Things to Do in Philippines in October

October Weather in Philippines

31°C (87°F) High Temp

20°C (68°F) Low Temp

51 mm (2.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is October Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect post-monsoon water clarity - visibility for snorkeling and diving reaches 30-40 m (98-131 ft) in Palawan and Bohol after September rains settle
Shoulder season pricing saves 30-40% on accommodations compared to December-January peak, with availability still excellent for last-minute bookings
Optimal wildlife viewing - October marks whale shark season in Donsol and Oslob, with 80% sighting success rates before tourist crowds arrive
Rice harvest festivals across Luzon create authentic cultural experiences, particularly in Banaue and Baguio regions with comfortable 18-24°C (64-75°F) temperatures

Considerations

Unpredictable afternoon thunderstorms lasting 30-45 minutes can disrupt island hopping tours, occurring on roughly 60% of days between 2-5 PM
End of typhoon season means 15-20% chance of tropical storms affecting eastern islands like Siargao and Catanduanes, requiring flexible booking policies
High humidity makes midday activities uncomfortable in Manila and Cebu - feels like temperature reaches 38-40°C (100-104°F) from 11 AM to 3 PM

Best Activities in October

Palawan Island Hopping and Snorkeling

October offers the year's clearest waters in El Nido and Coron after monsoon sediment settles. Water temperature stays comfortable at 28-29°C (82-84°F) with minimal rainfall affecting boat schedules. Perfect conditions for exploring hidden lagoons and coral gardens without December's crowds.

Booking Tip: Book island hopping tours 5-7 days ahead through licensed operators with covered boats. Tours typically cost ₱2,500-3,500 per person. Choose operators offering weather guarantees and alternative indoor activities. See current tour options in the booking section below.

Bohol Tarsier and Chocolate Hills Tours

October's moderate temperatures and reduced rainfall create ideal conditions for exploring Bohol's natural attractions. Morning tours (7-11 AM) avoid afternoon heat and humidity, while tarsiers are most active. Clear skies provide spectacular Chocolate Hills views without monsoon haze.

Booking Tip: Book full-day Bohol tours 10-14 days ahead, typically ₱3,000-4,500 including transportation and lunch. Choose tours starting early morning to maximize wildlife viewing and beat afternoon heat. Licensed operators provide air-conditioned transport essential for comfort.

Manila Historical Walking Tours

October's lower humidity makes exploring Intramuros and Rizal Park comfortable during early morning and late afternoon hours. Cultural sites offer indoor air-conditioned respites between outdoor exploration, perfect for the variable weather patterns typical of this month.

Booking Tip: Book 3-4 hour walking tours scheduled for 8-11 AM or 4-7 PM slots to avoid midday heat. Tours cost ₱1,200-2,000 per person with professional guides. Choose operators offering indoor cultural center visits as weather backup options.

Cebu Whale Shark Swimming Experiences

October marks excellent whale shark season with calm seas and high visibility. Water conditions in Oslob remain optimal with 27-28°C (81-82°F) temperatures and minimal current, while tourist numbers stay manageable before peak season arrivals.

Booking Tip: Book whale shark tours 7-10 days ahead, typically ₱3,500-5,000 including transport from Cebu City. Early morning slots (6-9 AM) offer best encounters and avoid afternoon weather changes. Choose operators with safety certifications and marine park permits.

Siargao Surfing and Island Adventures

October brings consistent swells to Cloud 9 with offshore winds creating clean wave faces. Post-monsoon conditions mean fewer crowds and affordable accommodation rates, though weather requires flexible scheduling due to occasional tropical disturbances in eastern Philippines.

Booking Tip: Book Siargao activities with 48-hour free cancellation policies due to weather variability. Surfing lessons cost ₱1,500-2,500, island tours ₱2,000-3,500. Choose operators monitoring weather forecasts and offering alternative activities during storms.

Baguio Mountain Hiking and Cultural Tours

October offers perfect mountain weather in Baguio with comfortable 18-24°C (64-75°F) temperatures and minimal rainfall. Clear mountain air provides excellent views of Cordillera ranges, while local markets showcase harvest season produce and traditional crafts.

Booking Tip: Book mountain tours 5-7 days ahead, typically ₱2,000-3,500 for full-day experiences. Choose tours including traditional village visits and local market stops. Operators provide transportation suitable for mountain roads and weather-appropriate guidance.

October Events & Festivals

Mid to Late October

Masskara Festival

Bacolod's premier festival features elaborate street dancing, colorful masks, and local food celebrations. October showcases sugar harvest traditions with week-long events including competitions, parades, and cultural performances throughout the city.

Late October

Lanzones Festival

Camiguin Island celebrates its famous lanzones fruit harvest with street festivals, cultural shows, and traditional games. The event highlights local agricultural traditions and offers authentic island experiences away from typical tourist activities.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Quick-dry breathable shirts in cotton or bamboo blend - avoid polyester in 70% humidity as it traps moisture and odors

Lightweight waterproof rain jacket with ventilation - afternoon storms last 30-45 minutes and occur on 60% of days

SPF 50+ reef-safe sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 and water reflection intensifies exposure during island activities

Waterproof phone case and dry bag - essential for boat tours and sudden downpours common in October

Comfortable walking sandals with good grip - streets become slippery during frequent rain showers

Insect repellent with 20-30% DEET - post-monsoon conditions increase mosquito activity, especially at dawn and dusk

Light long-sleeve shirt for evening - temperatures drop to 20°C (68°F) in mountain areas and air-conditioned spaces

Portable umbrella - more practical than rain poncho for quick afternoon showers and harsh midday sun

Moisture-wicking undergarments - essential for comfort in humid conditions during active touring

Small towel that dries quickly - hotel towels stay damp in humid conditions and daily activities involve frequent water exposure

Insider Knowledge

Book domestic flights for morning departures - afternoon thunderstorms frequently delay 2-6 PM flights, especially routes to Palawan and eastern islands

Carry small bills (₱20-50 notes) - October harvest season means rural areas have limited change for larger denominations, particularly important for tricycle rides and market purchases

Download offline maps before island trips - cellular service remains spotty post-monsoon as towers undergo maintenance, particularly affecting remote islands

Local restaurants serve seasonal specialties in October including fresh lanzones, rambutan, and newly harvested rice dishes - ask for 'mga bagong ani' (new harvest) items not listed on tourist menus

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling outdoor activities from 11 AM to 3 PM when heat index reaches 40°C (104°F) - locals take midday breaks and outdoor tours become uncomfortable

Not bringing backup indoor plans - October's unpredictable afternoon storms can cancel island tours with only 2-3 hours notice

Overpacking heavy rain gear - October showers are brief and warm, lightweight protection works better than heavy waterproof clothing