Philippines weather & when to go: January
January overview
January is without doubt one of the most popular times of the year for a Philippines holiday. The dry season is in full swing, so even the more remote areas are accessible, and the cooler temperatures make for comfortable sightseeing and perfect beach weather.
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Not AdvisedJanuary's weather in detail
Even though January is in the cooler half of the dry season, temperatures still average around 26°C. If you’re exploring at higher elevations such as Baguio and the Cordillera region in northern Luzon, then you can expect temperatures to drop quite significantly, especially at night. January is an excellent time of year for trekking around the Banaue Rice Terraces.
Further south, the island of Siargao and the eastern Visayas may still be enduring the effects of lingering monsoons, so it’s worth packing an umbrella. If it's beach time you're searching for, head to the islands of Boracay, Cebu and Palawan. Although the waters around Palawan and Boracay can be a little rough during January so island hopping and Underground River tours may be cancelled.
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VietnamWhere's the sun and sand?
Manila, Bohol, Boracay, Cebu, Palawan, Vigan & Northern Luzon
Our recommended journeys
Philippines With Ease balances a handful of must-see highlights with plenty of blissful R&R downtime. Explore Manila’s eclectic metropolis, feasting on its vibrant cuisine; unwind amid the natural wonders of Palawan, cruising along the Puerto Princesa underground river; and relax on El Nido’s sundrenched island beaches.
See all our itineraries in Philippines
Key Festivals & Religious Ceremonies
Feast of the Black Nazarene
A life-sized statue of Christ is carried through Manila by bare-footed devotees.
Ati-Atihan
Celebrating an ancient land pact, this huge and colourful festival, known as the Filipino Mardi Gras, sees dancing in the streets.
Sinulog
The third Sunday of January brings Cebu City’s biggest religious celebration. This lively festival attracts millions of revellers, and produces some of the biggest raves in the Philippines.
