Davao City, located on the island of Mindanao in the Philippines, is a vibrant and diverse destination known for its natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality. For those considering things to do in Davao City, exploring the Eden Nature Park, a mountain resort with stunning views and lush gardens, and visiting the Philippine Eagle Center, a conservation center for the Philippine Eagle, are top activities.
The city’s bustling Bankerohan Market offers a glimpse into the local way of life, with vendors selling fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies. Nearby, the Davao Crocodile Park showcases a variety of reptiles and other wildlife, providing education and entertainment for visitors of all ages.
Beyond its natural and cultural attractions, Davao City is also known for its safety and cleanliness, with strict policies in place to maintain public order. For those seeking the best places to visit in the Philippines, Davao City’s blend of natural wonders, cultural richness, and commitment to safety makes it a compelling destination.
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Attractions & Things to Do in Davao City, Philippines
1. Mount Apo
Mount Apo is the highest mountain in the Philippines and a dormant volcano, offering challenging trails, stunning vistas, and diverse wildlife. It’s a must-visit for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
Travel Tip: Climbing Mount Apo requires a guide and a permit; make sure to arrange these in advance and check for any travel advisories before planning your hike.
2. Philippine Eagle Center
The Philippine Eagle Center is a conservation and breeding facility for the critically endangered Philippine eagle. Visitors can learn about conservation efforts and see these magnificent birds up close.
Travel Tip: The center is a bit outside the city, so it’s a good idea to arrange transportation in advance and combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Malagos Garden Resort.
3. People’s Park
People’s Park is a cultural-theme park in Davao City, famous for its local artist-designed sculptures and colorful indigenous-themed murals and architecture. It’s a perfect place for leisurely walks and family picnics.
Travel Tip: Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
4. Eden Nature Park
Eden Nature Park is a mountain resort and a vast garden offering activities like fishing, horseback riding, and hiking. It’s also known for its organic restaurant serving fresh produce right from its gardens.
Travel Tip: Stay overnight in one of the cottages for a full experience of the serene mountain atmosphere.
5. Davao Crocodile Park
Davao Crocodile Park showcases a variety of crocodiles as well as other wildlife. It is part of a group of parks that also includes a butterfly house and a tribal village, offering a rounded experience of the local fauna and culture.
Travel Tip: Check the schedule for crocodile feeding times and educational talks to enhance your visit.
6. Samal Island
Just a short ferry ride from Davao City, Samal Island boasts white sandy beaches, clear waters, and various resorts. It’s a perfect spot for swimming, snorkeling, and just relaxing by the beach.
Travel Tip: Plan your ferry trip ahead of time and be aware of the last trip back to avoid being stranded on the island.
7. D’ Bone Collector Museum
D’ Bone Collector Museum is an intriguing place that houses a large collection of bones from various species, including some from the depths of the Philippine seas.
Travel Tip: The owner, who is often on-site, is full of stories and insights, making a guided tour an informative option.
8. Roxas Avenue Night Market
Roxas Avenue Night Market is the go-to place for street food enthusiasts. Here, you can sample a wide array of local delicacies and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Travel Tip: Be adventurous with your food choices to get the full experience, but also be mindful of food hygiene.
FAQ About Things to Do in Davao City, Philippines
What are some must-visit places in Davao City?
Davao City’s must-visit places include the Philippine Eagle Centre, Mount Apo, People’s Park, and the Davao Crocodile Park.
Can I see the Philippine Eagle in Davao?
Yes, the Philippine Eagle Centre is a conservation and breeding facility for the Philippine Eagle and other birds of prey. It’s a great place to learn about these magnificent creatures and conservation efforts.
Is Mount Apo accessible for tourists?
Mount Apo, the highest mountain in the Philippines, is a popular destination for hikers and climbers. Various trails with different difficulty levels are available, and it’s recommended to go with a guide.
What water activities can I do in Davao City?
Davao City offers a variety of water activities, including snorkeling and diving in Samal Island’s coral reefs, white-water rafting in the Davao River, and island-hopping tours.
Are there any cultural experiences I can enjoy in Davao?
Absolutely! You can visit the Tribu K’Mindanawan Cultural Village for a taste of the local indigenous culture or time your visit during the Kadayawan Festival to experience Davao’s rich cultural heritage.
Where can I find the best durian in Davao City?
Davao City is known as the durian capital of the Philippines. The best durian can be found in fruit stands around Magsaysay Park and during the Durian Festival, typically held between August and November.
What adventure activities are available in Davao?
For adventure seekers, Davao offers zip-lining at Eden Nature Park, wakeboarding at Deca Wakeboard Park, and mountain biking on the trails of Mount Apo.
Can I explore Davao City’s nightlife?
Yes, Davao City has a vibrant nightlife with various dining options, bars, and night markets. The Roxas Avenue Night Market is a popular spot for street food and local delicacies.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Davao_City
https://www.getyourguide.com/davao-city-l1607/
