Things To Do
in General Santos
General Santos is a bustling city located in the southern part of the Philippines. It is known as the Tuna Capital of the Philippines due to its thriving tuna industry. The city also boasts beautiful beaches and vibrant markets, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals.
General Santos is a vibrant and diverse city with a rich cultural heritage.
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Oo" - Yes
- "Hindi" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.25 - $0.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $75
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the local fresh market, where you can explore fresh seafood and local produce. Grab a hearty breakfast at a nearby café to fuel up for the day ahead.
Visit the Sarangani Bay and enjoy the beautiful turquoise waters. You can indulge in water activities like snorkeling or simply relax on the beach.
Dine at a seaside restaurant and enjoy the local delicacies. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach to unwind after your adventurous day.
Embark on a diving trip to one of the nearby diving spots. Enjoy an early breakfast before heading out and don't forget your underwater camera!
Spend the afternoon scuba diving or snorkeling with colorful marine life. Explore the vibrant coral reefs and enjoy the underwater beauty.
Return to the city and share stories of your underwater adventures over dinner with fellow divers. Try some fresh seafood, prepared the local way.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich in natural resources, including beaches and marine life.
- Known for its tuna industry, providing economic opportunities.
- Cultural diversity and vibrant local festivals.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities.
- Strategic location for trade and transport within Mindanao.
- Vulnerable to natural disasters like typhoons and earthquakes.
- Infrastructure can be lacking in some areas.
- Challenges with healthcare access and quality.
- Higher incidence of crime in certain neighborhoods.
- Limited job opportunities outside of the fishing and agriculture sectors.
Best Activities in General Santos
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Experience an exhilarating zipline adventure amidst scenic views of Lake Sebu.
Enjoy kiteboarding and other water activities in the beautiful Maasim Reef.
Participate in the annual Tuna Capital Run, a fun-filled running event in General Santos City.
Relax and take in the stunning sunset views while cruising along Sarangani Bay.
Explore the unique limestone formations and caves in the Kalaja Karsts eco-tour.
Places to Visit in General Santos
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers scenic views of Sarangani Bay and fishing boats
Features a mural of Manny Pacquiao and great views of the city
Boasts stunning views of the ocean and surrounding landscapes
Provides picturesque views of the river and lush greenery
Food in General Santos
General Santos Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled tuna coated in a savory blend of spices, often served with a side of tangy calamansi.
Must-Try!
A ceviche-style dish featuring raw fish cured in vinegar, citrus, and spices, offering a uniquely refreshing flavor.
A sizzling platter of chopped pig's face and liver, typically seasoned with calamansi, onions, and hot peppers.
A hearty beef soup filled with tender meat and marrow bones, perfectly complemented with a side of steamed rice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling night market offers a wide array of street food, including grilled seafood, barbecued meats, and traditional Filipino snacks.
A haven for fresh produce and local delicacies, this market allows visitors to sample an assortment of authentic street foods like puto, kwek-kwek (quail eggs), and fish balls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In General Santos, it is important to show respect for elders by using appropriate titles and gestures, such as addressing them with 'po' or 'ho' and offering a slight bow as a sign of respect.
When visiting General Santos, it is advisable to dress modestly and avoid wearing revealing clothing, especially when visiting religious sites or attending cultural events.
Punctuality is valued in General Santos, so it is important to arrive on time for appointments and meetings. Additionally, displaying polite behavior, such as saying 'po' or 'opo' (yes) and 'salamat' (thank you), is highly regarded.
Safety
Tipping in General Santos
Ensure a smooth experience
In General Santos, Philippines, tipping is not a common practice. However, in some upscale restaurants or hotels, a service charge may be included in the bill, and additional tipping is not expected. Nevertheless, a small token of appreciation for exceptional service is always welcome.
Cash is the most widely used method of payment in General Santos, Philippines. Credit and debit cards are also accepted in larger establishments, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller shops or local markets. It's important to note that some establishments may not accept card payments for small purchases, so having cash on hand is advisable.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit General Santos is during the dry season from January to May. This period offers sunny weather and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities, beach visits, and diving excursions.
During the rainy season from June to December, expect increased rainfall and humidity. While the lush green landscapes are a sight to behold, outdoor activities may be limited due to the downpours. However, this season is perfect for witnessing the region's natural beauty.
General Santos at Night
Hiking in General Santos
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A prominent volcanic mountain known for its diverse flora and fauna, offering challenging hikes and stunning views from the summit.
Located near General Santos, this hiking destination provides scenic trails and a peaceful environment for nature enthusiasts.
A beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, suitable for a short hike and ideal for relaxation and swimming.
A scenic trail that follows the river, offering opportunities for hiking, wildlife watching, and experiencing local culture.
While primarily a marine park, it offers hiking trails along the coastal areas with breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding landscapes.
Aiports
How to reach General Santos by plane.
The main airport serving General Santos and region.
Located in Davao City, approximately 130 kilometers from General Santos.
Situated in Zamboanga City, about 190 kilometers from General Santos.
Approximately 150 kilometers from General Santos, serving the Cotabato region.
While further away, it serves international routes and is located about 700 kilometers away.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in General Santos, known for their cultural influence and economic activity.
An indigenous Muslim group in the area, contributing to the cultural diversity and social dynamics.
A significant group often involved in trade and commerce, with representatives in various sectors.
A group known for their agricultural contributions, primarily settled in rural areas.
Representing their culture and traditions, this group makes up a smaller portion of the population.
This includes various other ethnic groups and migrants from different regions, contributing to the city's diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
General Santos is known as the 'Boxing Capital of the Philippines' due to its rich history of producing world-class boxers, including the legendary Manny Pacquiao.
Basketball is immensely popular in General Santos, with numerous local leagues and competitions being held throughout the year in both urban and rural areas.
Volleyball has gained popularity in schools and communities, with both men's and women's teams competing in local tournaments and events.
While not as dominant as basketball or boxing, football has a growing community in General Santos, with local clubs and youth leagues promoting the sport.
Due to the city's boxing culture, MMA has also seen a rise in interest, with several gyms offering training and local competitions being organized.
Softball is a popular sport, especially among women, with various teams and leagues existing in the community.
Track and field events are commonly held in schools and during local sports festivals, encouraging participation from youth in different athletic disciplines.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting General Santos.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While many local dishes are meat-centric, several restaurants in General Santos offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives, such as vegetable kinilaw, ginataang langka (jackfruit in coconut milk), and pinakbet (mixed vegetable stew).
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can opt for gluten-free rice-based dishes like plain steamed rice, grilled or steamed seafood, and fresh tropical fruits, widely available throughout the city.