Things To Do
in Davao
Davao, located in the southeastern part of Mindanao, Philippines, is a vibrant city known for its lush natural landscapes, including the famous Mount Apo, the highest mountain in the country. It boasts a rich cultural heritage, being home to numerous indigenous tribes, and is widely celebrated for its annual Kadayawan Festival, a week-long celebration of thanksgiving for bountiful harvests.
Renowned for its agricultural products, especially the exquisite Durian fruit, Davao is a hub of commerce and tourism, offering a mix of urban sophistication and natural splendor.
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Oo" - Yes
- "Hindi" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $25 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Philippine Eagle Center to see the majestic eagles up close. Enjoy a stroll in the lush gardens while learning about conservation efforts.
Head to Eden Nature Park for a buffet lunch with a view. Explore the park's various hiking trails and experience the beauty of nature.
Finish your day at the Roxas Night Market, where you can savor delicious street food and shop for local handicrafts. The vibrant atmosphere makes it a perfect way to unwind.
Visit the Davao Museum to gain insights into the city's rich cultural heritage. The exhibits showcase indigenous art and history.
Experience the vibrant colors of the local market at Bankerohan, where you can taste exotic fruits and buy fresh produce. Don't forget to try the famous Durian fruit.
Relax at Jack's Ridge, where you can dine while enjoying a panoramic view of the city. The cool breeze and evening lights create a delightful ambiance.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural landscapes, including beaches, mountains, and parks.
- Rich cultural heritage and diverse communities.
- Relatively low cost of living compared to other major cities in the Philippines.
- Safe environment with a lower crime rate relative to other urban areas.
- Strong economy with opportunities in agriculture, tourism, and business.
- Access to fresh local produce and seafood.
- Clean air and a generally pleasant climate.
- Limited public transportation options can make commuting difficult.
- Potential for tropical storms and typhoons, especially during rainy season.
- Some areas may have inadequate infrastructure and healthcare facilities.
- Issues with traffic congestion in urban areas.
- Limited entertainment options compared to larger cities.
- Job opportunities may be more limited in specific sectors.
- Cultural and language barriers for expatriates.
Best Activities in Davao
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Embark on an adventure to the highest peak in the Philippines and enjoy the breathtaking views from the summit of Mount Apo. The climb offers a mix of challenges and rewards for outdoor enthusiasts.
Explore the stunning beaches and pristine waters of Samal Island by taking a memorable island-hopping tour. Discover hidden coves, go snorkeling, or simply unwind on the idyllic beaches.
Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting along the captivating Davao River, where you can navigate through exciting rapids and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.
Places to Visit in Davao
Visit one of these nice places.
Highest peak in the Philippines, offers stunning views and photo opportunities
Food in Davao
Davao Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Filipino ceviche made with fresh fish or seafood, marinated in vinegar, calamansi juice, and spices. Its freshness and tangy flavors are a must-try.
Must-Try!
Known as the 'king of fruits,' the pungent yet creamy durian is a controversial delicacy. It's an absolute must-try for adventurous food enthusiasts, and you can find it in many street markets.
A delightful mix of kinilaw and grilled pork, creating a fantastic blend of flavors that's unique to Davao. Look for this dish at local eateries and food stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling night market offers an array of street food, from grilled meats and seafood to local snacks and desserts. It's an excellent place to experience Davao's vibrant street food culture.
Known as Davao's largest market, Bankerohan is a haven for fresh produce, including a wide variety of tropical fruits and local delicacies. Visitors can also savor an assortment of cooked street food.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Davao, it is important to show respect for elders by using terms of respect such as 'po' and 'opo' when speaking to them.
It is important to familiarize oneself with local customs and traditions in Davao, such as the way of greeting and showing respect to others.
When visiting religious sites or attending cultural events in Davao, it is respectful to dress modestly and appropriately.
Safety
Tipping in Davao
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is generally not expected in Davao, Philippines, but it is appreciated for excellent service. In restaurants, a service charge may already be included in the bill, so it's advisable to check before tipping extra. Tipping taxi drivers is not common, but rounding up the fare or giving a small amount for exceptional service is acceptable.
Cash is widely used for daily transactions in Davao, Philippines. However, major credit and debit cards are also accepted in many establishments, especially in urban areas. ATMs are widely available for cash withdrawal. It's advisable to carry sufficient cash, especially when traveling to rural areas or smaller towns where card acceptance may be limited.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Davao, with sunny weather, minimal rainfall, and ideal conditions for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Expect heavy rainfall and the possibility of typhoons during this season. It's still possible to visit, but outdoor activities may be limited due to the weather.
Davao at Night
Hiking in Davao
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
The highest peak in the Philippines, Mount Apo offers challenging trails, stunning views, and diverse flora and fauna. Ideal for experienced hikers.
A beautiful nature park that features well-maintained trails, gardens, and scenic views of Davao. Suitable for casual hikes and family outings.
A lesser-known hiking spot that provides a moderate trek with beautiful scenery and the opportunity to see various wildlife.
A beginner-friendly trail located in the foothills of Mount Apo, perfect for families and casual hikers looking for a short nature escape.
An exceptional location for more adventurous hikers, featuring rugged paths and breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
Aiports
How to reach Davao by plane.
The main international airport serving Davao City and the Davao Region. It is located approximately 10 kilometers from the city center.
Located in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, this is the second busiest international airport in the Philippines, situated around 560 kilometers from Davao.
Located in Pampanga, this airport serves the northern part of Luzon and is about 1,068 kilometers away from Davao.
The main international airport serving Metro Manila, located approximately 973 kilometers from Davao.
Located in Zamboanga City, this airport serves both domestic and international flights and is about 300 kilometers from Davao.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Davao, often regarded as the primary language spoken.
A significant group in Davao, with many residents speaking Tagalog alongside Cebuano.
Comprising various subgroups from the Visayas region, this group is also prominent in the area.
Another group present in Davao, known for their specific cultural practices and language.
Indigenous peoples of Mindanao, including various tribes such as the Bagobo, Manobo, and Tiruray.
Muslim population in Davao, representing various ethnic groups such as Maranao, Tausug, and Maguindanao.
A small but notable demographic involved mainly in commerce and trade.
Includes various expatriates and migrants from different regions and countries.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is extremely popular in Davao, with local leagues and community games being frequently organized. It is played in many barangays and schools.
Volleyball enjoys a significant following in Davao, particularly among women and in schools, where teams often compete at various levels.
Soccer is gaining popularity, with various clubs and leagues forming, drawing interest from the youth and promoting the sport across the region.
Martial arts, including Taekwondo and Muay Thai, are practiced widely, with many schools offering programs that compete at national levels.
Running events and marathons are common in Davao, with many enthusiasts participating in local races, promoting fitness and a healthy lifestyle.
With its coastal areas, surfing is becoming a popular sport, particularly in places like Lianga in Surigao del Sur, accessible from Davao.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Davao.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Davao's cuisine traditionally features a lot of meat and seafood, many restaurants and cafes now offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes. Look for places like Green Bounty Kitchen and Ahfat Seafoods Plaza for great options.
Finding gluten-free dishes in Davao may require some inquiry, but several restaurants, especially those focusing on health-conscious menus, like Health 100 and Green Coffee, offer gluten-free selections.