of things to do here, filling your itinerary for a week or so when traveling in the Philippines won’t be a problem. 

See our popular Mindanao Tour Packages

Arriving at manila airport: what you need to know      .

Like any metropolitan city, Manila can be confusing for first-time visitors with flights to Manila , starting with arriving at the airport. Manila international airport, officially known as the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) or Manila Airport , has four terminals, which are not connected via airport rail link. Consider this when booking your flights, as inter-airline transfers may be complicated.

• Dubai to Manila flights
• Singapore to Manila flights
• LAX to Manila flights
• Hong Kong to Manila flights
• Bangkok to Manila flights
• Taipei to Manila flights
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• Nagoya to Manila flights
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• Istanbul to Manila flights

However, there are now Point-to-Point (P2P) shuttle buses that you can board to transfer airports in the Philippines , or you can book a taxi or Grab car via the Grab App (like Uber) if you have connecting flights. You can also book rent a car in Manila services. These transport options take public roads, so allot sufficient transfer time if you plan to transit between airlines. Here's a rundown of these four airport terminals:

NAIA Terminal 1

Terminal 1 serves all the international flights from and to Manila except for the ones operated by airlines in NAIA Terminal 2 and NAIA Terminal 3.

NAIA Terminal 2

Terminal 2 houses the domestic and international flights of the country's flag carrier, Philippine Airlines, and its affiliate PAL express. Starting July 2023, AirAsia and Royal Air domestic flights have been transferred to Terminal 2. This terminal is also known as the Centennial Terminal to commemorate the centennial declaration of Philippine independence.

NAIA Terminal 3

Terminal 3 caters to international flights operated by Cathay Pacific Air, AirAsia, Emirates Airline, Cebu Pacific Air, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Delta Air Lines, All Nippon Air, and Singapore Airlines, as well as all some domestic flights of Cebu Pacific Air. It has a transit lounge (airport hotel) and a massage place.

NAIA Terminal 4

Terminal 4, the smallest of the four, serves domestic flights from CebGo, AirSwift, and SkyJet.

See our popular Manila Transfers

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• Cebu to Manila flights
• Davao to Manila flights
• Tacloban to Manila flights
• Iloilo to Manila flights

Outside Manila: Clark International Airport

A secondary international airport nearest to Manila is Clark International Airport. It takes two to three hours to travel from Manila to Clark, which is 93 kilometers away. One transport option is through the Premium point-to-point (P2P) Bus Service. This bus service has a station at NAIA Terminal 3 in Pasay City, which is ideal if you come from the southern part of Metro Manila. If you're coming from the northern part of Metro Manila, take the P2P bus from its North EDSA MRT / Trinoma Station in Quezon City.

You can also hire a car rental service from Clark to Manila  for a more comfortable and private transportation. Just make sure you have the requirements to rent a car in the Philippines .

Currency Exchange and ATMs

All airport terminals have money changers open 24/7 in both the arrivals and departure areas. There are ATMs as well that accept foreign-issued cards though fees may apply. Read our guide about money exchange in the Philippines .

Source: https://currencyrate.today/converter-widget

Free SIM Card

Once you arrive in Manila airports, take advantage of the free SIM cards given by the Philippines' major telecommunications companies: Globe and Smart. You can top up your credit in convenience stores like 7-Eleven all over the country.

Transportation to and from the Manila airports

All Manila airports have taxi stands. You can get a coupon taxi (white) that’s dispatched by airport personnel and charged a fixed price or a yellow taxi that’s metered. Both are more expensive than regular white taxis but relatively safer to use.

There are also shuttle buses that will take you to the nearest metro station. However, if it’s your first time in the Philippines, taking this route is not as comfortable as taking either an airport taxi or booking an accredited taxi/cab, hire Manila car rental  services, or carpool through the Grab App .  If you are traveling in a big group and have a lot of luggage, booking a van rental in the Philippines  or a budget car rental in the Philippines may be advisable. 

For a hassle-free arrival or departure, check out our Manila airport transfers . 

The primary way of getting around the Philippines is by buses, planes, and ships/ferries. Boat rides are great for inter-island trips with short distances; for everywhere else, flights are recommended.

Depending on when you visit, you can find a lot of cheap flights in the Philippines . In fact, sometimes it’s cheaper to book a flight than a ferry. The biggest flight carriers are Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific Air, and AirAsia.   

Within small towns and cities, the primary modes of transport are bus, jeepney, or tricycle (like Thailand’s tuk-tuk or India’s auto-rickshaw, but smaller). In addition, major cities have taxi cabs and the Grab app. Only Manila has the metro system. If you want to go around the country in style, you may book an SUV rental in the Philippines or  luxury car rental in the Philippines .

You can also book self-drive car rentals in the Philippines if you want to explore on your own. Read our article on the best cars to rent for a road trip in the Philippines .

For inter-island transportation, sea transfers such as ferries are the best option. Secure your Philippines ferry ticket booking  in advance for a hassle-free trip. 

See our popular Sea Transfers & Ferries in the Philippines

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It is not hard to find accommodations in the Philippines . In top destinations, you would find various options, from 1- to 5-star hotels, ranging in price from budget to luxury. 

For budget travelers, there are numerous hostels, guesthouses, and homestays all over the country. Note that budget places are less likely to have a hot shower available, and in some places, there would be no Wifi.

It's highly recommended to book at least one night (or more) in advance, especially in popular destinations like Boracay, Palawan, and Puerto Galera during peak season (e.g., summer and holidays).

Read our article guides on the best hotels and resorts in top destinations in the Philippines: 

• Best hotels in Manila
• Best serviced apartments in Metro Manila
• Best beach resorts near Manila
• Best hotels near Manila Airport
• Best glamping resorts near Manila
• Best hotels in BGC Taguig Metro Manila
• Best hotels in Makati City
• Best hotels and resorts in Puerto Princesa, Palawan
• Best hotels and resorts in El Nido, Palawan
• Best hotels and resorts in Coron, Palawan
• Best hotels and resorts in San Vicente, Palawan
• Best hotels and resorts in Port Barton, Palawan
• Best hotels and resorts in Antipolo
• Best hotels in Baguio
• Best resorts in Baler
• Best resorts in Batangas
• Best affordable Batangas resorts
• Best pet-friendly resorts in Batangas
• Best Batangas resorts with pool
• Best resorts in Bataan
• Best resorts in Bulacan
• Best resorts in Cavite
• Best resorts in Laguna
• Best hotels in Laoag Ilocos Norte
• Best resorts in La Union
• Best hotels in Legazpi City Albay
• Best resorts in Palawan
• Best hotels and resorts in Pampanga
• Best resorts in Pangasinan
• Best resorts in Puerto Galera
• Best resorts in Quezon Province
• Best hotels and resorts in Sorsogon
• Best hotels and resorts in Subic
• Best hotels in Tagaytay
• Best Tagaytay hotels with a view of Taal Lake
• Best hotels in Vigan, Ilocos Sur
• Best resorts in Zambales
• Best resorts and hotels in Boracay
• Best beachfront resorts in Boracay
• Best budget-friendly resorts in Boracay
• Best Boracay Station 1 resorts
• Best Boracay Station 2 resorts
• Best Boracay Station 3 resorts
• Best Boracay hotels and resorts for families
• Best Boracay workation resorts
• Best resorts in Bohol
• Best beachfront resorts in Bohol
• Best hotels in Bacolod City
• Best hotels and resorts in Cebu
• Best beachfront resorts in Cebu
• Best luxury hotels and resorts in Cebu
• Best budget-friendly hotels in Cebu City
• Best hotels near Cebu airport
• Best hotels in Iloilo City

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• Best hotels in Davao City
• Best resorts in Siargao
• Best beachfront resorts in Siargao
• Best Siargao hotels and resorts for groups
• Best Siargao budget hotels and resorts
• Best resorts in Samal Island

Best theme hotels and resorts in the Philippines

• Best beach resorts in the Philippines
• Best spa and wellness resorts in the Philippines
• Best glamping resorts in the Philippines
• Best farm stays & resorts in the Philippines
• Best treehouse resorts in the Philippines
• Best pet-friendly hotels and resorts near Manila
• Best mountain resorts near Manila
• Best budget-friendly quality resorts near Manila
• Best private resorts near Manila
• Best teambuilding resorts near Manila
• Best hot spring resorts in Laguna
• Best Bali-like resorts in the Philippines
• Best Maldives-like resorts in the Philippines
• Best Santorini-like resorts in the Philippines
• Most unique hotels and resorts in the Philippines
• Best natural hot spring resorts in the Philippines
• Best historic hotels and houses in the Philippines
• Best honeymoon resorts in the Philippines
• Best luxury resorts and hotels in the Philippines
• Best eco-friendly resorts in the Philippines
• Best PWD-friendly hotels and resorts in the Philippines

With over 7000 islands, you will definitely need to prioritize when deciding on the places to visit in the Philippines. Much depends, of course, on how long you will have in the country and what you are interested in doing. For starters, you can check out our article on the top tours in the Philippines .

Here are some of the most popular destinations in the Philippines that you shouldn't miss out on: 

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It has, for example, the old Spanish fortress in Intramuros  that provides you with a glimpse of what the city used to be under over three centuries of Spanish rule. Nowhere is the Spanish influence seen more clearly than in the Walled City, from the cobbled streets to the restored houses. Make sure to join Intramuros tours to get the full experience.

• Check   Manila activities  that you can add to your itinerary

Highlights in Intramuros include the old churches of San Agustin, built in 1587, and the Manila Cathedral, originally built in 1571 and governed by the Archdiocese of Mexico. Outside Intramuros, there’s also the historic Quiapo Church, whose annual Feast of the Black Nazarene every January attracts millions of devotees.

See our popular Manila Tours & Activities

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You can also try some of the trips around Binondo , the oldest Chinatown in the world. You can also watch one of the best sunsets in the Philippines along the Manila Bay at the Cultural Center of the Philippines complex.

When booking a hotel in Manila , we recommend booking accommodations either in Manila City or in Makati City . Both of these destinations have plush hotels, high-end shopping malls, and various bars and restaurants that offer a range of local and international cuisines.

See our popular Binondo Tours

Palawan | gateway to the best islands in the philippines.

You’ll see beautiful powdery, white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, towering limestones, hidden lagoons, and even a safari. 

See our popular Palawan Tours and Activities

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Puerto Princesa , the capital of Palawan, is often the first place that travelers go to, as it has frequent and affordable flights to and from Manila and Cebu. It is home to the Underground River , one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Philippines . The city is the jump-off point for Honda Bay island hopping ,  Underground River tour , and several Palawan destinations like El Nido and San Vicente.

• Learn more in our article on the top attractions and activities in Puerto Princesa

Coron is another popular destination in Palawan. There are direct flights and boats from Manila to Coron (via Busuanga Airport, an hour from Coron town proper), making it a possible first destination for the Palawan leg of your Philippine itinerary.

If you’re into water activities, Coron is the getaway you might be looking for. It is best known for wreck diving and snorkeling, island hopping to hidden lagoons surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, and the iconic Kayangan Lake. Check out our Coron tour packages with airfare .

Google Coron, Palawan, and the first photo you'll see is of the view going to the freshwater lake. It's why Coron island-hopping  is popular with both locals and internationals.

See our popular Coron Tours and Activities

Coron is the best place for wreck diving because it has a handful of sunken ships hidden beneath its waters, some of which are big enough to be explored inside, while some are shallow enough to be seen by snorkelers. If you're not a certified diver, dive shops in Coron have Discover Scuba activities too.

• Learn more in our article on the top activities and places to see in Coron

El Nido is another well-known destination in Palawan. Over the years, the town has transformed from one that doesn’t even have an ATM and 24-hour electricity into a popular holiday destination.

There are regular island-hopping trips in El Nido that take you to various islands and beaches such as the Hidden Beach, Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, Hidden Lagoon, Paradise Beach, and Natnat Beach, among others.

• Read our guide on the top activities and attractions in El Nido  

See our popular El Nido Tours and Activities

Boracay island | tropical paradise.

Boracay became a popular destination for local and international travelers because of its fine, white sandy beaches (led by the famous White Beach ), its combination of Boracay nightlife scene and family-friendly atmosphere, and its many accommodations across budgets.

Watching sunsets may be cliché to some, but the sunset in Boracay is definitely one of the best you’ll see in the country. The silhouette of sailboats, the shadows of people walking along the shore, and the sky turning from blue to a fiery red and into a faint orange is an image you won’t quickly forget.

• Browse our Boracay tour packages with airfare

See our popular Boracay Vacation Packages

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Most Boracay hotels are lined up in White Beach grouped into Station 1, Station 2, and Station 3. However, you can easily visit the other beaches there during your stay. Puka Beach, for example, may not have sand as fine as White Beach, but if you go early enough, you can avoid the crowds and have a relaxing hour or two by the beach.

Bulabog Beach is becoming a popular destination for kitesurfers. The winds here are strong enough for those who want to try something new or improve their skill. There are several shops offering lessons and provide rental gear too. 

You’ll have plenty of options in Boracay when it comes to food, as there are markets, budget restaurants, Western food, buffets, and bars that cater to different kinds of tastes. Read our article on the best restaurants in Boracay  to learn more. There are fun activities like Boracay pub crawls too! Indeed, Boracay is the destination to be if you want a bit of everything in one place.

• Read our guide on the top things to see and do in Boracay

See our popular Boracay Tours and Activities

Cebu | islands, diving, historical sites, and more.

The province of Cebu is another popular place to visit because of the range of natural, historical, and cultural attractions. 

Bantayan Island and Malapascua Island in the north are famous beach destinations because of their pristine beaches and sky-blue waters. Visitors usually combine a trip to these two destinations. Both islands provide a laid-back atmosphere if you want to just spend the whole day relaxing. 

See our popular Cebu Tours and Activities

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Malapascua is best known for its thresher sharks. It's the only place in the world where this species is consistently seen almost every day. 

Bantayan Island, on the other hand, is more for beach bumming and snorkeling. It has a healthy coral garden you can explore and a long coastline of white sandy beaches.

Make sure to go to the south of Cebu as well and include Moalboal in your Philippine itinerary. This is where you can experience the famous sardine run tour . Seeing the hundreds of thousands of sardines swimming beneath you (or above you if you choose to dive) is definitely an awesome experience unique to Cebu.

A must-try during your visit to Cebu is the fun canyoneering experience . It is an adrenaline-pumping activity where you jump into a pool of water from around 25 meters high. You’ll also get to trek and enjoy some moderate hiking activities and take the plunge at the azure waters of Kawasan Falls . 

See our popular Kawasan Falls Tours

Other places of interest in Cebu province include hiking Osmeña Peak, trekking to Tumalog Falls, lounging in Tingko Beach, Lambug Beach, and Basdaku Beach, just to name a few.

• Check our article on the  Top Tourist Spots in Cebu  

Cebu City, the capital of Cebu province, is cosmopolitan and developed. You can join a historical tour in Cebu that will take you to sites like Magellan’s Cross, as well as old churches and museums, among others. There is a variety of restaurants offering local and international food, too.

If you’re a meat-eater, never miss the famous lechon (suckling pig) that Anthony Bourdain called “the best pig ever.” There are countless bars and shopping malls for entertainment as well.

The Queen City of the South has the second busiest airport in the Philippines located in Mactan , flying to 25 domestic and 22 international destinations. From here, the best beaches in Cebu are easily accessible by private transportation and public buses. 

You also have several options for accommodation, whether you want to splurge or stick to a tight budget.

See our popular Cebu Vacation Packages

3-day cebu ultimate budget vacation package with hotel, transfers & add-on tours, bohol | countryside and island tours.

The island of Bohol is another must-include in your Philippine itinerary. There are endless tourist spots in Bohol that you can visit. You can do a countryside day tour of Bohol, but why spend only one day in one of the most beautiful places to visit in the Philippines?

Bohol has many beaches and activities for those who want to see more of the region. Make sure to explore Panglao Island to make your trip more fun and exciting! Start your trip by trying Alona Beach activities such as fly fish, UFO, parasailing, banana boat ride, and many more.

A trip to Bohol is incomplete without joining  Chocolate Hills tours . These green hills that turn brown during the summer months will remind you of Hershey’s Kisses, hence the name. The viewpoint was affected by the major earthquake in 2015, but it has since been restored.

See our popular Bohol Tours and Activities

• See our guide on how to go to Chocolate Hills

Another must-see is the tarsier, a tiny primate (around 3.5 to 6 inches long) with huge eyes that can only be found in Southeast Asia. You can visit tarsier sanctuaries in Bohol, where you can see these tiny and cute creatures (do not hold or touch them, though).

While in Bohol, try the Loboc River Cruise experience . It provides you with a relaxing and scenic way to see the countryside while feasting on Filipino cuisine and being serenaded by local performers.

Bohol also has relics of Spanish colonial times; you’ll see several old churches that provide you with a glimpse of the province’s historical and cultural heritage. While some of these churches were destroyed during the 2015 earthquake, most of them have been restored, including Baclayon Church.

These destinations are only some of the best places to visit in the Philippines. The country has plenty more to offer travelers with various budgets and preferences for their trip. 

See our popular Bohol Vacation Packages

4-day premier bohol beach club resort package with breakfast & airport transfers, what to eat in the philippines  .

Filipino food is one of the most underrated in Asia. Most international visitors know what to expect from Chinese, Japanese, Indian, Thai, and Vietnamese food but are usually totally clueless about the Philippines' local cuisine. 

Filipino cuisine is actually one of the most diverse in the world. Because of its colonial past, it has influences from the west as much as it has oriental roots. Note, though, that the cuisine is meat-heavy. Vegetarian or vegan guests traveling outside major cities may find it hard to look for restaurants that provide vegetarian or vegan options.

If you are a first-time visitor in the Philippines and don’t know what Filipino food to try, here are some of the best food in the Philippines that you should keep on the lookout for in your culinary and food trips .

See our popular Food Tours

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The name adobo was given by the Spanish due to the similarity to adobo or adobar, a cooking practice that also uses vinegar and soy sauce indigenous to Iberia. It is considered the unofficial national dish of the Philippines due to its popularity across all regions.

Sisig is a favorite pulutan (food eaten with alcohol) accompanied by a local beer. The dish is made of chopped parts of a pig’s head and liver. Onions, chopped chili peppers, eggs, and calamansi are added. It is normally served in sizzling plates.

This appetizing dish originated from Pampanga, the culinary capital of the Philippines. Hundreds of sisig variations are available today, such as tuna, squid, tuna, milkfish, and mussels. If you are looking for a vegetarian version of Sisig, some restaurants serve mushrooms and tofu sisig. Read more about it on our travel guide to Pampanga .

3. Lechon 

The pig is roasted for hours with occasional basting. It is served with a local sauce in some regions. One of the most famous foods in the Philippines, lechon is a must-try for anyone coming to the country. The best lechon in the Philippines are from Cebu. Read our travel guide to Cebu to learn more about it.

4. Sinigang

Sinigang is a Filipino soup or stew characterized by its sour and savory broth. A classic Filipino dish, sinigang is what most Filipino kids ask their moms for if they are sick. The sour taste is from the use of tamarind to flavor the broth.

This traditional food in the Philippines has evolved so much that several tamarind alternatives are being used these days. It includes guava, mango, kamias, santol, and even watermelon.

5. Caldereta

Caldereta is another classic Filipino dish and stew. This savory dish is cooked originally using goat meat, but beef, chicken, or pork can also be used these days.

Tomato sauce, liver spread, vegetables, bell peppers, and cheese are added to the meat. The name of the dish is derived from the Spanish word caldera or cauldron in English. 

6. Crispy Pata

Crispy pata or pork knuckles is a famous Filipino pork dish among Filipino family dinners.

This dish is made by boiling the entire pork knuckles with seasonings for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender. It is then frozen overnight with another batch of seasonings and then deep-fried until the skin is crispy. 

7. Chicken Inasal

8. Dinuguan

The name dinuguan derives from the word “dugo” or blood; hence the word dinuguan means “to be stewed with blood.” It is made of pig’s blood and offal.

Dinuguan is similar to the Irish black pudding except that it is a stew instead of sausage. Aside from being eaten with rice, Filipinos also pair it with puto (steamed rice cake).

9. Fish Kinilaw

Fish kinilaw is the ceviche of the Philippines. Made of raw fish, this appetizing dish is denatured using vinegar as a primary ingredient. Onions, ginger, chili peppers, black peppers, and calamansi are added for flavoring.

Popular fish used for kinilaw includes yellowfin tuna, mackerels, and marlins. 

10. Halo-Halo

Halo-halo is a Filipino favorite snack or merienda . This cold snack and dessert consists of crushed ice, evaporated milk, and various ingredients such as beans, jellies, tapioca pearls, mixed fruits, leche flan, purple yam, and even ice cream.

Halo-halo is extremely popular, especially during the summer months, to cool off from the heat. You can find a lot of food stands selling halo-halo in the local neighborhoods.

Taho (soy pudding) is a popular street food in the Philippines . This healthy snack is made of soft tofu, caramelized brown sugar, and tapioca pearls. It is comfort food that you can buy from street peddlers, usually in the morning. In local neighborhoods, local peddlers walk or bike around houses. When you hear a deep voice shouting "taho," just shout back "taho" to call the peddler's attention to buy a cup. 

For non-Filipinos, you might have heard of balut from your adventurous friends who keep telling you that you have never been to the Philippines if you haven’t tried this Filipino street food.

Balut is a boiled fertilized egg embryo that is eaten from a shell. Don’t let it scare you, though; balut tastes like an ordinary egg with a tasty soup. It's usually sold in the streets at night, with some vendors going around local neighborhoods at night shouting "balot."

Suggested 2-Week Itinerary in the Philippines        

Creating an itinerary for a trip to the Philippines can be difficult, especially for a first-time visitor. This 2-week itinerary in the Philippines will give you an idea of how to maximize your time in the country.

See our popular 2 Weeks Philippines Itinerary Tour Packages

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• 10 days Philippines itinerary tour packages
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Day 1: Manila

If you only have 2 weeks, a day tour in the capital city Manila is enough. If you're spending more time here, check out our Ultimate Travel Guide to Manila .

Things to do in Manila for 1 day:

Explore Intramuros . It used to be the center of government during Spanish times.

Visit Rizal Park. It’s a favorite leisure spot for the locals.

Watch the Manila Bay sunset along Roxas Boulevard.  

Go on a Binondo food tour and enjoy authentic Chinese food at the oldest Chinatown. 

Read our article on Manila layover activities for more ideas. 

Ride a night bus going to Baguio and travel to Banaue.

Day 2-3: Banaue 

The mountain province of Banaue is famous for its iconic rice terraces. This is a UNESCO World Heritage site and often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” Located at around 1500 meters above sea level, it uses an ancient irrigation system where water comes from the rainforest above it. 

Things to do in Banaue for 2 days:

Walk around the rice terraces.

Check out the local village and watch an Ifugao cultural show.

Trek to Batad and check out Tappiya Waterfalls. Depending on when you go, you can swim there, too.

If you have more time to spare, go to Buscalan in Kalinga and get a traditional tattoo from Apo Whang-Od . 

Take a night bus going back to Manila so you can arrive early the following day. 

Day 4: Layover in Manila + Fly to El Nido

If you have time to explore Manila before your flight, head to the bustling city of Makati , where you can explore shopping malls or parks, and treat yourself to a good meal or a bit of shopping. You can go to Poblacion Makati and have some drinks , get a relaxing massage , or join a game night in BGC .

Make sure to withdraw enough cash for El Nido, Palawan. The ATMs in El Nido don't always have enough cash. Many places don’t accept credit cards yet, so you might want to plan just in case.

Day 5-7: El Nido, Palawan

Things to do in El Nido for 3 days:

Join an El Nido island hopping trip  which runs for a full day. Each tour has a different itinerary, so it’s up to you to select which sites you would like to visit. You can allot 1 tour a day.

Do the Taraw Cliff via ferrata canopy walk and see the stunning view of the town and the islands. 

Drink beers or cocktails and watch the sunset of El Nido in Las Cabanas.

Day 8-9: Puerto Princesa, Palawan

Things to do in Puerto Princesa for 2 days:

Explore the  tourist spots in Puerto Princesa  City or go island hopping in Honda Bay . 

Book a tour of the underground river for Day 9 (you should book this in advance). The whole tour will take 5-6 hours.

See our popular Puerto Princesa Tours and Activities

Day 10-12: Bohol

You can’t fly directly to Bohol from Puerto Princesa, but you can fly to Cebu and then take a ferry to Tagbilaran, Bohol . The flight takes about an hour while the fast ferry takes about 2 hours.

Several fast ferries travel between Cebu and Bohol, so you shouldn’t have any problem finding transport to Bohol.

No advance booking is necessary. Just go to the ferry terminal in Pier 4 North Reclamation Area.

Things to do in Bohol for 2 days:

Do the  Bohol countryside tour  where you can visit most top Bohol attractions like the Chocolate Hills, Loboc River, Bilar Man-Made Forest, Baclayon Church, and Blood Compact Shrine. 

Join Bohol island hopping tours where you can have the chance to see dolphins and snorkel at the incredible Bohol diving sites like Balicasag Island . 

Explore Alona Beach in Panglao Island. There are several bars and restaurants there if you need a break from lounging in the beach.

For more adventurous activities, a trip to Danao Adventure Park is where you can experience the Plunge (canyon drop) as well as other exhilarating activities.

Bohol Chocolate Hills Countryside Private Tour with Transfers & Add-on Loboc River Cruise Lunch

Bohol countryside tour chocolate hills to loboc river cruise lunch with hotel transfers, bohol island hopping private tour to balicasag & virgin islands with dolphin watching & transfers.

Day 12-14: Cebu

Things to do in Cebu for 2 days:

When you arrive, go around Cebu City or book Cebu tour s and check out its top attractions, including the Magellan’s Cross and Basilica del Santo Niño.

Alternatively, you can go directly to Moalboal, around 2 hours from the city, where you can go island hopping and swim with the sardines if you book Moalboal tours .

From Moalboal, head to Alegria and Badian for the canyoneering and the Kawasan Falls adventure .

There are several flights from Cebu to Manila , so going back to Manila on Day 14 won’t be a problem. Just make sure to check your flights and allot extra time for delays so you won’t miss your flight out of the country! An easier way to a multi-destination itinerary in the Philippines is by booking all-inclusive Philippine tour packages . 

Frequently Asked Questions about Traveling to the Philippines 

Now that you know which destinations you should add to your trip to the Philippines take note of these helpful tips: 

Is it safe to visit the Philippines?

Generally, yes. But it's always best to be aware of your surroundings, keep your belongings secure at all times and be wary of strangers. If you're planning to do outdoor activities, check out our guide on travel insurance in the Philippines .

What are the Philippine citizens called?

We are called Filipinos (not Philippinos).

What languages are spoken in the Philippines?

The Philippines has two official languages: English and Filipino. This makes it easier for travelers to get around since English is widely understood and spoken.

While Spanish was the country's official language in the 19th and early 20th centuries, only a very small percentage of the population speak or understand it now.

A lot of words, however, derive their origin from Spanish. All over the Philippines, around 180 languages (and dialects) are spoken, 12 of which are used by at least one million people.

Do I need a visa to visit the Philippines? 

Passports holders from any country except the following either don't need a visa or can pay for a visa on arrival:

Afghanistan

Bosnia and Herzegovina

North Korea

Sierra Leone

South Sudan

Taiwan (have to apply for an ETA online)

Timor-Leste

If unsure, double-check with your embassy.

Is Wifi widely available all over the country? 

Most hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in major cities would have Wifi connectivity, but the connection's quality varies widely, depending on location. You can use data but note that the signal can be weak to nonexistent in many islands. 

Can I use my credit card? 

Cash is still king in the Philippines. You can use credit cards in shopping malls and restaurants in major cities, but once you go out of the major cities, and especially in the islands, credit cards are not usually accepted.

Before leaving Manila or other major cities, make sure to acquire enough cash. A lot of destinations do have ATMs and money changers, but check before you leave.

Discover what the Philippines has to offer. With so many destinations to travel to, start planning your trip now!  Read our travel guides  to learn more and explore our collection of  Philippine tours and activities  for your trip. 

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June in the Philippines

Table of contents.

June is the start of the rainy season in the Philippines. Days start to become much cooler and showers occur even in the middle of the day. June is also the start of off-season travel in the Philippines. Airfare and accommodations become cheaper and owners are more accommodating with requests for discounted rates. While most would discourage travel to the Philippines in June, the entire month can actually be an opportune time to enjoy destinations without the crowds.

June is also the start of school season in the Philippines so you can expect the traffic situation to get worse especially in large metros like Manila, Cebu, and Davao. The start of the school year also means all-out sales in shopping malls, making it an excellent time to do some shopping on the side.

Spending June in the Philippines may not be as great as staying during summer but the weather is really not so bad during this month. Also, there are a number of festivals and events to watch out for; below is a list of some of them.

For official dates of these events this year, sign up for our newsletter where we announce them.

Independence Day

The Philippine Independence Day commemorates the nation’s freedom against Spanish rule on June 12, 1898. General Emilio Aguinaldo, the first Philippine President, read the declaration of independence from the balcony of his home in Kawit, Cavite. The house is now considered a symbol of that freedom. After such declaration, the Philippines was under American rule until full independence was granted through the Treaty of Manila on July 4, 1946. The celebration of Independence Day includes ceremonies lead by the current President as well as other nationalistic activities.

Naliyagan Festival

Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur

The Agusan Valley is home to several tribes and the Naliyagan Festival is a celebration of their culture. During the 6-day affair, tribes converge at the Naliyagan Plaza to showcase their songs, dances, handmade crafts and agricultural products. They come down from their abodes in full traditional regalia. At the opening of the festivities, a babaylan (tribal leader) performs rituals to bless the participants and invoke their gods to drive away negative energy.

Mudpack Festival

Murcia, Negros Occidental

While the name of the festival may get you thinking about beauty treatments, the purpose of the celebrations is actually to promote the area where the Mambukal Resort is located. The festival involves revelers adorned with body art made from multi-colored mud acquired from the resort. Performers showcase tribal dances, crafts and other forms of art. Mambukal Resort is located 25 minutes from the provincial capital Bacolod City.

Pinyasan Festival

Camarines Norte

If you love pineapples, a trip to Daet, Camarines Norte is in order this month. The town’s celebrations are centered on the succulent fruit of their lands. Sporting events, cultural performances, exhibits, parades and trade fairs are set to entertain both locals and visitors.

Pujada Bay Festival

Mati, Davao Oriental

Now on its 10th year, the Pujada Bay Festival is the locals’ way of paying tribute to their ecological jewel, the source of their marine livelihood, the Pujada Bay. The festival coincides with Mati City’s charter anniversary. Highlights of the festivities include a parade of contingents showcasing the bountiful blessings of the bay, cultural presentations and several programs to raise coastal protection awareness among locals.

Parada Ng Lechon

Balayan, Batangas

The annual Parada ng Lechon (roasted pig parade) in Balayan, Batangas is a grand procession of succulent roasted pigs in bamboo skewers. The celebration is held every 24th of June, the feast day of San Juan (Saint John the Baptist). The roasted pigs are dressed according to the theme of the fiesta and brought to the church to be blessed during the mass. Since the festival coincides with the feast of John the Baptist (San Juan), the parade of Lechon goes around the main streets while onlookers drench everyone with water in celebration. After the procession, the succulent Lechon is brought back to the owner’s house for the feast.

Pintados/Kasadyaan Festival

Tacloban City, Leyte

The Pintados were once warriors who sported different tattoos as a sign of their courage and rank among their tribesmen. The Pintados/Kasadyaan Festival is a commemoration of these warriors and at the same time a tribute to the Santo Nino. Revelers use body paint to depict the tattooed warriors of old. It is dubbed as the Festival of Festivals; participants from the different municipalities of the province of Leyte join in the pageantry held in Tacloban City. Each contingent showcases their respective festivals in a street dancing competition.

Visitors from other places may want to get acquainted with the local customs and traditions of the regions they are planning to visit to avoid disconcerting experiences.

Rains may come in June but the Filipino people are known for their happy disposition and their love for festivities and merry-making. Every occasion is a reason for celebration, fun and laughter. Why don’t you come join in the fun. Just don’t forget to bring your umbrella.

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Ultimate Philippines Itinerary for 10 Days, 2 Weeks or 3 Weeks

The Philippines is a huge archipelago of over 7000 islands, so putting together the perfect Philippines itinerary means that you have a lot of different destinations to choose from.

Each island is different too, and while that means that there’s something for every type of traveler, it also means that it’s always a challenging crafting a Philippines itinerary. 

You need to factor in logistics, the time you have to explore, and whether you want to see beaches and palm trees, or smoking volcanoes and mountaintops.

We are here to help you sift through the overwhelm and share with you our thoughts and experience from several visits with a combined total of more than 3 months of traveling in the Philippines .

Without further ado, here’s our guide to planning the perfect Philippines itinerary, no matter the length of your trip. 

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Philippines (Country Guide)

Ultimate Philippines Itinerary

Table of Contents

Best Time to Visit the Philippines

The Philippines has a very tropical climate, and the year is predominantly split into a wet and a dry season. The climate varies of course, with mountainous regions enjoying a cooler climate, and the beaches having fiercely hot summers. 

The dry season is the best time to enjoy your Philippines itinerary. It falls between November and May, and you can expect clear skies, clear waters for snorkeling, and little chance of rain. 

The wet season sees huge storms hitting the Philippines, and these will often turn into large and potentially destructive typhoons. The wet season, between June and November, is not a good time to explore the Philippines. 

Read more Best Time to Visit the Philippines: Month by Month Breakdown

Getting Around in the Philippines

This is a huge country, and with over 7000 islands spread out across a vast stretch of ocean, you’ll need to factor in some logistics when you’re planning your Philippines itinerary. 

The islands are spread over, and if you’ve only got two weeks, then you’ll need to fly between the major destinations. You can use Cebu or Manila as hubs, as from these airports you can reach almost any other city and island with either Air Asia, Philippines Airlines or Cebu Pacific.

If you’ve got longer, then you can take ferries and travel overland. Every island is connected by ferries, although these will vary in speed and level of comfort.

On land, you can take buses or minibusses between cities, while within cities you’ll either want to hire a tricycle or if you’re feeling adventurous, jump on a Jeepney. In Manila and Cebu, you’re best using the ride-hailing app Grab to get around quickly and safely. 

Costs and Budgets

The Philippines can be an inexpensive country to travel around, especially if you stick to local transport and food, and stay in dorms or budget hotels.

You can get away with spending as little as USD 20 a day, plus the cost of activities such as island hopping or snorkeling. 

On the other end of the spectrum, in destinations such as Boracay and even Manila, you can spend much more, and splurge on luxurious hotels and gourmet restaurants. 

Read reviews and check prices with our Hotel Search Engine , which gives you the best hotel deals found on the web. Our search engine pulls results from all of the major booking places, including Expedia, Hotels, Booking and more. All the options, all the deals, all in one place and just for you.

Safety Tips in the Philippines

The Philippines has a mixed reputation when it comes to safety because this is a country that often makes it into the news for its admittedly frequent natural disasters and internal conflicts. 

Yes, there are insurgencies in the south, and yes, there are active volcanoes and a fierce typhoon season. But plan well, and keep an eye on the weather and you’ll stay out of trouble. 

Filipinos are some of the friendliest and most hospitable people in the world, and you’ll soon find out why the country’s tourism slogan is ‘It’ s more fun in the Philippines’. 

Ideal 10 Day Philippines Itinerary

While these 10 days could be produced in more than a hundred varieties, I think it is important to note that we are building this route for first-time visitors to the Philippines.

This will include some of the most famous and popular places that you simply cannot miss when you come to the Philippines.

Of course, you’re free to substitute and head off to whatever places beckon to you, but no matter how you swing it, these places are a must.

10 Day Philippines Itinerary Overview:

• Day 1: Arrive in Manila – depending on time, do some afternoon sightseeing
• Day 2: Fly to Coron in the morning – explore the area or book an afternoon tour
• Day 3: Island Hopping tour around Coron Island
• Day 4: Island Hopping tour around nearby islands
• Day 5: Fly to Cebu in the morning
• Day 6: Cebu – take a day trip to Kawasan Falls
• Day 7: Fly to Caticlan and take the ferry to Boracay
• Day 8: Boracay
• Day 9: Fly to Manila in the morning – spend the day exploring the city and visiting its sites
• Day 10: Depart the Philippines

With 7,000 islands, the options are literally endless. That said, we’ve been many times and this will give you a good taste of the best.

While at first glance the Philippines look easy and you may think that you can see a lot of areas in 10 days, this is not the case. Logistics are something most people overlook when planning a Philippines itinerary.

There are very few islands that are connected to each other by flights. This means that to change islands, in most cases, you will have to fly back to Manila and then onwards to the new place. This also has to be done as segments and you will not be able to book the flights on one reservation.

This requires a lot of planning and sadly, a lot of time spent in airports, especially if you have luggage. As you have to collect and recheck on each segment.

So the overview we provided above is one of the most seamless ways to see a few of the most famous areas in the Philippines without having to fly back to Manila. You’re welcome!

Manila: 1 to 2 Days

Manila is the sprawling, chaotic and hectic capital of the Philippines, and while most travelers need to pass through here to get elsewhere, few actually hang around for too long. 

It’s not all traffic and smog though, and it’s well worth hanging around for at least a day or two to get under the skin of the Philippines’ largest city because this is where you’ll find history and heritage in abundance. 

Popular Things to See in Manila

Visit the old Spanish colonial city, Intramuros, where you can see the stone bastions that defended Manila for centuries, and delve deep into the local heritage. 

Unravel the historical threads of Philippine culture as you stroll Manila’s 16th-century walled city, Intramuros, with a guide . Hear how Manila evolved through Malay, Spanish, American, and Japanese eras; learn about pre-colonization peoples and the national hero Dr. José Rizal.

The financial hub of Makati is Manila’s trendiest district. It’s a great place to stay, and a great place for fusion food and craft beers when the sun goes down. 

Discover historical information you may have missed, on a private half-day tour of Makati , a great introduction for first-time visitors. Check off highlights such as San Agustin Church and Museum, Rizal Park and Shrine, Fort Santiago and Intramuros, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

No other district in Manila can beat Binondo when it comes to food. This is Manila’s Chinatown, and it’s an epic world of food, markets, and culture. 

Read more 15 Awesome Things to Do in Manila (Itinerary for First Time Visitors )

Coron: 3 to 4 Days

Travel to Coron to find one of the most spectacular places in the country. No Philippines itinerary is complete without at least 3 days in Coron, but to see everything, you’ll need to save as much as a week to explore. 

Coron is rapidly growing into a top destination, but it still remains beautifully rustic, and in many places, totally uncrowded too. There are towering limestone cliffs, clear freshwater lagoons, and remote, isolated islands . 

Popular Things to See in Coron

KAYANGAN LAKE

The most popular tourist attraction in Coron is Kayangan Lake . This beautiful, freshwater lake is steeped in local legend and is refreshingly clear and cool to swim in. 

Book this great full-day tour that takes in all the island’s highlights, including snorkeling at the Siete Pecados Marine Park and Coral Eden, a boat cruise around Kayangan Lake, and swimming at the Twin Lagoons, plus a delicious seafood lunch on Calachuchi Beach.

MOUNT TAPYAS

For a view over the islands, then hike up the steps that lead from Coron Town to the summit of Mount Tapyas. It’s the best spot in Coron for sunset. 

PASS ISLAND

Head to Pass Island to find one of Coron’s most remote, yet spectacular destinations. Maroon yourself on Pass Island, where you can enjoy white sands and relaxed Island vibes. 

Read more Coron Palawan: Itinerary & Best Things to D o

Cebu: 2 to 3 Days

Cebu is home to the Philippines’ second city, Cebu City, but away from the metropolis, it’s a verdant, green paradise brimming with waterfalls and beaches. 

Popular Things to See in Cebu

If you’ve ever wanted to swim with shoals of hundreds of thousands of sardines, then take a trip to Moal Boal. Jump into the water off the beach and you’ll be immersed in the sardine runs. 

KAWASAN FALLS

Head to Kawasan Falls, where you can find the most spectacular waterfall in the Philippines. You can swim in turquoise plunge pools, or jump from towering cliffs into the water far below. 

If you are looking for an adrenaline-filled tour, no trip to Cebu is complete without visiting the Kawasan Canyon. Explore the canyon in a safe and secure environment during a full-day excursion from Cebu in a small group .

Jump into pools from heights of up to 30 feet (9 meters) and swim through caves and rivers. Plus, you’ll hike through the forest and enjoy lunch at Kawasan Falls.

Boracay: 2 to 3 Days

The most famous island in the Philippines is Boracay. This is the original tropical paradise, where you can find white sand beaches and fiery sunsets. 

But Boracay suffered from over-tourism and was forced to close for 6 months for a massive cleanup. It’s reopened though, and the future looks bright. 

Popular Things to See in Boracay

WHITE BEACH

The most iconic place in Boracay is White Beach. This long stretch of sand is glorious, and one of the most famous beaches in the Philippines. 

D’MALL

Head to D’Mall, just off the beach, where you can find Boracay’s best bars and restaurants. 

ISLAND HOPPING

Boracay has great beaches and is surrounded by great islands and snorkeling spots. The best way to explore is to join an island hopping tour. 

Read more 15 Essential Things to Do in Boraca y

Ideal 2 Week Philippines Itinerary

Using the initial 10-day itinerary as our base from above, we are going to build on that for the 2 week Philippines itinerary.

Honestly, it won’t look a whole lot different, with the exception of adding additional destinations. As I’ve already mentioned, the biggest hurdle is logistics in the Philippines.

So you want to plan your itinerary in a way that minimizes your time on airplanes, in airports and instead maximizes your time out adventuring.

With that said, I want to show your two viable options to maximize your 2 week Philippines itinerary below. There is no right answer, it truly depends on your interests.

2 Week Philippines Itinerary Overview – OPTION A:

• Day 4: Island Hopping tour or start 5-day sea expedition to El Nido
• Day 5: Fly to El Nido
• Day 6: El Nido
• Day 7: Travel overland to Puerto Princesa
• Day 8: Puerto Princesa
• Day 9: Fly to Cebu in the morning
• Day 10: Cebu – take a day trip to Kawasan Falls
• Day 11: Fly to Caticlan and take the ferry to Boracay
• Day 12: Boracay
• Day 13: Fly to Manila in the morning – spend the day exploring the city and visiting its sites
• Day 14: Depart the Philippines

2 Week Philippines Itinerary Overview – OPTION B:

• Day 4: Island Hopping tour
• Day 5: Fly to Bohol in the morning
• Day 6: Bohol/ Panglao
• Day 7: Bohol/ Panglao
• Day 8: Ferry to Cebu
• Day 9: Cebu – take a day trip to Kawasan Falls
• Day 10: Cebu – island tour

As your Philippines itinerary gets longer, you’ll be required to navigate trickier logistics. With 2 weeks, though, you can still be pretty fluid and avoid going back to Manila between islands on both of the above itineraries.

Taking island hopping day tours and utilizing local ferries in each of these destinations will allow you to explore more of the area, as well.

Palawan 4 to 5 Days

To the south of Coron, you can find Palawan, an island that’s often been called the Last Frontier of the Philippines. While many places here are far from untouched now, few places can match Palawan for raw beauty. 

Visit El Nido for parties and island hopping, head to Puerto Princesa for beaches and underground rivers, or travel far south to get really off the beaten track. 

Popular Things to See in Palawan

Located on the northern tip of Palawan, El Nido is a must-visit for any Philippines itinerary.

A sleepy little fishing village has grown into the number one backpacking spot in the Philippines, and once you start island hopping, you’ll soon understand why. 

Enjoy the beautiful coastline scenery on this full-day sightseeing cruise from El Nido . Relax onboard the boat while traveling around the islands and beaches of Bacuit Bay.

This includes 7 Commando Beach, Shimizu Island, and Secret Lagoon. Stop for swimming and snorkeling using the provided equipment, and refuel midday with a buffet lunch.

Read more Essential El Nido Palawan Guide

PUERTO PRINCESA UNDERGROUND RIVER

Close to Palawan’s largest city, you can find an unusual UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Underground River is a remarkable network of waterways that have carved a route through limestone rocks. 

Visit the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, and paddle down the Puerto Princesa Underground River on this 8-hour tour .

Board a boat at the mouth of the cave at Sabang Wharf, and stop at the Buenavista viewpoint for views of the Ulugan Bay.

Located far south, Balabac is about as off the beaten track as you can go in Palawan. Think raw Island scenery and untouched beaches. 

Read more 15 Stunning Things to Do in Palawan, Philippine s

Bohol: 2 to 3 Days

Bohol is the perfect place to visit if you’re putting together your first Philippines itinerary. 

You can visit the famed Chocolate Hills, hang out on Alona Beach, and island-hop to beautiful natural spots. 

Popular Things to See in Bohol

CHOCOLATE HILLS

One of the most famous places in the Philippines, no one should miss out on these legendary chocolate-colored hilltops. 

Enjoy a full-day tour of Bohol Island while traveling with an informative guide around the stunning island. Relax during a lunch cruise on the Loboc River.

Here you’ll have the opportunity to spot indigenous Philippine tarsiers, some of the smallest primates in the world, and then take in the Chocolate Hills from several vantage points.

ALONA BEACH

Found on Panglao Island, Alona Beach is the best place to stay in Bohol. White sands, fiery sunsets, and great snorkeling and diving opportunities. 

Read more 24 Bohol Tourist Spots & Things to Do That You Cannot Mis s

Ideal 3 Week Philippines Itinerary

Continuing to build off the above itineraries, we have an additional week to play with when we consider a 3 week Philippines itinerary. In my opinion, you still want to avoid routing back through Manila, if at all possible.

However, with a 3-week itinerary, you’re going to find yourself flying back through either Manila or Cebu to access some other places.

Unless, of course, you choose to use your additional week to extend your stays in Coron, El Nido/Palawan, Cebu, Boracay or Bohol. All of which are perfectly acceptable options.

If you want to know the truth, we’d happily spend 3 solid weeks just in Palawan! So each to their own, but there is still plenty to check out in the Philippines, so don’t be shy about island hopping either.

3 Week Philippines Itinerary Overview – OPTION A:

• Day 2: Take Bus & Ferry to Puerto Galera
• Day 3: Puerto Galera
• Day 4: Puerto Galera – afternoon ferry/bus to Manila
• Day 5: Fly to Coron in the morning – explore the area or book an afternoon tour
• Day 6: Island Hopping tour around Coron Island
• Day 7: Island Hopping tour or start 5-day sea expedition to El Nido
• Day 8: Fly to El Nido
• Day 9: El Nido
• Day 10: Travel overland to Puerto Princesa
• Day 11: Puerto Princesa
• Day 12: Fly to Cebu in the morning
• Day 13: Cebu – take a day trip to Kawasan Falls
• Day 14: Fly to Siargao
• Day 15: Siargao
• Day 16: Siargao
• Day 17: Fly to Cebu and overnight
• Day 18: Fly to Caticlan and take the ferry to Boracay
• Day 19: Boracay
• Day 20: Fly to Manila in the morning – spend the day exploring the city and visiting its sites
• Day 21: Depart the Philippines

3 Week Philippines Itinerary Overview – OPTION B:

• Day 11: Fly to Siargao
• Day 12: Siargao
• Day 13: Siargao
• Day 14: Fly to Cebu and overnight
• Day 15: Fly to Caticlan and take the ferry to Boracay
• Day 16: Boracay
• Day 17: Boracay
• Day 18: Ferry to Caticlan and fly to Manila
• Day 19: Manila – spend the day exploring the city and visiting its sites
• Day 20: Manila – day trip to Taal Volcano

A 3-week Philippines itinerary, no doubt, will give you a solid amount of time to see some of the best areas of the Philippines. You’ll get into multiple provinces and regions while having a nice balance of beaches, islands and adventure.

It is possible to venture further afield, and of course, there are still plenty of places in the Philipines that are worth a visit, even though they are not mentioned above.

Puerto Galera: 2 to 3 Days

Located just a short journey to the south of Manila, you can quickly escape the urban jungle with a trip to Puerto Galera.

Take a ferry from Batangas to the island of Mindoro, where you’ll find beautiful beaches, jungle-clad waterfalls, and excellent snorkeling and diving. 

Popular Things to See in Puerto Galera

The best beach in Puerto Galera is White Beach, known for its perfect white sands. 

Head inland to explore the crashing, towering waterfalls of Puerto Galera. 

SNORKELING & DIVING

Puerto Galera is surrounded by world-class reefs, and an unbelievable level of biodiversity is awaiting you beneath the waves. 

It is also a fantastic place to get your PADI scuba certification. So if you want to do some diving in the Philippines, or need a refresher course, Puerto Galera is a fantastic place to do this.

Read more Ultimate Puerto Galera Philippines Guide: Diving & Beache s

Siargao: 3 to 4 Days

Siargao is the most up and coming island in the Philippines. Made famous by Instagrammers showing off the rustic jungles and glorious beaches, this is a place where tourism is only going to increase. 

It’s also well known for its surfing opportunities and laid back island vibe. This has made it a popular backpacker hangout, but even is that isn’t your style, you should still add it to your list.

Popular Things to See in Siargao 

Siargao is the Philippines’ best-known surf spot, and there are plenty of great breaks to test your skills on. 

There’s not just one island here though, there are hundreds, and the best way to explore is on an island-hopping trip. 

Visit General Luna, Naked Island, Daku Island, and Guyam Island on a full-day tour of the Siargao Island area from Manila . Learn about the culture, history, and ecosystem of each distinct island through guided commentary as you travel.

Have More Time?

Check out Backpacking in the Philippines: 4 Week Recap & Travel Tips

Philippines Scuba Diving Itinerary

The Philippines is a scuba diving mecca, so I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention this aspect for building a Philippines itinerary. If it is the world-class scuba diving that you seek, then your itinerary is going to look a lot different.

This has a lot to do with the stipulations about flying after diving. So you have to be very thoughtful about how you layout your itinerary.

The best diving in the Philippines is found around Palawan and Cebu. This means you will want to plan your itinerary to maximize time under the water in these regions and utilize the ferry services that run to the various dive areas from the hubs of Coron and Cebu.

Overview of the Best Scuba Diving Locations:

• Puerto Galera

Beginners or people that wish to get their PADI Open Water certification should look to places like Puerto Galera and Coron. Both places are also great options for getting your PADI Advanced Open Water certification.

Experienced divers will want to head to Coron to dive on WWII shipwrecks before heading to Cebu, where they can access world-famous dive sites in Malapascua, Dumaguete and Panglao, to name a few.

As you can see, the places mentioned vary a bit from those listed in the more standard itineraries above. Of course, if you’re scuba diving for fun, you’ll be able to find great diving almost anywhere in the country.

Putting it All Together

As I’ve said multiple times, there are hundreds of possible outcomes for building a Philippines itinerary that works for you. There is no right or wrong way to do it.

Where you go and what you do will have a lot to do with how much time you have and your budget. It is possible to experience the Philippines as a backpacker on a budget, in a high-end luxury way and everything in between.

Feel free to share your Philippines itinerary ideas and questions below!

More on the Philippines:

• 30 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in the Philippines
• Best Time to Visit the Philippines: Month by Month Breakdown
• 25 Amazing Drone Photos of the Philippines
• Culion Island Palawan: Is This the Next Philippines Hot Spot?
• Busuanga Island Palawan: Ultimate Guide to the Last Frontier
• Calauit Safari Park: African Animals Roam Free in the Philippines?
• How to Get From Manila to Puerto Galera
• 30 Philippines Pictures To Inspire Your Next Vacation

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Lina is an award-winning photographer and writer that has been exploring the world since 2001. She has traveled to 100 countries on all 7 continents. Member: SATW, NATJA, ATTA, ITWA

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Philippines travel requirements 2024: What travelers need to know

We aim to keep this post updated about Philippines travel in 2024 with official Philippines travel restrictions, requirements, and health and safety guidance. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions so you can travel confidently, safely, and responsibly in this new post-pandemic world of ours.

As restrictions can vary based on the traveler’s citizenship, we will focus primarily on rules affecting U.S. citizens.

Last update: February 21, 2024. Originally published: October 2020.

Disclosure: This post contains some affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of our links, we may receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you.

* Get our free Post-Pandemic Travel Checklist *

February 2024:  “Our main requirement for travel to the Philippines was completing an online form within 72 hours of arriving. Our airline reminded us to do the same process before departing the Philippines as well. The form asks for flight info, countries visited in the last 30 days, and whether you have been sick or exposed to someone ‘known to have communicable/infectious disease’ in the past 30 days. We then received a QR code to show at the airport. We did not need to show the QR code upon arrival or departure (airline staff told me it’s actually for Philippine passport holders only). At immigration they had no questions for us on arrival or departure.” – Michelle & Jedd, Intentional Travelers, American digital nomads

Photo credit: Anwar Y January 2024: “I visited the Philippines for 3 weeks in January with visits to places on 4 major islands across the country [Luzon, Bohol, Cebu, and Palawan]. Overall tourism was open and accessible within the country, flights between islands were the easiest, with long overland travel times (due to local-roads / lack of highways). We did not experience any travel restrictions while within the country. There is a pre-arrival form that must be filled out that is used for tracing but really we didn’t find it used much beyond immigration. There were requirements for providing hotels for contact tracing but it was haphazardly enforced, such as only 1 bus company asked for this information. Access to all services is open, we did notice that for many services employees were masked but there was no requirement for tourists to mask. We found covid tests readily accessible and often in vending machines such as in the airport. One thing of note is that people did appear to be sick. My entire group ended up sick (non-covid) but the sinus cold did impede our ability to do some activities (scuba diving).” – Anwar Y of Beyond My Door , American traveler

At the end of the post, we share on-the-ground perspectives from local residents and travelers to the Philippines so you can get a true sense of what to expect. We’re thankful to one of our team members from the Philippines for co-creating this post with us!

Table of Contents

Is the Philippines open for travel? Can I travel to the Philippines right now?

Effective July 2023 , all travelers are allowed entry in the Philippines without restrictions. The following are no longer required to enter the Philippines:

• Proof of Vaccination
• Proof of negative Covid test (for unvaccinated or partially vaccinated travelers)
• Travel insurance

However, travelers must still meet the following requirements:

• As of April 2023, all travelers, including children. are required to register via the Electronic Travel Declaration System no earlier than 72 hours from the intended arrival.
• Passport must be valid for at least six months at the time of arrival.
• Have booked a return or outbound ticket (affiliate link).

U.S. citizens are allowed visa-free entry into the Philippines for 30 days.

See the list of visa exempt countries here.

Philippines travel restrictions  have changed over time, please check back for updates.

Quarantine rules in the Philippines: What happens if I get Covid?

All travelers arriving in the Philippines are not required to quarantine.

Foreign tourists who  test positive for Covid while in the Philippines must continue to isolate and undergo quarantine.

For cases with moderate to severe symptoms or belonging to the immunocompromised category, isolation of 10 days from onset of signs and symptoms is required. Patient may be required to be admitted to a health care facility based on the advice of the attending physician.

For severe cases and immunocompromised cases , isolation is required and may end only upon the advice of their health care provider.

Patients with mild symptoms or asymptomatic are advised to isolate at home for five days or until fever-free for at least 24 hours without using antipyretics such as paracetamol, whichever is earlier.

Foreign tourists may be required to cover the costs of quarantine accommodations or hospitalization.

Recommended Quarantine Hotels in the Philippines:

Bayview Park Hotel Manila – Located at the heart of Manila, near the Ninoy Aquino International Airport and US Embassy, Bayview Park Hotel has modern and cozy rooms with air conditioning, cable TV, personal safe, and free Wi-Fi. The hotel also features an outdoor swimming pool and coffee shop with local and international dishes. Estimated cost for a 14-day stay is $748-$997. Book this hotel >

Hotel Durban – Hotel Durban is located in Makati, Manila. The hotel features air conditioned rooms, restaurant, bar, and free Wifi. Estimated cost for a 14-day stay is $471-$871. Book this hotel >

Somerset Millennium Makati – Somerset Millennium is a high-end hotel conveniently located in the vibrant business district of Makati City, 30 minutes from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport. The hotel offers elegant rooms with free Wifi, air conditioning, and flat screen TVs. There’s also an on-site restaurant, fitness center, spa, and swimming pool. Estimated cost for a 14-day stay is $1657-$1888. Book this hotel >

Radissan Blu Cebu – The Radissan Blue is one of Cebu’s top rated five star hotels. It has swimming pool, spa, fitness center, on-site restaurant, and airport transfers. Rooms come with air conditioning, Wifi, and a fantastic breakfast. Estimated cost for a 14-day stay is $1022-$1498. Book this hotel >

Can I travel to the Philippines in April 2024? Can I travel to Philippines this Spring?

The Philippines is open to tourists in April. Read on for details and check back for updates.

What is it like to fly to Manila MNL Ninoy Aquino International Airport right now? Philippine Airlines reports p assengers are no longer required to wear face masks, though it is still recommended.

Do I have to quarantine when traveling to the Philippines? No. Only travelers who test positive will need to quarantine. See details above.

Does Philippines check COVID-19 symptoms of incoming travelers? Travelers undergo a passive thermal scan upon arrival in the airport. Hats must be removed, otherwise just walk through.

Does Philippines require a negative Covid 19 test for travelers? No. As of July 2023, a negative test is no longer required for travelers to enter the Philippines.

Do I have to undergo a Covid test upon arrival in the Philippines? No. Covid test upon arrival is no longer required.

Does Philippines require a proof of Coronavirus vaccine for travelers? No. A proof of Coronavirus vaccine is no longer required.

Do I still need to provide a negative Covid test or quarantine if I have been vaccinated? Quarantine and negative Covid test is no longer required for travelers.

Is a booster shot required for travel to the Philippines? At this time, booster shots are not required in the Philippines. There is currently no expiration period set for the validity of vaccinations.

Do I need to provide proof of vaccination or test for domestic flights in the Philippines? Most destinations within the Philippines no longer require a proof of vaccination or test for domestic flights.

However, local authorities may have specific requirements. It is recommended to check with the destination’s local government unit (LGU) through their official website or Facebook page for the latest rules and guidelines.

What healthcare options are available to travelers in the Philippines who get the virus?   Philippine hospitals and clinics are open. Foreign visitors can get PCR or antigen test at  the Philippines Department Of Health accredited testing centers .

Foreign visitors who get the virus would pay out of pocket for medical services. The medical expenses for the treatment will vary depending on the severity of the condition, the hospital where the patient is admitted, confinement duration, and other factors.

For travel insurance that covers Covid, check out Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing >

What service businesses and restaurants are open in the Philippines? Markets and groceries, which are considered essential businesses, remained open throughout the duration of the community quarantine in the Philippines.

Restaurants are permitted to accept dine-ins. Malls, personal care services, and entertainment establishments are also back in business following health and safety protocols.

More hotels, resorts, and other accommodation establishments are allowed to operate under different community quarantine classifications and cater to local travelers.

Do I need to provide proof of vaccination or a negative test to enter or stay at hotels, resorts, and other accommodation establishments in the Philippines? Most accommodation establishments in the Philippines no longer require a proof of vaccination or a negative Covid test.

It is advisable to visit the hotel website or official social media pages to know their latest guidelines. Additionally, contacting the establishment directly is recommended for any clarifications.

What public gatherings are allowed in Philippines? Public gatherings are allowed but must follow health and safety protocols.

Are face masks required in the Philippines? As of July 2023 , wearing of face masks is no longer required in the Philippines.

Are buses running in the Philippines? Yes. Public transportation is available in the Philippines, including buses, jeepneys, trains, tricycles, and vans.

Will the Philippines impose new Covid restrictions? What’s next is difficult to predict. Historically, the Philippines has imposed nationwide as well as localized COVID-19 restrictions when strains on the health care system might become unsustainable.

How has the Coronavirus impacted the Philippines?

The first case of the Coronavirus was confirmed in the Philippines January 30, 2020 and the country was placed under a State of Public Health Emergency on March 8, 2020.

As a measure to limit the spread of the virus, lockdowns or community quarantines have been imposed since March 15, 2020. Despite implementing strict lockdowns, the country still experienced surges in cases, reporting more confirmed cases and deaths than any other Southeast Asian country.

The onslaught of the virus put the country into recession with mass unemployment. The restriction on travel also affected tourism, which is a large industry in the country. 

Over two thirds of the population has been vaccinated in the Philippines.

In July 2023, the State of Public Health Emergency has been lifted throughout the Philippines. All restrictions due to Covid 19 are no longer in effect.

For the current situation in the Philippines, including: total COVID-19 positive cases; total cases in the Philippines; and COVID-19 testing in the Philippines, please see the Philippines Department of Health site .

What should you pack for safely traveling in the Philippines?

😷 Face Masks – Face coverings are optional but recommended in crowded areas. Find N95 masks at Bona Fide > or designer options at Vida >

💊 Medicine – Bring enough prescription and over-the-counter medication for your entire trip to avoid trips to the clinic.

💳 Vaccine Card Holder – Protect that paper CDC card when traveling abroad (if your country doesn’t offer a digital version). Get a simple plastic protector > or Vegan leather clippable > or Leather passport + card combo holder >

👃 Covid self-test – The most studied rapid antigen self-test with FDA emergency authorization.  NOT valid to enter countries. Use for your own peace of mind. Order from CVS > or Walmart >

💧 Sealed water bottle – Make sure your reusable water bottle has a lid that’s not exposed to the air. We use one of each of the following: Shop insulated water bottles with protective lid > Shop water bottles with purification filter and protective lid >

✈️ Travel insurance that covers Covid – We’ve started using Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing for affordable evacuation, international medical, and trip coverage.

What do Philippine locals and recent travelers say about visiting the Philippines now?

What is it like to visit the Philippines right now? It’s our goal to provide regular updates here from real people on the ground, to help potential visitors know what to expect. The following are subjective opinions only. Official travel guidance can be found above.

November 2023 – Gladis of Happiness on the Way , Filipina citizen:  “I flew from Frankfurt to Clark International Airport (Philippines) in September and was surprised by the low number of tourists. I’ve traveled around Clark and Manila for a month and most of the businesses like cafes, restaurants and even tours are all back – I love how I was able to see famous spots with less tourists!

Healthcare, testing, and local attractions are fully operational in most cities and touristy towns. Hotels and restaurants provide sanitizers, and staff are vaccinated with open-air setups. Airports in the Philippines have synchronized e-travel for smoother lines. Most popular destinations have maximum tourists now, so booking ahead is advisable to secure your spot.”

June 2023 – Liza of Always in Spain : “I’m in the Philippines for one month (May to June 2023) to visit family and travel around the country.

Tourism in the Philippines is thriving again! Tourist attractions are open without restrictions, tour operators are offering services again, and transportation (air & land) look fully open for domestic travel so it’s easy to get around the country.

Aside from having to complete a declaration upon arrival, things are back to normal in the Philippines. Some people still prefer to mask up (especially indoors) but it’s not obligatory.

Pharmacies are plentiful in the large cities so you have easy access to home testing kits and over-the-counter medication if you need it. If you’re traveling to more remote areas, it’s a good idea to have your own emergency medical kit just in case.”

February 2023 – Kieren of Wales Guidebook , UK traveler:  “My girlfriend and I visited the Philippines for 10 days in February 2023 with a return trip from Bali. Tourism in the Philippines is mostly back to normal. Aside from being asked to wear masks at airports and onboard with some airlines, there were no other Covid requirements or restrictions and I can highly recommend visiting at this time.

Although signage regarding Covid restrictions (such as mask wearing) are still on display across the country, these are rarely enforced. You may still see staff wearing masks in supermarkets and shopping malls. Pharmacies are readily available in most areas frequented by tourists and the level of English is usually enough to get any medicine you need. Chain pharmacies, such as Watsons, are more likely to speak a good level of English.”

October 2022 – Jennifer Terri, Philippines:

September 2022 – Elizabeth, visitor from UK:   “I visited the Philippines for a 3-week trip to explore its top destinations. The locals are still wearing masks, however, it’s a bit more relaxed, especially in the open public area. When you enter an establishment, you will be asked or expected to put on the mask.

Most businesses related to tourism are open or in service such as airlines, hotels, and tour agencies. Locals seems to be getting back on travelling as well, but it seems like the airlines are not well-staffed resulting in long queues, although very little delay.”

July 2022 – Angeline of GoAroundPhilippines.com , resident:  “All tourist destinations in the country are open and locals mostly enjoy them now. It is the best time to visit as there are still few tourists around and you can easily get cheaper rates for hotels and tours as companies need tourists.

The islands and beaches have gone through a bit of a break so they’ve become more vibrant and marine animals are plenty. There are still no long lines or crowds either.”

March 2022 – Camille, resident of the Philippines: “Things are finally the closest it’s been to “back to normal” after two long years of strict quarantine rules. Everything feels much more relaxed and people are happy to go out, dine out, party, and travel. Even though it feels like back to normal, most people still comply with wearing masks almost everywhere so this is something foreigners should expect and be sensitive in following.

Many places still are at limited capacity though, so lines are long and crowds can be packed. As much as possible, we appreciate it when tourists are understanding of any delays or mishaps. There’s a period of adjustment since it’s only been recently that things are as they were before. Many workers have been affected and are now happy to get back to work, so patience and tips are appreciated. At the end of the day, tourism has always played a big part in our economy so you’ll definitely feel welcome.”

July 2021 – Ailene, resident of Manila: “The Philippines does not currently allow tourists to enter the country. Majority of the residents are hesitant to the reopening of the borders to foreign tourists because of the fear that our healthcare system would collapse if there will be a surge in Covid cases. In Metro Manila, people (except children and senior citizens) are free to move within the city as long as the curfew, social distancing, face mask, and face shield rules are observed. Traveling to other places outside Metro Manila is also possible. Travel restrictions are generally being followed. However, there were some instances when people were caught violating the rules such as faking their Covid results, partying, and not following the curfew. Access to healthcare is a little difficult. In some hospitals and clinics, patients without an appointment will not be allowed to enter. But virtual consultation is also available. Getting tested for Covid is easier. People have an option to get tested at clinics, hospitals, drive through testing centers, or at home. Access to local attractions is possible as long as the needed requirements are provided. A negative Covid test is required in some destinations, while a health certificate is enough for some. Right now, the safest and preferred places to travel to are private resorts and outdoor open areas like parks and beaches where interaction with other people can be avoided as much as possible. Restaurants, groceries, and other food service can be accessed easily. Although public transportation is available for travelers, it is safer to travel in private vehicles.”

June 2021 – Tina of https://iwentanyways.com , resident of Philippines: “Many provinces in the country are not yet open to tourism, and those that are already open have requirements that need to be followed. Locals have varying reaction to their place opening up to tourists. Some support the opening due to financial reasons, while those that are not in favor are concerned that these tourists might spread the virus in their place. Travel restrictions are being followed by locals and visitors, but I’ve heard of stories of some people who do not follow it but are able to get away with it. As for the healthcare and testing, most of the hospitals and testing centers are available in the capital cities. Some provinces that have opened for tourism require visitors to register in an app and wait for the approval of their visit before they could travel. This is required for contact tracing purposes.”

Even if you can’t go to the Philippines right now, you can still get started planning your Philippines trip for the future.

Check out our other Philippines travel resources: – Best Places to Visit in the Philippines on a Budget

If you have questions or updates about travel to the Philippines during the Coronavirus crisis or post-pandemic, please let us know in the comments below. *Please note that we are not able to advise travelers regarding specific situations outside of the free information provided above. We recommend working with a professional travel agent if you need assistance particular to your trip.

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Disclaimer: Please note, travel restrictions change frequently. Readers must take responsibility for verifying information through official sources like the State Department and CDC, in respect to their specific situations. No responsibility can be accepted by Intentional Travelers for action or inaction as a result of information provided through IntentionalTravelers.com. Any information provided here is issued as general information only.

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84 Comments

We have booked a trip to the Philippines next month. We have not been vaccinated for covid19, Earlier it was mentioned that we had to take a corona test to enter the philippines. Last weekend all corona measures in the Philippines were scrapped, see source: https://pco.gov.ph/news_releases/pbbm-lifts-state-of-public-health-emergency-throughout-ph-due-to-covid-19/

I don’t want any surprises, Can you please confirm to me if we need to take a corona test to fly to the Philippines (from Madrid) or if it is therefore not necessary anymore now. In addition, I am also asking for more clarity on the inernal movements.

Hello Falko. Since the State of Public Health Emergency has been lifted in the Philippines, all rules and restrictions due to Covid 19 are no longer in effect. This means that you are no longer required to present a negative Covid test to enter the Philippines. For traveling within the Philippines, restrictions are also no longer in effect. However, it is still advisable to check your destination’s local government unit (LGU) official website or Facebook page for the latest travel guidelines. You may also check for the latest COVID requirements by destination through this websites: https://www.philippineairlines.com/covid-information-hub/covid-requirements

Hello, I’m a little confused on one issue. I’m a US citizen unvaccinated and would like to fly to the Philippines. I know what tests, etc I need to actually fly to the philippines, but what is not clear to me based on conflicting information is will I be required to take another covid test on arrival if the 24 hour one taken before flight was negative? One thing I don’t want to happen is discover I have to have another one when I arrive as I really hate them since they are so unnecessarily intrusive, and I’ve read some places that you will need a second one on arrival regardless of the results of the preflight test. I would be flying to Cebu. Thank you for your time.

Hello Sam, thank you for visiting our blog. According to the current entry rules , unvaccinated or partially vaccinated “travelers 15 years and older who fail to present a negative pre-departure testing shall be required to undergo a laboratory-based Antigen Test UPON ARRIVAL at the airport.” Therefore, if you can provide a valid and negative pre-departure Covid test when you arrive in the Philippines, then you will no longer have to test upon arrival at the airport.

Thank you for answering my question, that is good news. Just one other question please. Where do I look to find what remotely supervised covid tests are accepted by Philippines government on arrival since I don’t want to take a test in a clinic?

Hello Sam. Unfortunately, we cannot find updated information about remotely supervised tests accepted by the Philippines. It seems like no updates have been published but we’ll let you know if we find updated information regarding this. You may also contact the Philippine Department of Tourism official Facebook page or a Philippine embassy near you to get information about remotely supervised tests.

Is a negative COVID test result required for return travel from the Philippines to the United States?

Hi. Regardless of departure point, test results are not required going to the US, and as of this month (May 2023), noncitizen nonimmigrant air passengers no longer need to show proof of being fully vaccinated either.

I will be on vacation soon in the Philippines and resorts (specifically at Pico de Loro, Batangas and Los Banos, Laguna) still require a certified negative covid-test for stay. Where can I get this certified covid-19 rapid antigen test?

Hello Yeen. Thank you for visiting our blog. You can see the list of licensed Covid 19 testing facilities in the Philippines here: Philippine Department of Health Licensed Covid-19 Testing Laboratories

I am traveling to the Philippines in July 2023. I see that the Philippines currently still requires a negative Antigen Test for entry. Once a traveler has entered the country and wants to travel to different locations (such as Tacloban, Cebu City, Bohol, etc.) does a traveler have to provide a clean test at every domestic airport in the Philippines to board the plane if I stayed at each different location for 3-5 days? I need clarification as the domestic air carriers (Cebu Pacific, Air Asia, etc.) indicate that you need at least a negative Antigen Test to board on their websites. Any comments from recent travelers in the Philippines would be helpful. Thank you

Hi Greg. It is correct that the Philippines still require proof of a negative COVID test for entry if a traveler is unvaccinated or partially vaccinated. For travel within the Philippines, most destination no longer require a negative test for domestic flights. However, please note that some destination may still require a negative test and other documents for domestic travel depending on the local authorities’ regulations. We recommend that you check your destination’s local government unit (LGU) official website or Facebook page for the latest travel guidelines and requirements.

You may also check for the latest COVID requirements by destination through these websites: https://www.cebupacificair.com/pages/travel-info/covid-travel-reminders/travel-document-requirements?lang=en-PH https://www.philippineairlines.com/covid-information-hub/covid-requirements

We hope this helps and thank you for visiting our blog!

Hello, we are scheduled to go to the Philippines February 1st. We will be flying to japan January 27th and then from japan to Manila February 1st. Then from Manila to Boracay on the 2nd of February. We are American us citizens unvaccinated. What are the requirements and regulations for us? Will we be allowed to go with the new covid laws?

Hello Vee. Thanks for visiting our blog. Based on the current travel requirements and your status as an unvaccinated U.S. citizens, the following are the requirements you need:

For travel to Japan, you will need to provide a pre-travel COVID-19 test conducted within 72 hours prior to departure from the country/region of origin. You may check the Japan Ministry of Foreign Affairs webpage or the U.S. Embassy in Japan webpage for details.

For travel to the Philippines, you will need the follwing: – negative Antigen test certificate from a clinic conducted within 24 hours of departure from the country of origin – complete a BOQ e-Health Declaration Card (e-HDC), including children – passport valid for at least six months at the time of arrival – return or outbound ticket to your country of origin or next country of destination.

Once you’re in the Philippines, the requirements to travel to Boracay are the following: – Tourist Arrival Form – Confirmed Boracay Hotel Booking slip/voucher – Passport (for Foreigners)

You may also contact the Boracay/Aklan Tourism facebook page for more details.

Hello, we are Polish Filipino marrige and we are not vaccinated. We are planing to Visit Philipinnes in the middle of January 2024. Do you think it will be still required to do the PCR covid tests before travel? Since I read about Thailand, Laos, Vietnam is already fully open (no covid tests, no vaccinated etc). When they will fully open the Philippines? Regards

Thanks for visiting our blog. We don’t have any special information about the government’s future plans about travel restrictions, however, we will be sure to update this post when we see that anything changes.

Hello there, i am filipino-american citizen. I am unvaccinated and my vacation and my 4yo son to cebu by october. What are the restrictions for us since we don’t want to get vaccinated. From cebu international airport do we have to book a hotel for quaratines that are doh accredited and for how many days? Is it possible to choose our own place to stay while waiting for pcr test? And also does me and my son need a pcr test before we travel to Philippines? And also do we need return ticket or not needed? Hope to hear your response. Thank you

Hi Isabel. Thanks for visiting our blog! The current restriction states that foreign nationals (including Balikbayans) visiting the Philippines without a visa must be vaccinated. Unfortunately, you won’t be allowed entry into the Philippines based on the current rules. The same goes for your 4-year-old son since he will follow the rules that are applicable to you. However, if you will enter the Philippines with a visa or if you have double citizenship (Filipino and American) then it’s possible that you and your son may be allowed entry. We recommend that you contact or visit the Philippine Embassy in your area to see if there are any exemptions applicable to you that will allow you to visit the Philippines. Hope this helps.

Hello hoping to travel to the Philippines but I am unvaccinated are they open for unvaccinated foreign travelers yet?

Hi Mark. You’ll find the answer to that in our post and we’ll continue to update it as rules change.

Please note that on the PAL site ( https://www.philippineairlines.com/en/covid-19/arrivingintheph ) it states that valid return ticket(s) to the original port of origin or next port of destination for not more than 30 days from the date of arrival in the Philippines is/are required. Since I want to go for 3 months can I assume this is now impossible? Please help

Hi Norman! Thanks for visiting our blog. Tourists entering the Philippines visa-free are allowed to stay for not more than 30 days. Thus, the need for a valid return ticket to your country of origin or your next destination dated not more than 30 days from the date of arrival in the Philippines. If you want to stay in the Philippines for more than 30 days, you will need to apply for a Philippine tourist visa. You need to contact the Philippine Embassy or Consulate near you for information on how to apply for a Philippine tourist visa. I hope this helps.

I am a Filipino citizen with Philippine passport and vaccinated, I will be traveling with my family to Philippines – my husband american citizen fully vaccinated, but my 1.5 yrs old son also american citizen and not vaccinated. We are just planning to stay in the Philippines for 1 week just for my son to meet my parents. My question is, will he/we still need to be in quarantine? Thanks

Hi Camille. Thanks for visiting our blog. According to the Philippine’s quarantine rules, children below the age of 12 who cannot be vaccinated must follow the quarantine protocols of the parents traveling with them. Since you and your husband are fully vaccinated and do not need to quarantine, your son is not required to quarantine as well. You may also contact the Philippine Bureau of Immigration for more information regarding entry requirements.

I heard the quarantine laws recently changed. I am a US citizen fully vaccinated. I have two questions…

1) Do I still have to quarantine? 2) Will I be admitted with a work visa?

Thanks for visiting our blog. If you are traveling to the Philippines from the United States and fully vaccinated, you still need to quarantine at a government approved facility until the result of a RT-PCR test taken on the 5th day of quarantine is released. If the result is negative, you’ll be allowed to continue the quarantine at home until the 10th day. You can check the post for more details about quarantine rules in the Philippines. Regarding your work visa, if it is valid and existing, then you may be allowed to enter the Philippines. We advise that you contact the nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate in your area to get more information and before attempting travel.

Travel to the Philippines My legal wife is an ex-Philippine citizen having been “required” to give it up on becoming a Canadian citizen, more years ago than I’m “allowed to divulge”! I’m a naturalized Canadian citizen originally from the UK, a few years ago shall we say! Am I correct in believing my wife can travel “home” without a pre-authorized but will we granted a “tourist” visa on arrival, and that I may accompany her getting a “balikbyan” visa on arrival?

Vaccine “Combo” Canada considers us “fully” vaccinated against COVID-19 with 1st Dose Pfizer-BioNTech & 2nd Dose Moderna Mrna vaccines, but is this “combo” accepted by the Philippines?

Vaccination-Quarantine I understand that as we are “fully” vaccinated we will be required to “reside” at a hotel for 7 days with a PCR test on Day 5, and if the PCR test is clear we can then shorten the full 14-day period to 10 days? Can the hotel be “of our choice” if that hotel provides such facilities, or are their only “designated” hotels to choose from? At the hotel do we have full access to its facilities such as swimming pool etc if open, or are we “imprisioned” in our rooms for the duration?

Post-Quarantine Travel in the Locale Are there any restrictions for “ALL” in moving around the locale to say attend golf courses if open, and can we travel by public transport. Are there any “AGE” restrictions as we are seniors, although the exact ages are a “closely guarded secret”!

Travel to Provences On arrival into Manila can we “immediately” transfer to the domestic airport for travel to the Provences for quarantine, or do we have to quarantine in Manila before moving on?

Best wishes William & Lourdes

Hello, William and Lourdes, and thank you for visiting our blog. These are important questions you have, and travel restrictions can certainly be confusing, not to mention constantly changing. We are only able to track a limited set of scenarios, which we post for free on the blog. To answer specific questions beyond what’s in our post, we would recommend working with a travel agent to ensure your trip needs are met. We’ll also see where we can better clarify some of the information in our post in the coming days. Best regards.

I would like to get a visitor visa for the Philippines as I plan to marry my fiancé who is a Philippine resident in January 2022. Can you guide me to websites so that the visa process for the Philippines can be simplified if that is possible, or inexpensive visa service for the Philippines? Thank you for any help you can provide me. Anthony

Hi Anthony. Thank you for your question. As we do not have personal experience using a visa service ourselves, we can only recommend doing a web search for “philippines visa services” and checking for recent user reviews. Perhaps one of our other readers will be able to chime in with a suggestion in the future.

Hi – Is there a quarantine exception offered for emergency travel from the U.S. (fully vaccinated) such as caring for sick/dying family member?

Thanks for visiting our blog. We are not aware of emergency exceptions at this time. With the many changing rules, we have to focus on those that apply to the majority of travelers, so a travel agent or visa service that specializes in the Philippines may be more help for specific scenarios or exceptions.

Hi! Fully vaccinated foreign travellers who have been in a green list country for at least 14 days are allowed to enter the Philippines without any problems as long as they quarantine 7 days in an approved facility, right? So for me who live in Italy, the only way I can currently access the Philippines would be to travel to Albania (green list country) right after I get my second dose, stay there 2 weeks and then fly from Albania to the Philippines.

Hi Andrea, thank you for visiting our blog. That is a very good question. The Philippines’ green lane was created to lessen the quarantine period of fully vaccinated individuals who are allowed to enter in the Philippines. Therefore, it is important to determine first if you belong to any of the traveler categories who can enter the Philippines. For foreign citizens, you must have a valid and existing Philippine visa. If without a visa, you must be a former Filipino or a family member traveling with a former Filipino. You can check the complete details of who can enter the Philippines here .

If you are one of those travelers who are allowed to enter, fully vaccinated, and traveling from Albania or any of the countries in the Philippines’ green list, the quarantine period would only be 7 days.

Hi Ailene and thank you for your kind reply. I guess I will need a visa and probably an exemption document which I have now idea how to get and if there are any requirements I don’t think I meet them anyway since the purpose of the trip would be to visit my girlfriend hence why I am considered as a mere tourist.

I’m from Arizona currently looking for a way to travel to the Philippines ASAP to marry my fiance. I have my vaild US passport, however found myself needing a tourist visa with a possible certificate of entry as well..would you recommend going through a travel agency, a family member who is Filipino, or waiting for the covid travel restrictions to be lifted? Point me in the right direction or any vaild news will be greatly appreciated. Thanks & God bless.

Hi Chris. Without a valid and existing visa, you would need to wait for restrictions to change. We’ll be sure to update this post as we get more news. In general, we do recommend working with a travel agent who is familiar with Philippine visas to help navigate the ever-changing travel situation these days.

Chris You and so many others are in the same situation. I am looking into flying my Fiance to another country, (Mexico, Columbia or Costa Rica) Getting married there Then fly back together on a Balikbayan Visa.

Hi! We want to visit Philippines in February. If we are vaccinated with 2 doses do we still need to do a covid test? We need to fill out a form before entering the Philippines? but for Boracay? Thank you!

Hello Cristina! Based on the current Philippine travel rules, a booster is no longer required for entry, therefore, you no longer need to provide a negative Covid test. However, you need to register on the Philippines eTravel website and you can register up to three days in advance of your departure. For Boracay, a filled out tourist arrival form, hotel booking, and passport for foreign tourists are required. You can check details here or you may contact the Aklan government through their Facebook page for additional information.

Hi! I was just wondering, are fully vaccinated senior citizen (60 years and older) coming from Canada allowed to enter Philippines? Are there any travel restriction for their age group? Thanks a lot!

Thanks for visiting our blog. We’ve been focusing on requirements primarily for US citizens, as it can vary by country and it’s a challenge to track all the changes. I would double-check with the Canadian State Department and/or a travel agent for more specific guidance. It’s my understanding that the age group restrictions don’t apply for entering the country but rather for going out and about once there – so far this has only been relevant to Philippine residents and will likely change with local vaccination rates eventually.

Hi, thank you for a really good blog. I am fully vaccinated norwegian man, and I wonder if you know anything about when it will be possible to travel to the Philippines. Cebu is a possible destination. If you dont know, because I think no one can know for sure now, what will be your educated guess. I have a close friend I want to visit there.

I’m glad you’ve found our blog helpful. I wish we had more insight as to when things will open up more. Some countries in Southeast Asia have indicated that they may wait until a majority of their own population is vaccinated, so it really is uncertain. We’ll do our best to provide updates here as they come out.

I am a fully-vaccinated US citizen. Do I understand correctly that I can fly into Cebu with no quarantine requirements? What covid-related requirements would I be subjected to (e.g. tests, etc). Thank you!

Hi James. Thank you for visiting our blog. Travelers flying in directly to Cebu don’t have to quarantine at the hotel, provided that they receive a negative test result conducted immediately upon arrival at the airport. Please note that this is applicable only to permitted foreign nationals. We recommend that you contact the local government of Cebu or the Cebu-Mactan International Airport for complete details and requirements. Also, as of today, only US citizens with visa, US citizens who are former Filipinos, and US citizens who are family members and traveling with a Filipino citizen or former Filipino are allowed entry in the Philippines. Please see the Philippine Bureau of Immigration page for complete details. It is also advisable to contact the Philippine Embassy or Consulate in your area for more information and before attempting travel.

My daughter was born in Manila in 2020. What do i need to do to get to the philippines? The philippines embassy in los angelas doesn’t replay to my emails and nobody picks up the phones. please help

Hello and thank you for visiting our blog. We do our best to provide regularly updated information on this post for free to the public, as our small team does not have capacity to provide individualized advice for everyone who requests. If you’re not able to find what you need in the details of our post or through the official resource links we have provided above, many travelers are finding this type of support through travel agents.

I’m from Canada and I’m also a citizen here. I don’t understand why United States citizen foreigners are allowed in the Philippines but not Canadians when their country is much worse with the current situation with the covid virus. Or are Canadians allowed also? Thank you.

Hello and thanks for visiting our blog. Because the majority of our blog readers are from the US and rules do vary by country and change frequently, we have chosen to focus on restrictions for Americans in this particular post. This does not mean other nationalities are excluded from entering the Philippines. I would suggest checking the Canadian State Department website for details that apply to your home country.

Thanks for all the info! Hoping to head to the Philippines December of this year, of course plans are put on hold until then.

I’m planning a trip in August. Do you think the borders will be reopened? If so, I want to go to Iloilo directly, can I quarantine there instead of Manilla even though I have a 1h change (stopover because of a direct flight with terminal as Iloilo) of plane there? Thank you

Hi. Thanks for visiting our blog. We do our best to keep this post updated as things change, but we don’t have any special insight as to when changes will happen in the future. For advice on specific trip questions that you can’t find in our post, we recommend seeking a professional travel agent. Safe travels.

My American boyfriend planning to come and meet me this coming month of July. He should get a visa in US before coming here in the Philippines or he could get a visa when he landed here in the Philippines then? His destination will be in Kalibo, Aklan. Any idea about the protocols travelling to Kalibo, Aklan? And if he need to be quarantine for 14 days? He’s already fully vaccinated with Moderna vaccine. He is also tested in Covid and had a negative results. Thank you.

Thank you for visiting our blog. Traveling to the Philippines without a visa, unfortunately, that has been temporarily suspended because of the pandemic so he would need to arrange a visa before traveling. You can find details on the Philippine Bureau of Immigration Facebook page . Please note that we are not able to advise travelers regarding specific situations outside of the free information we already provide above. If you’re not able to find answers for your particular trip in our post, we recommend working with a professional travel agent to ensure your personal trip needs are met.

I’M TRYING TO TRAVEL IN JULY IS IT POSSIBLE FOR ME TO VISIT MY FAMILY. I’M AN AMERICAN CITIZEN BUT FORMERLY FILIPINO CITIZEN. FULLY VACCINATED AND JUST GOT SWAB FOR COVID 4 TIMES ALREADY. THANK YOU

Hello and thank you for visiting our blog. We do our best to provide regularly updated information on this post for free to the public, as our small team does not have capacity to provide individualized advice for everyone who requests. I hope you’ll find what you need in the details of our post or through the official resource links we have provided above. If you need further assistance, many travelers are finding this type of support through travel agents.

i don’t know how accurate your info is as i work with a filipino here in the US and he watches Philip news online and told me that if you fly into Cebu which is where i go not Manila that you get a temp check at the airport and only have to quarantine for 1 day not 14 like u said, also can you answer this question. I being a American and traveling with a passport the bureau of philippines website said if your traveling to the PI for less then 30 days you don]t need a tourist visa just your passport…any truth to that?? Thanks

Hi Will. As a general rule, a mandatory quarantine of 7-14 days is required for persons traveling to the Philippines. In the Province of Cebu, it is true that quarantine is no longer a requirement as of March 31, 2021. However, this is only for repatriated Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and returning non-OFWs. You can visit the Cebu Provincial Tourism Office page for more information about this.

About traveling to the Philippines without a visa, unfortunately, that has been temporarily suspended because of the pandemic. Please check the Philippine Bureau of Immigration Facebook page for information and updates on who are allowed entry into the Philippines at this time.

Thank you so much for the information, that helps a lot….can’t wait to be there, but I know it may get delayed again. Just as long as everyone is safe and protected I can wait. I love the Philippine people, such beautiful souls.

I have rescheduled my trip from USA Arizona to Lapu-Lapu city where I will be staying with my friend who lives there this coming August….4th time rebooking since COVID. I will be there for 3 weeks. I have my COVID vaccination already and got a Hepatitis A vaccine. Do you know what other vaccines are required? Also, will I need to get a Visa since I am on a limited stay? Been trying to get there since last May, but want to be safe for everyone there. I am so looking forward to being with my friend this has been 2 years in the making. Thank you for any information you can give.

Hi Kenneth. I hope your trip will finally come to fruition. As you know, it’s still a difficult time to plan travel and the situation continues to change month to month. According to the State Department, U.S. citizens must have a visa to enter the Philippines for all travel purposes. The best place to find vaccination requirements and recommendations would be through the CDC: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/list

I am a Physician in Mexico with a Philippine wife. She is returning there on May 2. I am wondering what I need to travel only to Manilla in June or July only to accompany her back to Mexico. I would have no problem staying at motel around Manila for the approximately 30 days that I will be there. Any help on this ?

Hello and thanks for visiting the blog. Your ability to enter the Philippines as the spouse of a Filippino citizen in June/July will depend on whether the suspension is lifted for foreign nationals. We will do our best to update this post as the situation changes. Please refer to our post for other protocols and recommended hotels for quarantine in Manila. For further assistance, you may wish to work with a travel agent.

Planning to come home to the Philippines on May from a very long time (1982) since I left PI.. I am now a Us Passport holder, am I qualified as a Philippine balikbayan? Do I need to get a Philippine visa? Is my husband the same?

Hi Nimfa. Thanks for visiting our blog! Under the Philippines Balikbayan Program , you are considered a “balikbayan”. You can visit the Philippines and stay for 1 year without a visa. Your husband can also get the same privilege as long as he is traveling with you.

However, please take note that traveling to the Philippines has been recently suspended until April 19, 2021. Check our blog for updates on who will be allowed entry in May. We also advise that you contact the nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate in your area for more information and before attempting travel.

With vaccines starting to arrive in PI and some places starting to make roll out plans- Any idea when tourist visas will start to be processed again and citizens will be able to take a trips out of PI?

Hi Dan. Thank you for your question, but I’m afraid we don’t have any special insight about when the Philippines will make changes to travel protocols.

i am now in the us, i left manila last march and coming back in april, do i still need to book a hotel for quarantine? most articles i see are for ofw’s and balikbayans.

also, do you know kung sino sasagot ng food ng magku-quarantine? coz hindi makakalabas yun tao to buy food and water. just wondering.

Hi Cher. Yes, you still need a confirmed booking at any accredited quarantine hotel in Metro Manila for at least 7 days (or 6 nights) from the date of your arrival. This is to accommodate the schedule of your RT-PCR test (which will be on the 5th day) and the release of the result. Your food during your stay at the hotel will be at your own expense. You may also have food from outside the hotel delivered to your room, but you need to check with the rules and regulations of the hotel first if it is allowed.

You may check the Philippine Airlines or the Philippines Travel website for the complete guidelines. I hope this helps.

Hello Is there a list of the hotels like in Manila or Subic that might be quarantine hotels and what the costs would be for the 14 day duration. .

Hi Bob. The current list of accredited hotels by the Bureau of Quarantine can be found here: http://quarantine.doh.gov.ph/facilities-inspected-as-of-february-18-2021/ You would need to look up the costs for individual hotels that interest you.

What is the best website to get Current travel updates for traveling to the Philippines this spring if possible.

Hi and thanks for visiting our blog. We are doing our best to update this post on a weekly basis with current information about travel to the Philippines. Your home country’s State Department website is probably the most reliable source. To get an official answer for your Spring travel, you can contact the nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate (if in the United States).

The Philippine Airlines website is the most up to date regarding travel restrictions.

If one has had a coronavirus vaccine in the US, can one come to the Philippines without the need to quarantine and have the Covid test? I should have my second round of the Moderna vaccine on March 4th. Could I travel to the Philippines shortly after that time if I have a card proving that I had the vaccine?

That is a good question and I think many are wondering the same thing about other destinations as well. We can’t predict when the Philippines will reopen to travelers, nor what they will choose to require in terms of vaccines. From what I’ve read, I would guess that most destinations will continue to require a Covid test regardless of the vaccine since the timeline for immunity after vaccination is still uncertain.

I look forward to the country opening again. It is certainly one of my favorites!

Can I book myself on June or July to go to manila since they ( Department of Tourism ) mencioned that they will reopen the country for international tourism around June so ????

Hi Ricardo. We cannot predict if you’ll be able to fly into Manila at that time. What we personally are doing is making sure any flight we book is fully refundable, or can at least be changed to a later date without change fees if travel is not allowed for our original flight date. This will depend on the particular airline’s terms and conditions.

Do you know when is the date or anything that the Philippine government is gonna let foreigners for tourism cause I’ve been planning this trip for a year and its getting the people so angry that we cant go to the Philippines and nobody can give me a straight up answer.

Hi Clint. Thanks for your question. We know how frustrating it can be to have travel plans up in the air. Unfortunately, most countries do not have set dates for opening tourism yet because so much depends on ever-changing situations, both domestically and internationally.

Covid is spreading rapidly and nobody is vaccinated there stay home and keep you and the Philippines safer

The Philippines has no intention of opening up to tourism any time soon. The president has said that when the country is between 70 to 80 percent vaccinated it will reopen the country it currently is at 19%. So if you want to take a vacation start thinking of an alternative destination or your going to be waiting for at least a year.

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How to Plan Your Trip to the Philippines: The Best Philippines Travel Guide

The Philippines is an archipelago composed of more than seven thousand islands located in Southeast Asia . Two of these islands are constantly in the top 5 of the world’s most beautiful beaches and islands in the world. While the country is rich in natural beauty like mountains and islands, one of the best things to experience is the Filipino hospitality. When traveling in the country, you will meet friendly locals everywhere who can speak English and communicate with you.

Table of Contents

Related Read : Top 20 Best Places to Visit in the Philippines in 2023

I was born and grew up in the Philippines. I started traveling around the country when I worked in a travel agency and continued to work as a travel consultant for an international travel company until now. I’ve had so many friends ask me about how to plan a trip to my country, so I have decided to create this comprehensive travel itinerary.

To plan a trip to the Philippines , one must remember that it is a country surrounded by a body of water. You can only fly into the country, and hopefully stay longer because it will take time or at least two weeks to get to visit some highlights of the country. Ready to get started? So, here’s an article on how to plan your trip to the Philippines with everything that you need to have the best of your trip.

Planning a trip to the Philippines? Have any questions? Join our Philippine Travel Planning Facebook group here now! It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired!

How to Plan a Trip to the Philippines

The Philippines embodies various cultures, mostly Western influences , which you can easily tell from various cuisines and lifestyles in every region. The right blend of Western influence and the original Filipino tradition interests a lot of people which is also one of the reasons why a lot of tourists plan to visit the country. If you’re one of these people who have been eyeing for a vacation in the Philippines anytime soon, this guide will help you with the things you need to know first before visiting the country. Whether you’re a budget backpacker or a luxurious traveler, this guide is for you. You need to plan when to go to the Philippines and how long you want to stay!

The Philippines Map

Do you know that this country is called THE PHILIPPINES ? This is because it is an archipelago — a group of more than 7 thousand islands! You’ll surely find all kinds of places that would suit your travel needs. Before we start, let’s get you familiar with the map of The Philippines. You can see there are many small and big islands, but the major ones are divided into 3 different clusters; Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. To easily understand it, the northern area is Luzon, the central area is Visayas, and the southern part is Mindanao. Manila — the capital city is located in Luzon.

• Philippines

Is the Philippines safe to travel?

News of the Philippines being unsafe has already reached international media. And honestly, not all of them is very reassuring to read most especially if you are a tourist. The first big question that might pop out from you is this, “Is the Philippines safe to travel?”

During this pandemic times , it is of course not that easy to travel. However, we will be updating this page all the time so you can be sure to have new information with regards to visiting the Philippines.

Well, first, all countries have its safety hazards. The Philippines, in this case, is no exception. Most tourists’ places in the Philippines are safe and have been for many years. Although some tourists noted the presence of armed guards in fast food restaurants and banks as alarming. However, this actually is a good sign for us in the country, note, most of them aren’t loaded or don’t even have ammunition. It means that since there are guards or police visibility, people are more cautious in doing bad things.

Locals can also speak English so asking for help everywhere is easier because there’s no language barrier. As with everywhere we go, it is important to stay vigilant at all times especially when traveling alone too. But overall, I have travelled the country alone and have always felt safe in tourists’ areas.

When to Go to the Philippines

The Philippines is a tropical country which means we experience only rainy and sunny season — in between typhoon season too. From June to November, you’ll expect to experience heavy and continuous downpour with typhoons coming one after another. Sunny season falls in the months of December to May. This is the best time to visit the Philippines because you will be able to enjoy the beaches and can even escape to the mountains without fear of being stuck. Summer months of April and May are the busiest because even locals are traveling. It’s the perfect time to go lounge at one of the best beaches in  Palawan  or  Boracay . However, they’re also the hottest months which, if you’re not used to the heat, might be too much for you to experience. So, to visit the Philippines, the months of December to May are your best bet.

Travel Booking List and Countdown

If you’re a travel planner like me, there’s no time to lose when planning for your best trip. However, to easily arrange your itinerary with enough time to spare and not get overwhelmed, I’ve listed down the things to do for you to have a great trip to the Philippines.

From 6 months — a year in advance:

• Book your international flights • Search for best travel insurance for the Philippines • Plan your itinerary • Get familiar with the places you want to visit • List your top 5 places you want to visit

From 3-6 months in advance:

• Book your domestic flights • Book your accommodation • Find out how to get from one place to another especially if you need to take ferries and local buses • Book online for these transfers or your private pick up/drop off

From 1 month in advance:

• Make sure you check passport and visa requirements • Book your bus or ferry tickets • Airport arrivals and departures • Book local tours • Find the best SIM card for your phone to have internet access and connection • Print all necessary and important documents, and also send a copy to your email

From 1 week in advance: • Pack properly • Double check flight dates, accommodation and bus tickets

How to Travel to the Philippines

To travel to the Philippines, you will probably fly into one of the two major international airports. One is located in Manila (there are actually 4 but one majorly serves international flights) and another one in Cebu. There are many international flights flying into Manila from western countries, while for those around Southeast Asia, Cebu-Mactan International Airport is the best airport to fly into.

Related Read: Ultimate Guide to Cebu Mactan International Airport

To find out cheaper international flights to the Philippines, use Google Flights or Skyscanner to get more options. If you’re flying from Asia — check out Traveloka or official websites of Airasia, Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines. These are the major carriers in the Philippines which might give you cheaper rates when you book directly with them.

To travel around the Philippines, it will be more on to flights or ferries. Most of the major ferries and local buses/vans can be booked online too.

Passport and Visa to Visit the Philippines

Traveling to the Philippines is an easy thing to do because foreign nationals coming for tourism or business purposes are only required a valid passport and visa to visit the Philippines. Many nationalities are given a visa on arrival sticker or even a no-visa grant for a maximum of 30 days. You only need to provide a valid return ticket. You can check the official list here.

If you want to stay further than 30 days, it is easy to extend your visa at local immigration office in the city you are currently staying. The cost of the Philippines visa first extension is 3,030 pesos plus 100 pesos for the visa sticker.

READ HERE FOR THE FULL UPDATED VISA AND TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS TO VISIT THE PHILIPPINES

Money and Banks in the Philippines

The Philippine money is called Philippine Pesos. Its equivalent is about $1 = 55 pesos but 50 is generally the average pre-pandemic. The country is still basically a cash society, so it is important to have enough cash with you especially when you go to islands. When arriving at international airports, it would be best to book a grab taxi online, get to your hotel, and then go to a major shopping mall and do your money exchange transactions. ATMs are also in smaller cities and banks but it is difficult to find them in smaller towns.

There are also ATMs which are usually blue that accept international cards in various tourists’ places, be aware that they charge large amount of transaction fees. Your best bet is to make sure you have dollars or pesos in cash and then exchange or withdraw from official local ATM banks when you see one.

Where to Go and Philippines Itinerary

Now where to go in the Philippines? Since there more than 7 thousand islands, we can’t really cover all. So, depending on budget and time, we recommend these top places to visit in the Philippines.

These are the lists of places that we recommend you put on your list of places to visit in the Philippines.

• Manila and nearby areas — the capital city of the Philippines will surely surprise you in many ways. Make sure to check the night-life of Makati and the walled city of Intramuros. • Cebu — the second biggest city and an island which has balance of city life and beaches. We even wrote a detailed guide on how to visit Cebu. •  Palawan  — you’ll find one of the best islands in the world here . Check out El Nido and Coron and decide which one you like best. •  Bohol  — a small island packed with adventure, beaches and nature. You’ll surely find it a surprising stop. Read the best things to do in Bohol. •   Boracay  — visit the best beach in the world, and enjoy its powdery white sand beach in Boracay. It recently underwent a major rehabilitation that restored its pristine beaches after it fell victim to its popularity– causing it to lose its unspoiled beauty. You can read the best ways to get from Caticlan airport to Boracay. •  Banaue  — enjoy the Northern mountain province and see rows and rows of rice terraces carved on mountains. •  Siargao  — fulfill you water sports craving with this surfing capital of the Philippines. Here’s our detailed Siargao Travel Guide for your trip planning. •  Siquijor   — This small yet surprisingly beautiful and laid-back island has very long stretch of empty beaches, cheap food and cool island vibe.

Of course, there are more places to visit in the Philippines and you’ll surely find the more you search, the more you would like to explore it.

Recommended Group Tours

If you are traveling alone and would like to find people to travel with, there are group tours to the Philippines that you could avail. You can even do this while already in the country.

For group tours, you’ll have a choice of joining a 12-week tour, a Philippine discovery tour or even a Palawan adventure. You can check out all of these Philippine group tours here .

The Best Accommodation Sites for the Philippines

There are many world-class resorts, hotels and local hostels in the Philippines. The best thing to do is to decide where you want to stay and choose accommodation in that area.

Ago d a is one of the best booking sites in the Philippines as it has many properties listed even to smaller towns or areas. The other site I like is Hotelscombined because they check all accommodation sites to compare the prices, it also has listed hotels in smaller areas.

Airbnb is not very popular in the Philippines. So there won’t be a lot of options to choose from especially in smaller places. However, if you’re in the bigger cities like Manila or Cebu — you can find condos and apartments on Airbnb that would be better for you to choose from.

How to Go Around the Philippines

The Philippines is composed of many islands, about 7 thousand of them actually. To get around the Philippines, means either flying in or taking ferries. There are also buses in the northern part but for most of the must-see places in the country, flying is the fastest but more expensive option. The more affordable option is taking ferries, and also getting to see different island views along the way. The only disadvantage is it can become bumpy especially if the weather isn’t good.

To fly around the Philippines, you can choose from 3 major airlines — Cebu Pacific, AirAsia and Philippine Airlines. There are also smaller airlines like Skyjet which flies to Coron or El Nido in Palawan.

For buses and ferries, it can be difficult to book in person as you need to go to the terminal/ferry port to get the ticket. The best way to book these tickets is to go online  — you can choose your destination here and book your ticket. Like going from Cebu to Bohol . it’s a popular ferry ride.

For airport transfers and arrivals, you can arrange for private pick-ups and transfers, 12go and  Bookaway  also provide these services. In Manila and Cebu, Grab is your best bet. While in other smaller islands, it is better to book your transfers in advance.

Travel Insurance in the Philippines

The Philippines has amazing doctors and nurses, they’re exported around the world! So, you can be confident that whatever happens to you, you will be given the best medical care. However, make sure that the travel insurance that you get covers weather disturbance and cancellations are this is the major reason for trip cancellations in the country.

What to Pack for a Trip to the Philippines

As someone who likes to pack a week in advance, it is important to know what to bring. Here are some things we recommend for you to pack, and bring to the Philippines.

• Sun Protection Lotion  — the lotion you might find here is packed with whitening ingredients so, you better bring your own • Microfiber Towel  — best for the beach and for a cover on an overnight bus • Universal Adapter  — for your gadgets and other equipment • Power Bank and Portable charger  — there can be intermittent power cut-off in different islands, so this is a very useful thing to have • Comfortable shoes or slippers  — remember this is island country, and everyone wears flip flops • Mosquito repellent  — this tropical country will surely make you try to run inside the house at night because of the mosquitoes • Medicine  — make sure you bring your own first aid medicine and anything you are taking regularly

Aside from these, you can find most international food/groceries have what you need, especially in big cities like Manila and Cebu. The Philippines is also a fast-food country so, you can fill your heart with McDonalds but make sure to try the local Jolibee too!

Internet and Phone Coverage

Internet and phone coverage in the Philippines are dismal and quite bad. There are three major telecommunication companies in the Philippines as of writing. PLDT offers Wi-Fi coverage in most tourist areas and bigger cities. Globe and Smart have phone and internet data coverage.

Related Read: Best Prepaid Tourist Sim Card to Use in The Philippines

If you are traveling just in major cities, Globe is your best bet, however, if you’re going to islands, Smart is your better choice. Upon arrival at the airport, you will be offered to buy SIM cards with preloaded data in it. Ask for them to preload your SIM and buy your data coverage good for the number of days you will stay in the country. I would recommend getting the most number as it really is still has bad connection in terms of data, and internet connection in the Philippines.

To make it easier, you can also  pre-purchase your SIM card here  so, you can just pick it up upon arrival.

Philippine Travel Planning Tips

• Visit places one or two at a time. Sure, you want to explore every Island in the Philippines but with limited time and budget, you might not be able to do so. Moreover, you won’t be able to enjoy and make the most of your trip. For example, you can explore Cebu for a week before going to Bohol for a couple more days. The island of Cebu alone already has a lot of activities stretched out from North to South.
• Bring a universal travel adapter since most hostels, most especially budget hotels or hostels, don’t have available power outlets for every type of plug.
• Bring a power bank to charge your gadgets while on the road or most especially when visiting places with sporadic electric supply. Some remote areas in the Philippines experience rotational power cut off.
• Be patient on the internet speed. As we all know, the Philippines belongs to the countries with a very slow internet connection. Even when staying in the city, slow data coverage or internet speed can still be experienced.
• Bring dry bags or waterproof bags when planning to go island hopping. There are also islands in the Philippines which can be reached by small boat or also known as “Bangka” and putting all your valuables inside a dry bag will keep it safe from the splashing saltwater.
• Don’t forget to apply sunblock and mosquito repellent anywhere you go. To avoid sunburn, use the right SPF level. Also, keep in mind to use reef-safe sunblock if you’re planning to do water activities. Mosquito repellent is also important to avoid mosquito bites and diseases.
• Rent a motorbike to save on transportation costs. The islands of Siargao, Bantayan, and Camotes are few of the top tourist destinations where you can rent a motorbike per day for a cheap price. It is also very convenient if you are planning to DIY you’re itinerary instead of getting a package tour.

Philippines Itinerary/Budget

One of the reasons why a lot of tourists are flocking to the Philippines is because it is a cheap country to travel to. The average cost of food for one day in the Philippines can be as low as $5 if you’re on a tight budget. For the accommodation, you can already find a $14 room or less (but mostly are just bed spaces at this rate). For mid-range travels, the average daily cost of traveling to The Philippines is $49. The nightlife in the country is also pocket-friendly. You can find very cheap karaoke machines to enjoy with your friends in the city or even along the beach. Beer is inexpensive to that you can afford to buy a bottle or two for a friend. Moreover, a lot of travel agencies are offering affordable Philippine tour packages for a low price but if you want to save more, you can plan your itinerary and adjust it according to your budget. I tried Siargao for 8 days, and I only spent around $150 on the food, surfing, entrance fees to beaches and other tourist spots, accommodation, and other miscellaneous expenses.

Did we miss anything else? Let us know in the comments!

Angie is a travel consultant and blogger who has started by writing her travel memoirs on her blog and then got published  on international travel sites. She’s now focused on creating in-depth travel itinerary and articles about planning trips to the Philippines.

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Best Time to Visit the Philippines: When to Go & When to Avoid

Home » Blog » Travel Tips » Best Time to Visit the Philippines: When to Go & When to Avoid

The Philippines is an excellent destination with so much to offer travelers. However, each season has its unique draws and drawbacks. We’re going over the pros and cons of each of the seasons in the Philippines to help you determine the best time to visit for YOU!

This island archipelago in the western Pacific has everything you could possibly want in a vacation. The Philippines has plenty of tropical islands with white sand beaches. Jungles that play host to myriad of different wildlife species. Mountains to climb, freshwater lakes to dive into, and even a large coral reef system beneath the sea.

In fact, this humble island nation gave us more to fall in love with than most places we’ve traveled.

Planning a trip here can be a bit confusing when trying to figure out when the best time to visit the Philippines is. There are two distinct seasons in the Philippines: the rainy season and the dry season.

This may sound pretty straight forward… you want to visit the Philippines during the dry season right?? Well, we think the answer is just a bit more complicated than that.

There are pros and cons to visiting during both seasons and as with any destination, the weather is never as predictable as we’d like it to be.

So this begs the question…

What time of year is best to visit the Philippines?

In short, you’ll have the best chance of comfortable weather during the coolest months of the dry season, December – February. It is advisable to avoid visiting from August through mid-October as this is Typhoon season.

Our personal pick would be to visit the Philippines during the shoulder season months of May and November as it is less crowded, but the weather is still good. 

Truthfully, as with all questions of this nature, there is no correct answer. Each month has its own unique draws (and  drawbacks  too).

But fear not…

We’re going to go over the pros and cons of visiting the Philippines during each month to help you decide which time of year is ideal for YOU.

Answer these questions to get started:

• Do you mind a bit of rain?
• Are you easily bothered by crowds?
• Are you negatively affected by high humidity?
• Do you prefer to spend your time outdoors hiking and cycling?
• Are you into water sports such as scuba diving or surfing?

Thinking about your answers to these questions is going to help you start to determine when to visit the Philippines.

Guide to seasons in the Philippines

Our experience.

• Geography overview

Weather in the Philippines

• Dry season months
• Rainy season months
• What to pack for the Philippines

Overall BEST time to visit the Philippines

Want a quick recommendation? Jump down to see our personal advice for the best time to visit the Philippines. Plus, we’ll share what times of year we’d avoid visiting!

• Our Recommendation…

Be sure to download our  complete packing list for Southeast Asia !  It’s packed with good suggestions and  insider tips  to help plan your Mexico vacation. And it’s completely  FREE , so why not!?

We visited the Philippines in January

When: January (2015)

Our experience:

• We had perfect weather on our 2-week trip!
• We traveled to 3 islands, and had amazing weather on all! Bohol was the only one where we experienced (just a tiny bit of!) rain.

Would we recommend visiting the Philippines in January? 

Absolutely! It is one of the best months to visit!

Geography overview of the Philippines

The Philippines is an archipelago in Southeast Asia, filling the space between the South China and the Philippine seas of the western Pacific. It’s the 5th largest island nation in the world, made up of more than 7,600 islands. However, only 11 of these islands make up 95% of the landmass of the entire country.

The country is part of a system in the western Pacific characterized by active volcanos and also prone to earthquakes. Aside from the 22,500+ miles of coastline and narrow coastal plains, the vast majority of the country is mountainous jungles and forests with rivers that run south to north.

While the land plays hosts to an impressive number of exotic and endemic species, there is also an exciting world resting below the surface just off shore.

The Philippines sits within the “Coral Triangle,” also known as the global center of marine biodiversity. This makes the Philippines one of the  best places to go scuba diving in the world !

The Philippines enjoys a tropical climate throughout the year that can be roughly divided into a dry season (November – April) and rainy season (May – October).

Temperatures in the Philippines don’t fluctuate much throughout the year. However, you will experience more extreme heat from the months of March – May, and slightly cooler temps in December – February.

There is also a significant chance of typhoons during the rainy season because the Philippines is within the typhoon belt. The country experiences around nineteen typhoons every year, particularly during the months of August – October.

Stats on Philippines Weather & Seasons

• Warmest months in the Philippines:  March/April/May
• Coolest months in Philippines:  January/February
• Rainiest months in Philippines:  July/August
• Driest month in Philippines:  February
• Most crowded months in Philippines:  December/January
• Least crowded months in Philippines:  June, July, August

Dry Season in the Philippines

The dry season in the Philippines runs from November through April and this is by far the most popular time for tourists to visit the region. December through February will be the coolest months, while temperatures reach their peak in May.

With unpredictable weather (likely due in part to the impact of climate change), it’s important to note that typhoons can occur sometimes as late as January. Although this is not typical.

Dry season months at a glance

November:  Officially the start of the dry season in the Philippines, however, there is still a chance of typhoons as weather can be unpredictable. 

• Average daily temp: ° F (30-31° C)  

December:  Cooler temperatures and mostly clear skies (with the slightest chance of a typhoon) mark the start of the peak travel season. 

• Average daily temp: ° F (29-31° C)  

January:  One of the coolest months in the Philippines means that temperatures will be cooler, without getting too cold. Peak of dry season means you’ll have great weather.

• Average daily temp: ° F (29-31° C)   

February:  Less crowded than January but with slightly warmer temperatures throughout the month. 

March:  Temperatures are starting to get hot, but conditions are still great for travel around the Philippines his month. Holy Week (the week leading up to Easter) is busy and best avoided if possible as accommodation will be scarce. 

• Average daily temp: ° F (32-33° C)  

April:  This is the hottest and final month of the dry season, so temperatures will be at their peak. 

• Average daily temp: ° F (32-34° C)  

Best places to visit in the Philippines during dry season

• Panay Island:  in January for Ati-Atihan festival
• Cebu:  for the Sinulog festival in January
• Clark, Pampanga:  They host the Philippine Hot Air Balloon Fiesta in February
• Boracay Beach :  one of the best beaches in the world and a popular tourist draw to the Philippines. 
• El Nido  in Palawan
• Sorsogon:  to go swimming with whale sharks (November – June)
• Apo Island  for scuba diving

Best things to do in the Philippines during dry season

• Go island hopping around some of the Philippines best island destinations: Hundred Islands National Park in Pangasinan, Cebu, Iloilo, Palawan, Boracay,  Bohol , Camiguin, Palaui and Siargao.
• Go scuba diving: the Philippines is within the “coral triangle” and has some of the  best scuba diving in the world .
• Try a new water sport: Whether it’s surfing, SUP boarding,  free diving , or snorkeling, there are so many fun water sports to try in the Philippines.
• Ati-Atihan Festival (usually the second week of January): This is the largest festival in the country. Celebrating an ancient land pact between settlers and the indigenous Atis people with street dancing and wild costumes. 
• Dinagyang festival (fourth week in January): A modern celebration of Ati-Atihan, including a parade on the Iloilo River. 
• Sinulog (3rd Sunday in January): The largest festival in Cebu, celebrating Santo Niño. There is a huge street parade, live music and food and drinks.
• Boracay International Dragon Boat Festival (April): Modeled after Hong Kong’s dragon boat races, this festival includes local and international teams competing in a course off White Beach. 

Pros of visiting the Philippines during the dry season

• Less likelihood of rain
• Humidity is bearable
• Mosquitoes/insects aren’t as big of a concern
• Lots of festivals and events happening

Cons of visiting the Philippines during the dry season

• Peak tourism season (particularly December – February)
• Accommodation prices will be higher, and harder to come by
• Major tourist attractions such as beaches will be very crowded 
• The hottest months of the year are March – May

Rainy Season in the Philippines

The rainy season in the Philippines runs from May – October, and vegetation is often at it’s most lush during the months of May – June. The majority of typhoons occur during the months of August – October and can cause road closures and flight cancelations. So its not ideal to be traveling during this time. 

The wet season doesn’t mean a constant rainfall and you will still have the chance of sunny skies and warm weather during these months.

Rainy season months at a glance

May:  Although its the technically the first month of the wet season, there is still a likelihood that you will encounter nice weather. The temperatures during the month are at their highest, so it’s a good time to visit the mountains or stay near the ocean. 

• Average daily temp: ° F (33-36° C)  

June:  The rains begin to make their way through the country this month. Starting in the north and making their way down. However areas around the central part of the country (Cebu) will still be dry for the most part. 

• Average daily temp: ° F (31-32° C)  

July:  Rainfall gets heavier, especially in the north. However, the central region (around Cebu) is still mostly dry. 

August:  Typhoon season begins towards the end of the month and heavy rainfall can be expected. Best to avoid this month if you are hoping for clear skies on your holiday. 

September:  Typhoon season is in full swing and it is unadvisable to travel during this month. 

• Average daily temp: ° F (30-32° C)  

October:  Most of the rains will have cleared up by the end of the month, however there is still the chance of the occasional typhoon. It would be best to avoid traveling in the beginning of the month. 

Best places to visit during the rainy season in the Philippines

• Mindanao:  This region sees the least rain during wet season, so it’s a good time to go without the crowds.
• Visayas  and  Palawan  are less prone to the dangers of typhoons than other areas in the Philippines.
• Banaue:  Visit the rice terraces  during May when it’s too hot in the lowlands, but temperatures are reasonable in the mountains and the vegetation is lush.
• Bacolod:  For the Masskara Festival in October.

Best things to do during the rainy season in the Philippines

• Take a  cooking class
• Get a massage, or go full-out and pamper yourself with a spa day!
• Flores de Mayo (May): A religious celebration of the coming rains. Processions happen all over the country, sometimes lit by candle light after dark.
• Masskara Festival (third Week of October): This festival in Bacolod boasts of colorful masks donned by dancers parading around the town.

Pros of visiting the Philippines during the rainy season

• The possibility of rain deters some travelers from visiting, so the Philippines tends to be less crowded.
• Typical tourist attractions such as beaches will be less crowded than in dry season.
• Traffic on the roads won’t be quite as busy as the typical hustle and bustle of high season.
• The weather is still fairly good and you can have plenty of rain-free days, particularly in May.

Cons of visiting the Philippines during the rainy season

• Torrential rains and thunderstorms are commonly experienced July – October
• The country experiences around nineteen typhoons every year during the rainy season
• Mosquitos…eek!
• Decreased visibility at dive sites due to weather makes it not the optimal time for diving

In our opinion…

In our opinion, the best time to visit the Philippines would be during the “shoulder season” months of May and November. Here are our primary reasons for choosing this time:

• Accommodation prices are not at peak rates
• Weather is mostly dry and less humid than the peak of rainy season
• Not too crowded
• Good sea conditions for diving/surfing/snorkeling
• Reasonable airfare can be found (Hint: Use these  hacks for booking cheap flights !)

What to pack for your trip to the Philippines

We know it can be overwhelming packing for a trip to a new destination. That’s why we spent hours creating this super helpful PDF just for you.

In this free SE Asia packing list PDF download , we’ve provided packing checklists for everything from clothing and toiletries (for both women and men!) to what shoes to pack and extra medicines you may want to have on-hand just in case.

Plus, we’re sharing tons of packing hacks and tips for traveling in SE Asia that you won’t find anywhere else!

Are you planning a trip to the Philippines?

We have ton of resources on travel in the Philippines and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Ultimate Philippines Travel Guide  for all the answers to your most burning questions, or read some of our favorite articles below.

• Ultimate Philippines 2-Week Itinerary
• How to Travel the Philippines on Less Than $50 a Day
• Top Things to Do in Boracay
• Things to Do in El Nido, Palawan

Save this article for later on Pinterest!

We want to hear from you!

We hope this article has helped you decide which is the best time to visit the Philippines for YOU. If you are planning a trip to the Philippines and still have questions, comment below and we’ll do our best to find you answers!

Comments (8) on “ Best Time to Visit the Philippines: When to Go & When to Avoid ”

Where would you suggest starting on 3 week trip to the Philippine’s? I’m travelling with my husband, hopefully in June, if not next April.

Many thanks, Zoe

Your suggestion about the shoulder season months to visit Philippines is very nice. Is it possible to save money on these bookings like I did on kuwait airways by booking through Cleartrip. I am a prudent soul and always enjoy saving money on travels. The images you have shared are colorful and energizing. Loved perusing your blog.

Beautiful country with a lot of beaches.

Hello, can you please share an updated version of the 2 week itinerary? I am sure post pandemic much has changed. Thanks

Yes going in August On the 13th hoping to have a good time still even tho it still will be the raining seasons I am also traveling with my son whom is Autistic want to go and get married out there Im just looking for a good time in shopping and and eating some many good different foods..Praying on the weather to just enjoy my life and my to be…Thanks…

How was the weather in august?

Still undecided when to go on vacation to the Philippines

Thanks! Great Info!

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Dive Into Philippines

Ultimate 2 Weeks In Philippines Itinerary🏝️For Your Perfect Adventure! [2024]

Looking for a 2 weeks in Philippines itinerary?

Lucky you! The Philippines is a great destination which you’ll love, and while no 2 weeks itinerary Philippines will ever allow you to explore the whole country, you can see a lot and have a great time with 2 weeks in the Philippines.

An archipelago of over 7000 islands, most with pristine white-sand beaches and crystal clear waters, the Philippines is without a doubt an exotic destination! Within this Philippines travel itinerary, 2 weeks are spent exploring – what we feel – are some of the ultimate beaches, lagoons, lakes, rivers and towns of this stunning country.

This two week itinerary Philippines offers includes beaches that are consistently named as the best in the world, a UNESCO natural wonder, and incredible diving and snorkelling spots, plus not forgetting historic churches, forts, and rich local culture.

As you travel the country, appreciate the lush biodiversity, taste the unique cuisine and savour the renowned hospitality of the Filipino people. Days are warm but breezy and nights tropical, full of twinkling stars.  It’s really no wonder the country is a firm travel favourite!

However coming up with the perfect 2 weeks Philippines itinerary can be hard with so many great choices. That’s why I have done the hard work for you!

Below, you will find our best 2 week itinerary Philippines. You simply need to read it and follow our exact itinerary step-by-step. Simple!

Let’s start!

Visiting for longer? Find our full 3 weeks to 1 month Philippines itinerary here . Travelling shorter? Find our 10 day itinerary here and our 7 day itineraries here .

Table of Contents

Philippines Itinerary 2 Week Detailed Plan

Map of 2 weeks in philippines itinerary.

We kick-off your epic two weeks in Philippines itinerary at our favourite destination of Coron, with its stunning lagoons, empty beaches and marvellous marine life. On to the equally gorgeous El Nido – a true slice of paradise – with karst cliffs, stunning sandbanks and bluest lagoons of Bacuit Bay awaiting your discovery.

Drop by Sabang for a day, cruising the UNESCO Underground River, followed by two nights at Puerto Princesa – a city with important WWII history and even more island-hopping on offer!

Take a short flight over to Cebu, where the pace picks up for the day in hectic Cebu City. Explore the Spanish heritage of this old city and enjoy some delicious local delicacies.

Finally, it’s a short ferry ride over to Bohol – keeping an eye out for dolphins along the route – and into the interior of this large lush island. Marvel at the eye-popping Chocolate Hills and the world’s smallest monkeys, tarsiers. Cruise the Loboc River in search of fireflies and local wildlife, before spending your last few days at one of our favourite towns, Panglao. Mostly untouched by tourism, the slow relaxing pace of the island lulls you gently into submission, enjoying a relaxing end to your Philippines itinerary, two weeks. Days are spent on the water – in search of turtles, colourful fish or playful dolphins –  or chilling at white sandy beaches, perhaps with a cocktail in hand.

Come with us on this journey, ticking off some of the top island and beach adventures that the country has to offer, and prepare to be amazed at the scenic beauty along the route on this two weeks in Philippines itinerary.

Day 1-2 Coron

Welcome to the Philippines and the start of your 2 week Philippines Itinerary! And there’s nowhere more beautiful to start than at Coron Town, Busuanga Island. Fly in from Manila on a short 50 minute flight ( find available flights here ), followed by a 30 minute transfer through farmlands to Coron Town (not to be confused with the nearby island of Coron!).

Your first taste of the Philippines and it doesn’t disappoint… A small rustic town, Coron has a handful of restaurants, dive operator shops, spas and hotels. Unspoiled – as yet – by tourism, everyday life continues with humming karaoke bars and (what feels like!) the endless crowing of chickens.

Check into your hotel and relax. Later, head out to the port area to source an afternoon kayak tour around the bay and nearby islands. Ask your hotel about arranging an evening fireflies cruise & dinner… a magical tour, under a star-filled sky on a small boat in search of glittering fireflies, followed by a delicious local meal on a floating bamboo restaurant.

Next morning and it’s a full day Island Hopping experience! Nearby El Nido is world famous for its lagoons and karst islands, but quite honestly Coron blows us away! Stunning coral gardens for snorkelling, brilliant white-sand beaches and epic lakes, plus a glittering ocean full of exotic fish.

Similar to El Nido, tours are set to follow general patterns and you can save money by joining a group trip. Alternatively, barter your way to a good deal with a boat captain at the CTBA Boat Pier and push to include some of our recommended locations:

• Twin Lagoon – be here for 7 am if your boat captain gets moving!  Breath-taking… Buy a discounted ticket here.
• Kayangan Lake – good to arrive around 7.30 am, to avoid the mass of people from 9 am. With approx 360 steps to reach the Lake, avoid the heat of the day! Buy a discounted ticket here.
• Barracuda Lake – beautiful light-blue water, great for a cooling dip.
• Banul Beach – picture-postcard stunning and a great spot for early lunch (again before the crowds).
• Skeleton Wreck – a great snorkelling spot!
• Coral Garden – another epic snorkelling spot!

If you prefer to really get-away-from-it all, spend your day at these slightly distant islands (approx 1h30m by boat from Coron Town). You won’t be disappointed as they are a handful of Palawan’s most stunning islands:

• Malcapuya – a beautiful tropical island with a huge white-sand beach (busy from 11 am). Buy a discounted ticket here.
• Ditaytayan Island –  an awesome sandbar and a favourite spot for lunch.
• Banana Island – similar to Malcapuya, where you can chill in beach hammocks.

Wherever you choose, ensure to start early and save money by picking up your lunchtime bbq food before you depart from the Coron Local Market, right next to the pier. Remember to buy charcoal and drinks too, plus expect to pay an entrance fee at each spot/island that you visit, and definitely don’t forget your snorkelling gear! …sure to be a highlight day within your 2 week travel itinerary, Philippines.

Click here to see day tour options.

Best Accommodation: Two Seasons Coron Island Resort & Spa

Budget Accommodation: Treetop Suites

Find our full guide to the best places to stay in Coron here.

Day 3-4 El Nido

Another early start today, with the ferry from Coron to El Nido. Taking approximately 4 hours, there is usually a fastcraft 6 am sailing. It’s an idyllic boat ride, taking you past the islands of Linapacan province, once listed as having the world’s most transparent waters. You can find schedules here.

Upon reaching El Nido, check into your hotel in Town proper. A busy little town, El Nido Town has a surprisingly large amount of restaurants, catering for many cuisines, along with snack bars, doughnut sellers, ice-cream parlours, etc. You’ll also find a plethora of operators tempting you with island-hopping tours, inner-island excursions and diving trips.

Backpacker and low-cost accommodation abound, making this a favourite destination if you are enjoying a Philippines backpacking itinerary, 2 weeks. And, in the middle of town, you’ll find a few funky beach bars and karaoke joints that mostly open out onto El Nido beach – a long curving bay that’s always busy with pump boats and luxurious island speed boats coming and going.

In the afternoon, head to Las Cabanas Beach for an afternoon swim and a thrilling Zipline that takes you across the ocean to a nearby island! Enjoy a more peaceful return via a slither of a sandbank that connects the two islands. Find yourself a good spot on the beach or at one of the many outlets along the beach, and sit back to enjoy possibly one of the best sunsets you’ll ever see!

Day 4 and guess what? It’s another early start on your Philippines two week itinerary! Join any one of the organised tours to discover the beautiful Bacuit Bay of El Nido… that which you see in almost every magazine advertising the Philippines!

There are four official tours, simply named A, B, C and D, and you can save money by joining with other travellers or treat yourself to a private pump boat for the day.

Departing from El Nido beach, tour options include:

• Tour A: Take a trip around the beautiful islands of Bacuit Bay, including the famed El Nido Lagoons. Find discounted tour tickets here.
• Tour B: Swim and snorkel at Snake Island, Pinagbuyutan Island and Cudugnon Cave. Here’s a luxury wooden boat option.
• Tour C: Enjoy Helicopter Island, Tapiutan Island, Secret Beach and Hidden Beach. Here’s a luxury speedboat option.
• Tour D:  Visit hidden beaches and lagoons such as Cadlao Lagoon and Pasandigan Beach. Here’s an option for a luxury catamaran.

After your trip, refresh at your hotel before taking dinner in Town and checking out some of the bars.

Best Accommodation: Cauayan Island Resort

Budget Accommodation: Amakan Bed | Bunk | Breakfast

Find our full guide to the best places to stay in El Nido here.

Day 5 – Sabang

Today is yet another early start, but you can catch up on sleep during the drive. Arrange a van-with-driver (or find other van ride schedules here ), and hit the road to your first destination of Sabang, approximately 5 hours away. Home to the famous Puerto Princesa Underground River National Park, this may well be a highlight of your Philippines 2 week itinerary!

The famous Underground River is 8.2km-long, with stunning cave formations, limestone cliffs and mirror-clear waters. From Sabang Port, join a boat taking you to the Underground River entrance, where you’ll transfer to a smaller boat to go inside for viewing unique stalagmites, stalactites and more… Click here to get discounted day tour tickets.

You can also choose to return to Sabang on foot, taking the Monkey Trail – a 5km trail (with a steep climb) through overgrown forests and up close to spectacular limestone karsts. Wildlife galore here, with monkeys and monitor lizards!

Relax the remainder of your day at Sabang Beach, before taking the van on – just one hour – to Puerto Princesa, the capital of Palawan. You can find schedules here.

Best Accommodation: Best Western Plus The Ivywall Hotel

Budget Accommodation:  Hostel Privado

Day 6-7 Puerto Princesa

Relax through the morning, starting out after lunch to discover the history of this greenest and cleanest city of the Philippines. Join an organised tour ( click here for discounted City Heritage Tour tickets ) or self-discover by visiting:

• Plaza Cuartel
• World War II Museum
• Palawan Heritage Centre

In the evening, join with locals at the Puerto Princesa City Baywalk Park for an alfresco picnic-style dinner of grilled seafood. A lively spot, where often street-artists perform, it’s a great way to end your day!

All refreshed and midway through your 2 weeks in the Philippines itinerary, on Day 7 discover the joy of island-hopping at Honda Bay! Pack your sunglasses, sunblock and snorkel as you spend another “typical Philippines day” out on the water, stopping at beautiful sandbanks and almost deserted idyllic islands. Click here to purchase discounted tickets for this tour.

Day 8 – Cebu

It’s a quick flight to Cebu today, taking a little over an hour ( find available flights here ). This “Queen City of the South” is one of the oldest cities in the Philippines.

Spend the afternoon admiring buildings from its 16th-century Spanish colonial past, including Basilica Minore del Santo Nino, Fort Pedro and Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral. And ensure to capture a photo at Magellan’s Cross, marking the spot where Portuguese and Spanish explorers first landed in 1521. Click here to purchase discounted tickets for a half day tour.

In the evening, check out Ayala Mall or SM Mall for shopping and dinner.

Best Accommodation: Radisson Blu Cebu 

Budget Accommodation:  La Gloria Residence Inn

Day 9 Bohol

Another busy day ahead! Catch an early morning ferry from Cebu Port over to Bohol, a quick 2 hours trip. You can see schedules here.

We recommend staying at the Loboc River Resort , to really immerse yourself in Bohol’s jungle interior. From there, join an organised tour or arrange a van-with-driver to explore the famed Chocolate Hills and Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary. Back at the hotel, discover Loboc River with an afternoon cruise or an early evening firefly-watching experience.

Best Accommodation: Loboc River Resort – I can’t recommend this place enough!

Budget Accommodation:  Water to Forest Ecolodge Bohol

You can read our full guide to where to stay in Bohol here.

Day 10-14 Panglao

After a relaxing morning and lunch in Bohol, travel the short 30-40 minutes drive to beautiful Panglao, a delightful destination on your Philippines 2 week itinerary. Connected by a short bridge to Bohol, Panglao Island is epic Philippines. A small island, with only a handful of villages, the centre for entertainment and tourism is Alona Beach. Check into your beachside hotel and relax at the pool, in the sea, or with a well-earned massage.

On day 11 it is again time to get out on the water, this time with a really early start around 5 am! From Alona Beach join a pump boat for a couple of hours in search of dolphins and pilot whales, cameras forever at the ready!

After refreshing at your hotel and having lunch, spend the afternoon discovering Panglao’s natural attractions, culture and historical sites:

• Bohol Bee Farm
• Nova Shell Museum
• Hinagdanan Cave
• Panglao Watchtower
• San Agustin Parish Church
• Old Panglao Municipal Building

Click here to purchase discounted Panglao Island tour tickets.

Day 12 and it’s your last chance for island-hopping, this time Panglao style:

• Balicasag Island – a treasure trove of marine life and coral reefs (lots of turtles here)
• BBQ lunch, beachside
• Virgin Island – a white powdery sandbar, surrounded by azure waters

For dinner, dine at Alona Beach with tables set up adjacent to the beach under the stars… with cooking stations offering sumptuous grilled seafood.

Day 13 and sadly today is your last full day. Sit back and relish the tranquillity of the Philippines, take a swim or snorkel, and catch your last sunset.

Best Accommodation: Henann Resort

Budget Accommodation:  Mithi Resort and Spa

…time to start planning your next Philippines travel itinerary 2 weeks!

Final Words For Your 2 Weeks Itinerary Philippines 2024

A wonderful tour, our Philippines two week itinerary encapsulates the quintessential Philippines, with island hopping in Coron, El Nido and Panglao. With a pinch of history in Puerto Princesa and Cebu and the unique Chocolate Hills of Bohol and the world famous UNESCO Underground River, this is one monumental trip!

We hope you found this Philippines itinerary 2 weeks useful! You can find all our guides to planning your Philippines adventure here or check out our three week itinerary here and 10 day itinerary here.

Related posts:

By Julia Rolph

Julia first discovered the Philippines in 2011, eventually settling in beautiful Bantayan Island, Cebu, with her daughter and Filipino partner.  The family spend every vacation exploring the Philippines, and Julia enjoys helping others discover this wonderful destination. When she's not sharing her vast Philippines knowledge here, she works as a travel planner planning trips for people who want to visit the Philippines

APRIL SALE:   Discover and book at   up to 60% off!

Philippines Tours in June 2024

• Apr '24
• May '24
• Jun '24
• Jul '24
• Aug '24
• Sep '24
• Oct '24
• Nov '24
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56 Philippines trips in June 2024

• Island Hopping

Philippines Island Explorer 13 day

This was the most amazing trip ever. I was travelling as a solo female and this was my first stop on my first trip. The philippines in its self is beautiful, but i feel like this tour gave us the best experiences you can get! Our tour guide was also amazing (Andri Agassi), and made everyone feel welcomed and safe the whole trip. Would absolutely recommend this to anyone wanting to explore the Philippines and its beautiful waterfall, nightlife and adventures!

• Hiking & Trekking
• Christmas & New Year

Ifugao Villages Trek

Jody was completely wonderful. Professional, knowledgeable, smart, fun, efficient, caring, all the things a good guide should be. Cute smile with a patient disposition. I felt very lucky to spend time with him. I learned so much from him. His love of Ifugao, sang through every word he spoke. I would do it all again just to spend time with him.

Philippines Island Hopper

The tour was a good mix of activities and down time. The Phillipines is amazing and Gema was an amazing guide. I was only suppose to do the first half of the trip but extended my trip because I was having such a good time. Gema is friendly, flexible and wants you to have the best experience possible. She loves what she does and it shows. There is a lot of traveling within the trip because we are island hopping, so having someone else figure out how to do that was lovely. I would Highly recommend this trip.

A Week In Palawan, Philippines

Almost excellent except for the quality of the hotel at el Nido, it was a 1 star hostel. The people of the tours were very nice and kind. The food pf the tours was very good for the seafood lovers. The transport from Puerto Princesa to el Nido was uncomfortable and long; but it is the only way to reach there. Marice was excellent answering all our questions via WhatsApp

10 Days Philippine Tour

The tour was well organized and some of the tours and day trips have been really amazing. For a next stay i would choice a better hotel category. The assistance from the office during the whole stay was very friendly and attentive.

Philippines One Life Adventures - 10 Days

I absolutely loved this experience. This tour really took the stress out of planning and getting around, especially as a solo traveller I felt I was just able to relax and enjoy it rather than having to worry about getting from A to B. Its full on with loads of inclusions so I felt it was good value for money. You’ve got transfers, island hopping, lots of meals and cultural experiences so it caters for everyone. Our group was amazing and it was such a good way to meet a diverse bunch of people. Jet, our guide, really made the experience. He was super relaxed, thoughtful and really went above and beyond for us. He really looks after his guests and makes sure they’re safe. He felt more like a friend than a guide. He was always happy to answer questions, to run over the plan for the day and it was great to get his insider knowledge. 10/10.

Sagada & Banaue Rice Terraces 4-Day Tour

When I found information about this tour to Sagada and Banaue online, it already had such high reviews, but after experiencing the tour for myself, I would rate it even higher! This trip, guided by the wonderful Zohan, is extremely unique in large part due to the personal touches, stories, and intentional cultural experiences Zohan added to the itinerary. Though the tour is listed for all ages, I would specifically recommend for those ages 18-50 or so. There is quite a bit of hiking, walking, an overnight bus both ways, and lots of carrying of luggage. To participate in this trip, one must be eager to learn, open-minded to experience other cultures, and physically fit.

From Manila to the White Beaches of Bohol - 6 Days Package

Philippines East

Gema was a fantastic tour guide she was extremely helpful throughout the tour and before the tour even started. Gema was great fun to be around and made the experience even better. Gema is super friendly and a great laugh who was up for anything.

Philippines One Life Adventures - 14 Days

We had a wonderful 2wks with Lini. The itinerary was well planned with plenty of sightseeing as well as ample time to relax & enjoy the beautiful locations. Would definitely recommend this tour.

Coron Island Life Expedition (Coron to Coron 3D2N)

Amazing experience! To the crew who took care of us during the duration of the trip, great food, amazing beaches and sunsets. Best way to explore coron.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Philippines Highlights 12 Days Adventure

13 Days Philippines Explorer with Boracay

The tour was ideal for me as a solo traveller allowing me to slot the trip into the exact dates of my holiday, even leaving out one part to make it work. Despite my flight date being changed by my airline at the last minute, I was still able to adjust my trip without missing out on any major part. Communication was available at any time should any concerns arise. I was surprised how much of the Philippines I covered in a short time.

• Sightseeing

East Philippines One Life Adventures - 10 Day Tour

Amazing tour for the experienced traveller or first timer. Eye opening moments, beautiful beaches, great food and a fantastic tour guide. The 10 day tour was well planned with a good amount of planned activities and also free time to explore solo or with new friends. Would recommend this for anyone looking for an adventure of a lifetime!!

Explore The Cordilleras

What people love about philippines tours in june.

This was one of the best trips I've done. The itinerary was the perfect mix of activities and down time & I felt, hit the key places I'd travel to if doing it fully solo. Whilst the tour itself and the people I met on it were a big part of me having the best time, it wouldn't have been the same without our tour leader Andri. He helped join the group together before we even started and made everyone feel included once we got there. He was the best mix of chilled and reliable, super knowledgeable and put the needs of the group first like the wonderfully caring human he is. We always knew what we were doing and when and it felt like he made the trip run so smoothly - I only had to worry about turning up and having a good time. If you're thinking about booking this DO IT (and pray you'll have Andri has your leader)

This tour was by far one of the most amazing experiences of my life. This was my first time travelling to a Southeast Asian country by myself but I felt safe and welcomed the entire time. I enjoyed observing beautiful rice terraces, meeting friendly village people, and learning lots about Ifugao culture from my tour guide. The opportunity to stay in a guest house in one of the small villages gave me the chance to truly appreciate the simplistic life of the village people. My tour guide, Marvin Bunaton was a wonderful guide to have. He gave me lots of valuable information about Ifugao culture and made sure I was safe the entire time. I am very lucky to have had him as a tour guide. I recommend this trip to everyone who loves hiking and beautiful sceneries! If I ever come back to the Philippines, I will bring my loved ones and do this tour all over again!

Such an incredible experience! We saw and did so much on this tour, I’m not sure would have been possible on my own. Gema was such an incredible tour guide- kind, funny, inspiring, inclusive, helpful, etc. You can feel just how passionate she is about helping the communities we traveled to as well. Could not recommend this tour or Gema more ❤️

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• Luzon Island June 2024 (17)
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I will be making my first visit to the PI in late June/early July.

Would welcome any suggestions as to whether what resort area is better that time of year, and also some local travel agents that might be able to arrange a driver and lodging for my destinations in the PI, as well as to the resort area.

Thanks for your help!

It's easiest to simply arrange drivers as you go.

Being Asia, there are many touts in most locations.

I have never had a pr9oblem: in fact some touts arrange excellent drivers with good English.

Yes it is the start of typhoon season. A local such as Sirenna may correct me, but I think the chances of typhoons tend to be more in August to October than June.

For goodness' sake, ju7st go and enjoy the excellent snorkelling at (say) Crocodile Island off Boracay: you hire a boat for P1800 for four hours and are there in 15 minutes from Station 2 boat departure point.

The most affordable options would be to fly into Puerto Princesa or Busuanga. El Nido is fantastic but it would cost you around $1,500 to $2,000 US for a weekend.

The weather conditions in west Visayas (Panay)are most good, may a little bit windy, Typhoons are more at the east side of the country.

For a good snorkeling destination I can suggest Pandan and Culasi areas in Antique. With small islands which are surrounded by unspoiled snorkel and scuba sites.

My main concern, the weather during this part of the monsoon season, was unjustified. The weather was warm and beautiful most of the time. On a couple of the days there was an afternoon thundershower that lasted about 30 minutes but swept through quickly replaced by sun again. On some days it was totally clear and sunny. The rain had a nice cooling effect in any event when it did come. No days were too hot or insufferable. I have heard that the rainy season is coming later and later these days, and I am told by late July and August there is much more rain and less sun

Perhaps we were very lucky, but the ideal weather combined with the lack of any kind of crowds during this early part of the low season made this visit wonderful and very memorable.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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Philippines, Japan eye signing of reciprocal troops pact within 2024 – Malaya

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This is AI generated summarization, which may have errors. For context, always refer to the full article.

ALLIES. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. shake hands during the Commemorative Summit on the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation.

Presidential Communications Office

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippines and Japan are looking to sign their Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA), a visiting forces pact, before the end of 2024, National Security Council Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya said on Saturday, April 20.

“Yes, target is before the end of the year,” Malaya confirmed to Rappler, when asked about an earlier report quoting him.

An ABS-CBN tweet also quoted Malaya as saying that Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. directed their negotiators to “proceed immediately.”

The two countries agreed in November 2023 to start negotiations on the bilateral defense deal that would allow both nations to deploy troops to each other’s countries. Such an agreement may also allow joint drills and other forms of defense cooperation.

Marcos earlier said that an RAA would be “extremely significant” between the two countries, noting the greater capability it would grant “in terms of not only security but also in terms of disaster preparedness, alleviation, and adjustment.”

“And that is something that is I believe is very, very significant and that it will bring to us greater capacity to maintain the peace in [the South China Sea],” Marcos said in December 2023.

While similar, the RAA is distinct from the Visiting Forces Agreement of the Philippines with the United States. During a forum with the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines on April 15, Marcos described the RAA’s differences.

“It’s not going to be as if it’s their base and they, their seamen, will come down and will go into the city and go – I don’t think that that’s a part of the agreement,” Marcos had said .

Philippine defense officials earlier said that the RAA was slated to be signed by March 2024.

The Philippines, Japan, and the United States recently concluded a trilateral summit, with one of the focus areas cooperation in the West Philippine Sea, particularly amid China’s hostility towards Philippine vessels.

Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs also earlier said it “opposes any unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force as well as any actions that increase tensions in the South China Sea” after Chinese and Philippine government vessels collided during a Philippine resupply mission to Ayungin Shoal.

Japan has RAAs with just two other countries: Australia and the United Kingdom.

Tokyo has been seen as a balancing force in tempering China’s growing aggression in the region. – Rappler.com

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