Palawan is super popular, and for good reason! To enjoy it without loads of tourists and to avoid getting rained on all the time, you need to pick the right time to visit. This guide helps you figure out the best months for your Palawan adventure.
Understanding Palawan’s Climate
Okay, so Palawan is in the Philippines, which means it has a tropical climate. That translates to it being pretty warm all year round. But there are definitely wetter and drier seasons, and these can really affect your trip. Knowing what to expect will help you pack correctly and plan activities that won’t be ruined by rain.
The Dry Season: Palawan at Its Best (Generally)
The dry season is usually from November to May. This is when Palawan shines! You’ll have lots of sunshine, blue skies, and calm seas. It’s the perfect time for swimming, island hopping, and just chilling on the beach. Because of this, it’s also the most popular time to visit, so expect more people and potentially higher prices.
However, even during the dry season, there can be occasional showers. They’re usually short and refreshing, though, and don’t last for days like in the wet season. If you’re planning on doing a lot of water activities, the dry season is definitely your best bet.
The Wet Season: When to Think Twice (or Not!)
The wet season in Palawan runs from June to October. This is when the southwest monsoon is most active. This means more rain, stronger winds, and rougher seas. Some islands might even be temporarily closed due to bad weather. While it might seem like a terrible time to visit, there are actually some advantages.
First, there are far fewer tourists. This means you’ll have more space to yourself on the beaches and at popular attractions. Second, prices for accommodation and tours are often much lower. Third, the landscape becomes incredibly lush and green after the rains. So, if you don’t mind a bit of rain and you’re looking for a quieter and cheaper trip, the wet season could be an option. Just be prepared for potential disruptions to your plans.
Breaking It Down Month by Month
Let’s go through each month to give you a better idea of what to expect:
January & February: These are generally considered the best months to visit Palawan. The weather is dry and sunny, the seas are calm, and the visibility for diving and snorkeling is excellent. It’s peak season, so book your accommodation and tours well in advance. Expect higher prices.
March & April: The dry weather continues, and temperatures start to rise. This is a great time for swimming and sunbathing. It’s still peak season, but slightly less crowded than January and February. Keep in mind that it can get very hot and humid.
May: May is a transition month. The weather is still mostly dry, but the chance of rain increases towards the end of the month. It’s still a good time to visit, but be prepared for a few possible showers. Prices are slightly lower than the peak season months.
June: The wet season starts in June. Rain becomes more frequent and intense. The seas become rougher, which can disrupt island hopping tours. However, accommodation and tours are significantly cheaper. If you’re on a tight budget and don’t mind the rain, June could be an option.
July & August: These are the wettest months in Palawan. Expect heavy rain, strong winds, and rough seas. Some islands may be temporarily closed due to the weather. This is generally not a good time to visit if you’re looking for sunshine and outdoor activities. But, if you are a dedicated surfer, the swells may be worth exploring. This might be a good time to visit El Nido if you care most about surfing.
September & October: The wet season starts to wind down in September and October. The rain becomes less frequent, but the seas are still often rough. This is a shoulder season, with lower prices and fewer tourists. The weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for both sunshine and rain.
November: November marks the start of the dry season. The weather is improving, with more sunshine and calmer seas. This is a great time to visit Palawan, as the crowds are still relatively small and the prices are still reasonable. However you will want to monitor the weather if you plan to come around late November, since it is a transition time.
December: December is another popular month to visit Palawan. The weather is dry and sunny, and the seas are calm. It’s a festive time of year, so expect higher prices and more crowds, especially around Christmas and New Year’s. If you want a peaceful island vacation, consider visiting earlier in November.
The Shoulder Seasons: Best of Both Worlds?
The shoulder seasons are the months between the dry and wet seasons (May & November). These months can offer a good balance between good weather and fewer crowds. You might experience some rain, but it’s usually not as heavy or frequent as in the wet season. Prices are also typically lower than in the peak dry season.
For example, late May can be beautiful. You typically have a lot of sunshine, but there’s a lower tourist density than in March and April. Similar trends occur in November before heading into the holidays.
Avoiding the Crowds: Tips and Tricks
Palawan is becoming increasingly popular, but you can still find ways to avoid the crowds:
Travel during the Shoulder Seasons: As mentioned earlier, May and November generally have fewer tourists than the peak months.
Visit Less Popular Destinations: While El Nido and Coron are the most famous destinations in Palawan, there are many other beautiful places to explore. Consider visiting Port Barton, San Vicente, or Balabac.
Take Early Morning or Late Afternoon Tours: If you’re visiting popular attractions, try to go early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday crowds. For example, the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is one destination you can enjoy more when you go earlier in the day.
Go on Private Tours: While they’re more expensive, private tours allow you to customize your itinerary and avoid the large tour groups.
Stay in Off-the-Beaten-Path Accommodations: Instead of staying in large hotels in the main tourist areas, consider staying in smaller guesthouses or eco-lodges in more remote locations. These can offer a more authentic and peaceful experience.
What to Pack, Depending on the Season
What you pack for your Palawan trip will depend on the time of year you’re visiting:
Dry Season (November to May): Pack light, breathable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and insect repellent. You might also want to bring a light jacket or sweater for the evenings, as it can get a bit cool. Also pack a dry bag to keep electronics safe from water damage if you plan on doing island hopping.
Wet Season (June to October): Pack waterproof clothing, an umbrella, and quick-drying clothes. Bring insect repellent, as mosquitoes are more prevalent during the rainy season. It’s also a good idea to bring waterproof bags to protect your electronics and other valuables. Also make sure you bring things to do inside of your accommodation in case the rain keeps you from visiting the places you want to visit.
All Year Round: No matter when you visit Palawan, it’s always a good idea to bring a first-aid kit, any necessary medications, and a reusable water bottle to help reduce plastic waste.
Specific Considerations for El Nido and Coron
El Nido and Coron are often the most-visited spots. Here’s what to note:
El Nido: The Bacuit Bay islands are the star here, for their beauty. However, boat tours can be affected more during the wet season. Always check tour availability before booking. This can be a great place for surfing, but the waves aren’t consistent. If you have time, check conditions before traveling so you aren’t making unnecessary trips.
Coron: Kayangan Lake and Barracuda Lake are must-sees. Diving is super popular here because of the shipwrecks. During the wet season, visibility can be poor for diving because of the runoff into the water. You may also want to check out the Maquinit Hot Spring. Rainy days can be a bit cooler, allowing for a more comfortable experience.
Getting Around Palawan
Traveling around Palawan can be tricky, especially during the wet season. Here’s a quick rundown:
Flights: The main airport in Palawan is Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS). There are also smaller airports in El Nido (ENI) and Busuanga (USU), near Coron. Flights can be delayed or canceled during the wet season due to bad weather.
Buses and Vans: Buses and vans are a common way to travel between towns in Palawan. However, roads can be muddy and slippery during the wet season, which can slow down travel times. You can book your tickets online at Philippines Bus.
Boats: Boats are essential for island hopping. However, boat tours can be canceled during the wet season due to rough seas. Always check the weather forecast and tour availability before booking.
Staying Safe in Palawan
Palawan is generally a safe place to visit, but here are a few things to keep in mind:
Weather: Pay attention to weather forecasts and heed any warnings from local authorities. Avoid swimming or boating during severe weather.
Sun Protection: The sun in Palawan can be intense, so wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Food and Water: Be careful about what you eat and drink. Only drink bottled water or water that has been properly boiled. Eat at reputable restaurants or establishments.
Mosquito Bites: Protect yourself from mosquito bites by wearing long sleeves and using insect repellent, especially during the wet season.
Money Matters
Here are some useful things to take note regarding Philippine currency and spending practices:
Currency: The currency in the Philippines is the Philippine Peso (PHP). While some establishments, particularly hotels targeted towards international tourists, may accept credit cards, it’s beneficial to carry cash, especially when you’re planning to head to smaller island destinations. ATMs are available in cities, but more scarce in rural areas.
Tipping: Tipping isn’t usually expected, but it’s always appreciated for great service. Rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip for servers, drivers, and tour guides is a nice gesture.
Bargaining: Bargaining is common in markets and with tricycle drivers, but it’s important to do it respectfully. A friendly haggling approach is usually appreciated.
Respecting the Environment and Local Culture
It’s important to travel responsibly and respect the environment and local culture in Palawan:
Reduce Plastic Waste: Avoid using single-use plastics whenever possible. Bring a reusable water bottle, shopping bag, and utensils.
Respect Marine Life: Do not touch or disturb coral reefs or other marine life. Avoid using sunscreen that contains chemicals harmful to coral. Many tour boats do not allow diving with sunscreen on. Ask before you slather it on.
Support Local Businesses: Buy souvenirs from local artisans and eat at local restaurants. This helps support the local economy.
Dress Respectfully: When visiting religious sites or local communities, dress modestly.
FAQ Section
Q: What’s the best month to visit Palawan?
A: January and February are generally considered the best months, as they offer dry and sunny weather. However, they are also the most crowded and expensive. But it is the best time to visit Palawan.
Q: Is it safe to travel to Palawan during the wet season?
A: It can be safe, but you need to be prepared for potential disruptions. Some islands may be temporarily closed, and boat tours may be canceled due to bad weather. Also be sure to be aware of diseases passed by insects which tend to flourish in these times. Check official health reports when you are considering whether to go now or postpone.
Q: How can I avoid the crowds in Palawan?
A: Visit during the shoulder seasons (May & November), explore less popular destinations, and take early morning or late afternoon tours.
Q: Do I need a visa to travel to the Philippines?
A: Many nationalities can enter the Philippines without a visa for a certain period. Always check the latest visa requirements based on your nationality before you travel.
Q: What should I pack for my trip to Palawan?
A: Pack light, breathable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and insect repellent for the dry season. Pack waterproof clothing, an umbrella, and quick-drying clothes for the wet season. You can also always find shopping centers to fill in the gaps if you happen to be missing something.
References
Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA)
UNESCO World Heritage Centre
Ready to explore the stunning beauty of Palawan? Don’t let the planning overwhelm you! Use the information here to choose the best time for your trip, whether you’re seeking sun-drenched beaches or a quieter, greener escape. Start booking your flights and accommodation today for an unforgettable adventure!
