Experiencing snow feels like a magical escape—one where our childhood winter wonderland dreams come to life. Who wouldn’t want to see the magic of seeing destinations you only ever see on Pinterest be covered in white, and experience the soft crunch of snow under your feet for the first time? 

Thankfully, not every snowy destination requires a visa for Filipinos. Between lengthy applications, fees, and waiting for approval, the road to your dream winter holiday can happen sooner than you think when you visit these visa-free winter destinations.

  • Mongolia

    Photo by aleksandr Ovchinnikov on Unsplash

    If you're looking for a raw, untamed winter adventure, Mongolia is the place to be. The country’s vast steppes and the Siberian winds combine to create an icy paradise. Head to the country’s capital, Ulaanbaatar, or explore Lake Khövsgöl for a frozen landscape experience like no other. The temperature usually stays below zero during its peak winter season, so make sure you’ve got the right gear with you when you travel during this time. 

    Best time to visit: Early November to March

    Recommended things to do: 

    • Attend their winter festivals (Khuvsgul Lake Ice Festival, Thousand Camel Festival, and Tsagaan Sar)
    • Catch the rarest Red Northern Lights
    • Rent a car and explore Ulaanbaatar 

  • Morocco
  • Photo by IMAD EL MAADI on Pexels

    The juxtaposition of the Sahara and snowy peaks makes Morocco a unique winter destination. Contrary to popular belief, Morocco isn’t just about the desert—it's also home to some surprisingly snowy destinations. One of the things you must experience is to explore the Atlas Mountains, especially Oukaïmeden, where you can enjoy skiing and snowboarding in Africa. 

    Best time to visit: December to January

    Recommended things to do: 

    • Go on a hike in the High Atlas Mountains
    • Visit Rabat, the modern capital of Morocco
    • Welcome the new year while sitting under the stars in the dessert 
  • Nepal
  • Photo by Aneesh Ans on Pexels

    Nepal offers some of the world’s most stunning mountain ranges, including the Himalayas. In the winter, these peaks become even more breathtaking with snow-capped summits and crisp air. Visit the Annapurna region for a true winter trekking experience. If you love Toblerone as a kid—or even as an adult, you’re definitely satisfying a craving of your inner child when you visit here.

    Best time to visit: December to March

    Recommended things to do: 

    • Explore the wildlife and jungle activities at Chitwan National Park 
    • Go on a winter trek at Kathmandu
    • Go skiing and snowboarding at the Himalayas

  • Central Mountain Range, Taiwan

    Photo by Angela Lo on Unsplash

    Though Taiwan is known for the bustling city of Taipei that has a subtropical climate, you can still escape to the snow-covered peaks of their mountains during the winter while visa-free entry for Filipinos is still allowed until July 2025. Many places with higher elevations including Yangmingshan, Taipingshan, Jade Mountain, Alishan, Lalashan, Snow Mountain get low enough temperatures that make a visit exciting and worth traveling. The biggest snowfalls of Taiwan happen quite rarely with only around 24 days each season, which makes the experience extraordinary.

    Best time to visit: January and March

    Recommended things to do: 

    • Attend the annual Taiwan Lantern Festival
    • Enjoy a Mala Hot Pot
    • Soak in Jiuzhize Hot Springs near Taipingshan

    READ: Pack Like A Pro: How to Pack for International Trips

  • Sapa, Vietnam

    Photo by Apaha Spi on Unsplash

    Like Taiwan, Vietnam is known for its tropical climate. But head to Sapa in the north during the winter months, and you might just catch a light dusting of snow on its picturesque terraced rice fields. Sapa has been an already popular destination for many Filipino tourists because of its enchanting views, but a visit during the winter season is definitely going to be a whole different experience.

    Best time to visit: December to late January

    Recommended things to do: 

    • Go sightseeing at the Fansipan Mountain
    • Trek around Vietnam’s traditional villages in Cat Cat and Ta Van 
    • Shop souvenirs at Sapa Love Market 
  • Jeju Island, South Korea 

    Photo by hey Illust on Unsplash

    South Korea, particularly Jeju Island, is a destination that offers breathtaking winter landscapes without a visa. During the colder months, some specific parts of this volcanic island transform into a wonderland where you can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, or just being one with the snow. Travelers can hike the Hallasan Mountain, the highest point in South Korea, and experience a one-of-a-kind winter holiday during their visit. 

    Best time to visit: Late November to February

    Recommended things to do: 

    • Witness the winter sun at Seongsan Sunrise Peak
    • Conquer Mt. Halla, South Korea’s second highest mountain
    • Go tangerine picking at Jeju Hyang Farm
  • Brazil
  • Photo by Noah Angelo on Unsplash

    Brazil might not be the first place that comes to mind for winter, but the southern region around São Joaquim in Santa Catarina does experience snowfall! In the middle of Brazil’s summer, this region offers a cool escape with unique winter landscapes and cozy retreats. Paraná, Rio, and Grade do Su, towns that lie outside Brazil’s tropical climate zone, are also some of the places you can explore. 

    Best time to visit: June, July, and August

    Recommended things to do: 

    • Go on a Rio de Janeiro helicopter tour 
    • Witness Campos do Jordão turn into a winter wonderland
    • Visit local cheese, wine, and coffee farms
  • Peru
  • Photo by Lyon Peru on Pexels

    While Peru is more commonly associated with Machu Picchu and its rich Inca history, it also offers some incredible high-altitude winter experiences, especially in the Andes. The Sacred Valley and Cusco are surrounded by snow-capped mountains in the winter, offering breathtaking views and chilly adventures waiting to be experienced.

    Best time to visit: May to September

    Recommended things to do: 

    • Attend Inti Raymi, the Incan Festival of the Sun
    • Head to the Andes Mountains for hiking, trekking, and mountaineering
    • Go on an Amazon rainforest tour for rare wildlife encounters

    Pack your winter gear and get ready to tick off these incredible destinations from your bucket list. Whether you’re chasing snow in Asia, South America, or even Africa, these visa-free winter destinations promise unforgettable memories and breathtaking snowy landscapes you deserve to experience.

    Shop for the winter travel accessories and more at www.thetravelclub.ph or visit The Travel Club store near you.