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Country Facts

Capital

Manila

Size

300,000 square kilometers (115,831 sq mi).

Time Zone

GMT+8

Population

115,844,000

Currency

Philippine peso

Philippines

The Philippines is an archipelago of over 7,000 islands, renowned for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. From pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters to lush mountains and bustling cities, the Philippines offers diverse attractions for every type of traveler.

With its breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and friendly locals, the Philippines is a paradise for travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, and a taste of the local way of life. Whether exploring its stunning beaches or immersing yourself in its vibrant culture, the Philippines promises unforgettable experiences for all visitors.

 

Reasons to visit Philippines:

  1. Beaches and Islands:
    • Boracay: Famous for its powdery white sand beaches and vibrant nightlife.
    • Palawan: Home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Puerto Princesa Underground River and stunning lagoons in El Nido and Coron.
    • Siargao: Known as the surfing capital, offering beautiful beaches and laid-back vibes.
  2. Cultural Experiences:
    • Intramuros in Manila: The historic walled city showcasing Spanish colonial architecture.
    • Vigan: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its preserved Spanish colonial town.
  3. Natural Wonders:
    • Chocolate Hills in Bohol: Unique geological formations that change color with the seasons.
    • Rice Terraces of Banaue: Ancient terraces carved into the mountains, often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World.”
  4. Adventure and Ecotourism:
    • Diving and Snorkeling: The Philippines boasts some of the best diving spots globally, including Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park and Anilao.
    • Hiking: Popular trails include Mt. Pulag, known for its sea of clouds, and Mt. Apo, the highest peak in the country.
  5. Festivals and Events:
    • Sinulog in Cebu: A vibrant festival celebrating the Santo Niño with colorful street parades.
    • Pahiyas in Lucban: A harvest festival featuring colorful displays made of rice and local produce.

Tourism Highlights

  • Diverse Ecosystems: From coral reefs to lush rainforests, the Philippines is home to rich biodiversity, making it ideal for nature lovers.
  • Warm and Welcoming People: Filipinos are known for their hospitality, making visitors feel at home.
  • Rich Cultural Heritage: A blend of indigenous, Spanish, American, and Asian influences shapes the country’s unique culture, reflected in its cuisine, music, and arts.

Preparing For A Trip To Philippines?

Visa Information / Entry requirements to Philippines

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of the Philippines’ rules for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in the Philippines set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Philippine Embassy in the UK.

Philippines e-travel system

You must register with the ‘e-travel’ system before boarding your flight to the Philippines. You can register up to 72 hours before departure.

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering the Philippines.

Passport validity requirements

To enter the Philippines, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

You can visit the Philippines without a visa for tourism or business for up to 30 days.

Some airlines will not carry you if you cannot produce your departure ticket and show the QR code issued by the e-travel system.

To enter the Philippines as a visitor, you must have a ticket for your return or onward travel.

To stay more than 30 days, you can apply for an extension when you are in the Philippines. If you overstay any visa without authority, it is a serious matter. You could face fees and fines, and detention if you cannot pay them, or you could be deported at your own expense.

If you want a visa to live, work, or study in the Philippines, you’ll need to meet the requirements of the Philippine immigration regulations. This includes having certain UK documents (birth certificates, marriage certificates, UK police certificates and school documents) legalised by the Legalisation Office (not by the Philippine Embassy in London).

Children travelling without their parents

If your non-Filipino children aged 14 or under are travelling without either parent, you must apply for a waiver of exclusion ground for entry into the Philippines.

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Tourism Health Information – Philippines

Before you travel check that:

  • your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
  • you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Call 911 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

See what health risks you’ll face in the Philippines, including  :

  • dengue
  • tick-borne encephalitis
  • Zika virus

Mosquito-borne diseases are a risk all year round. However, there’s a heightened risk of dengue during the rainy season from June to October. Take precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of the Philippines. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro.

Medication

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.

Healthcare in the Philippines

FCDO has a list of medical providers in the Philippines where some staff will speak English.

The availability of medical care varies across the Philippines and may not meet the standards of care in the UK, particularly in rural and remote areas. Many places, including some tourist destinations, do not have easy access to emergency medical care.

Private hospital treatment and medical transport is expensive – the daily cost in intensive care units can be more than £1,000. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment, including repatriation.

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Weather & When To Go To Philippines

The Philippines enjoys a tropical climate, characterized by high humidity and temperatures averaging between 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F) throughout the year. The country has three main seasons:

1. Dry Season (November to April)

  • Best Time to Visit: This is generally considered the best time to visit the Philippines, particularly from December to February when the weather is cooler and less humid.
  • Characteristics: Expect sunny days, minimal rainfall, and ideal conditions for beach activities, island hopping, and outdoor adventures. It’s also the peak tourist season, so popular destinations may be crowded.

2. Wet Season (May to October)

  • Characteristics: This period is marked by higher humidity and frequent rain, with the possibility of typhoons, especially from July to September.
  • May: Hot and humid, with occasional rain showers; still a good time for some regions.
  • June to October: Rainy season with potential tropical storms, but visiting can still be enjoyable as the landscapes are lush and the tourist crowds are fewer.

3. Shoulder Season (Late April to Early June)

  • Characteristics: The transition from dry to wet season; this period can be hot and humid, but it offers great opportunities for budget travelers due to lower prices and fewer tourists.
  • Advantages: Fewer crowds and more affordable accommodations, although weather can be unpredictable.

Regional Variations

  • Luzon: Cooler in the north during the dry season; consider visiting Baguio or the Cordillera region.
  • Visayas: Similar climate, but can experience storms in the wet season. Popular for beach destinations like Boracay and Cebu.
  • Mindanao: Generally drier than the rest of the country, particularly in the southern regions.

Conclusion

While the best time to visit the Philippines is during the dry season from November to April, travelers should consider regional differences and personal preferences for weather, activities, and crowd sizes when planning their trip.

Read More On Visas

Tailor-Made Holidays

At Earth Trip we will design and plan your personalised itinerary according to the exact requirements of your trip. Whether you prefer to be on a mountaintop or under a waterfall; wake up in the middle of a jungle or have a picnic with locals in the tea plantations – we select the accommodation and activities in order to suit not only your preferences, but also your budget.

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