Best time to travel to Philippines

Waling-Waling Orchid in Philippines

The Philippines are called the kingdom of orchids for a reason, and Waling-waling is its queen

Best time: February–March | August–September

Waling-Waling Orchid
Waling-Waling Orchid

Exotic, brightly coloured flowers of more than 1,000 species of orchids are one of the most beautiful accessories of the country. Moreover, almost 900 kinds of orchids are actually endemic, which makes them even more attractive both for local people and tourists. One rare species called Waling-waling is known as the Queen of flowers of the Philippines. In 2013, it was declared the national flower of the country.

Usually, orchids grow in Philippine tropical jungles, on the slopes of the rocks, and other hard-to-reach places. As a result, these flowers are believed to be one of the most attractive objects for photographers. Blooming seasons vary depending on the variety. Waling-Waling orchid normally flowers twice a year—August to September and February to March (sometimes the blooming season may be extended or shortened a little). During this time, you can visit one of the numerous city gardens or prepare yourself for an adventurous trip to the wild forest—the result of your photo-shoot will be equally excellent.

One of the best places to spot these flowers is the City of Davao, particularly the area at the foot of Mount Apo, known as the Philippines’ Highest Peak. Owing to floral abundance, the city is also named the orchid capital of the Philippines. Also, every September, Quezon City hosts a great Orchid Show which particularly highlights the national flower of the Philippines.

Practical info

When is the best time to visit the Philippines to see the Waling-waling orchid?

The Waling-waling orchid, a rare species, flowers twice a year, from August to September and February to March. Tourists can observe the orchid's beauty in various city gardens or explore the wild forest. The blooming season might vary a litte, though. Show more

Where is the best place to spot the Waling-waling orchid in the Philippines?

Though orchids are observed across the tropical jungles and slopes of rocks in the Philippines, the foot of Mount Apo in Davao City is the best place to observe the Waling-waling orchid, which is endemic to the Philippines. Davao is also the orchid capital of the Philippines, with numerous orchid species. Quezon City Orchid Show held every September celebrates the national flower of the Philippines. Show more

How many species of orchids are there in the Philippines?

The Philippines is also known as the kingdom of orchids and has over 1,000 orchid species. Of the total amount, almost 900 species are exclusively indigenous to the Philippines. Every orchid species grows in its habitat, and the country's diverse topography makes for a wide range of floral species. Show more

What makes the Waling-waling orchid unique compared to other orchid species in the Philippines?

The Waling-waling orchid is unique because of its rarity, beauty and exotic appearance, which led to it being declared the national flower of the Philippines in 2013. It's considered the queen of all flowers due to its vibrant colors. It flowers twice a year, presenting itself as an exciting sight for both tourists and locals. Show more

Are there any cultural events or festivals related to the Waling-waling orchid that one should attend while visiting the country?

The annual Orchid Show, held in September in Quezon City, highlights the national flower of the Philippines- the Waling-waling orchid, giving visitors an insight into the country's rich culture and the significance of the rare, unique orchid species. The event provides an excellent opportunity to enjoy traditional music, dance performances and explore exotic flora up close. Show more

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Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin