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Why the Philippines Needs to be Your Winter Destination photo by Zean Villongco

Why the Philippines Needs to be Your Winter Destination

by : Nicole Brown posted :

Winter is far from over! If you’re still looking for the perfect tour to sun and sand the Philippines is the perfect place to go. Take a look below to find out some of the reasons why a Philippine adventure is the perfect winter getaway.


Happy hiker on the trail in Kibungan photo by Leo Cuesta
Happy hiker on the trail in Kibungan

Perfect hiking weather

There’s not really any bad weather in The Philippines with temperatures averaging in the mid 80s Fahrenheit year-round at sea level, and mid 70s in the mountains. As such, it’s always the perfect destination for those looking for tropical weather. But if you had to choose the best time to visit, it would have to be December, January or February. Why? Because those months are ideal in the Philippines --- not too hot and not a lot of rain. During this time of year, there aren’t usually any typhoons either. So if you’re an outdoorsy person, this equation equals perfect hiking weather. Whether you would prefer a light hike paired with some shopping and history or if you’re seeking a more challenging trek, The Philippines is the place to be in winter 2018.


Clown anemone fish photo by Cami Sarmiento
Clown anemone fish

Ideal water conditions

Are you an avid diver or snorkeler? Come one, come all because the winter months are the best times to get in the water. This is for a couple of reasons. First, the water visibility in the Philippines is best in the winter months because the water is relatively cool. It’s still warm averaging at 77 to 79 degrees Fahrenheit but there won’t be as many phytoplankton blooms fogging up the water.

Second, lots of little critters like to come out and play in these slightly cooler waters. Critters like seahorses, frog fish and even bigger animals like octopus enjoy the cooler waters so diving and snorkeling during this time period will increase the chance of sightings.

Third, since the weather is good and you’re not visiting during the rainy season, you won’t have to deal with rain runoff or cloudy weather. Rain runoff will make the water murky as the dust particles from the rain itself with make the water cloudy. The rain clouds will also be blocking the sun which will create less ambient sunlight for you under water making it harder to see your fish friends. Since winter months are typically sunny in the Philippines, you are likely to get crystal clear water.


Hot air balloons landing in the evening during the 2010 Hot Air Balloon Fiesta in Clark, Pampanga. photo by Ninjakeg (via Creative Commons)
Hot air balloons landing in the evening during the 2010 Hot Air Balloon Fiesta in Clark, Pampanga.

Cultural events

Traveling in the winter months to The Philippines is an absolute treat because this is when the festivities and cultural events are in full swing. The Sinulog and Ati-Atihan are two winter festivals that shouldn’t be missed. Need some ideas for upcoming festivals? Check out the Hot Air Balloon Fiesta or the Serenata music festival both coming up in February.


Let’s go!

So what are you waiting for? Reach out to Uncharted Philippines today to book an unforgettable winter adventure tour.

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