North Luzon, Philippines
Cool/Dry Season (November to February): Temperatures typically range from 15-23°C (59-73°F). January and February often bring the coolest weather. Temperatures can sometimes drop to 10°C (50°F) or even lower, especially at night. This period sees minimal rainfall. Days are generally sunny and clear. Humidity levels stay moderate. This season presents crisp air and clear skies. It stands as ideal for outdoor activities.
Warm/Dry Season (March to May): Temperatures range from 18-26°C (64-79°F). April and May are the warmest months. Daytime temperatures can feel quite pleasant. Rainfall stays low during this period. Humidity remains moderate. This season is good for outdoor exploration. It can feel warmer than the cool season.
Your travel dates will shape crowds and prices.
High Season (November to May, specifically December-January and April-May): It is ideal for outdoor activities. The Panagbenga Festival in February brings a unique charm. Crowded attractions, higher accommodation prices, heavy traffic appear. These issues are especially noticeable during holidays like Christmas, New Year, and Holy Week.
Lowest prices, peaceful atmosphere
Lowest prices for accommodations. Fewer tourists create a peaceful atmosphere. Landscapes appear lush and green. This time presents opportunities for quiet visits.
Frequent heavy rains are common. The potential for typhoons exists. Landslides and road closures happen. Some outdoor activities have limitations or are unsafe due to weather.
Fewer crowds, reasonable weather
Fewer crowds than peak season. Weather stays relatively good in October and March. Prices are lower in June, which marks the start of the wet season.
June brings unpredictable rain. October can still have residual rain from the monsoon.
Ideal weather, busy period
Good for outdoor activities and clear skies. The Panagbenga Festival occurs in February, an unique event.
Crowded attractions, higher accommodation prices, heavy traffic, especially during holidays.
The Southwest Monsoon (Habagat) significantly influences Baguio from June to October. It brings heavy and continuous rains. Consider indoor activities during this time. The Philippines is prone to typhoons. These storms bring strong winds and torrential rains. They commonly occur from July to November. Baguio’s elevated location can reduce direct wind effects. However, it remains susceptible to rain-induced landslides and flooding.
While generally cool, temperatures drop significantly at night during the peak cool season. Pack warm clothing for evenings. Always monitor local weather forecasts from PAGASA during typhoon season.
November to February features cool and dry conditions. March to May is warmer but still dry.
This festival occurs in February. Check specific dates each year. This is the busiest time in Baguio.
The season runs from November to May. Peak picking typically happens around February to April.
Mountain roads may close due to landslides, especially in wet months. Check conditions before travel.
During the wet season, travel plans may need flexibility due to weather disruptions.
Travel to the Philippines calls for attention to visa and entry rules. These rules vary by nationality. Verify all requirements before your trip.
Many nationalities enjoy visa-free entry for tourism. Citizens of the United States, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, and most ASEAN countries typically receive a 30-day visa-free stay. This calls for an onward or return ticket. Some nationalities may receive 59 days visa-free. Citizens of countries not on the visa-free list must apply for a visa. Apply at a Philippine embassy or consulate. Do this in your home country or country of residence before travel.
Prepare the following documents for entry to the Philippines:
Managing your travel funds in Baguio. Prices fluctuate based on season and your travel style. This guide presents estimates.
The local currency is the Philippine Peso (PHP), symbolized as ₱. Banknotes come in 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1000 pesos. Coins include 1, 5, 10, and 25 centavos, and 1, 5, 10, and 20 pesos. Exchange major currencies like USD, EUR, GBP, and JPY at banks, authorized money changers, and airports. Rates may vary, with airport rates often less favorable.
ATMs stand widely available in Baguio, found in commercial areas and malls. Most accept international cards (Visa, MasterCard). Fees for withdrawals from foreign cards are common, typically PHP 200-250 per transaction. Major hotels, restaurants, and shopping malls accept credit cards. Smaller establishments, street vendors, and local transport usually accept cash only.
PHP 1,500 - 3,000 / USD 25 - 50 per day (estimates).
Hostel dorm, local eateries, jeepney transport, free parks.
Limited to basic amenities, less private transport.
PHP 3,000 - 7,000 / USD 50 - 120 per day (estimates).
Mid-range hotel, varied dining, mix of transport, paid attractions.
Occasional higher costs for popular tours or premium experiences.
PHP 7,000+ / USD 120+ per day (estimates).
Luxury hotel, fine dining, private transport, exclusive experiences.
Higher costs for extended stays or very high-end services.
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (per night) | Hostel Dorm: PHP 400-800 / Budget Guesthouse: PHP 800-1,500 | Mid-Range Hotel: PHP 1,500-3,500 / Luxury Hotel: PHP 4,000 - 10,000+ |
| Meals (per person) | Street Food/Local Eatery: PHP 80-200 | Casual Restaurant: PHP 250-500 / Mid-Range: PHP 500-1,000+ / Fine Dining: PHP 1,000-2,500+ |
| Transportation (local) | Jeepney Ride: PHP 14-20 | Taxi Ride: PHP 60-300+ / Bus from Manila: PHP 500-900 |
This information supports responsible travel.
Yellow Fever vaccination applies only if you come from or transit through an endemic country.
Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR), Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis (DTaP), Varicella (chickenpox), and annual flu shot.
Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Hepatitis B (for contact with fluids), Rabies (for outdoor activities/animals), Japanese Encephalitis (rural areas).
Practice strict food and water hygiene.
Traveler's Diarrhea is common. Dengue Fever, a mosquito-borne illness, is prevalent in the Philippines. Baguio’s cooler climate generally means a lower risk than lowland areas, but it remains present. Respiratory Infections (colds/coughs) are common due to the cooler climate. Sunburn/Heatstroke occurs; the sun can be intense at altitude.
Use insect repellent. Wear long sleeves and pants, especially during dusk and dawn for mosquito protection. Use sunscreen with at least SPF 30, preferably 50+. Stay hydrated throughout the day.
Consult a travel health specialist for personalized advice.
Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center (BGHMC), Notre Dame de Chartres Hospital, Saint Louis University Hospital of the Sacred Heart.
Widely available along Session Road and in commercial centers.
Tap water in Baguio is generally not safe for direct drinking by tourists. Bottled water is widely available. Consider using a Portable water filter bottle for sustainability.
Baguio is generally safe for tourists. Petty crime, like pickpocketing or bag snatching, occurs, especially in crowded areas like the public market or Session Road. No specific neighborhoods have the label "no-go." Exercise general caution in dimly lit areas at night. Avoid displaying large sums of cash or expensive electronics. Be aware of common tourist scams.
Travel insurance is highly considered for all travelers. A comprehensive policy should cover medical emergencies, evacuation, trip cancellation or interruption, and lost or stolen luggage. Compare policies from reputable World Nomads, SafetyWing, or Insubuy providers before your trip.
911 (for police, fire, medical emergencies).
117 (911 is preferred). Baguio City Police Office: +63 74 442 7981.
Keep their contact details handy for emergencies, like a lost passport.
