Travel Vaccines and Advice for the Philippines
The Philippines is made up of over 7,000 islands, with views and activities to suit every traveller’s preferences. There are seasides perfect for sun tanning, diving, boating, kayaking, surfing or even kiteboarding.
More inland, there is rock climbing and tonnes of ziplines to explore. In the cities, travellers will be able to appreciate the Spanish-Filipino architecture, historical buildings and welcoming people.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for the Philippines?
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for the Philippines
What is the Climate Like in the Philippines?
How Safe is the Philippines?
Visiting Dahilayan Adventure Park
What Should I Pack To the Philippines?
Embassy of the United Kingdom in the Philippines
Do I Need Vaccines for Philippines?
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunisations:
- Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travellers to the region, especially if unvaccinated. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travellers to most regions. - Tetanus –
Wounds or Breaks in Skin –
Recommended for travellers to most regions, especially if not previously vaccinated. - Typhoid –
Food & Water –
Jab lasts 3 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. - Cholera –
Food & Water –
Recommended for travel to most regions. - Yellow Fever –
Mosquito –
Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. - Japanese Encephalitis –
Mosquito –
Recommended depending on itinerary and activities. Recommended for extended travel, recurrent travellers and travel to rural areas. Present throughout country. Most cases from April to August. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-stay travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Recommended for some travellers to this region. Single adult booster recommended.
See the tables below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for Philippines |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travellers to the region, especially if unvaccinated. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Accelerated schedule available |
| Tetanus | Wounds or Breaks in Skin | Recommended for travellers to most regions, especially if not previously vaccinated. |
| Typhoid | Food & Water | Jab lasts 3 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. |
| Cholera | Food & Water | Recommended for travel to most regions. |
| Yellow Fever | Mosquito | Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. |
| Japanese Encephalitis | Mosquito | Recommended depending on itinerary and activities. Recommended for extended travel, recurrent travellers and travel to rural areas. Present throughout country. Most cases from April to August. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-stay travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Recommended for some travellers to this region. |
The Philippines is home to a few different mosquito-borne diseases. Travellers should consider Japanese encephalitis vaccination and antimalarials for some popular regions of the country. Dengue and chikungunya are present in many areas. Be sure to bring and use insect repellents and insect netting.
Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now.
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Philippines?
No visa is required for stays under 30 days in the Philippines. A visa obtained before travel will allow travellers to stay for 59 days. Proof of onward or return travel may be required at entry.
Passports must be valid for at least the duration of your stay. Proof of yellow fever vaccination may be required if you are travelling from a region where yellow fever is present.
Philippines Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to the Philippines? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of the Philippines and GOV.UK
What is the Climate Like in Philippines?
The Philippines has a tropical climate, with hot and humid weather throughout the year. The temperature generally ranges from 25 to 30 degrees depending on the region. Some of the most popular tourist destinations in the Philippines include Boracay Island, Palawan, Cebu, Manila, and Siargao Island.
The best time to visit these destinations varies depending on the region. December to May is generally the best time to visit, as the weather is dry and sunny. The rainy season runs from June to November, and typhoons can occur during this period. March to October is the best time to visit Siargao Island, while November to April is the best time to visit Batanes.
Visitors should prepare for hot and humid weather, and pack appropriate clothing and sunscreen. It is also recommended to bring rain gear if visiting during the rainy season. Despite occasional weather challenges, the Philippines is a beautiful and diverse country with plenty to offer. From pristine beaches to cultural landmarks and delicious cuisine, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
How Safe is Philippines?
The government of the UK warns against all non-essential travel to the Sulu Archipelago and through the southern Sulu Sea. Travellers should also be very cautious when travelling to Mindanao, as there have been terrorist threats, insurgent activities, and kidnappings.
Pickpocketing, hole-in-the-wall card fraud, and con games are common.
Travellers should avoid carrying unnecessary valuables with them. Be cautious whilst travelling and travel with a partner when possible. Do not accept a ride from a taxi that has already accepted another passenger or use ATMs with unusual coverings attached to the card receiver.
Visiting Cebu Island
Cebu Island is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Philippines.
Cebu Island has a rich history and culture that is evident in its many historic sites and landmarks. Visitors can explore the iconic Magellan’s Cross, which marks the spot where Ferdinand Magellan first set foot in the Philippines in 1521.
The island is also known for its beautiful beaches and water activities. Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and diving in the crystal-clear waters or take a boat tour to explore nearby islands and islets.
Cebu also has a vibrant nightlife and delicious local cuisine. Visitors can sample a variety of local dishes, including the famous Cebu lechon (roast pig). Many visitors choose to party the night away in the island’s many bars and nightclubs.
A trip to Cebu Island offers visitors the perfect combination of history, culture, natural beauty, and fun.
What Should I Pack for Philippines?
The Philippines is a beautiful and popular destination. It is key to ensure you bring everything with you to fully enjoy your trip.
- Money Belt – Due to the amount of pick-pocketing that occurs, a money belt will allow you to keep your money and passport safe.
- Insect Spray – The climate in the Philippines is hot and humid. This creates a breeding ground for insects, especially mosquitoes.
- Cash – Because of frequent hole-in-the-wall frauds, it is best to stick to avoid withdrawing cash if possible.
- Umbrella – During the rainy season there will be frequent warm rains and an umbrella will serve to keep you dry during these showers.
Embassy of the United Kingdom in the Philippines
If you are in the Philippines and have an emergency (for example, been attacked, arrested or someone has died) contact the nearest consular services. Contact the embassy before arrival if you have additional questions on entry requirements, safety concerns or are in need of assistance.
British Embassy Manila
120 Upper McKinley Road, McKinley Hill
Taguig City Manila
1634 Manila
Philippines
Telephone: +63 2 858 2200
Emergency Phone: +63 2 858 2200
Fax: +63 2 858 2216
Email: ukinthephilippines@fco.gov.uk
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