Philippines: Volcanic Activity at Mayon and Kanlaon – Current Safety Advice for Travelers

In the Philippines, ongoing volcanic activity at two volcanoes is currently drawing increased attention from travelers. Mount Mayon in Albay Province has been showing increased activity since late 2025. In early January 2026, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) declared Alert Level 3—which indicates a high level of volcanic activity, with an eruption considered possible within a few weeks. Kanlaon Volcano, located between the provinces of Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental, has also been more active than usual for several months. It is currently at Alert Level 2, though the alert level could be raised at any time.

For travelers planning a trip to these regions or already staying there, this is no minor matter. A partial travel warning is in effect for the affected areas, which must be taken into account when planning a trip. Anyone planning a tour of the Philippines should check whether their route passes through the provinces of Albay, Negros Occidental, or Negros Oriental, and, if necessary, consider alternative routes or at least give the exclusion zones around the volcanoes a wide berth.

Specifically, it is advisable to regularly follow local news regarding current developments and official measures at your planned destination as well as along your itinerary. It is also worth checking with your travel agency, tour operator, or booked accommodation to inquire about the current situation on the ground. The advisories issued by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) provide the most reliable assessment of the current risk situation and should be monitored both before and during your trip.

Anyone who is not yet sufficiently familiar with the proper precautions to take during volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, or tsunamis should familiarize themselves with the relevant safety guidelines in advance. Especially in a country like the Philippines, which is regularly affected by natural disasters of this kind, this knowledge can be crucial in an emergency. In addition, adequate travel health insurance coverage for the entire duration of the trip is strongly recommended, as conditions on the ground can change rapidly.

Regardless of current volcanic activity, the general entry requirements for the Philippines remain in effect. Travelers who need a tourist visa for the Philippines should plan to apply well in advance to allow sufficient time for processing. For shorter stays, the electronic travel registration for the Philippines may also be relevant; the requirements for this should be clarified in advance.

Those who wish to learn more about the available visa options for a stay in the Philippines can find a summary of the relevant categories on the visa overview page for the Philippines. In light of recent natural disasters, it is advisable to plan your trip flexibly and to check the situation in the affected provinces again shortly before departure to ensure a safe trip without any unpleasant surprises.