Philippines Weather in October: Travel Tips for First-Timers (2024)

November is the start of the dry season in the Philippines. It still rains from time to time, but the showers are not nearly as torrential or persistent as they are in the months preceding November. Temperatures also take a slight turn towards the more comfortable, with average nationwide highs tending to be closer to the 30°C (86°F) mark and average nationwide lows tending to be closer to the 24°C (75°F) mark.

November is the official start of the high season in tourism in the Philippines. The good weather brings with it more tourists coming into the country but don't worry, it's nowhere near as crowded as it is during the first few months of the year. However, as is the case with most places during the high season, costs related to accommodation, airfare, transport, and entertainment all surge during this time.

Although it doesn't rain as much during November in the Philippines, you may still experience the odd rain shower or brief storm, so do remember to always carry an umbrella with you. Do also pack plenty of light-colored linen or cotton tops and shorts as these work best in keeping you comfortable and cool, pants, dresses, sturdy footwear including shoes and sandals, reef shoes, swimwear, sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and a few scarves for visits to churches and temples.

To better understand what the Philippines is like when it comes to climate and weather conditions during the month of November, continue reading below.

The Philippines Weather in November: Overview

• Average temperature range: 24°C (75°F) – 30°C (86°F)
• Rainfall: 70 mm (3 inches) in Manila; 100 mm (4 inches) in Palawan; 85 mm (3.5 inches) in Cebu; 180 mm (7 inches) in Boracay.
• Rainy days: 5 in Manila; 16 in Palawan; 15 in Cebu; 13 in Boracay.

Most of November is dry but that being said, it's not uncommon to experience the odd rain shower now and again. Don't worry, though, as the rains aren't nearly as intense as they are during the preceding summer months. It's also important to note that while the typhoon season typically lasts from June to September in the Philippines, it's been more and more common to experience devastating storms develop late into the year during November. They're not as frequent as they are from June to September, but there have been instances. As such, just to be safe, it's always a good idea to constantly check local weather reports and forecasts to stay well informed on what's happening weather-wise around you.

As winter approaches, temperatures gradually go down. Average maximum temperatures hover around 30°C (86°F) in Manila, 29°C (84°F) in Palawan, 29°C (84°F) in Cebu, and 29°C (84°F) in Boracay. Average minimum temperatures, meanwhile, hover around 24°C (75°F) in Manila, 25°C (77°F) in Palawan, 25°C (77°F) in Cebu, and 24°C (75°F) in Boracay.

November is a fantastic time of year to be in the Philippines. The weather is good, it's not nearly as busy as it is during the peak travel months, and everything from swimming and sunbathing on the beach to hiking and island hopping are possible during this time.

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Weather of the Philippines' Major Cities in November

Best Places to Visit in the Philippines in November

1.Palawan

If you don't mind a tiny smudge in the form of rain on paradise in the form of Palawan, trips to El Nido, Coron, and Puerto Princesa ought to make the cut for you. Palawan is not only home to some of the best turquoise-blue waters and stunningly white sand beaches of anywhere in the Philippines, but the island also offers travelers the chance to hike through lush green forests and otherworldly waterfalls.

2.Manila

The capital sees generally good weather during November, and there's much to explore and see here. From world-class restaurants and top-notch co*cktail bars to inexpensive street food stalls and no-frills pubs, there are plenty of great dining options in Manila. Having been the heartbeat of cultural confluence for decades, Manila offers terrific sightseeing options for guests too. Our favorites from a list of places to visit in the capital include Intramuras, or the famed "Walled City" from the colonial days, the Shrine of the Black Nazarene, Fort Santiago, and if you're traveling with kids, Manila Ocean Park.

November Crowds and Costs

The good weather results in November being the official start of the high season in tourism in the Philippines. Hotels and beach resorts start filling up as the month progresses, so it's always good to book these in advance. Although it's nowhere near as crowded as it is during the first quarter of the year, November does see an uptick in tourists coming into the country and as a result, a hike in prices when it comes to accommodation, airfare, transport, and entertainment.

November Events in the Philippines

All Saint's Day: Todos los Santos, or All Saint's Day, is celebrated on the first two days of November. The festival is also referred to as Undás in the Philippines, the word coming from the Spanish, Honras, or 'honors.' This is an extremely important Catholic holiday for Filipinos and most families spend the festival visiting the graves of their deceased loved ones, and placing flowers, food, and candles on their graves. It's a day off for the general population, and most businesses and schools remain closed on this day.

What to Wear in the Philippines in November

November is mostly dry in the Philippines. You don't need to worry about bringing your poncho or raincoat with you, as there's no need to worry incessantly about the bygone and relentless rainy weather. It may still rain and storm now and again, so do bring an umbrella that's easy to carry. What's more important is you pack plenty of clothes made of soft, breathable, fabrics like cotton or linen. These are going to help you stay comfortable during the warm hours of the afternoon.

Items that should definitely make their way to your packing list for a trip to the Philippines during November include plenty of linen or cotton tops and shorts, dresses, pants, an umbrella, sturdy footwear like shoes and sandals, reef shoes, swimwear, sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and some scarves if you plan on visiting temples and churches as these will help cover your legs and shoulders.

Explore the Philippines with Global Highlights

If you're thinking of planning a trip to the Philippines, you've landed at the right page! Our team of travel experts at Global Highlights takes immense pride in making sure you have as memorable a trip to the Philippines as possible, and we use our expertise and attention to detail to curate trips for you and your loved ones that are both unique and dreamy. We'll keep everything from weather conditions to special interests in mind, so that you can just relax and enjoy the journey!