Palawan Weather Guide: Best Time to Travel to Palawan
Palawan is a breathtaking province located in the Philippine archipelago, comprised of over 1,780 beautiful islands and islets. From the long and narrow Palawan Island to its smaller surrounding islands, Palawan offers stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters and friendly locals. With warm temperatures all year long, it's always a great time to plan a holiday to Palawan. In this guide, we'll explore the best time to visit and what to expect from the weather in Palawan
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What is the weather like?
Palawan, located between the Equator and the Tropic of Cancer, has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: the dry season and the wet season. Each season lasts approximately six months.
The Dry Season in Palawan begins in late November and ends in May, while the Wet Season starts in June and lasts until October. The dry season is the preferred time of year for most Filipinos as it is the only time when summer is formally present.
Throughout both seasons, temperatures in Palawan average between 75°F and 84°F (24°C-29°C), though it can get chilly during early morning and nighttime. The prevailing wind systems in the Philippines are the Northeast Monsoon (Amihan) from November to February and the Southwest Monsoon (Habagat) from July to September.
Amihan is characterized by moderate temperatures, little to no rainfall, and a prevailing wind from the east. On the other hand, Habagat is characterized by hot and humid weather, frequent heavy rainfall, and a prevailing wind from the west. When planning a trip to Palawan, it’s best to consider the season and prevailing wind systems for the most comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Typhoons
Palawan is considered a safe destination in terms of natural disasters, as it is rarely hit by typhoons and is also safe from other calamities such as forest fires, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions. However, it’s important to keep in mind that typhoons can hit the Philippines at any time of year.
The most active months for typhoons are from June to September, with May being the least active. The islands of Eastern Visayas, Bicol region, and northern Luzon are the areas most frequently hit by typhoons. In contrast, the regions of Mindanao and Palawan are generally typhoon-free, making them a safer travel option.
High Season and Low Season
Palawan has a year-round tropical climate that makes it a perfect destination for travelers seeking warmth, adventure, and relaxation. The high season, which runs from mid-December to mid-April, is the busiest time of the year with the most expensive hotel rates. To secure your preferred accommodation during this period, it’s best to book at least three months in advance, especially during Christmas, New Year, and Easter.
The low season, from June to October, coincides with the wet season, but it’s still a great time to visit Palawan. Hotel rates are typically 20% to 50% lower during this time, making it ideal for budget-conscious travelers or those who prefer to avoid crowds.
There are several advantages to traveling during the low season:
– Beaches and islands are less crowded, allowing you to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of Palawan in peace.
– Accommodations and flights can be booked at the last minute, giving you more flexibility in planning your trip.
-Short waiting times for popular attractions like the Underground River, which can have long lines during peak season.
– The atmosphere is more relaxed, making it a great time to unwind and recharge.
– Summer is an excellent time for family travel, which is not always possible during the winter season.
So, if you’re looking for a more affordable and peaceful vacation in Palawan, consider visiting during the low season.