You might not realize it since it’s so hot outside, but summer here in the Philippines has officially ended. Soon, temperatures will drop and most importantly, rain will begin to pour nonstop. While many might welcome the relief from the scorching sun, this is also sad news for all of us who love the outdoors and hiking in nature.
Some of the most beautiful trekking spots will be unavailable during the wet season due to potential floods and landslides. You might be tempted to take your chances when you see the sun shining in the morning, but please reconsider. We all know how fickle the weather in the Philippines can be, and these treks can quickly become dangerous. However, if you are one of those who love exploring the beauties of nature, there are still good options during the wet season. We have built a list of the best hiking spots you could visit while it’s raining outside. Each of these locations are great for a day trip, but you can also take a whole weekend exploring some of them. Go camping by yourself in the wilderness, or book a tour package to any hiking spot with everything included.
Taal Volcano Trail
Unless there’s heavy rain, this one is actually perfectly safe in the winter as well. The
main problem is the fog, preventing you from enjoying the spectacular landscape. The view from Tagaytay ridge is one of the best in the Philippines, and the hike to Taal’s crater is easy and rewarding.
Make sure you take the Calauit trail – it takes longer but allows you to reach the crater lake itself and take a swim in its waters.
Camiguin Island
Camiguin is a paradise island for nature lovers. It’s full of volcanoes, covered in thick jungles and full of animals. Combine that with white or black sand beaches, and world class diving spots – and you get one of the best places for an outdoors adventure. The best thing about this island is the fact it’s actually best to visit during the Philippines rainy season. The climate here is different – and wet season only starts around November. This means that while other destinations are inaccessible, Camiguin becomes a great option.
The most recommended trek is climbing to the top of Mt.Hibok-Hibok. It’s a grueling task though, which takes 5-6 to complete, but in return you’ll get a stunning view of the whole island and its surroundings.
Cebu – Osmeña Peak to Kawasan Falls
One of the best adventure trails is found on Cebu Island, and since the area is relatively unaffected by typhoons it’s also available during the rainy season. You might have to skip some parts, and drive a motorbike instead of hiking, but it’s still a great experience. Getting to Osmeña peak, the highest point on Cebu island, is extremely easy. It’s only a 30 minutes climb once you reach the jumping point – to which you take a bus from either Cebu City, Oslob or Moalboal. Once there, you can hike for 5-6 hours and reach Kawasan Falls if weather permits.
It’s actually best to make the night at the summit, and start the traverse to the Falls the day after. That way, you can watch the sunset and sunrise from the peak, which is truly breathtaking. If you don’t want to hike down to the Falls, you can simply grab a ride there. Kawasan Falls are famous for being one of the most spectacular in the Philippines, and they are even more impressive when it rains. The water flow is stronger, and the pool becomes deeper – so swimming there is even a better experience than usual.
Dumaguete’s Twin Lakes
The Twin Lakes of Balinsasayao and Danao create one of the most beautiful and serene scenes you’ll ever witness. Located at the heart of a nature park, you can easily spend a whole day there trying to discover all the hidden secrets and experiencing different attractions.
What makes the lakes a great place to visit even during the wet season is the fact they can be easily reached even without hiking. If the weather allows, you can hike to the lakes and then continue your day by kayaking and swimming. Otherwise, you could just take a jeepney or a motorbike ride, and walk less than 10 minutes to reach the restaurant at the shores of the lake.
Sitting in the view deck and relaxing is a lot of fun – a nice way to pass time until the sky clears. You could also drop by nearby Olayan Falls, or take the longer trip to Casaroro Falls instead. They are both very nice, especially when it rains. Visiting the Twin Lakes is best done as a day trip from Dumaguete, but it’s also possible doing it with Cebu as your starting point.
Chocolate Hills In Bohol
As mentioned, weather in this areas tend to be fine and stable all year round. This fact makes Bohol a great location for those who seek to find shelter from the storms and enjoy a fun, relaxing vacation. Mix Panglao’s beautiful beaches with a tour of the world famous Chocolate Hills, for a perfect weekend vacation. Although the hills turn brown during the summer and that’s how they’ve earned their name, seeing them all covered in green is still a wonderful sight.
Bohol is a great holiday location, with a lot of interesting activities and attraction outdoors. You could stay at one of the nice hotels and resorts in Pangalo, and tour the whole island in search of adventure and nature.
