Being a tropical country, the climate of the Philippines has relatively high temperatures, high humidity, and abundant rainfall, which is similar to the climate of countries in Central America. The annual average temperature is 26.6 degrees Celsius (C), excluding data from the Baguio weather station. The coolest months usually fall from December to January while the warmest month is in May.
Many tourists from all over the world would choose to spend their holidays in the Philippines to escape the cold and enjoy the country’s warm climate. However, for Filipinos, the scorching heat can be unbearable, especially during the summertime. Locals would go on travel escapades to beat the heat and make the most out of the time off work and school.
As the year comes to an end, a lot of Filipinos and tourists will want to spend the -ber months in cold weather. Christmas is often characterized by snow, pine trees, and a chilly breeze. Despite the lack of snow, we have compiled a list of the go-to coolest places to celebrate togetherness and thanksgiving this holiday season! Sit back, relax, and take a sip of a hot beverage in the comforts of your own Bria Homes house and lot or condominium unit, as we virtually explore cold cities in the Philippines during Christmas.
1. Baguio City, Benguet
Needless to say, Baguio City tops the list, as it is the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of cold cities in the Philippines. Nicknamed the “Summer Capital of the Philippines,” it boasts its cool climate and lush pine trees all year round. At 5,200 feet above sea level, the lowest temperature recorded was in 1961, which dropped to 43 F (6.3 C).
This elevated city nestled in the boondocks of the Benguet region is unlike most cities in the Philippines. The landscape resembles a Spanish setup; however, a sanatorium was first built in the place by American colonists in 1903 for their homesick soldiers. By 1909, Baguio was transformed into an American town with the help of Daniel Burnham, who was the Flatiron Building architect.
Experience both the urban and rural sides of the city. Visit popular tourist destinations, go to natural attractions, and find hidden gems that tourists keep coming back to.
2. Tagaytay City, Cavite
Another vacation favorite is Tagaytay City, which is only a two-hour drive away from the Metro. It has become a popular choice for quick getaways and is considered one of the best destinations for a Christmas vacation.
If you are not willing to travel all the way up north, Tagaytay offers almost the same experience as Baguio City, with its fresh air, cool temperature, and stunning panoramic views of Taal Lake and Taal Volcano, which is known as the smallest active volcano in the world.
Over the years, the city has been highly urbanized, as evidenced by many real estate and commercial developments. The serene local offers activities and attractions, such as picnics, horseback riding, amusement park rides, spa wellness services, and religious places.
Tagaytay is also a food hotspot with its restaurants, cafes, and farm-to-table offerings. In your next road trip getaway to Tagaytay, grab the opportunity to feast on a bowl of hot Bulalo, locally brewed coffee, as well as buko pie and other delicacies for dessert or pasalubong.
3. Sagada, Mountain Province
Witnessing the beauty of Sagada’s attractions and experiencing the cool and comforting weather make the 12 hours of commute (from Manila) all worth it. At 5,300 feet above sea level, Sagada has low temperatures all year round.
After dark, the town mimics a winter wonderland sans the snow, since the temperature can drop to 10 C (50 F) from December to February. Meanwhile, the dry season is from November to April and the wet season is from May to October.
Surrounded by the Cordillera and Ilocos mountain ranges, Sagada has the perfect cold and foggy view for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts. Dubbed the “Shangri-La of the Philippines,” Sagada has a lot of activities in store for adventure-seekers, including trekking the famous Kiltepan vantage point and spelunking in the freezing waters of Sumaguing Cave.
On the contrary, for people who want to keep themselves cozy and warm, make sure to prepare layers of jackets when visiting historical sites and picturesque spots. You can also try out the Kape Alamid, which is a rare bean farmed and brewed locally in Sagada.
4. Lake Sebu, South Cotabato
Lake Sebu is known as the “Summer Capital of Southern Mindanao.” The place is not a household name but is slowly rising in popularity. At around 3,000 feet above sea level, this peaceful fishing town has temperatures comparable to Tagaytay City, which can range between 20 C to 25 C.
Enjoy a postcard-worthy view of the lakes with their translucent waters, marine creatures, and colorful greenery. The seven waterfalls of Lake Sebu are also one of its most popular attractions. You can either hike or ride a zipline to see the scenery in a bird’s eye view. Apart from that, you can even take a canoe ride with the T’boli, the local tribe of weavers in the area.
Don’t forget to keep yourself warm by wearing their traditional clothing, called the t’nalak. Support the local weavers and keep it as a souvenir after your trip. Take advantage of the wonderful weather by exploring more places and discovering things you have to try in Cotabato.
5. Davao City
Davao is the “Durian Capital of the Philippines” and is home to the tallest peak in the country, Mt. Apo. You can walk a challenging trail to the top of Mt. Apo at 9,692 feet or 2,954 meters. The lush green landscapes provide shade and a cool breeze even during the hot summer months and more so during the -ber months.
There is no need to climb up a mountain to feel the cool winds, it can be experienced everywhere throughout the city. Take the time to relax and breathe fresh air in the invigorating environment. Furthermore, Davao is not only one of the cold cities in the Philippines but is also part of the safest cities the country takes pride in, making it an even more ideal place to live in.
There is more to the province of Davao Del Sur than Davao City. As the ‘home of choice’ for many Filipino families, Bria Homes aims to provide viable housing options in the Davao Region with projects in Digos, Tagum, and Panabo. The leading real estate company has more than 50 project locations nationwide, strategically located near schools, hospitals, public markets, and businesses. The said new locations will showcase affordable house and lot and condominiums near major economic centers.
Having the longest Christmas celebration in the world, the Philippines has both top places and hidden gems to visit. Winter may not be possible, but cool tropical towns are present all year round. This is a paradox to the Philippines being perceived only as a hot and humid country. Thus, showing the beauty, diversity, and rich environments the country has to offer, may it be rain, shine, wet, or dry. There are more cold cities in the Philippines apart from the ones mentioned above, so make sure to do your research, prepare your itineraries, and add them to your bucket list.
Written by Gianne D. Inumerable
