Things to Do in Philippines in July

July weather, activities, events & insider tips

July Weather in Philippines

High Temp

Low Temp

Rainfall

% Humidity

Is July Right for You?

Advantages

Lush green landscapes at their most dramatic - rice terraces in Banaue and Bataan are emerald green and photo-perfect
Significantly fewer crowds at major attractions like Boracay and El Nido, with hotel rates 30-40% lower than peak season
Perfect surfing conditions on the Pacific coast - Siargao and Baler have consistent 1-2m (3-6ft) swells with offshore winds
Mango season peaks in July - Philippine mangoes are at their sweetest and cheapest at ₱40-60 per kilo in local markets

Considerations

Heavy afternoon rains lasting 1-3 hours occur on 18 out of 31 days, requiring flexible scheduling and indoor backup plans
Island hopping and boat tours frequently get cancelled due to rough seas, especially in Palawan and Visayas regions
High humidity at 85% makes outdoor activities exhausting between 11am-4pm, limiting prime sightseeing hours

Best Activities in July

Baguio City Mountain Retreat Tours

July's cooler mountain climate in Baguio (18-22°C/64-72°F) provides perfect escape from lowland heat. The pine forests are lush from rain, and morning mists create mystical landscapes. Strawberry picking season is at its peak, and local markets overflow with highland vegetables.

Booking Tip: Book mountain accommodations 2-3 weeks ahead as Filipino families flock here during rainy season. Tours typically cost ₱1,500-2,500 per person including transport from Manila. Look for operators offering covered vehicles for rain protection.

Siargao Surfing Adventures

July delivers consistent surf conditions with 1-2m (3-6ft) swells and favorable wind patterns. Cloud 9 breaks perfectly, and beginner spots like Jacking Horse have manageable waves. Rain showers are brief and actually cool you down between surf sessions.

Booking Tip: Surf lesson packages range ₱2,000-3,500 for full day including board rental. Book through certified surf schools with safety equipment. Afternoon sessions (2-5pm) often have best conditions as morning winds calm down.

Manila Cultural and Food Tours

Rainy season makes indoor cultural attractions like National Museum and Intramuros churches ideal. Evening food tours work perfectly as rain typically stops by 6pm. Air-conditioned malls become cultural hubs, and rooftop bars offer dramatic storm-watching experiences.

Booking Tip: Walking food tours cost ₱1,800-2,800 per person for 4-5 hours. Choose tours with covered markets and indoor venues as backup options. Evening tours (5-9pm) avoid afternoon downpours.

Cebu Canyoneering and Waterfall Tours

July rains create spectacular waterfall volumes - Kawasan Falls thunders at maximum flow, making canyoneering thrilling but safe. The cooler, overcast weather reduces heat exhaustion risk during physical activities.

Booking Tip: Canyoneering packages range ₱2,500-4,000 including safety gear and guides. Book with operators providing high-quality wetsuits and helmets. Tours run rain or shine - rain actually makes it more exciting.

Bohol Countryside and Tarsier Sanctuary Tours

The Chocolate Hills turn brilliant green in July, creating Instagram-worthy contrasts with cloudy skies. Indoor attractions like tarsier sanctuaries and ancestral houses provide perfect rainy day alternatives. River cruises on Loboc River are especially scenic with lush riverbank vegetation.

Booking Tip: Full-day countryside tours cost ₱2,200-3,200 per person. Choose tours with flexible itineraries that can switch to covered attractions during downpours. Air-conditioned van tours are essential for comfort.

Palawan Underground River Expeditions

July's lower tourist volumes mean easier Underground River permits and shorter queues. The cave system stays cool and dry regardless of outside weather. Puerto Princesa's covered markets and museums provide excellent rainy day exploration.

Booking Tip: Underground River tours cost ₱1,500-2,200 including permits and boat transfers. Book permits 5-7 days ahead through accredited operators. Combine with city tours that include indoor attractions like crocodile farms.

July Events & Festivals

Late July

Kadayawan Festival Preparations

Late July sees Davao City preparing for August's Kadayawan Festival with street decorations, practice performances, and fruit abundance in markets. Durian season peaks, offering brave travelers the chance to try the 'king of fruits' at lowest prices.

Mid to Late July

Sinulog Festival Foundation Activities

Cebu begins early preparations for the following year's Sinulog with cultural workshops and traditional dance classes open to tourists. Local communities practice performances, offering authentic cultural immersion opportunities.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Quick-dry rain jacket with ventilation panels - July storms are intense but brief, and you'll overheat in non-breathable rain gear

Waterproof phone case and dry bags - protect electronics during sudden downpours and water activities

Two pairs of comfortable walking sandals - one pair will always be wet or drying

Lightweight merino wool or synthetic shirts that dry quickly and don't smell when humid

SPF 50+ waterproof sunscreen - UV index hits 9 even on cloudy days, and you'll sweat it off quickly

Compact umbrella that fits in daypack - Filipinos always carry umbrellas during rainy season

Antifungal foot powder - essential for preventing athlete's foot in constant humidity

Electrolyte packets or tablets - you'll sweat more than expected even in air conditioning

Thin long-sleeved shirts for sun and mosquito protection during humid evenings

Cash in small bills (₱20, ₱50, ₱100) - vendors often can't change large notes, especially during rain when fewer customers come

Insider Knowledge

Schedule outdoor activities for early morning (6-10am) when it's coolest and rain is least likely - this is when locals do their exercise and marketing

Always carry a small towel - Filipinos call it 'face towel' and use it constantly to wipe sweat and rain. You'll see locals doing this everywhere

Book accommodations with strong air conditioning and backup power - brownouts happen more frequently during storm season, and you'll need climate control

Use July's low season to negotiate better rates directly with hotels and tour operators - savings of 20-40% are common for walk-in customers