Davao Sightseeing

Rich in natural beauty, the Davao region has no shortage of interesting sights on offer, some easily accessible and others requiring a little effort to reach. The region’s coastline is spectacular, offering glimpses of the kind of paradises that are generally reserved for picture postcards. Samal Island is among the most scenic of the region’s coastal destinations and can be best enjoyed on one of the guided tours offered by local operators.

Eden Nature Park
Travel just 40 minutes out of the city centre and you reach this popular nature spot which sits some 3,000 feet above sea level and enjoys a pleasant cool climate. Surprisingly, the larger part of the parkland has been artificially created, with some 40 hectares of landscaping having contributed to its beauty. Website: www.edennaturepark.com.ph/.

Ethnic Villages
There are a variety of ethnic villages worth visiting in the region, each offering its own unique insight into the daily life and culture of the indigenous people that inhabit the village. Among the more notable is the Bagobo village in Binaton, the B'laan village in Matanao and the Samal villages of Rio Hondo and Taluksangay.

Mount Apo
With a peak reaching 3,144 metres above sea level, this is the tallest mountain in the country and part of one of the largest ranges in terms of the area it covers; its base covers 72,796 hectares. With a name meaning ‘grandfather of all mountains’, Mount Apo is an inactive volcano that, according to records, has never experienced an eruption. In the forest and jungle areas on the mountain’s surface are picturesque lakes, epic waterfalls, geysers and endangered flora and fauna. Organised treks up the mountain are available through local tour operators.

Philippine Eagle Centre
One of the region’s most popular nature-based attractions, the Eagle Centre is a modest facility that houses a good selection of eagles, among which are some excellent specimens of the magnificent monkey-eating eagles. Located about a 50-minute journey from the centre of Davao City along the Davao Buda road, the facility also houses a variety of other birds and indigenous animal species, plus a good selection of indigenous plant specimens. Phone: +63 82 224 3021; website: www.philippineeagle.org/.

Ramon Magsaysay Park
Constructed in honour of Ramon del Fierro Magsaysay, the country’s third president, Magsaysay Park is of historic interest. Both residents and visitors can enjoy the pleasant nature and greenery here. The park sits adjacent to a traditional Muslim fishing village complete with stilt houses and houseboats.

Samal Island
Out of all the islands off the coast of Davao that are within easy reach of Davao City, Samal is the largest. The island is a tourist centre featuring a variety of resorts, including the famous Pearl Farm Beach Resort which takes its name from the extensive pearl farm that used to be so integral to the local economy. Tours of the island can be enjoyed by boat with stops made at strategic points around its perimeter.

Talicud Caves
Located in Davao del Norte, the Talicud Caves are comprised of three separate cavernous areas with two entrances permitting access. The entrances allegedly house giant pythons so it pays to exercise caution when visiting. Besides their interesting rock formations, the caves are of historic interest having been previously used as burial chambers for deceased members of the Kalagan and Isamal tribes.

Enjoy the multi-ethnic local cuisine. With such a melting pot of different cultures in the region, Davao’s local cuisine is well worth checking out, especially if you are the adventurous sort with a palate well geared towards pungent foods and unusual flavours. Local delicacies sit alongside national favourites on the menus, making eating out an interesting experience whatever you opt for.

Get tribal at a Tibi-Tibi settlement. Travel for an hour to two hours west of Davao City and you will reach the Tibi-Tibi settlement of the Talaingods in Kapalong; the Bullocan settlement of the Mandayas and Dibabawon village in Asuncion. Alternatively, head east to see the Mansaka community in the Maragusan Valley. Each tribe is unique and has its own ethnic costumes, music, dancing and other cultural idiosyncrasies.

Go scuba diving and discover Davao’s delightful underwater world. The coastal areas close to Davao City offer some awesome diving sites which can be enjoyed by expert and novice divers alike. Below the vibrant blue waters lies an extensive selection of indigenous marine flora and fauna, providing some truly memorable sights.

Pick up some bargains on a shopping spree. Davao is awash with large-scale shopping developments, each offering a multitude of retail outlets in pleasant air-conditioned environments - all under the same roof. Purchase branded goods at a considerable discount against European and North American prices.

Take on Mount Apo. Whether you decide to trek up just a portion of the mountainside or attempt to climb to the top, Mount Apo offers an irresistible challenge for those who love trekking and strenuous walking. It’s a lengthy four-day expedition to the top, involving camping at a variety of places en route.