1. When is the best time to visit the Philippines?
The best time to visit the Philippines is during the dry season (November to April). During this period, the weather is generally sunny, with minimal rainfall, making it ideal for island-hopping, diving, and other outdoor activities. The peak tourist season is from December to February, so it’s advisable to book accommodations and activities in advance. If you prefer fewer crowds, consider visiting in November or April.
2. What are popular destinations for leisure vacations?
- (1) El Nido: Famous for its stunning lagoons, limestone cliffs, and pristine beaches. It’s perfect for island-hopping tours and tranquil relaxation.
- (2) Boracay Island: Known for its powdery white sand beaches, vibrant nightlife, and water sports. It’s a top destination for both relaxation and entertainment.
3. Which places are suitable for adventure with diving experience?
- (1) Coron: Renowned for its World War II shipwreck diving sites, coral gardens, and crystal-clear waters.
- (2) Cebu: Offers a variety of dive sites, including Moalboal for the sardine run and Malapascua Island for thresher shark diving.
- (3) Bohol: Famous for Balicasag Island, where you can explore vibrant marine life, coral reefs, and encounter turtles and dolphins.
4. How many days in the Philippines are suitable?
Good vacation: Spend 7-12 days to explore multiple destinations and enjoy activities like diving, island-hopping, and sightseeing.
Short break: Spend 4-6 days focusing on specific areas. Recommended itineraries include: 1. Puerto Princesa + El Nido; 2. El Nido + Coron; 3. Cebu + Bohol
Panoramic trip: Spend 12-16 days to cover all major destinations, such as El Nido, Coron, Cebu, Bohol, and Boracay.
5. How is the transport between two destinations?
Flights: Flights are the most convenient option for traveling between major destinations. There are regular flights from Manila to Puerto Princesa, El Nido, Coron, Cebu, Bohol, Dumaguete, and Boracay.
Ferries:
- El Nido - Coron: ~4 hours
- Cebu - Bohol: ~2 hours
- Bohol - Siquijor: ~2 hours
- Siquijor - Dumaguete: ~2 hours
Tip: Plan your itinerary carefully to minimize travel time between destinations.
6. What are the popular island-hopping experiences in the Philippines?
- (1) El Nido: Island-hopping tours A, B, C, and D, which include lagoons, beaches, and snorkeling spots.
- (2) Coron: Tours to shipwrecks, Barracuda Lake, Kayangan Lake, and Twin Lagoon.
- (3) Siquijor: Known for pristine beaches and tranquil islands.
- (4) Apo Island: Famous for snorkeling with turtles and vibrant coral reefs.
- (5) Balicasag Island: Offers excellent diving and snorkeling experiences, with opportunities to see dolphins and diverse marine life.
7. Where are the top places to explore marine life?
Coral reefs and tropical fish: Most tourist destinations like El Nido, Coron, and Bohol.
WWII shipwrecks: Coron.
Sardine run: Moalboal (Cebu) or Napaling Reef (Panglao Island in Bohol).
Whale sharks: Oslob (Cebu).
Sea turtles: Apo Island.
Dolphins: Balicasag Island (Bohol).
8. What to pack when in the Philippines?
- Clothing: Light, breathable clothes, swimwear, and a hat.
- Footwear: Comfortable sandals and water shoes for island-hopping.
- Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle.
- Gear: Snorkeling equipment (optional), waterproof bags, and a camera for underwater photography.
- Essentials: Travel documents, cash (some remote areas don’t accept cards), and basic medicines.
9. Can I customize my own Philippines tour?
Yes, you can fully customize your Philippines tour. Asia Odyssey Travel welcome you to do so. Feel free to share your preferences, such as specific destinations, activities, or duration. We have 180+ English travel experts, and they will help to customize a personalized itinerary to match your interests and schedule.