With its stunning beaches and vibrant culture, the Philippines may be best known as a tropical paradise perfect for relaxation. But as a nation with over 7,000 islands, there’s also a whole lot of adventure to be had in the Philippines — even during the monsoon season. Digital travel platform Agoda highlights Palawan, Bukidnon, and Bohol as destinations that can be enjoyed year-round.
With the rainy season typically active from June to November, peaking between July and October, travelers will be looking for destinations with a higher chance of sunshine during the wet months. Some of the best options include Palawan in the MIMAROPA Region, Bukidnon in Northern Mindanao, and Bohol in the Central Visayas Region. These destinations often see relatively drier weather during the monsoon months, making them worth visiting during this time especially.
“The Philippines offers incredible experiences year-round, and Agoda is here to help travelers discover them, rain or shine,” says Michael Hwang, country director, Philippines at Agoda. “While summer might be the popular choice, destinations like Palawan, Bukidnon, and Bohol showcase the beauty and adventure the Philippines has to offer, even during the monsoon season. Agoda connects travelers with the best deals on accommodations, making it easier than ever to explore this diverse country for less, no matter the time of year.”
To help travelers make the most of their monsoon holidays, Agoda shares a curated weather-flexible itinerary for Palawan, Bukidnon, and Bohol:
Discover beyond the beaches of Palawan
Palawan, known for its breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity, offers a variety of unique experiences. For a taste of history and culture, embark on a half-day tour of Puerto Princesa City, visiting WWII landmarks like the Plaza Cuartel and the majestic Cathedral, bookable through Agoda. For another kind of immersive experience, visitors can embark on a Farm Tour at Coron Natural Farms to learn more about sustainable agriculture and enjoy the freshest farm-to-table meals.
Additionally, visiting the Palawan Heritage Center — where exhibits and artifacts showcase the island’s history, indigenous culture, and biodiversity — and the KaLui Art Gallery, which features works from local artists, offers an enriching glimpse into Palawan’s vibrant cultural heritage.
Embrace the tranquility of mountainous Bukidnon
In the heart of Mindanao, Bukidnon offers a cool, verdant retreat. Known as the “Fruit and Vegetable Basket of Mindanao,” Bukidnon is celebrated for its agriculture and ecotourism. Beyond its famed fresh produce, vacationers can discover the Monastery of Transfiguration in Malaybalay City, a modern architectural marvel offering a peaceful respite.
For breathtaking views, holidaymakers can relax at the Del Monte Clubhouse in Manolo Fortich, or they can embark on a guided tour at the Talaandig Cultural Center in Sungco, Lantapan, where they can witness the Talaandig tribe’s traditional performances of music, dance, and storytelling. Further exploration of the region’s heritage awaits at the Kaamulan Folk Arts Museum, showcasing the vibrant traditions of indigenous peoples, or the Bukidnon State University Museum, offering historical insights into the region’s past development and cultural shifts through artifacts and exhibits.
Savor the flavors of Bohol
The Central Visayan island of Bohol has a unique blend of history and natural beauty that can’t be missed. Travelers can experience the grandeur of the historic Baclayon Church or explore the natural beauty of the Cambuhat River and Village, where community-based sustainable ecotourism offers mangrove tours and insights into local fishing practices.
For a taste of local life, visitors can sign up for a hands-on cooking class featuring traditional Boholano cuisine, which can be booked through Agoda. To round up the trip, witness a traditional Mazurka Boholana folk dance performance at a local festival or community gathering—a vibrant expression of Bohol’s cultural heritage.
With over 4.5 million properties worldwide, Agoda features hotels offering flexible booking options like ‘book now, pay later’ and free cancellations for easy rescheduling. Travelers can easily filter their search results on Agoda to specifically see accommodations that provide these options, giving them greater peace of mind when booking trips during potentially unpredictable weather. Whether drawn to Palawan, Bukidnon, or Bohol, visitors can adjust itineraries should forecasts shift by booking on agoda.com or using the Agoda app.