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Introducing Philippines

When is the best time to visit?
Weather is most pleasant from December-February. This is the dry season and the high season—with the mild and sunny days, you can expect lots of fellow travelers, especially around Christmas and the New Year. That said, you can escape the throngs by avoiding the most popular tourist areas—ask your specialist for their recommendations. 

March through mid-May is also typically dry, with rising temperatures as the months go by. International travelers are replaced by vacationing locals, with crowds peaking again during Holy Week. The rest of the year is considered the wet season—rainy days are common and typhoons are possible, but this is a good time to avoid crowds and find deals if you feel like taking your chances. Cebu, Bohol, and Palawan tend to be sheltered from big storms, making them good bets for this time of year.

Where should you go?
Made up of a dizzying number of islands—more than 7,000 in all—the Philippines offers its fair share of brilliant beaches along with all the tropical trappings you've been daydreaming about. Palawan is a crowd pleaser, with stretches of untouched coast to laze on, fantastical limestone formations to kayak around, and brilliant reefs with great snorkeling visibility. Divers will head to Visayas, hikers and bikers will revel in the mountainous Cordillera, and Luzon offers luxe resorts and excellent windsurfing on the northern side. 

How many days do you need?
Five days in the Philippines makes for a sweet but very short trip—you'll want to maximize your time by focusing on one region. For example, stick to Palawan and you can snorkel the coral reefs of Ulugan Bay, kayak around limestone formations in El Nido, and explore multiple islands in a very limited timeframe.

With more than a week to spend, you can combine Palawan with time in the Cordillera: see the famous Banaue Rice Terraces, spend a night in Batad, a village within an amphitheater of rice terraces, check out the bizarre hanging coffins of Sagada, and more. If you plan to spend 2 weeks or more in the Philippines, you'll be able to see it all at a relaxed pace and time to spare—if you're feeling bold, why not add a side trip to swim with whale sharks in Donsol?

Explore trips by duration: 5 days · 6 days · 7 days · 10 days · 15 days

Philippines Tours & Itineraries

Get inspired by trips other travelers have loved
Beautiful islands of Palawan
Map of Highlights of the Philippines: Sand, Sea & Mountains - 15 Days
Highlights of the Philippines: Sand, Sea & Mountains - 15 Days

Discover the best of the Philippines on this 15-day tour as you paddle, snorkel, hike, and fly across the country. Begin in Manila, working your way north to the Banaue Rice Terraces before flying south to Bohol, Cebu, and Mactan islands. Continue west and end the adventure in Puerto Princesa and the ever-popular El Nido.

Hidden Lagoon in Coron
Map of Philippine Honeymoon: Boracay, El Nido & Coron - 11 Days
Philippine Honeymoon: Boracay, El Nido & Coron - 11 Days

Covering some of the Philippines' most desirable beaches, this 11-day tour offers the perfect romantic getaway for couples. Stay in luxury resorts in exotic locations from private islands to jungle hideaways. Enjoy customized private tours of nearby islands, snorkel shipwrecks, and lounge beachside with a cocktail in hand.

Puka Beach, Boracay
Map of Philippines Beaches, Waterfalls & Lagoons - 15 Days
Philippines Beaches, Waterfalls & Lagoons - 15 Days

This 15-day itinerary offers the perfect combination of adventurous and relaxing activities. You will snorkel shipwrecks and aquamarine lagoons, visit secluded beaches, and climb and rappel slippery trails. Enjoy the Philippines as you island hop your way across the country, ending on the white sandy beaches of Boracay.

El Nido, Palawan
Map of Island Hopping in the Philippines: Manila, Donsol, Cebu & Palawan - 20 Days
Island Hopping in the Philippines: Manila, Donsol, Cebu & Palawan - 20 Days

Spend 20 days island hopping in the Philippines, hitting some of the country's major highlights. You'll begin in Manila, the country's busy capital. Then, you'll swim with whale sharks and snorkel in Donsol. Next, you'll fly to beautiful Cebu, swimming in pristine waterfalls, seeing the famous chocolate hills, and looking for marine turtles. Finally, you'll arrive in Palawan, the country's largest province. Adventures include visiting shipwrecks, exploring an underground river, and hiking to hidden lakes.

The Batad rice terraces with local Ifugao men
Map of The Cordillera: Banaue, Batad & Sagada - 6 Days
The Cordillera: Banaue, Batad & Sagada - 6 Days

Trek through the Philippines' Cordillera and marvel at its natural and cultural heritage. Discover famous rice terraces, quaint villages, sacred waterfalls and rivers, extensive cave systems, and the hanging coffins of Echo Valley.

Discover the tropical beauty of Palawan
Map of Palawan: Adventure in Paradise - 6 Days
Palawan: Adventure in Paradise - 6 Days

Palawan's exotic geography and diverse vegetation are exceptional in a country that already has its fair share of awe-inspiring sights. This six-day adventure will have you snorkeling, seeking out wildlife, riding an underground river, and kayaking the El Nido islands. Discover why Palawan is in a league of its own when it comes to tropical destinations.

Philippines Travel Advice

Read our detailed insights to make sure you have the best trip

Our Latest Philippines Content

Cross the Loboc River via bamboo bride on the island of Bohol
Map of Nature & Adventure in the Philippines: Cebu City, Moalboal & Bohol - 10 Days
Nature & Adventure in the Philippines: Cebu City, Moalboal & Bohol - 10 Days

Get off the beaten track with this active 10-day adventure that introduces you to the unspoiled nature and unique wildlife of two Philippine islands. After some urban sightseeing in Cebu City, it's on to the coastal town of Moalboal to snorkel off Pescador Island, go canyoning down Kawasan Falls, and dive with whale sharks in Oslob. Next, catch a ferry to Bohol, where you'll hike among its famous Chocolate Hills, cruise down the Loboc River, and spot tarsiers and dolphins in their natural habitat.

Lay on the white sands of Palawan's many beaches
Map of City Break to Island Escape in the Philippines: Manila & Palawan - 10 Days
City Break to Island Escape in the Philippines: Manila & Palawan - 10 Days

Journey from the bustling city of Manila to the tropical paradise of Palawan on this 10-day Philippines getaway. Explore the many landmarks, markets, and malls of the capital before flying to Puerto Princesa, the capital of Palawan. Cruise down a subterranean river and visit a local Batak tribe, then head to El Nido, the gateway to the Bacuit archipelago. Lay on the white-sand beaches, swim in the turquoise waters, and cruise from island to island as you soak up the sun.

Explore the turquoise waters around Coron
Map of Island Highlights of the Philippines: Manila, Palawan & Coron - 10 Days
Island Highlights of the Philippines: Manila, Palawan & Coron - 10 Days

Spend 10 days swimming, boating, and diving through the Philippines with this beach-focused getaway. Set out from Manila for the western island of Palawan, where you'll explore the Puerto Princesa Underground River, the white-sand beaches of El Nido, and the hidden lagoons of Bacuit Bay. Continue to Coron to kayak with fireflies and dive to sunken shipwrecks, before winding down your adventure with a final day of sightseeing and culture in the capital.

Philippines Travel Maps

Get the lay of land, and understand distances between the places you want to visit
Map The Philippines Highlights: Sand, Sea & Mountains  - 15 Days
The Philippines Highlights: Sand, Sea & Mountains - 15 Days
View article
Map Philippine Honeymoon: Boracay, El Nido & Coron - 11 Days
Philippine Honeymoon: Boracay, El Nido & Coron - 11 Days
View article
Map Philippines Beaches, Waterfalls & Lagoons - 15 Days
Philippines Beaches, Waterfalls & Lagoons - 15 Days
View article

Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for Philippines
Travel specialist Cami Sarmiento
active 10 hours ago

Cami Sarmiento

I'm the vice president of Uncharted Earth, an adventure travel company that specializes in lesser known and relatively undeveloped travel destinations. We seek out unspoiled nature destinations and...

read more...
Travel specialist Leo Cuesta
active 1 hour ago

Leo Cuesta

I'm the founder and president of Uncharted Earth, an adventure travel company that specializes in lesser known and relatively undeveloped travel destinations. We seek out unspoiled nature...

read more...
Travel specialist Thao Huynh
active 11 hours ago

Thao Huynh

I'm Thao, a seasoned travel specialist with over 8 years of experience in the industry. I am passionate about helping clients plan and book the perfect vacation, whether it's a romantic getaway, a...

read more...
Travel specialist Terry Zhang
active 3 days ago

Terry Zhang

I was lucky enough to grow up around travel, and experience some amazing places, from China to Vietnam to Thailand. Travel is my passion and I’m always dreaming of my next trip. After traveling...

read more...

Why travelers love kimkim

Custom trips for independent travelers who are too busy to plan

Customize your trip with the help of a local travel specialist

Kimkim has handpicked the world’s top local travel specialists so you will have peace of mind and an unforgettable trip that meets your exact requirements.

Authentic travel experiences

Kimkim’s local specialists ensure that you will have the best experience based on up-to-date local insights. On top of that, the vast majority of your money will go straight to support and grow local economies.

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Local support during your trip

You can always reach your local specialist with a quick message or call in case you hit a snag during your trip, or simply want some great local recommendations.

100% satisfaction guarantee
Kimkim offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you are not fully satisfied with us, we’ll work with you to make it right.
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A portion of every kimkim trip goes toward the removal of carbon from the atmosphere. Learn more
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Seller of Travel Registration number: CST #2136279-40.
Registration as a seller of travel does not constitute approval by the State of California.

Trip Reviews for Philippines

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Ana was great, really enjoy to coordinate wit...
Philippines | Oct 16 - Oct 24, 2023

Marissa
Marissa B.
the Philippines | Reviewed on Oct 26, 2023
Ana was great, really enjoy to coordinate with locally for transportation. Read more

Ana was great, really enjoy to coordinate with locally for transportation.

Hotel Reviews
Bayleaf Intramuros
Metro Manila

The hotel staff was great! Manila being a huge city, and after traveling to Cebu and Paglao Islands, it was hard to get used to the traffic noise. Otherwise, the breakfast and staff were on point.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Bohol Beach Club
Bohol

This resort has everything travelers need to have a good time: ample selection of food and drinks at the restaurant; great customer service; scuba diving services; swimming pool to cool off from the heat; environmentally-friendly glass pitchers to refill for daily water; and an unbelievable view of the water. The hotel staff were always friendly and it's extremely safe (gated with security at all times).

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Bluewater Maribago
Lapu-lapu City

Great breakfast, great service, and location!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Paniqui Memorial Park
Manila

This was extra special to visit my ancestors' gravesites and I'm glad KimKim accommodated the transportation.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Bohol Island Day Tour
Bohol Island Day Tour
Philippines

The tour guide is very knowledgeable about the local history.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Kayaking with fireflies
Kayaking with fireflies
Philippines

First time kayaking with fireflies and it was a great experience!

Quality of Experience
Food
The food was great, but I ate alone with a dog staring at me. It would've been nice if the tour guide had joined the dinner instead of them eating next door on their own. In previous tours with KimKim, all the guides were part of the meals.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Cebu City day tour
Cebu City day tour
Cebu City

The tour guide is very knowledgeable about the local history and easy to converse with.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Leo Cuesta
Leo
Leo Cuesta
Local specialist in USA | Replied on Oct 26, 2023

Hi Marissa, thank you for your review and I'm glad you had a great time in the Philippines. Thanks for working with me on this trip and I hope to work with you again if you visit one of my other destinations in the future (Colombia, Western US).

I have never booked through a website such as...
Philippines | May 9 - May 12, 2023

Danielle
Danielle R.
the United Arab Emirates | Reviewed on Aug 28, 2023
I have never booked through a website such as KimKim but we had such a positive experience that I will definitely be using them again. Cami was incredible. She was so patient and accommodating and we really couldn’t have asked for better help. The trip was one I’ll never forget! Read more

I have never booked through a website such as KimKim but we had such a positive experience that I will definitely be using them again. Cami was incredible. She was so patient and accommodating and we really couldn’t have asked for better help. The trip was one I’ll never forget!

Hotel Review
Elysia Beach Resort
Donsol
Authenticity & Character
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Cami Sarmiento
Cami
Cami Sarmiento
Local specialist in Las Vegas, NV | Replied on Aug 29, 2023

Thank you very much for your review Danielle! I’m very happy to hear you had a great trip.
It was a pleasure organizing the trip for you and your family.
Thank you for choosing to travel with us. Looking forward to taking you on another unforgettable adventure!
Cami

Our specialist’s planning was fantastic.
Philippines | Aug 7 - Aug 13, 2023

W
Wade B.
Charlotte, NC | Reviewed on Aug 16, 2023
Cami’s (our local specialist) planning was fantastic. I had to change my trip dates several times and she remained incredibly patient with me and ensured everything went smoothly through the entire planning process. The trip itself was amazing. There was one slip up regarding a driver showing up very late to pick us up from our hotel, but it was not at all Cami’s fault or the hotel’s, and she was very quick to reach out to the company who dispatched the driver. I was very hesitant at first... Read more

Cami’s (our local specialist) planning was fantastic. I had to change my trip dates several times and she remained incredibly patient with me and ensured everything went smoothly through the entire planning process. The trip itself was amazing. There was one slip up regarding a driver showing up very late to pick us up from our hotel, but it was not at all Cami’s fault or the hotel’s, and she was very quick to reach out to the company who dispatched the driver. I was very hesitant at first because I had never used this service. However, the overall experience was incredible and I would highly recommend both a visit to the Philippines, as well as Kim Kim’s services.

Hotel Reviews
Sea Cocoon Hotel
El Nido

This hotel was amazing, from the location to the staff to the breakfast.

Authenticity & Character
Unique
Location
Perfectly centered in El Nido’s best area.
Staff
Helpful and friendly
Cleanliness & Comfort
Very clean
Holiday Inn Express Manila New Port City
Pasay

Location is very convenient. Right by the Manias airport, as well as several restaurants and places to shop. The hotel itself was very clean and the staff was friendly. Also, the breakfast buffet was fantastic.

Authenticity & Character
N/A
Location
Convenience
Staff
Helpful and friendly
Cleanliness & Comfort
Very clean
Activity Reviews
El Nido via ferrata
El Nido via ferrata
El Nido
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Island hopping in El Nido - Tour A
Island hopping in El Nido - Tour A
El Nido
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Cami Sarmiento
Cami
Cami Sarmiento
Local specialist in Las Vegas, NV | Replied on Aug 29, 2023

Thank you very much for your wonderful review Wade! I’m very happy to hear you and your brother had an amazing time in El Nido.
Thank you for choosing to travel with us. I look forward to organizing another unforgettable trip for you in the future!
Cami