Cheapest and Most Expensive Times To Visit The Philippines
Searching for the cheapest and most expensive times to visit the Philippines? This guide has you covered and will help you plan when to visit based on your travel budget.
Most Expensive Time to Visit The Philippines
The most expensive time to visit the Philippines is during the dry season and around major holidays, when international travelers and locals flock to beaches and festivals.
Dry Season (December to April)
This is the peak tourist period with sunny skies and calm seas.
- Hotels in Boracay, Palawan, Cebu, and Manila are at their highest rates.
- Popular attractions such as island-hopping tours and diving spots are crowded.
Christmas & New Year (Late December to Early January)
The Philippines is famous for having one of the world’s longest Christmas seasons.
- Hotels and flights rise sharply in price.
- Popular destinations are booked months in advance.
Holy Week – Semana Santa (March or April, varies by year)
One of the most important religious holidays, when locals travel nationwide.
- Hotels in beach towns and pilgrimage sites like Cebu and Antipolo raise rates.
- Transportation (buses, ferries, flights) sells out quickly.
Summer Vacation (May, overlapping with end of dry season)
Domestic tourism is high as students go on break.
- Hotels in beach destinations remain expensive.
- Attractions remain busy despite rising heat.
Not A Member? ✈️
Save 40%-95% On Flights With Jetsetter Alerts Airline Mistake Fare & Flash Sales Alerts!
Cheapest Time to Visit The Philippines
The cheapest time to visit the Philippines is during the rainy season and transitional months, when demand slows and costs drop.
Rainy Season (June to October)
Heavy rains, typhoons, and humidity discourage many visitors.
- Hotels and flights are at their lowest prices of the year.
- Attractions are quieter, though travel disruptions are possible.
Early November (Before Holiday Season)
A short lull before the Christmas rush begins.
- Hotels and flights remain affordable.
- Tourist spots are less crowded.
Late May to Early June (After Domestic Summer, before Monsoon)
This shoulder season provides good value with lighter crowds.
- Hotels in Boracay, Cebu, and Palawan offer discounts.
- A calmer period to enjoy beaches and island tours.
Price Summary Table for Philippines Travel
| Time Period | Price Level | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Dec – April (Dry Season) | 💲💲💲 Highest | Best weather, peak international travel |
| Late Dec – Early Jan | 💲💲💲 Very High | Christmas & New Year, longest holiday season |
| March/April (Holy Week) | 💲💲💲 High | Major religious holiday, nationwide travel |
| May (Domestic Summer Break) | 💲💲💲 High | Local family vacations, crowded beaches |
| June – Oct (Rainy Season) | 💲 Lowest | Typhoon season, cheapest hotels & flights |
| Early November | 💲 Low | Pre-holiday shoulder, affordable rates |
| Late May – Early June | 💲 Low–Mid | Post-summer lull, budget-friendly stays |
How To Save Money When Visiting Philippines?
When you go will most certainly make the difference in costs like flights, hotels, attractions, and food. Aligning your travel dates with the Philippines’ off-peak seasons can significantly cut expenses. Consider what experiences you hope to have and plan accordingly to make the most of lower prices and thinner crowds.
Not A Member? ✈️
Save 40%-95% On Flights With Jetsetter Alerts Airline Mistake Fare & Flash Sales Alerts!
Kylie Jones