Philippines
Southeast Asia • PHL
Last updated: June 3, 2026
The Philippines is a stunning archipelago in Southeast Asia known for its thousands of tropical islands, vibrant coral reefs, and incredibly hospitable culture. It offers a perfect blend of natural wonders, such as pristine white-sand beaches and dramatic limestone cliffs, alongside a rich history influenced by Spanish and American colonial eras.
Visa Requirements
Citizens of many countries can enter the Philippines visa-free for tourism for up to 30 days, provided they have a return or onward ticket.
Typically Required Documents
- Passport valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry
- Confirmed return or outbound flight ticket
- Proof of accommodation
- Electronic Travel Declaration (eTravel) submitted within 72 hours of arrival
Popular Attractions
Palawan, particularly El Nido and Coron, is world-renowned for its turquoise lagoons, hidden beaches, and dramatic karst limestone formations.
Boracay is famous for White Beach, a long stretch of powdery sand known for its vibrant nightlife, water sports, and sunset cruises.
The Chocolate Hills in Bohol consist of over 1,200 symmetrical mounds that turn brown during the dry season, creating a unique and picturesque landscape.
Banaue Rice Terraces are ancient, hand-carved mountain paddies often referred to as the eighth wonder of the world due to their breathtaking scale and history.
Siargao is the surfing capital of the Philippines, offering world-class waves like Cloud 9 and a laid-back, bohemian island atmosphere.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Filipinos value 'pakikisama' or social harmony, so maintaining a polite and friendly demeanor is highly appreciated.
The 'Mano Po' gesture, where one presses an elder's hand to their forehead, is a traditional way to show respect to older individuals.
It is considered polite to remove your shoes before entering someone's home to keep the space clean.
Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon in conservative rural areas and are best kept minimal.
Gift-giving is common, and if you are invited to a local's home, bringing a small food item or pasalubong is a courteous gesture.
Safety Tips
Stay vigilant in crowded public areas such as markets or public transportation to avoid pickpockets and petty theft.
Only use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps like Grab to ensure transparent pricing and safer travel.
Avoid traveling to conflict-prone regions in central and western Mindanao unless you are accompanied by local experts.
Drink only bottled or purified water to prevent stomach issues, as tap water is generally not considered potable for tourists.
Keep a digital and physical copy of your passport and travel documents in a secure location separate from your originals.
Monitor local weather reports regularly, especially during typhoon season from June to November, as tropical storms can disrupt travel plans.
AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.
Yellow Fever
Source: CDC
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travelers arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission; it is not required when traveling directly from non-risk countries.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
Not required when traveling directly from non-risk countries
View sourceCOVID-19
Source: CDC
All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines.
View sourceMeasles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)
Source: CDC
All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the MMR vaccine, according to CDC's measles vaccination recommendations for international travel.
View sourceCore Vaccines
Routine vaccines: MMR, DTP, Varicella
Source: CDC
Ensure vaccinations are up to date before travel.
View sourceJapanese Encephalitis vaccine
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who are moving to an area with Japanese encephalitis to live, spend long periods of time, such as a month or more, in areas with Japanese encephalitis, or frequently travel to areas with Japanese encephalitis.
Consider vaccination for travelers spending less than a month in areas with Japanese encephalitis but will be doing activities that increase risk of infection, such as visiting rural areas, hiking or camping, or staying in places without air conditioning, screens, or bed nets.
View sourceTyphoid vaccine
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.
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View sourceHepatitis A vaccine
Source: CDC
Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to the Philippines.
Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.
View sourceChikungunya vaccination
Source: CDC
Chikungunya vaccination may be considered for people traveling or moving to this location if they are planning to stay for an extended period of time (for example, 6 months or more).
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View sourceHepatitis B vaccine
Source: CDC
Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to the Philippines.
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View sourceCholera vaccine
Source: CDC
Vaccination may be considered for children and adults who are traveling to areas of active cholera transmission.
Avoiding unsafe food and water and washing your hands can also help prevent cholera.
View sourceFor Most Travelers
Food and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
Due to potential food and waterborne illnesses.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who might eat or drink outside major restaurants and hotels.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Travelers can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water.
View sourceItinerary-Specific
Japanese Encephalitis
Source: CDC
For travelers spending extended time in rural areas or during transmission season.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
For travelers involved in outdoor activities or with potential exposure to rabies.
View sourceAntimalarial medication
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers visiting areas with malaria, especially rural areas
View sourceRisk Area: No malaria risk
View sourceRisk Area: Province of Palawan and the Mindanao Island group
Chemoprophylaxis: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, mefloquine, tafenoquine
Seasonality: null
View source