LIST: Cold places to visit in the Philippines this December

Baguio City

Average temperature: 15°C to 23°C

Often referred to as the "Summer Capital of the Philippines," Baguio City is undoubtedly one of the top destinations to visit during the December months.

The city offers a welcome respite from the sweltering heat of the lowlands. December brings crisp, cool mornings and chilly evenings, making it the perfect time to explore the city's famous attractions, such as Burnham Park, Mines View Park, and the popular Session Road.

The cool weather also adds to the charm of Baguio’s bustling market, where visitors can shop for local crafts, fresh strawberries, and seasonal produce while enjoying the scent of pine trees in the air and the scenic views of the mountains.

As early as November, the "City of Pines" began to cool. PAGASA reported that the city's temperature dropped to 15.6 degrees Celsius on Sunday, Nov. 24. It was recorded at 4 a.m. and climbed to 25 degrees Celsius as the day progressed. The chill is expected to last until February and may extend to March. 

Tagaytay

Average temperature: 19°C to 26°C

You can't go wrong with Tagaytay as a short and refreshing escape from Manila. Despite its pleasant temperature all year round, Tagaytay—just two hours south of the capital—enjoys the ideal mix of bright sky and fresh, crisp air in December.

With panoramic views of Taal Volcano and Taal Lake, Tagaytay offers plenty of outdoor spots to enjoy the weather, including Sky Ranch, People’s Park in the Sky, and the Tagaytay Ridge. Whether you’re savoring a hot cup of coffee at a cozy café or taking a stroll along the ridge, the cool breeze and stunning scenery will make your visit memorable.

Tagaytay also comes alive during the holiday season with festive lights, Christmas markets, and special events that add to the charm of this chilly city.

In recent years, Tagaytay logged chilly temps of 24 and 25°C, perfect for a cozy staycation. In 2021, the popular tourist destination even reached a cool 20°C.

Sagada

Average temperature: 13.5°C to 20°C

For those seeking peace and tranquility amidst the cold mountain air, Sagada in the Mountain Province is a perfect destination. Known for its mystical landscapes, the destination is famous for its hanging coffins, ancient caves, and breathtaking rice terraces.

December mornings in Sagada often come with mist, creating an ethereal atmosphere over the mountain views, rice terraces, and forests. This is a beautiful time for photography or simply taking in the serene beauty of the area.

In past years, Sagada weather reached as low as 13°C in 2022 and 16°C in 2023, so make sure you have a sweater ready when you visit!

Banaue

Average temperature: 19°C to 26°C

If you're looking for a quiet, nature-filled retreat, Banaue provides a picturesque setting with its cool mornings and peaceful atmosphere.

Banaue, a destination in the Cordillera mountain region, is famous for the Banaue Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also enjoy trekking and touring while learning about the Ifugao culture.

Moreover, Banaue’s cool climate adds to the allure of its surrounding rice terraces and villages, where you can also learn about ancient farming techniques passed down through generations.

Past December temperatures in Banaue averaged 16°C to 19°C.

Lake Sebu, South Cotabato

Average temperature: 19°C to 25°C

Nestled in the highlands of South Cotabato, Lake Sebu is a tranquil, picturesque destination that offers more than natural beauty. Known as the "Summer Capital of Mindanao," it is a serene lake surrounded by lush mountains, waterfalls, and a rich cultural history.

With its cool climate, crystal-clear waters, and deep cultural significance, Lake Sebu has become one of Mindanao’s most captivating eco-tourism spots, attracting adventurers, nature lovers, and those seeking peace away from city life.

The cool breeze and misty surroundings of Lake Sebu provide an idyllic setting for relaxing or exploring the area’s seven waterfalls, which are accessible via a zipline. It provides an thrilling ride over the waterfalls with spectacular views of the lush valley below. You can also explore its tranquil lakes and Indigenous T'boli villages.

Previous Christmases in Lake Sebu experienced chilly temps of 22°C.

Mt. Pulag

Average temperature: 8°C to 16°C

Want to experience a sea of clouds? Mt. Pulag in Benguet, the highest peak in Luzon and the second-highest mountain in the Philippines, is truly a cold destination.

With temperatures dipping as low as 8°C at higher altitudes, Mt. Pulag provides an exhilarating experience for seasoned trekkers. The cool weather, combined with the majestic views of the surrounding mountains and forests, makes the journey to the summit a rewarding one.

In past years, Mount Pulag logged 13°C and 16°C chilly weather.

Dahilayan, Bukidnon

Average temperature: 16°C to 24°C

Dahilayan, a place in Bukidnon with cool mountains, is a popular tourist spot because of its zip lines, adventure playgrounds, and verdant woods.

If you are up for a more adventurous Dahilayan features outdoor activities like horseback riding and mountain biking while embracing the cool weather.

Moreover, you can also experience flying like Superman at Dahilayan Adventure Park, featuring "Asia’s Longest Dual Zipline. " While riding it, you can zoom through lush greenery and breathtaking views while enjoying the refreshing December climate.

Expect the lowest temperatures in Dahilayan to reach 18°C.

Itbayat, Batanes

Average temperature: 21°C to 26°C

Batanes is one of the country’s most serene and captivating destinations for experiencing cold weather, as it is located at the northernmost tip of the country.

For example, Itbayat is one of the places in Batanes that offers a unique and captivating destination for those looking to experience untouched nature, a rich cultural heritage, and a cool, serene atmosphere.

The island is famous for its rolling hills, forests, and breathtaking viewpoints that offer sweeping vistas of the Pacific Ocean. Hiking trails like the ones leading to Batanes' highest point, Mount Riposo, are much more enjoyable in the cool December air, providing a comfortable environment for both seasoned trekkers and casual hikers.

Similarly, Itbayat is home to the Indigenous Ivatan people, and visiting the island provides a rare opportunity for a cultural adventure.

Past Decembers treated locals and visitors to chilly temperatures around 18°C to 20°C.

Tanay, Rizal

Average temperature: 20°C to 25°C

Tanay, Rizal, another destination a couple of hours away from Metro Manila, is a perfect place to experience cold weather this December as it is home to beautiful nature spots, including Daratang Falls, Tanay Falls, and Mt. Daraitan.

You can also spend your days leisurely walking through nature trails and visiting quiet spots like the Masungi Georeserve, which is famous for its Skyview Trail, which takes visitors on a canopy walk through limestone karsts, hanging bridges, and a network of trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

In 2023, temperatures went as low as 24°C.

Canlaon City

Average temperature: 20°C to 26°C

Canlaon City is one of the coolest places in the Philippines, as it is located in the mountainous region of Negros Oriental.

If you are up for an adventurous trip while experiencing cold weather, this is the perfect place. Here, you can see one of the highest and most active volcanoes in the Philippines, the Kanlaon Volcano.

While the volcano itself is an active stratovolcano, it's surrounded by lush forests and scenic trails that offer an exciting experience for trekkers.

Canlaon City is also home to stunning natural attractions, including Binalayan Falls, Kasay Falls, and Hot Springs.

This Western Visayas destination gets as cool as 25°C in December.