Planning a trip to Manila? You’ll want to time your visit around its tropical climate.
The city really only has two main seasons: dry and wet. The best time to visit Manila is from January to April, when the weather stays warm, sunny, and much less humid.
During these months, you’ll get the most reliable conditions for exploring historic spots, enjoying Manila Bay, or heading out to nearby islands.
If you show up outside this window, you’ll probably run into heavier rainfall and higher humidity, especially from June through September when the monsoon peaks.
Rain doesn’t usually last all day, but it can mess up outdoor plans and make getting around a hassle. On the bright side, the shoulder months offer fewer crowds and better prices.
Overview of Manila’s Climate
Manila sticks to a tropical climate, so it stays warm all year. You won’t see big swings in temperature.
What really stands out is the clear split between the dry and rainy seasons. High humidity can make it feel hotter than it actually is.
Tropical Monsoon Climate Explained
Manila sits on the western side of Luzon in the Philippines and gets a tropical monsoon climate. You’ve got a dry season from January to April, and a rainy season from May to December.
The wettest months are June through October, with heavy rainfall and the occasional typhoon shaking up travel plans. Typhoons pop up most often from August to November, though sometimes as early as May.
Manila’s coastal spot near the bay keeps it a bit cooler than places inland like Quezon City, but honestly, the difference is minor. Both areas stay hot and humid most of the year.
Even in the so-called “cooler” months, the weather’s still warm enough for outdoor stuff. Still, humidity and rainfall patterns really shape how comfortable you feel.
Temperature and Humidity Patterns
Temperatures in Manila don’t change much throughout the year. Usually, you’ll see 22 °C (72 °F) at night and 34 °C (93 °F) during the day.
March to May brings the hottest stretch, with April and May sometimes hitting 36–37 °C (97–99 °F).
January cools things off a bit, averaging around 26.5 °C (80 °F). Nights rarely drop below 20 °C (68 °F), so you won’t ever need a jacket.
Humidity is a big deal here. It’s often 70–85%, which makes the air feel heavy and the heat more intense.
During the dry season, humidity drops, so the heat feels easier to handle. In the rainy season, expect muggy conditions with warm nights.
Rainfall and Sunshine Trends
Rainfall in Manila comes in bursts and is seasonal and heavy, averaging about 2,200 mm per year.
January through April are the driest months, with less than 25 mm per month. In August, though, you can get nearly 475 mm, and low-lying areas sometimes flood.
Rain usually shows up as short, intense bursts, not all-day drizzles. That means you might still catch some sun even in the wet season, but outdoor plans can get interrupted fast.
Sunshine depends on the season. From February to April, expect 8–9.5 hours of sun per day. The rainy months of July and August drop to around 5–6 hours.
The yearly average is about 7 hours per day, so there’s always plenty of daylight.
The sea stays warm, between 27–30 °C, so swimming’s always possible. Just watch out for rough water during typhoon season, which can shut down water activities.
Dry Season in Manila: December to April
The dry season in Manila brings warm temps, low rainfall, and lots of sunshine. This is when tourism peaks, and you’ll get the best conditions for sightseeing, outdoor fun, and cultural events.
Weather Conditions During the Dry Season
From December to April, expect mostly clear skies and barely any rain. Daytime temps range from 22°C to 34°C (72°F to 93°F).
Nights are a bit cooler in December and January, but March and April heat up and get more humid.
Rain is rare, just a few light showers each month. Sunshine averages 8–10 hours per day, so it’s a solid season for outdoor plans.
Sometimes the air gets hazy, but visibility for sightseeing usually stays good.
Humidity drops compared to the wet season, so walking tours and city exploring are a lot more comfortable. If you want stable weather, this is the best time to visit Manila.
Best Months for Outdoor Activities
January and February are the sweet spot for outdoor activities, with warm but not blazing hot temperatures.
It’s perfect for exploring Intramuros, Rizal Park, or strolling along Manila Bay.
March and April get hotter, but they’re great if you want to mix city time with beach trips to Batangas or Zambales. Dry weather also makes day trips to Tagaytay or Corregidor Island a breeze.
Biking, walking tours, and open-air markets feel best during this season. For sightseeing, this is when you’ll get the best mix of weather and easy access.
Festivals and Events in the Dry Season
The dry season lines up with a bunch of Manila’s biggest cultural events.
December is all about Christmas, with the city decked out in lights and parols (lanterns). Shopping districts and public squares feel extra festive.
In January, the Sinulog Festival happens in Cebu, but Manila often joins the celebration with local events. Come April, the Aliwan Fiesta brings parades and performances to the capital.
These festivals let you catch traditional dances, costumes, and music. If you want to soak up Manila’s culture along with good weather, this is the season to visit.
Monsoon Season in Manila: May to November
From late spring through autumn, Manila shifts into its wet season. Expect frequent rain showers, high humidity, and a chance of typhoons.
This time of year brings some challenges, but you’ll also find quieter streets, lush greenery, and cheaper travel compared to the dry months.
Rainfall Patterns and Temperature
The monsoon season in Manila usually starts in May and runs until November.
Rainfall peaks from July to September, with July often getting the most. Showers can go from brief bursts to long periods of heavy rain.
Despite the rain, temperatures stay warm. Daytime highs average 30–32°C (86–90°F), and nights hover around 24–26°C (75–79°F).
Humidity stays high, making it feel warmer than it is.
Storms happen often, but the sun still comes out on many days. You might see clear mornings and then rain in the afternoon.
If you plan carefully, you can still fit in some outdoor activities.
| Month | Avg High Temp | Avg Rainfall | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| May | 32°C / 90°F | Moderate | Start of wet season |
| Jul | 31°C / 88°F | Very High | Peak rainfall |
| Nov | 31°C / 88°F | Lower | Transition to dry season |
Pros and Cons of Visiting During Monsoon
Traveling to Manila during the monsoon has its ups and downs.
You’ll see fewer tourists, so attractions feel less crowded and lines are shorter. Hotels and flights usually cost less, so your budget goes further.
The city and nearby provinces look greener, and the landscape feels fresh. After rain, the air can even seem a bit cleaner.
But heavy rain can mess up outdoor plans. Some streets flood, especially in low-lying spots, and traffic gets worse.
Typhoons aren’t daily, but they’re a real risk and can force you to change your plans fast.
Unique Experiences in the Wet Season
If you visit Manila during the rainy months, you can still find plenty to do.
Indoor spots like museums, art galleries, and malls are good for staying dry and entertained.
The wet season brings cultural events too. In August, you might catch colorful festivals around the Philippines, and many are easy to reach from Manila.
These celebrations keep going, rain or shine, and show off music, food, and traditions.
Rain can even add to the vibe. Watching a tropical downpour from a café or hotel balcony gives you a real taste of Manila’s climate. After a storm, the air cools off, making evening walks a lot more pleasant.
If you like a slower pace and want to save money, the monsoon season lets you see Manila with fewer crowds and a laid-back feel.
Month-by-Month Weather Breakdown
Manila’s tropical climate keeps things warm all year, but temperature, rain, and sunshine change with the seasons.
Knowing when it’s cooler, hotter, drier, or wetter helps you plan what to do and avoid the worst conditions.
Coolest and Hottest Months
December through February brings the coolest stretch in Manila.
Daytime highs hit around 30–31°C (86–88°F), and nights can dip to 22–23°C (72–73°F). It’s still warm, but it feels a bit more comfortable thanks to slightly lower humidity.
The hottest months? That’s April and May, when temps reach 34–36°C (93–97°F). Nights stay warm at 25–26°C (77–79°F), and the heat can get pretty intense before the rains begin.
If you’re planning outdoor sightseeing, try to go early in the morning or later in the afternoon to dodge the peak heat.
Sunniest and Wettest Months
You’ll catch the most sunshine from March to May, with 8–9.5 hours of sun per day.
April stands out as especially bright, with long days and clear skies. These months are great for outdoor activities, but the heat can be tough.
The wettest stretch is June through September, with heavy rains almost daily.
July and August see the biggest downpours, with 400–475 mm of rain per month and lots of thunderstorms. Typhoons are more likely from August to October, so you’ll need to stay flexible with your plans.
Monthly Temperature and Rainfall Averages
Manila’s temperatures don’t swing much, but rainfall definitely does. Here’s a quick look:
| Month | Avg Min (°C) | Avg Max (°C) | Rainfall (mm) | Rainy Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 22.6 | 30.4 | 20 | 4 |
| Apr | 25.4 | 34.3 | 25 | 3 |
| May | 26.0 | 34.1 | 160 | 9 |
| Aug | 24.9 | 30.8 | 475 | 19 |
| Dec | 23.4 | 30.5 | 100 | 8 |
Dry months like January to April bring barely any rain, while July to September get drenched.
Early in the year is your best bet for outdoor travel, while the middle months mean you’ll need to prep for frequent showers.
Tourist Seasons and Crowd Levels
Manila’s tourism scene follows the weather. The dry months pull in the biggest crowds, while the rainy season means lighter traffic and better deals.
Weather often decides how busy the city feels and how much you’ll spend on your trip.
Peak and Off-Peak Periods
The peak tourist season in Manila stretches from December to April. Locals and visitors alike love the dry, warm weather during these months, which makes it so much easier to take in outdoor spots like Intramuros, Rizal Park, or Manila Bay.
Crowds swell around Christmas, New Year, and Holy Week. Hotels and attractions fill up fast, so expect busier days if you visit then.
The off-peak season runs from May to November. This period lines up with the wet season, which keeps many travelers away.
You’ll get frequent rain showers, but honestly, most pass pretty quickly. If you’d rather avoid crowds and enjoy shorter lines at museums, malls, or parks, this is the time when Manila feels more laid-back.
Shoulder months like November and early December hit a nice sweet spot. You’ll dodge the biggest crowds but still get better weather than the middle of the rainy season.
Impact of Weather on Tourism
Weather really shapes how many people come to Manila. The dry season brings steady, sunny days, so outdoor activities are a safe bet.
During this time, hotels, restaurants, and transport all buzz with activity. The city feels full of life.
The rainy season, especially between June and September, brings more storms and the occasional typhoon. Most tourists stay away during these months, though not every week is stormy.
If you come during this stretch, you might need to shuffle your plans around sudden showers or flooding in low-lying areas.
Festivals and holidays also shake up tourist numbers. Even in the rainy season, big events can draw crowds for a few days.
It’s smart to stay flexible with your schedule to avoid congestion during these cultural celebrations.
Travel Costs by Season
Travel costs in Manila really depend on when you visit. During the peak months of December to April, hotel rates, flights, and even tours jump up.
Demand is high, and popular places can sell out weeks ahead of time.
In the off-peak season from May to November, prices drop. Airlines and hotels roll out discounts to lure travelers.
You might even snag a room at a fancy hotel for what you’d usually pay for mid-range. If you’re watching your budget, this season is a good bet.
For something in between, try the shoulder periods like late November or early December. You’ll find moderate prices and avoid the worst of the rainy season, with weather that’s usually decent.
Travel Tips for Visiting Manila Based on Weather
Manila’s weather swings between dry and wet seasons, and both shape how you should prep for your trip.
Packing smart, staying safe in the heat or rain, and picking the right activities can make your visit much smoother.
Packing Essentials for Each Season
If you’re coming during the dry season (December to May), stick to light clothes—think cotton shirts, shorts, and anything breathable. A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are all must-haves since daytime temperatures often hit the low 30s °C.
Evenings in January or February can surprise you with a cool breeze, so toss a light jacket in your bag.
For the wet season (June to November), bring a compact umbrella or a light rain jacket. Quick-drying clothes and waterproof shoes will save you a headache when those sudden downpours hit.
Humidity gets intense, so skip heavy fabrics that just trap more heat.
A small travel fan or a cooling towel can feel like a lifesaver when you’re out and about. Planning to visit religious sites or formal venues? Pack a pair of long pants or a shawl for modesty.
Safety and Comfort Considerations
Manila’s heat and humidity can wear you out, especially if you’re out at midday. Drink bottled or filtered water often, and take breaks in the shade or anywhere with air conditioning.
Try to avoid outdoor activities when the sun is at its strongest.
During the rainy season, localized flooding can pop up in some areas. Wear shoes with good grip, and steer clear of standing water for your health and safety.
Give yourself extra travel time since heavy showers can really slow down traffic.
Mosquitoes get more active during the wet months. Use insect repellent, and maybe wear long sleeves in the evening if you’re prone to bites.
If you’re sensitive to air quality, keep in mind that traffic emissions and humidity can make the city feel extra dense, especially during rush hour.
Recommended Activities Year-Round
When the weather cools down and the air feels drier, you’ll find it much easier to wander through Intramuros, Rizal Park, and those lively open-air markets. People also tend to organize more outdoor festivals and cultural events during these months, so there’s usually something happening.
If the rainy season hits, it’s probably best to stick with indoor spots like museums, shopping centers, and historic churches. Manila’s malls are huge and fully air-conditioned, so you can duck inside and wait out any sudden downpour.
No matter the season, Manila’s food scene stays active. You’ll always find street food stalls, night markets, and local restaurants open. For day trips outside the city, you might want to save those for the dry months, since traveling gets a lot easier without the rain messing up your plans.