Philippines – volcanic islands with great dive sites
Experience the Philippines >>
The Philippines is an archipelago of 7,107 islands in the western Pacific Ocean, extending over nearly 1850 kilometres from north to south with a total land area of approximately 300,000 square kilometres. Of volcanic origin, the Philippines lies on the northwestern fringe of the Pacific Ring of Fire and has more than 20 active volcanoes.
The population is around 96 million, making it the 12th most populous country in the world, and roughly half of the population lives on the island of Luzon which is the largest island, and has the capital city of Manila. Most of the population lives on just 11 of the islands, including Luzon to the north and Mindanao to the south, with a host of smaller islands in between including some that are unnamed and uninhabited.
The tropical climate is mostly hot and humid, averaging 27°C with 77% humidity. Three seasons are recognised. Summer is the hot season from March to May, the rainy season is from June to October, and the cold season is November to February. It is best to visit in the cold season. In the mountainous regions the temperatures at night can drop below 20°C.
Most of the island terrain is mountainous and used to be covered in tropical rainforests; although many are now deforested. Volcanic eruptions in the area have given the Philippines, fertile soils and spectacular landscapes and underwater areas. The highest point is Mount Apo on Mindanao at 2,954 metres. There are many active volcanoes and around 20 earthquakes are registered daily although most are too weak to be felt. The country also lies within the typhoon belt of the Western Pacific and about 19 typhoons strike per year.
Most people who visit the Philippines are pleasantly surprised by their beauty and by the friendliness of the people. The warm waters contain coral gardens with colourful marine life and dramatic drop-offs to the sea bed. There are over a hundred ethnic groups and a unique fusion of culture and arts. Many are surprised to find that the Philippines is not only the largest Christian nation in Asia, but with over 82% of its population following the Roman Catholic faith it is the worlds third largest Catholic Nation.
Most of the Philippines is laidback, stable and relatively safe. There are some trouble spots in the south to be avoided. The locals tend to be very helpful and there are fantastic reefs for scuba diving. English is widely spoken, transport is cheap, the food is good, and accommodation is plentiful.
Whether you want to meet a whale shark or a mountain tribe, scuba dive or mountain trek, the Philippines has it all!