Philippines in October: Weather, Tips and More

With the rainy season coming to an end, October is a great time to visit the Philippines. Temperatures remain consistently warm during this period, with average highs reaching around 29°C (85°F) and lows staying around 24°C (76°F). In the capital, Manila, highs are similar, around 27°C (82°F), while in El Nido, Palawan, it is slightly warmer at around 29°C (84°F). As is typical for tropical climate areas, rainfall is possible throughout October, averaging about 80mm, but it is much less likely than in previous months.

There may be heavy showers or storms in some places, and typhoons can still be a risk. We advise checking the local weather forecast consistently to avoid any potential storms! Try to plan as flexible a trip as possible, and change your plans if necessary.

For more information about the weather in the Philippines, check out our travel guide on the best times to visit the Philippines.

 October is a great time for tourists to visit the Philippines due to it's favorable weather and hiking options. Some of the other reasons why you should visit the Philippines in October are:     

• Fewer tourists: October is the shoulder season for travel to the Philippines. Earlier in the month, when the rains are still more persistent, you may be able to find fewer crowds throughout the country. Toward the end of the month, international travelers return in larger numbers.
• More affordable prices: In early October, there may be showers and typhoon warnings in the Philippines, but this means that hotels, transportation, and attractions are more affordable than they are later in the month.
• Festival season: October marks the start of the festival season in the Philippines. The colorful and popular MassKara Festival takes place on the 4th Sunday of the month and features street parties, parades, dances, and costumes throughout the island nation. The Zamboanga Hermosa Festival, Kasanggayahan Festiva, and even a Filipino-style Oktoberfest, complete with parties and food, are other prominent festivals that are celebrated throughout the month.

The Philippines has over 7,000 tropical islands and October is the perfect month for beachgoers to explore the white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters of the surreal ocean without fighting crowds. From scuba diving to mountain biking, adventure lovers will find plenty of opportunities to quench their thirst for adventure.

Enjoy the festivities: October is the festival season in the Philippines, so it is an ideal time to get caught up in some of the festivities! The MassKara Festival takes place in Bacolod during the third week of October. Here you will find local food stands serving authentic Philippine cuisine, traditional mask-making contests, and music competitions that will make you feel like you are at the Brazilian carnival. The festival ends with a massive parade, where people wear colorful masks and dance to Latin music until late at night!

Celebrate the local harvest: The Lanzones Festival takes place in Lambajao, Camiguin during the third week of October. This festive celebration is held to express gratitude for the island's abundant Lanzones harvest, and it is a lively and cheerful outdoor gathering. Lanzones are a local fruit in the Philippines!

Ride the wave: Even though it's still rainy and stormy in the Philippines in October, surfing is still possible! The monsoons create large swells and waves that make the beaches ideal for surfing. If you're looking to catch some big waves, Catanduanes is a great location to visit.

Hike an active volcano: If you are already on Camiguin island to celebrate the Lanzones Festival, a hike up an active volcano might be something you would like to do. Mt. Hibok-Hibok in Camiguin is a popular climb that can prove challenging but offers breathtaking views of the island. The peak reaches an elevation of 1,332 meters (4,370 feet), so it is important to ensure that you are properly prepared with a good jacket and grippy hiking shoes.

Step back in time: Visit the centuries-old preserved Spanish-style city of Vigan, Ilocos Sur, for history, and architecture and to explore 2 UNESCO Heritage sites. Vigan is a popular destination but visiting in October will almost guarantee cheaper prices and fewer crowds. Highlights to visit include Calle Crisologo's historic cobblestone street, the National Museum of the Philippines, the Bantay Church Bell Tower, and more.

If you’re looking to hike Mount Hibok-Hibok, we suggest bringing clothing that can withstand rain and has multiple layers. The hike begins at the volcano's base, which often experiences high humidity and heavy rain. As you ascend, the temperature drops and it can become chilly, so it's necessary to bring sufficient layers to stay warm and dry at the summit.

With slowing rains, warm temperatures, and sunny skies signaling the start of summer, October is a great time to visit the Philippines. There will be fewer tourists, so you can experience the country's unique culture and stunning scenery at reasonable prices, which will outweigh the occasional rainstorm that may show up.

Are you currently planning a trip to the Philippines? If you want a better understanding of the country, take a look at our other Philippines travel guide. Additionally, if you are not sure about how much time you should spend in the Philippines, you can check out our article "How Long to Spend in the Philippines".

More information:
Philippines in September
Philippines in November