🐾 Traveling to Philippines with Pets
Pet-Friendly Philippines
The Philippines is increasingly welcoming to pets, especially in beach resorts and urban areas. From island beaches to Manila parks, well-behaved pets are often allowed in outdoor spaces, hotels, and some transport, making it a tropical paradise for pet owners exploring with their furry friends.
Entry Requirements & Documentation
Health Certificate
Dogs, cats, and other pets need a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 30 days of travel.
Certificate must include proof of vaccinations and be endorsed by the origin country's agricultural authority.
Rabies Vaccination
Mandatory rabies vaccination administered at least 30 days before entry and valid for the duration of stay.
Boosters required every 1-3 years depending on vaccine type; ensure records are up-to-date.
Microchip Requirements
All pets must have an ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip implanted before rabies vaccination.
Microchip number must be linked to all documentation; scanners available at entry points.
Non-Approved Countries
Pets from rabies high-risk countries may face 30-day quarantine at government facilities.
Apply for import permit from Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) at least 30 days in advance.
Restricted Breeds
Certain aggressive breeds like Pit Bulls and Rottweilers may be restricted or require special permits.
Local municipalities may have additional breed-specific rules; check with destination authorities.
Other Pets
Birds, fish, and exotic animals require specific permits from the Department of Agriculture.
CITES documentation needed for endangered species; consult BAI for detailed requirements.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Book Pet-Friendly Hotels
Find hotels that welcome pets across the Philippines on Booking.com. Filter by "Pets allowed" to see properties with pet-friendly policies, fees, and amenities like dog beds and bowls.
Accommodation Types
- Pet-Friendly Hotels (Manila & Cebu): Urban hotels like Red Planet and Go Hotels welcome pets for ₱500-1,500/night fee, with nearby parks. Chains often provide basic pet amenities.
- Beach Resorts & Villas (Boracay & Palawan): Island resorts frequently allow pets at no extra charge, with beach access. Ideal for relaxed holidays with dogs in tropical settings.
- Vacation Rentals & Apartments: Airbnb and Vrbo listings commonly permit pets, especially in Cebu and Siargao. Private homes offer space for pets to play freely.
- Eco-Lodges (Bohol & Batangas): Nature-focused stays welcome pets and feature outdoor areas. Great for families with children and pets enjoying eco-adventures.
- Campsites & Glamping: Many beach and mountain sites are pet-friendly, with dog zones and trails. Popular spots in Luzon and Visayas for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Luxury Pet-Friendly Options: High-end resorts like Crimson Resort & Spa Mactan offer pet services including grooming and beach walks for premium travelers.
Pet-Friendly Activities & Destinations
Beach Walks & Islands
Philippine beaches like Boracay and Siargao welcome leashed dogs for walks and swims.
Check resort rules; many have pet-friendly sections away from main swimming areas.
Lakes & Rivers
Places like Taal Lake and Puerto Princesa Underground River have pet-friendly trails and picnic spots.
Some boat tours allow small pets; verify with operators for restrictions.
Cities & Parks
Manila's Rizal Park and Luneta welcome leashed pets; outdoor eateries often allow dogs.
Cebu's parks and promenades are pet-friendly; keep on leash in crowded areas.
Pet-Friendly Cafés
Urban cafés in Manila and Davao provide outdoor seating and water bowls for pets.
Pet cafes like those in Quezon City specialize in dog-friendly environments.
Island Hopping Tours
Some guided tours in Palawan and Coron allow small leashed pets on boats.
Focus on outdoor adventures; indoor sites like museums may restrict pets.
Ferries & Boats
Fastcraft ferries between islands may allow pets in carriers for ₱200-500 fee.
Check with operators like OceanJet; larger pets may need cargo holds.
Pet Transport & Logistics
- Domestic Flights (Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines): Small pets (under 7kg) travel in cabin for ₱1,000-2,000; larger in cargo. Book early with health docs.
- Ferries & Bangka Boats: Pets allowed on deck with leash; fees ₱100-300. Avoid during rough seas; some routes restrict animals.
- Taxis & Ride-Shares: Grab and local taxis accept pets with driver approval; select pet-friendly options in app. Tricycles not suitable for pets.
- Rental Cars & Jeepneys: Rent cars from Hertz or local agencies allowing pets with cleaning deposit (₱1,000-3,000). Jeepneys may not permit pets.
- Flights to Philippines: Check airline pet policies; Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines allow cabin pets under 7kg. Book early and review specific carrier requirements. Compare flight options on Aviasales to find pet-friendly airlines and routes.
- Pet-Friendly Airlines: Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and Cathay Pacific accept pets in cabin (under 7kg) for ₱1,500-3,000 each way. Larger dogs in cargo with health certificate.
Pet Services & Veterinary Care
Emergency Vet Services
24-hour clinics like The Medical City in Manila and Vets in Practice in Cebu offer urgent care.
Travel insurance covering pets recommended; consultations cost ₱500-2,000.
Pharmacies & Pet Supplies
Pet stores like Pet Express and Mercury Drug carry food, meds, and accessories nationwide.
Bring prescriptions for specialized treatments; local vets can refill common meds.
Grooming & Day Care
Cities offer grooming and daycare for ₱300-1,000 per session; book in tourist areas.
Resorts may provide on-site services; ask for recommendations at check-in.
Pet-Sitting Services
Local services and apps like PetBacker offer sitting during island hops or nights out.
Hotels in Manila and Cebu can arrange trusted sitters; rates ₱500-1,500/day.
Pet Rules & Etiquette
- Leash Laws: Dogs must be leashed in public areas, beaches, and urban zones. Off-leash allowed in designated private resort areas.
- Muzzle Requirements: Not federally mandated but required for large dogs on flights and some ferries. Carry one for compliance.
- Waste Disposal: Clean up after pets; bins available in parks and resorts. Fines up to ₱1,000 for littering in tourist spots.
- Beach & Water Rules: Pets allowed on many beaches but restricted during peak hours in Boracay. Keep away from snorkeling zones.
- Restaurant Etiquette: Outdoor seating welcomes pets; indoor areas vary. Ensure pets stay calm and off furniture.
- Protected Areas: National parks like Puerto Princesa restrict pets to protect wildlife. Always follow trail signs and local guides.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Philippines
Philippines for Families
The Philippines is a family dream with pristine beaches, adventure parks, wildlife encounters, and warm hospitality. Safe islands, interactive attractions, and kid-focused resorts ensure fun for all ages. Facilities include family rooms, pools, and cultural experiences tailored for children.
Top Family Attractions
Enchanted Kingdom (Laguna)
Theme park with roller coasters, water rides, and character shows near Manila.
Tickets ₱1,000-1,500 adults, ₱800 kids; open daily with seasonal events.
Manila Ocean Park
Oceanarium with sharks, rays, and interactive marine exhibits in Manila.
Tickets ₱600-800 adults, ₱500 kids; combine with bird sanctuary for full day.
Chocolate Hills (Bohol)
Unique landscape with 1,200 hills, plus tarsier sanctuary and river cruises.
Entry ₱50-100; family tours include wildlife spotting and scenic views.
Mind Museum (Taguig)
Interactive science center with hands-on exhibits on space, atoms, and life.
Tickets ₱500-600 adults, ₱400 kids; ideal for educational family outings.
Puerto Princesa Underground River (Palawan)
UNESCO site with boat tour through cave systems and limestone formations.
Permits ₱250 adults, ₱200 kids; guided tours with helmets for kids.
Water Parks (Subic & Cebu)
Resorts with slides, lazy rivers, and kids' pools for splashy family fun.
Day passes ₱800-1,200; suitable for ages 3+ with lifeguards on duty.
Book Family Activities
Discover family-friendly tours, attractions, and activities across Philippines on Viator. From island hopping to wildlife safaris, find skip-the-line tickets and age-appropriate experiences with flexible cancellation.
Family Accommodations
- Family Hotels (Manila & Cebu): Resorts like Seda and Marco Polo offer family suites (2 adults + 2 kids) for ₱3,000-6,000/night. Include kids' pools and play areas.
- Beach Family Resorts (Boracay): All-inclusive spots with kids' clubs, water sports, and family villas. Properties like Astoria cater to families with activities.
- Eco-Resorts (Palawan): Nature lodges with animal encounters, snorkeling, and family bungalows. Prices ₱2,000-5,000/night with meals.
- Vacation Apartments: Self-catering units in condos ideal for families with kitchens and laundry. Flexible for meal times and space.
- Budget Hostels & Guesthouses: Family rooms in places like Mad Monkey Hostels for ₱1,500-3,000/night. Clean with communal areas for kids.
- Island Glamping: Luxury tents in Siargao and Bohol for adventurous family stays. Kids enjoy beachfront setups and stargazing.
Find family-friendly accommodations with connected rooms, cribs, and children's facilities on Booking.com. Filter by "Family rooms" and read reviews from other parents.
Kid-Friendly Activities by Region
Manila with Kids
Intramuros tours, Rizal Park picnics, Ocean Park, and mall play areas.
Jeepney rides and street food adventures delight young explorers.
Cebu with Kids
Whale shark watching, Kawasan Falls canyoning, and Sirao Flower Garden.
Beach resorts with pools and family snorkeling keep everyone happy.
Bohol with Kids
Tarsier sanctuary, Chocolate Hills adventure, and Loboc River cruises.
Easy hikes and wildlife spotting perfect for curious children.
Palawan with Kids
El Nido island hopping, Underground River, and beach combing.
Shallow lagoons and boat rides suitable for family fun.
Family Travel Practicalities
Getting Around with Kids
- Domestic Flights: Kids under 2 fly free on laps; 2-11 get 25% discount. Family seating available on Cebu Pacific and PAL.
- Ferries: Family cabins on overnight ferries for ₱1,000-2,000. Life jackets provided for children.
- Car Rentals: Child seats mandatory (₱300-500/day); book ahead. Vans ideal for island hopping with gear.
- Stroller-Friendly: Resorts and malls are accessible; beaches may need all-terrain strollers. Attractions offer parking for strollers.
Dining with Children
- Kids' Menus: Resorts and eateries offer simple meals like adobo or pasta for ₱150-300. High chairs common in tourist spots.
- Family-Friendly Restaurants: Beach shacks and Jollibee chains welcome kids with play areas and casual vibes.
- Self-Catering: Supermarkets like SM and Puregold stock baby food and diapers. Wet markets for fresh fruits.
- Snacks & Treats: Halo-halo and mango shakes are kid favorites; street vendors offer safe, fun treats.
Childcare & Baby Facilities
- Baby-Changing Rooms: Found in malls, airports, and major resorts with nursing areas.
- Pharmacies: Watsons and Mercury Drug carry formula, diapers, and meds. English-speaking staff available.
- Babysitting Services: Resorts arrange sitters for ₱500-1,000/hour; book via front desk.
- Medical Care: Clinics in cities; hospitals like St. Luke's have pediatric units. Travel insurance recommended.
♿ Accessibility in Philippines
Accessible Travel
The Philippines is improving accessibility with ramps in resorts, accessible transport in cities, and inclusive attractions. Major tourist areas prioritize wheelchair access, and operators provide assistance for barrier-free tropical adventures.
Transportation Accessibility
- Domestic Flights: Airports offer wheelchair assistance, ramps, and priority boarding. Cebu Pacific provides free services.
- Ferries: Main ports have ramps; accessible cabins available on larger vessels. Assistance for boarding.
- Taxis: GrabWheel for wheelchair vans in Manila; standard taxis fit folding chairs.
- Airports: Ninoy Aquino and Mactan airports feature full accessibility with lounges and aids for disabled travelers.
Accessible Attractions
- Museums & Parks: Mind Museum and Rizal Park have ramps, elevators, and tactile guides.
- Beaches & Resorts: Boracay and Palawan resorts offer beach wheelchairs and accessible paths.
- Nature Sites: Underground River provides boat access; Chocolate Hills has viewpoints for wheelchairs.
- Accommodations: Hotels indicate accessible rooms on Booking.com; look for roll-in showers, wide doorways, and ground-floor options.
Essential Tips for Families & Pet Owners
Best Time to Visit
Dry season (December-May) for beaches and outdoor fun; avoid wet season typhoons (June-November).
Shoulder months (March-April) balance weather, crowds, and costs for family trips.
Budget Tips
Family packages at resorts save on activities; Klook passes for discounts on attractions.
Public transport and street food keep costs low while enjoying local flavors.
Language
Filipino and English official; English widely spoken in tourist areas and by youth.
Locals are friendly; simple phrases like "salamat" (thank you) endear families.
Packing Essentials
Light clothes, reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, and rain gear for showers.
Pet owners: pack food, leash, waste bags, tick prevention, and vaccination records.
Useful Apps
Grab for rides, Klook for bookings, and PetBacker for pet services.
Weather apps essential for typhoon alerts during wet season.
Health & Safety
Philippines safe for families; drink bottled water. Clinics available everywhere.