Things to Do in Philippines

About Philippines

The Philippines has over 7,600 islands. In Palawan, limestone cliffs rise straight out of green water, while up in Luzon's mountains, rice terraces step down slopes that locals have farmed for centuries. Filipinos are warm hosts—you'll notice it immediately. Spanish churches anchor old town squares. Their bells still ring. Meanwhile, bamboo beach huts along the coast promise nothing but quiet and sand. Puerto Princesa has underground rivers. Bohol has the chocolate hills—odd, round formations that turn brown in the dry season. The landscapes here don't need exaggeration. This isn't just a beach trip. The country offers striking scenery, deep history, and people who genuinely care whether you had a good day.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Jeepneys cost 10-15 PHP ($0.18-0.27) for short rides. Tricycles charge 20-100 PHP ($0.36-1.82) depending on distance. Grab rides in Manila run 100-400 PHP ($1.82-7.27). Island hopping boats cost 1,500-3,000 PHP ($27-55) for day trips.

Island Hopping: Palawan boat tours charge 1,800-3,500 PHP ($33-64) per person. Boracay paraw sailing costs 800-1,500 PHP ($15-27) per hour. Bohol dolphin watching runs 1,200-2,000 PHP ($22-36). Siargao surfing lessons cost 1,500-2,500 PHP ($27-45) with board rental.

Food: Street food like balut costs 15-25 PHP ($0.27-0.45). Local eateries serve meals for 80-200 PHP ($1.45-3.64). Fresh seafood at beachside grills runs 300-800 PHP ($5.45-14.55). Halo-halo dessert costs 60-150 PHP ($1.09-2.73).

Accommodation: Beach resorts range 2,500-8,000 PHP ($45-145) nightly. Hostels cost 800-2,000 PHP ($15-36). Private island resorts charge 15,000-50,000 PHP ($273-909). Homestays with families run 1,000-2,500 PHP ($18-45).

When to Visit

The Philippines enjoys a tropical climate with three distinct seasons. The dry season (November-April) offers the best weather, with temperatures averaging 25-32°C and minimal rainfall (10-50mm monthly). This peak period sees hotel prices increase 30-50%, especially during Christmas and Holy Week (March/April). December-February provides the coolest, most comfortable conditions for sightseeing, while March-May becomes hotter (up to 35°C) but perfect for beach activities. The wet season (May-October) brings heavy rainfall (150-400mm monthly), typhoons, and humidity, but also lush landscapes and 40-60% lower accommodation costs. September-October typically sees the most severe weather. Shoulder season (late April-early June) offers reasonable prices with increasing temperatures. Major festivals include Ati-Atihan (January), Sinulog (third Sunday of January), and Pahiyas (May 15). Adventure travelers may appreciate the wet season's dramatic scenery and fewer crowds, while beach lovers and families should stick to November-April. Surfers will find optimal waves during the wet season on the Pacific coast and dry season on the western shores.