Davao City, located in the Davao Region of Mindanao, is a bustling city that offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy. One of the city’s most popular attractions is the Philippine Eagle Center, which is home to the critically endangered Philippine Eagles. Visitors can learn about the conservation efforts being made to save these majestic birds and even catch a glimpse of them in their natural habitat.
For those looking to explore the city’s natural beauty, Malagos Garden Resort is a must-visit destination. The resort features a variety of gardens, including a butterfly sanctuary and a bird park, where visitors can see a wide range of species up close. The resort also offers a Chocolate Museum, where visitors can learn about the history of chocolate and even sample some of the delicious treats made on-site.
Another popular attraction in Davao City is the Davao Crocodile Park, which is home to thousands of crocodiles. Visitors can take a guided tour of the park and learn about the different species of crocodiles that call it home. The park also features a butterfly garden, a bird park, and a petting zoo, making it a great destination for families with kids.
Historical Landmarks
Davao City is a city rich in history and cultural heritage. It is home to several historic sites that showcase the city’s past and early peoples. Here are some of the must-visit historical landmarks in Davao City:
San Pedro Cathedral
San Pedro Cathedral is a Roman Catholic cathedral located in the heart of Davao City. It is one of the oldest landmarks in the city and has been a witness to the city’s rich history. The cathedral was built in the 19th century and has undergone several renovations throughout the years. It is a must-visit for those interested in the city’s religious history.
Museo Dabawenyo
Museo Dabawenyo is a museum located in the city center that showcases the history and culture of Davao City. The museum features several exhibits that highlight the city’s early peoples, including the Bagobo, Mandaya, and Mansaka tribes. It also features an audio-visual presentation of the city’s history, including the bombing of Davao during World War II.
Japanese Tunnel
The Japanese Tunnel is a historic site located in the outskirts of Davao City. It is a reminder of the city’s past during World War II when the Japanese occupied the Philippines. The tunnel was used by the Japanese as a hideout and storage facility during the war. Today, visitors can explore the tunnel and learn about its history through guided tours.
Davao City has several other historic sites that are worth visiting, including the Davao Museum, the Philippine-Japan Historical Museum, and the Rizal Park. Visitors can explore these sites and learn about the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Natural Attractions
Davao City is a nature lover’s paradise, with a wealth of natural attractions to explore. From towering mountains to pristine beaches, there is no shortage of outdoor adventures to be had. Here are some of the top natural attractions to check out in Davao City.
Mount Apo
Mount Apo is a must-visit destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers. As the highest peak in the Philippines, climbing Mount Apo offers breathtaking eagle-eye views and an unforgettable experience. Visitors can choose from several different routes, each offering unique challenges and rewards. It is recommended to hire a guide for the climb, as the trails can be difficult to navigate.
Eden Nature Park
Image Credit: edendavao / InstagramEden Nature Park is a sprawling garden paradise nestled in the foothills of Mount Talomo. The park features a variety of gardens, including a butterfly garden, a herbal garden, and a flower garden. Visitors can also explore the park’s many hiking trails, which wind through lush forests and offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains. For those looking for a more leisurely experience, the park also features a variety of recreational activities, such as fishing, horseback riding, and zip-lining.
Dahican Beach
Dahican Beach is a hidden gem located in the town of Mati, just a few hours’ drive from Davao City. Known for its pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters, Dahican Beach is a paradise for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, such as surfing, snorkeling, and kayaking. The beach is also home to several wildlife sanctuaries, where visitors can observe sea turtles, dolphins, and other marine life in their natural habitat.
Wildlife and Conservation
Davao City is home to several wildlife and conservation areas that are worth visiting. These places offer a glimpse of the city’s rich biodiversity and the efforts being made to preserve it.
Philippine Eagle Center
The Philippine Eagle is one of the rarest and most endangered birds in the world, and the Philippine Eagle Center is dedicated to its conservation. The center is home to several Philippine Eagles and other bird species, and visitors can learn about the eagle’s habitat, behavior, and conservation efforts. The bird show and bird feeding dome are popular attractions that provide visitors with an opportunity to see these wild eagles up close.
Davao Crocodile Park
The Davao Crocodile Park is a breeding and conservation center for crocodiles. The park is home to thousands of crocodiles, both freshwater and saltwater, that are bred and born on site. Visitors can take a guided tour of the park and learn about crocodile habitat, behavior, and conservation efforts. The park also features a butterfly sanctuary, a bird park, and a museum.
Malagos Garden Resort
The Malagos Garden Resort is a nature park and resort that is dedicated to conservation and education. The park is home to several species of plants and animals, including the Philippine Eagle. Visitors can take a guided tour of the park, visit the bird sanctuary, and learn about conservation efforts. The resort also features a chocolate museum, a vegetable farm, and a restaurant that serves organic food.
Cultural Experiences
Davao City is a melting pot of different cultures, and tourists can experience this diversity through various cultural activities and attractions. Here are two cultural experiences that visitors should not miss:
Tribu K Mindanawan
Tribu K Mindanawan is a cultural group that showcases the rich heritage of Mindanao’s indigenous tribes. They perform traditional dances, music, and rituals that highlight the customs and beliefs of the Lumad and Moro people. The group’s performances are a colorful and lively spectacle that provides a glimpse into the region’s cultural richness.
Visitors can watch the Tribu K Mindanawan’s performances at the Kadayawan Village during the Kadayawan Festival, which is held every August. The village is a showcase of different indigenous groups in Mindanao and offers visitors a chance to interact with the performers and learn more about their culture.
Long Hua Temple
The Long Hua Temple is a Taoist temple located in Davao City’s Chinatown. The temple is dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy, Kuan Yin, and is one of the largest Taoist temples in Mindanao. The temple’s architecture is a blend of traditional Chinese and Filipino styles, with intricate carvings and colorful decorations.
Visitors can explore the temple’s different halls and shrines, which are adorned with lanterns, incense, and offerings. The temple also has a vegetarian restaurant that serves authentic Chinese dishes, and visitors can purchase souvenirs and lucky charms at the gift shop.
Davao City’s cultural experiences offer visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the region’s diverse customs, traditions, and beliefs. From the colorful performances of Tribu K Mindanawan to the serene ambiance of the Long Hua Temple, these attractions provide a unique and unforgettable experience for tourists.
Shopping and Dining
Davao City is a great destination for shopping and dining, offering a wide range of options to suit all tastes and budgets. From bustling markets to modern shopping malls, visitors can find everything they need and more.
Roxas Avenue Night Market
The Roxas Avenue Night Market is a popular destination for visitors and locals alike. Open every night, this market offers a wide range of food stalls and vendors selling everything from clothing to souvenirs. Visitors can sample local delicacies such as durian fruit, a must-try for anyone visiting Davao City.
Aldevinco Shopping Center
For those looking for a more traditional shopping experience, the Aldevinco Shopping Center is a great choice. This shopping center offers a wide range of stores selling everything from clothing to handicrafts. Visitors can browse through the many stalls and find unique souvenirs to take home. The shopping center also has an open-air dining area where visitors can relax and enjoy a meal after a long day of shopping.
Overall, Davao City offers a great shopping and dining experience for visitors. While heavy traffic can be a challenge, visitors can find good shopping centers and markets with good prices. The Belen Store is a great place to find unique souvenirs, while the Roxas Avenue Night Market is perfect for those looking for a lively atmosphere. The Aldevinco Shopping Center is a good option for those looking for a more traditional shopping experience.
Island Adventures
Davao City is not just about city tours and mountain treks. The city is also surrounded by beautiful islands that offer a different kind of adventure. Here are some of the must-visit islands when in Davao:
Samal Island
Samal Island, also known as the Island Garden City of Samal, is the most popular island destination in Davao. It boasts of pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a variety of water activities. One of the most popular tourist spots in Samal Island is the Monfort Bat Cave, which is home to over 2 million fruit bats. Visitors can also go island hopping to explore the different beaches and resorts in the area. Some of the popular resorts in Samal Island are Pearl Farm Beach Resort, Paradise Island Park and Beach Resort, and Bluejaz Resort and Waterpark.
Kopiat Island
Kopiat Island is a small island located in the southern part of Davao City. It is known for its white sand beach and crystal-clear waters. The island is perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and just relax. Visitors can rent cottages for a day or overnight stay. They can also go snorkeling, swimming, and island hopping.
Isla Reta
Isla Reta is a small island located in Talicud, Samal Island. It is known for its white sand beach and clear waters. Visitors can rent cottages for a day or overnight stay. They can also go snorkeling, swimming, and island hopping. Isla Reta Beach Resort is one of the popular resorts in the area.
Island hopping tours are available in Davao City, which will take visitors to different islands and tourist spots. Island Buenavista and Babu Santa Beach are also worth visiting for those who want to explore more of Davao’s islands.
Practical Information
Public Transport
Davao City has a well-established public transportation system that includes buses, jeepneys, and taxis. Jeepneys are the most popular mode of transportation in the city. They are cheap and run on set routes. Buses are also available for longer distances. Taxis are a bit more expensive but are a convenient way to get around the city, especially if you are traveling with a group or have a lot of luggage.
Nearby Hotels
There are many hotels in Davao City that cater to all budgets. Some of the best hotels in the city include the Marco Polo Davao, the Waterfront Insular Hotel, and the Royal Mandaya Hotel. These hotels offer comfortable rooms, excellent amenities, and are located close to many of the city’s top attractions.
Parking Area
Finding a good parking area in Davao City can be a challenge, especially in the downtown area. However, there are several parking lots and garages available throughout the city. The best parking areas are located near major attractions and shopping areas. It is recommended to park in well-lit areas and to keep valuables out of sight.
In addition to the above options, visitors can also use ride-sharing apps like Grab to get around the city. These apps are convenient and offer a safe and reliable way to travel.
