Travel Guide
Philippines
With over 3000 Islands, countless waterfalls, turquoise waters the Philippines is perfect for those seeking adventure and authenticity.
Itinerary
highlights
budget
weather
Travelling in Philippines
The Philippines, a country that will take your breath-away as you explore just a handful of it's 7,000+ islands, each offering its own unique paradise. This dreamy island vacation destination is perfect for the adventurous explorer, just imagine exploring remote islands with powdery white sands, swaying palm trees, and crystal-clear waters. Whether you’re hiking through lush landscapes, surfing chill waves, or diving into stunning blue waterfalls and hidden lagoons, the Philippines promises an unforgettable adventure. Experience the magic of this tropical haven today!
How to plan your trip
to the Philippines
Traveling in the Philippines can be a bit of a puzzle with so many islands to explore! But don’t worry—our Philippine travel guides are here to help you create the perfect itinerary! Whether you’re searching for the must-see spots in Siargao, a comprehensive guide to the best waterfalls, or tips for exploring Bohol on a budget, we’ve got you covered with all the essential details to plan your dream vacation.
We suggest setting aside at least three weeks to fully experience the Philippines. While you could easily spend months uncovering its beauty, our three-week route will lead you to some of the most amazing destinations in the country. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
Best places to visit in the philippines
How much does it cost to travel the philippines
Traveling in the Philippines is impressively budget-friendly, making it accessible for all types of travellers! We were able to travel the Philippines on $50 per day, per person, including our domestic flights to reach multiple islands. But it's easy to spend more especially if you're staying in high-end hotels and eating at more westernised restaurants.
Cost of travelling Philippines
You can enjoy a budget-friendly trip to the Philippines for as little as $200 to $500 USD per week per person. For a mid-range experience, expect to spend between $530 and $1,180 USD, while those seeking a high-end getaway can budget from $1,160 to $1,810 USD. Keep in mind that costs can vary based on your choice of accommodation, transportation, and activities. Note that flight prices are not included—check them out here!
$20 - $30 USD
hotels:
Average Daily Cost
$3 - $10 USD
food:
$2 - $50 USD
transport:
$3 - $10 USD
tours:
$10 - $25 USD
sim card:
$2 USD
travel insurance:
Best time to travel
the philippines
The Philippines, a tropical paradise, experiences two primary seasons: the dry season from December to April and the wet season from May to November. Interestingly, some islands may have the reverse pattern!
Timing is crucial for a perfect getaway to the Philippines! This tropical paradise features two distinct seasons, but weather can vary widely from island to island.
weather in the philippines
jan
🌤️
24ºc
feb
🌤️
28ºc
mar
⛅️
29ºc
apr
🌤️
30ºc
may
🌦️
30ºc
jun
🌧️
29ºc
jul
🌧️
29ºc
aug
🌧️
29ºc
sep
🌦️
29ºc
oct
🌦️
29ºc
nov
🌦️
29ºc
dec
🌤️
28ºc
Wifi and SIM Cards in the Philippines
Wi-Fi in the Philippines can be quite unpredictable—it's often slow, unreliable and affected by weather. To stay connected, we highly recommend getting an eSIM for essentials like getting around with Google Maps. If you prefer, local SIMs are also an affordable option, we recommend GLOBE.
get an esim before you travel
Use code MAXANDJAC3 for $3 OFF
How to get around the Philippines?
Transportation in the Philippines is organised and budget-friendly, but it can be time-consuming. You can travel overland using taxis, tricycles, jeepneys, buses, and minivans, while inter-island travel is typically done by boat or airplane.
Book public transport here
In the Philippines, flights are as frequent as buses for island hopping. However, flight delays are common, so it's best to avoid tight schedules when booking connecting flights or activities.
flights
Ferries are a popular way to travel between islands. Opting for an overnight ferry can help save on accommodation costs. It’s also advisable to book boats and long bus journeys in advance for a smoother travel experience.
boats & buses
For short distances, tricycles are a convenient choice. These three-wheeled vehicles are similar to tuk-tuks, but it's important to negotiate the fare. A good rule of thumb is to pay around 100 PHP for two people, including luggage, for a 10-minute ride.
tricycles
In popular tourist areas (excluding major cities), renting a scooter or motorbike is a great way to explore at your own pace. Expect to pay around 400 to 600 PHP (approximately $9 USD) per day, depending on the season.
scooters
travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for your trip to the Philippines! SafetyWing offers travel medical insurance that covers you for many activities and it covers you everywhere so it's a great choice if you're planning a stop-over or multi-destination trip. Check out SafetyWing here.
Tourist Visa for the Philippines
Most nationalities can obtain a 30-day Visa on Arrival when flying to the Philippines. To qualify, your passport must be valid for at least six months, and you’ll need an outbound ticket to confirm your departure within those 30 days. This standard visa can be extended for up to 60 days.
You must register your travel to and from the Philippines on the eTravel Card online portal in order to receive a QR code to use for arrival and departure formalities.
Check out more philippines travel guides
