Best time to visit the Philippines: dry or rainy season

The Philippines is a tropical destination with two main seasons: the dry one and the rainy one. If your trip revolves around the islands, when you go makes a big difference to what you get.

Dry season (December to May)

This is the best time for a trip like ours, through El Nido, Coron and Siargao. Skies are clear, the sea is calm and conditions are ideal for island tours, beaches and snorkeling.

Shoulder season (November and June)

It can be a good option, with less tourism. There's a bit more risk of rain, but it doesn't usually affect the trip much if you're flexible.

Rainy season (July to October)

It isn't the best time for this route. There's more rain, the sea is choppier and there's a chance of tours and ferries being cancelled.

The Philippines runs at a slower pace, and delays on flights, ferries or transfers are common at any time of year. Always leave a margin between connections.

What changes by season

In the dry season the island-hopping plan almost always goes as expected. In the rains, it's worth having buffer days and not chaining a ferry to an international flight. The sun is also strong and mosquitoes are present, especially at sunset, so bring sunscreen and mosquito repellent at any time of year.

Our recommendation

If you can choose, travel between December and May. You'll find the day-by-day route in our 14-day Philippines itinerary, and how transfers work in El Nido to Coron by ferry.