Philippines

The Philippines offers tropical islands, coral reefs and remarkable marine biodiversity, with the best regions to explore including the Calamian Islands, Divilacan Bay, the Polillo Island Group and Palawan.

Calamian Islands: The limestone islands and turquoise lagoons of the Calamian Islands offer exceptional opportunities for kayaking, snorkelling and beach camping among remote tropical islands and coral reefs.

Divilacan Bay & Isabela: Divilacan Bay in the province of Isabela combines lush forests and rich marine ecosystems where travellers explore wildlife-filled forests, snorkel offshore reefs and cruise mangrove waterways while supporting conservation efforts protecting the endemic Philippine Crocodile.

Polillo Island Group: The Polillo Island Group’s 24 islands and islets protect recovering lowland forests and marine habitats where travellers explore rich biodiversity including the Philippine Cockatoo, Philippine Brown Deer, Warty Pig, Gray’s Monitor Lizard and Dugong.

Palawan & Island Wilderness: Palawan’s limestone cliffs, lagoons and tropical forests offer superb opportunities for island exploration, snorkelling and wildlife encounters.

The best time to travel to Philippines for hiking, trekking and adventure touring is generally Nov–May, when temperatures are comfortable and conditions are favourable for exploring landscapes, national parks and cultural highlights.

Philippines has a tropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year, typically ranging between 24°C and 32°C (75°F–90°F). Most regions experience distinct wet and dry seasons which influence travel conditions.

Travelling outside the main season can still be rewarding, with quieter trails, seasonal landscapes and unique experiences depending on rainfall, wildlife activity or snow conditions.

The Philippines is +8 hours ahead of UTC/GMT

Filipino (official), English (official) and 8 major local dialects

Philippine peso

A few establishments will accept foreign currency such as the US Dollar & Euro but most will deal only in Philippine Pesos.

ATM cards can be used in the Philippines. You won’t have a problem finding an ATM in major Philippine cities.

Most business establishments in major Philippine cities accept credit cards. Some will display an “Accepts VISA or MasterCard” sign at their entrance. However, note that there are establishments that will have a minimum purchase requirement before accepting credit card payments.

Smaller establishments and those in rural areas operate on a cash basis only.

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Electricity in The Philippines is 220 Volts, at 60 hertz. The most common pin types are A. (2 flat prong) or type C. (2 round prong).

Visa's are exempt for AU, US, CA, UK and NZ passport holders in the Philippines for a stay of up to 30 days. To qualify for the visa exemption travellers must:

Hold a passport valid at least six months on entry with two blank visa pages

Hold proof of sufficient funds

Hold proof of onward/return flights

Hold all documents required for the next destination

Travellers are required to complete an online electronic Travel Declaration and obtain a QR code. You may only register within 72 hours prior to your arrival in the Philippines. You will need to present the eTravel QR code in your home country to airline staff to board the flight.

You can apply online here https://etravel.gov.ph/

Confirm with their airline that boarding will be permitted without a visa.

Visa regulations change and you should be prepared for this. If you are stopping over or transiting other countries en-route to your destination, you should also check the visa requirements for that destination. It is your responsibility to obtain the necessary visas.

All other nationalities should check with your nearest embassy or consulate.