Solo Female Travel in the Philippines: Is It Recommended?

Traveling solo in the Philippines? If you’re in love with solo travel like I am or you’re tired of waiting for someone to join you but no one commits (and you’re wondering what it’s like to travel through this Asian country), you’ve come to the right place. We’ll get ahead of ourselves and answer the question bluntly: yes, it’s 100% recommended to travel solo in the Philippines.

That said, traveling solo in the Philippines has its particularities and, as a woman, I’d like to share my experience and give you a few tips so you can enjoy it as it deserves and think only about coming back.

My experience traveling solo in the Philippines

The first time I set foot in the Philippines was in 2010. I was moving to Manila on my own, full of excitement but also scared to death. It wasn’t my first time going to another country, but it was the first time I was moving alone so far from home. Back then I had no idea how lucky I was going to be or how much this would change my life. So much so that 4 years later I quit my job, set off to travel solo with a one-way ticket, and bet on making a living from travel.

The Philippines was a turning point in my life. What seemed terrifying from afar became home in an instant. It’s hard to explain why, but the Philippines feels more like home than any country you may have visited. After so many years, even though the landscapes look nothing like Spain’s, I think the character of its people has a lot to do with it.

At that time I spent a year in the Philippines, where, despite working, I was lucky enough to travel a lot. I did it in every possible way: with friends, with family, as a couple and, of course, alone.

Although I almost had to drag myself back, I returned to Spain for work reasons, but not a day went by without dreaming of going back to the Philippines with more freedom and much more time. That’s how in 2015 I returned with a one-way ticket and spent several months traveling solo around the Philippines. If I already adored this country, that period reaffirmed my love for it and my desire to make it known to Spanish speakers, since the Philippines wasn’t talked about much back then.

It was also here where one day I ran into Jairo, the other half of this website. Since then we’ve alternated trips as a couple with solo journeys around the world.

Where have I traveled solo?

In the Philippines I’ve traveled solo to places as touristy as El Nido, Boracay or Siargao, but I’ve also moved through others much less adapted to tourism such as Sipalay, Guimaras or Islas de Gigantes.  And, as always happens, when I wanted to, I was alone, but when I felt like it, I met people with whom I ended up sharing great moments or even spent several days traveling.

I’ve been lucky enough to travel solo through countries like India, Mexico, Guatemala and all of Southeast Asia and, without a doubt, the Philippines is one of my favorites. Of course, it has its pros and cons, as well as little things to keep in mind because you’re a woman.

Unfortunately, even today we women still need to take some extra precautions when getting around alone. That’s why I get a lot of questions from women who want to travel alone to the Philippines and aren’t quite decided. I hope my experience and these tips help you take the final step and fall in love with this country as much as I have.

Advantages of traveling solo in the Philippines

On top of the usual benefits of solo travel (connecting more with yourself, opening up to other people or facing your fears, among many others), you also get perks like these:

• The big one: discovering an incredible country. Beaches, mountains, diving, culture… the Philippines has something for everyone! To get an idea, I encourage you to read Things to do in the Philippines and start choosing which destinations you’d like to visit.
• Traveling solo in the Philippines is safe. This is the key to this whole article—rest easy about this. With the basic precautions you’d take in any other country, you can do it without problems. In Is it safe to travel to the Philippines? you’ll discover what potential issues you might face, but you already have the answer.
• It gives you moments of total tranquility, but also of plenty of movement. In other words, it’s a great destination if you want to relax but also if you need a bit of buzz. It all depends on what you’re looking for—the Philippines is a perfect place for all kinds of female travelers.
• The people of the Philippines are truly loving. If you speak English, you won’t have any problem—it’s an official language. Unlike in other Southeast Asian countries, almost everyone speaks it here, which makes life much easier and, best of all, lets you dip a little into their culture. If you don’t, don’t worry—they’ll help you understand each other as much as possible. Filipinos are known for being very helpful and making things easy for you. As a woman, I’ve always felt cared for, especially by other women. I have lots of lolas and titas (as grandmothers and aunts are affectionately called in the Philippines) scattered around the islands!
• You’re going to meet lots of people, locals and travelers. The Philippines creates the perfect setting to open up more than perhaps other European countries. Maybe because it’s a more open, nature-based or warm-climate trip, people open up much more.
• It’s a budget-friendly country. If you don’t like sharing a room, it won’t hurt your wallet as much to pay for a private one. Same if you need to take private transport.
• It’s becoming a backpacker destination. Although it wasn’t so common before, you’re now seeing more and more hostels in tourist areas, so you can save a bit by sharing a room and you’ll also get to meet other travelers. You can read more about this in our article Backpacking in the Philippines.

Disadvantages of traveling solo in the Philippines

• Although tourist areas increasingly have more hostels and agencies to arrange excursions, if you want to get off the usual route, traveling solo in the Philippines can be more expensive. Not always, but it’s harder to find shared or single accommodation and, if you don’t want to team up with other travelers, tours can cost you more. That’s the case with the excursion to swim with the whale shark in Pintuyan, but if you wait in the town, it’s not unusual to be able to join others. Plus, you can always use our calendar of tours in the Philippines.
• Transport can feel heavier. It’s part of the trip, whether alone or accompanied, but yes—transfers in the Philippines are often exhausting. Having to keep changing transport types and negotiating prices on your own can get tiresome.
• Not everything is rosy—at certain times Filipinos can come across as pushy. People aren’t used to seeing a woman traveling alone, so it won’t be unusual for them to ask why you’re not with someone. This tends to be followed by: How old are you? Are you married? Don’t you have children? Personally, although I admit it can get tiring, I don’t think you should take it badly. They’re not doing it to make you feel bad, but out of pure curiosity because it’s not normal in their society. Filipinos are very family-oriented and tend to do everything in big groups (in barkadas, as they say), so they don’t see the point of moving around solo. They’re also very direct when asking questions and don’t usually beat around the bush, whether with you or among themselves. For example, I crack up every time they bluntly tell me I’ve put on weight or that I look older. Time goes by! In many cases, admitting that you’re alone brings out their protective instinct and they often end up helping you much more than if you were with more people.
• People drink quite a bit in the Philippines and, as elsewhere, there are folks who go overboard. So yes, there are moments when, walking past a group of men who are drinking, you might feel a bit uncomfortable because they could say something. This bothers me in Spain and anywhere else (especially in certain parts of Central America), so I just ignore them. It’s not that men in the Philippines are dangerous (granted, unfortunately, as everywhere, harassment or assault cases exist), but some can be a bit sleazy and say something. This will definitely not be the norm on your trip and I’ve never felt unsafe, but it can happen.
• Compared with Latin American countries, there’s hardly any trace of Spanish here, with the uncertainty that can entail. Even so, as we mentioned above, with a bit of English you won’t have any problem.
• Although this is a disadvantage—or, in my case, a common fear on any solo trip—you may feel more defenseless if you get sick. I solve this easily: by taking out good travel insurance in my language, because when I’m unwell the last thing I want is to speak English or argue with the insurer. That’s why I recommend the one I use. I explain everything and give you a discount in Travel insurance for the Philippines.

Recommendations for traveling solo in the Philippines

Here are a few of my own tips for traveling solo in the Philippines and enjoying it to the fullest:

• Ask prices again and again. If, like me, you don’t enjoy haggling and, of course, don’t want to feel cheated, there’s nothing like asking. I always ask the hotel staff when, for example, I need to take transport within an island. That way I know the price range they’re charged.
• If you’re lost, don’t hesitate to ask and, if you can, approach women. The protective feeling we have among ourselves is also present in the Philippines and they won’t hesitate to help you.
• To save on explanations and get rid of the odd pest, wear a ring that looks like a wedding band. You don’t have to, but I always wear one and simply say I’m married and my husband is coming later.
• If you want to be in your photos and don’t feel like asking someone to take them or you’re shy, bring a tripod. Thefts are rare in the Philippines—don’t worry about setting your camera on it.
• Although it would be extremely rare for you to be mugged, there’s no need to wear your finest jewelry or flaunt your camera the whole time. In touristy places you don’t have to worry, but perhaps it’s not ideal in big cities. Of course, as anywhere, take care of your valuables and be mindful of pickpockets in the cities.
• If you’ve never ridden a motorbike or haven’t done it much, please don’t. As common as it is in the Philippines and as convenient a means of transport as it may be, there are a lot of accidents—especially if you’re not very experienced. Plus, you’re likely doing something illegal. We explain it in detail in Renting and riding a motorbike in the Philippines.

More tips for women traveling the Philippines

• Keep an eye on the weather every now and then. Although we already tell you in Best time to travel to the Philippines, you’ll have a tropical climate where anything is possible, so don’t stress. In our Facebook travelers’ group we always post if a typhoon, cyclone or tropical depression is coming. If you’re there, don’t worry—you’ll be informed. Plus, it’s a great place to meet people.
• Of course, avoid areas labeled “extreme risk” due to terrorism and piracy. Don’t worry, these aren’t tourist areas. Spain’s MAEC says these are: Central and Southwestern Mindanao, including the provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, as well as the islands of Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi, along with Cotabato City, the provinces of South Cotabato, North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Lanao del Norte, Saranggani, Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur and Zamboanga Sibugay.
• Forget anyone who approaches you at the airports in Manila and Cebu to offer you transport. Use GRAB (Southeast Asia’s Uber) and save yourself the hassle.
• It’s not something that happens extremely often and, of course, it’s not a generalization, but we recommend being careful in Siargao. Many female travelers have told us about a slightly odd vibe between surf instructors and clients. There have been cases where they took advantage of them or had some issue while out partying.
• Trust your instinct. Traveling solo in the Philippines is safe, but—without letting fear take over—trust what your head is telling you.

Where to travel solo in the Philippines? Recommended places

The truth is this question is very open, since I can’t think of any bad destinations for traveling solo around the Philippines. As I mentioned, in the less touristy areas it can be harder to find good accommodation prices and, in general, the logistics get heavier—especially having to handle everything alone—but it’s totally feasible to explore even the most remote islands on your own.

If you don’t want to complicate things too much on your first trip to the Philippines, I suggest starting with these destinations:

• Port Barton: although the tourism bubble hasn’t burst, you’ll feel comfortable thanks to its laid-back vibe. You have plenty of budget hostels, but also simple guesthouses where you can have your own room for 8/9€ per day. Plus, you can walk anywhere (including gorgeous beaches) and join island hoppings.
• El Nido: more touristy and, therefore, with lots of options to keep costs down and meet people. The landscapes are stunning.
• Coron: similar to the previous one—you’ll have no trouble enjoying it on your own.
• Malapascua: it’s not unusual to get hooked on this Visayan island and not want to leave. It’s so small that you’ll quickly feel at home. There are beautiful beaches within walking distance, the people are lovely and it’s a diver’s paradise. It also has just the right amount of tourist development—enough to feel comfortable without it feeling overrun. If you miss speaking your language, Malapascua has a large community of Spaniards and Latin Americans who are mainly into diving.
• Bantayan: for paradisiacal beaches by bike or on foot, this island is a great fit. Although we like the vibe less than Malapascua (it’s more for retired expats), it’s a comfortable island. That said, don’t expect cheap solo accommodation—there’s only one hostel.
• Moalboal: if you want great snorkeling without having to rely on a tour or a motorbike to get there, this is your place. Just a few meters from shore you have an epic sardine bait ball and loads of turtles. Plus, you won’t be short of hostels to meet people.
• Siargao: what doesn’t this Mindanao island have? The variety of activities is huge, including the chance to surf or learn to surf for little money. The only slightly trickier thing in Siargao is getting around, since the island requires a motorbike to explore in depth. If you don’t ride, it can be a bit of a hassle, but we’re sure you’ll find a way—join other travelers or book a tour. And if you want to party, this is your island.

You’ll find super detailed guides to all of them on our site. I also suggest starting with our Recommendations and tips for traveling to the Philippines to clear up your doubts. You’ll see that with more information you’ll feel much safer and more excited to take the trip of a lifetime.

Opinions from some travelers who have explored the Philippines alone

I’ve already told you how I felt traveling solo in the Philippines, but here are the opinions of other travelers I’ve met or who have commented here in our Facebook group:

Rut: “I went alone last year. Without speaking any English and it was one of the best things I’ve ever done. I wasn’t alone at any time thanks to the travel group and I met a lot of lovely people. Plus, the country felt super safe—always with common sense—but people are incredibly hospitable. Don’t overthink it—enjoy!”

Elena: “I travel alone at 70 and I enjoy the freedom to make mistakes and have no one scold me for it—that’s one of the few things. It’s true you’re never alone because you meet people through these internet groups and there too. The experiences are very enriching and I enjoy it a lot. Today I’m flying alone to the Philippines for the second time. You have to go for it!”

Claudia: “I always travel alone—I prefer it to traveling accompanied. You always meet many more people, you own your time, it gives you more room for improvisation and it’s a great experience to fend for yourself in a country that isn’t yours. I’ve just returned from a three‑week trip through the Philippines and I’m already thinking whether to repeat or where to go next time!”

Sia: “My first solo backpacking trip was to the Philippines and I loved it. I think an ideal destination is Siargao because it’s great for making friends and going out. That said, you just have to be a little careful because there are instructors who try to take advantage of their students. Otherwise, the Philippines seems like a very safe country for solo travel. People, unlike elsewhere, help you without wanting anything in return.”

María: “My trip to the Philippines, like all the ones I’ve taken, was almost therapy. Traveling alone means embracing uncertainty and insecurity to end up feeling you can handle anything. Because you’re more open, you meet people who end up becoming lifelong companions and, since it’s your first encounter, you open up much more and don’t impose labels on yourself. While it’s true you’ll often be asked why you’re alone, far from finding it annoying, I received a lot of help from people. I felt very protected and in many cases they even drove me from place to place for free so I wouldn’t get lost. It’s also true that sometimes on some beaches I felt a bit sad not to share moments with my friends, but I quickly forgot when I saw I was surrounded by new friends. Plus, the fact that most people speak English makes the trip much easier compared with other countries. Don’t hesitate!”

Alba: “Hi! I’m a woman and two years ago I traveled alone to the Philippines (my first solo trip) THE BEST EXPERIENCE OF MY LIFE!!! If you’re hesitating, don’t be afraid—just use common sense. People are super nice (both locals and tourists or foreigners living there) and I had no conflicts and never felt uncomfortable. It struck me and reassured me at the very beginning of the trip to see that there are really maaaany more young women traveling alone than men. Honestly, I’ve felt more unsafe in Spain than in the Philippines. And thanks to you for this blog—having read everything and knowing how to get around everywhere made it easier to take the plunge to go alone; in fact, last year I repeated the experience and went alone to another part of Southeast Asia.”

I hope I’ve encouraged you to travel solo to the Philippines! I truly believe it’s an experience you’ll never forget. Of course, if you have any questions, I’ll be happy to answer them in the comments.