Holy Week is one of the busiest travel seasons in the Philippines, as many Filipinos take the opportunity to return to their provinces, visit religious sites, or go on vacation. To help you avoid heavy traffic and travel hassles, here are some essential tips on the best times to travel and how to make your journey smoother.
Travel Early to Avoid the Rush
- Best Time to Depart: The weekend before Palm Sunday or early morning of Holy Monday or Tuesday.
- Worst Time to Travel: Maundy Thursday and Good Friday, as roads, bus terminals, airports, and seaports experience peak congestion.
Returning to Provinces and Cities
- Best Time to Return: Early morning on Black Saturday or late evening of Easter Sunday to avoid the post-Holy Week rush.
- Worst Time to Return: Easter Sunday afternoon and the Monday after Easter, when many travelers are heading back to their destinations.
Traveling to Key Destinations
- Whether you’re heading to your hometown, a pilgrimage site, or a vacation spot, planning your departure time wisely can save you from long hours on the road. If you’re flying, book your tickets early to avoid high fares and fully booked flights. For those traveling by bus or ferry, opt for weekday departures (Monday-Wednesday of Holy Week) rather than Maundy Thursday, when transport terminals are most crowded.
Additional Travel Tips for a Hassle-Free Trip
✅ Book tickets in advance – Bus, ferry, and flight tickets sell out quickly. Secure your reservations early.
✅ Use navigation apps (Waze, Google Maps) – Stay updated on real-time traffic conditions and reroute if needed.
✅ Leave early or late at night – Traveling at dawn or late at night helps you avoid rush hour traffic.
✅ Bring travel essentials – Pack snacks, water, a power bank, and important documents for a smooth journey.
