Summertime has come, and in a traveler’s dictionary, it means it’s an ideal time to take a break from the routine and reward yourself with trips to beautiful lands. If you happen to include South East Asia as your next destination this summer, then you definitely won’t want to skip the Philippines.
Believe it or not, this charming South East Asian country has always been a favorite spot for backpackers around the world, and it deserves so for many good reasons.
First off, the Philippines is a true hidden gem for beach lovers, as it consists of more than 7000 islands with just too many appealing white sandy beaches to explore. Hopping around these islands will be a fantastic adventure for any backpacker out there.
Secondly, the Philippines offers a wonderful combination of modernism and laid-back old streets and rice fields. You’ll get to experience bustling megacities while being wowed by the diverse culture and traditions everywhere you go.
Thirdly, it can be surprisingly cheap if you choose to backpack in the Philippines compared to other popular destinations in Asia. The key is to plan well and do a couple of research before your trip. In the next part of our post, you will find our thorough Philippines backpacking guide plus essential tips and tricks in order to have a successful backpacking experience in the Philippines.
When Is The Best Time To Go?
With a humid tropical climate, the Philippines have two main seasons: the dry season which generally lasts from November to April and the rainy seasons which lasts from May to October. The best time to travel Philippines is undoubtedly the dry season when you can freely access all the islands and get the most out of your trip.
Please note that it can be scorching hot in the peak of the dry season (around March and April), so it is better to visit from December to February when the weather is blissfully pleasant.
Although it is possible to visit the country during rainy seasons, you should always beware of typhoons, which can be unpredictable and threatening. You are advised to always look up the weather forecast and any typhoon early warning should you choose to plan your trip during the rainy season.
What To Do
With so many islands and vibrant cities and scenic spots to discover, it can be exhausting just thinking about where to visit. Considering the limited time and resources each backpacker has, it is impossible to visit them all.
But of course, with a little planning, you can definitely get the most out of Philippines with hardly any rush. Wherever you go, just make sure to include the following activities in your list to experience the Philippines at its finest.
1. Island Hopping
Yes, the top thing to do in the Philippines is none other than checking out the amazing islands. No Philippines backpacking guide is complete without any mentions of exploring the divine islands.
There are plenty of things to try around the islands that will surely keep you entertained and satiate your thirst for explorations and adventures. Boracay is the most frequently visited island and the paradise for beach lovers thanks to its crystal clear water and alluring vibes. The sea is endlessly spectacular, with a dazzling white sandy beach that is impossible to resist.
Don’t forget to try diving and snorkeling in Moalball, where you can witness the world’s stunning sardine run as well. Alternatively, check out Coron, another beautiful island to feel the ocean and experience the amazing sea life.
And last but not least, make sure you head to Siquijor for the gorgeous views and the healing atmosphere around the island. Not many backpackers know about Siquijor, which is one of the smallest islands in the Philippines. The island itself offers a rich cultural heritage, and it will be a perfect stop for wanderers who seek peaceful moments and self-discovery.
2. Cliff jumping at the Kawasan Falls
For all those adrenaline seekers out there, this place is for you. The Kawasan Falls is located in Badian at 65 feet tall. The impressive height and the stunning view make the Kawasan Falls an attractive spot for backpackers who wish to challenge themselves.
3. Sightseeing at the rice terrace
If you want to discover another aspect of the Philippines apart from beaches and cities, check out the irresistible beauty of the rice terraces of Banaue. The view of the green rice fields can bring peace to your mind and take all of your stress away.
4. Hiking at the chocolate hills of Bohol
Another fun thing to do in the Philippines for backpackers is to hike at the bumpy hills of Bohol. You’ll be able to explore and enjoy the landscape and put your hiking skills to a real test. If you are into travel photography, make sure to get your camera ready here for plenty of amazing shots.
What To Eat
The Philippines is not just a place where you sunbathe or go swimming by the sea but also heaven for food lovers. Be prepared to try a wide variety of local foods including the famous chicken adobo (marinaded chickens with soya sauce and vinegar), or the infamous Balut (loosely translated as the duck embryo snack) or stewed oxtail (locally known as Kare Kare). Among these famous dishes, the name of the Balut food snack is not for the fainted-heart.
Backpacking Tips and Tricks
To have a smooth backpacking experience in the Philippines, there are certain tips that you should keep in mind before planning for your trip.
As for your backpacking luggage for the Philippines, it is no different from a regular backpacking trip. Must-have items include summer clothing, sunscreen, pocket blanket, security belt (to avoid theft and pickpocketing), headlamp and sleeping bags, etc. It doesn’t hurt to do some quick research beforehand. Besides, if you want to camp in the wilderness, consider bringing a solar charger for backpacking then you don’t have to worry about your phone or devices running out of electricity.
The second tip is to always purchase your travel insurance, which can be incredibly important not just during your trip to the Philippines but wherever you go.
The third tip is to stay aware of danger zones. Like any other country, there can be unsafe places for tourists and backpackers alike. In the case of the Philippines, tourists are warned to avoid the areas of Mindanao, the Sulu Archipelago, and the Zamboanga Peninsula. These are highly dangerous areas because of terrorist activity. On a side note, whenever you participate in adventurous activities such as cliff jumping or diving, pay close attention to the safety guidelines.
Final Thoughts
As far as backpacking is concerned, it’s hard to find such an equally wonderful destination as the Philippines, as it got everything that backpackers love: beautiful scenery, diverse landscape, fantastic beaches and terrific services for backpackers at really affordable costs. I hope that this Philippines backpacking guide has been helpful for you in preparing for your upcoming trip. Have a good time!
Author Bio:
Luna is an adventure junkie from Phoeniz, AZ. She wants to give useful pieces of advice about traveling and outdoor activities through practical tips. You can visit her blog to find out at: http://hikertrack.com/ and follow her on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/hikertrack/
