Facts about Philippines
General information about Philippines
Language: Filipino and English
Capital: Manila
Population: 101 million spread over 2000 of the 7000 islands
Religion: Roman Catholicism
Currency: Philippine peso
Climate
The dry season is from January-June and the rainy season is from July-December.
The weather is most pleasant at the start of the dry season, when there is the least risk of encountering a typhoon. Because the country is so vast, it is possible to find good weather all the time, even during the rainy season. There is a constant risk of earthquakes and smoke clouds from volcanoes can occur. The Pinatubo volcano on the island of Luzon poses the greatest threat.
Time Difference
The Philippines is in the timzone GMT+8 all year around.
Visa Regulations
Vaccinations
Documentation of yellow fever vaccination is required for stays of more than 12 hours in a country with yellow fever. Malaria pills are also recommended, as malaria is present on all islands.
For stays of less than 4 weeks in tourist areas: hepatitis A and tetanus/diphtheria.
For stays of more than 4 weeks: Hepatitis A, tetanus/diphtheria, and hepatitis B
For stays of more than 6 months: Hepatitis A, tetanus/diphtheria, hepatitis B and typhoid.
Trinus recommended trips and tours in Asia
We think this is one of the best tours on the planet. Swimming with Manta Rays, get involved in local communities and an epic volcano sunrise are among just a few on things included.
The very best way to really experience the awesomeness of Asia by combining the strikingly different countires of Vietnam and Thailand
An incredible tour with real purpose taking you to the best beaches, amazing national parks, island trips, and deep delve in the north.
Sights & Attractions
White Beach, Boracay
A tour of Asia must include one of the most popular beaches. There are sun loungers and hammocks under the palm trees and plenty of opportunities for snorkeling and other water activities.
Historical sightseeing in Manila
It’s easy to get around on your own, but you can also book a guided tour. The city has a lot of history to offer, especially the old town of Intramuros, where you’ll find many important landmarks and wartime monuments.
The shipwrecks at Coron
Here, many World War II ships lie at different depths, so you can choose whether you want to snorkel or dive. In the crystal clear water, it’s easy to see the shipwrecks and the many colorful fish that have made the wrecks their home.
Mayon Volcano
When traveling to Asia, you have to experience Mayon. The volcano is about 2400 meters high and has almost a perfect cone top. The volcano is active and there is a lot of wildlife to be seen.
Chocolate Hills, Bohol
The Chocolate Hills are a UNESCO World Heritage Site with more than 1200 small mountain peaks that have emerged over centuries. The peaks are green most of the year, but in the dry season they turn chocolate brown – hence the name.
The Underground River in Puerto Princesa
The Subterranean River enters the Subterranean River National Park and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you’ll take a trip into the limestone caves, which is a unique experience on a tour of Asia.
The hanging coffins, Sagrada
The coffins hang from the cliffs of Echo Valley and were used to bury rich tribesmen. The hike here requires planning and it’s recommended that you’re used to hiking, as the path here is narrow and you’ll quickly reach the thin air.
Rice terraces, Banaue
Some of the rice terraces are over 2000 years old, carved by hand into the cliff sides. It is possible to walk on some of the paths at the upper terraces, giving you a perfect view of them all. It is recommended to visit the rice terraces in the early morning hours to get the best light to bring out the beautiful green color.
Coral Garden dive spot, Coron
Coral Garden is a very popular dive site due to the abundance of coral and various fish species. Dive trips here also include stops at the nearby shipwrecks.
The suspension bridge in Seville
In Seville you’ll find a suspension bridge made of bamboo 40 meters above the Loboc River. As you walk across the bridge, you’re guaranteed to feel a rush as it swings from side to side over the rushing river below you.
Endless places to explore
Whether you’re hiking in forests over canyons with the rushing water flowing beneath you or exploring the vast coral reefs and shipwrecks under the sea, you’ll have the ultimate experience in the Philippines when you travel to Asia.