Whether or not August is a good time to visit Manila, Philippines, depends on your preferences and priorities. Here are some pros and cons of visiting Manila in August:
Pros:
- Fewer tourists: August falls within the off-peak season in Manila, so you’ll likely encounter fewer crowds, shorter lines, and better deals on flights, hotels, and tours.
- Cheaper prices: Since it’s the off-peak season, you may find lower prices for flights, hotels, and other travel expenses.
- Cultural events and festivals: August is a month of cultural celebrations in Manila. The Feast of the Assumption, held on August 15, is one of the most popular religious events in the city. Other festivals, such as the Manila International Film Festival and the Aliwan Fiesta, also take place in August.
- Food festivals: Manila is known for its delicious cuisine, and there are several food festivals held in August. These festivals offer a chance to try a variety of Filipino dishes and delicacies.
Cons:
- Rainy season: August falls within the rainy season in Manila, which means you can expect frequent and heavy rainfall. The city is prone to flooding, so it’s important to be prepared for wet weather.
- Typhoons: August is also the peak of typhoon season in the Philippines, so there’s a chance that a typhoon could impact your trip. Typhoons can cause widespread damage and disruption, so it’s important to stay informed about weather forecasts and follow the advice of local authorities.
- High humidity: Manila is known for its hot and humid weather, and August is one of the most humid months of the year. It can be uncomfortable to walk around or explore the city during the day.
- Crowds during festivals: While August is generally less crowded than other months, the cultural events and festivals held in August can draw large crowds. If you’re planning to attend any of these events, be prepared for large crowds and long lines.
Ultimately, whether or not August is a good time to visit Manila depends on your individual preferences and what you’re looking for in a trip. If you’re looking for fewer crowds and lower prices, and you’re willing to deal with the rainy weather, then August can be a good time to visit Manila. However, if you’re looking for the best weather and don’t want to deal with the possibility of typhoons, then you might consider visiting during the dry season (November to April).
Weather In Manila During August
In August, Manila experiences a tropical monsoon climate. Here are the typical weather conditions during August in Manila:
Temperature:
- Average temperature: 27°C (81°F)
- Average high temperature: 31°C (88°F)
- Average low temperature: 24°C (75°F)
Rainfall:
- Average rainfall: 270mm (10.6 inches)
- Number of rainy days: 12-15 days
Humidity:
- Average humidity: 80%
Wind:
- Average wind speed: 15 km/h (9 mph)
Daylight:
- Average daylight hours: 12 hours
Overall:
- August is one of the wettest months in Manila, with frequent rainfall.
- The weather is generally hot and humid, with high temperatures around 31°C (88°F) and low temperatures around 24°C (75°F).
- It’s advisable to carry an umbrella or raincoat during this time.
- Indoor activities or attractions are a good option to consider during heavy rainfall.
Things To Do In Manila In August
- Feast of the Black Nazarene (August 17-26):
- This is one of the biggest religious festivals in the Philippines, and it takes place in Quiapo, Manila.
- The festival celebrates the Black Nazarene, a statue of Jesus Christ that is believed to have miraculous powers.
- During the festival, there are processions, masses, and other religious events.
- Manila International Auto Show (August):
- This annual event showcases the latest cars and automotive technology from around the world.
- It is held at the World Trade Center Metro Manila.
- Manila Food Crawl (August):
- This is a month-long event that celebrates the best of Manila’s food scene.
- There are food crawls, cooking demonstrations, and other food-related events.
- San Lorenzo Ruiz Festival (August 28):
- This festival celebrates the life of San Lorenzo Ruiz, the first Filipino saint.
- It takes place in Binondo, Manila, and features a procession, masses, and other cultural events.
- Blue Ridge Music Festival (August)
- This annual weekend concert series features some of the best folk and Americana artists.
- It takes place at the Blue Ridge Amphitheater in western North Carolina.
- The Great Minnesota Get-Together (August):
- This annual state fair in Minnesota is the largest in the United States.
- It features food, rides, games, concerts, and agricultural exhibits.
Tourism In Manila, Philippines During August
August in Manila, Philippines offers a mix of cultural, historical, and natural attractions for tourists. Here’s an overview of what tourism is like during this time:
Weather:
- Manila experiences hot and humid weather in August, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 31°C (88°F).
- Occasional showers and thunderstorms can occur, especially in the afternoon.
Cultural and Historical Attractions:
- Intramuros: Visit the historic walled city of Intramuros, a remnant of Spanish colonial rule. Explore landmarks like the Manila Cathedral, Fort Santiago, and San Agustin Church.
- Museums: Manila offers several museums, including the National Museum Complex, which houses various exhibits on Philippine history, culture, and art.
- Chinatown: Immerse yourself in the vibrant Chinese culture at Binondo, Manila’s Chinatown. Enjoy traditional Chinese cuisine and explore shops selling various goods.
Natural Attractions:
- Manila Bay: Take a stroll along Manila Bay’s scenic promenade, enjoying sunset views and street food.
- Parks: Visit Rizal Park, a central park that offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.
- Botanical Garden: Explore the Manila Seedling Bank and Botanical Garden, home to various plant species and a butterfly garden.
Festivals and Events:
- Feast of the Assumption: Celebrated on August 15th, this religious festival honors the Virgin Mary and features processions and special masses.
- Pasayaw Filipino Fiesta: Every August, the city comes alive with a month-long festival showcasing Filipino culture through dance, music, and other performances.
Food and Dining:
- Manila’s culinary scene offers a diverse range of cuisines, from traditional Filipino dishes to international fare.
- Try local delicacies like adobo, kare-kare, and sinigang.
- Explore the city’s many food markets and street food stalls for affordable and authentic local dishes.
Shopping:
- Greenhills Shopping Center: Find a wide range of shops, from luxury brands to local crafts and souvenirs.
- SM Mall of Asia: One of the largest shopping malls in the Philippines, with over 500 stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.
- Divisoria Market: A bustling market known for its affordable clothing, accessories, and household items.
Transportation:
- Manila has a well-developed transportation network, including buses, trains, and taxis.
- Ride-sharing apps like Grab and Uber also operate in the city.
Overall, August in Manila offers a vibrant blend of cultural, historical, and natural attractions, with various festivals and events adding to the city’s charm. However, the hot and humid weather can be a consideration for those sensitive to heat.