Things To Do
in Maco
Maco is a quiet coastal-mountain municipality in Davao de Oro, Mindanao, perched along lush terrain and a shimmering shoreline. Surrounded by forests, rivers, and palm-fringed beaches, it offers a gateway to nature-based adventures while maintaining a laid-back rural charm. Locals are known for warm hospitality, making visits to markets and eateries easy and welcoming.
Accessible from Davao City and Mati, Maco serves as a quieter base for exploring southern Mindanao’s natural beauty.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Maco Municipal Hall, a stunning example of colonial architecture. Stroll through the adjacent park, where you can enjoy the lush greenery and vibrant local flowers. Engage with local vendors offering traditional crafts, setting the tone for a culturally rich day ahead.
After a leisurely lunch at a local eatery, head to the Maco Eco Park, where you can explore nature trails and discover the area's unique flora and fauna. Participate in a guided tour that shares the history of the region, enriching your understanding of Maco’s past. Capture the breathtaking views from the lookout points scattered throughout the park.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at a local restaurant to sample authentic Filipino cuisine. The atmosphere is lively, filled with the sounds of laughter and music, making it a perfect setting to unwind. End the evening with a stroll along the streets, illuminated by colorful lights, and enjoy the warm hospitality of the locals.
Begin your day with a trip to the nearest beach, where soft white sands meet clear blue waters. Rent gear for snorkeling or paddleboarding, immersing yourself in the tranquil aquatic paradise. Take a refreshing dip to shake off the morning chill and prepare for an exciting day of adventure.
After a thrilling morning, indulge in a beachside lunch featuring fresh seafood and local delicacies. Spend the afternoon engaging in exhilarating water sports, such as jet skiing or banana boating, ensuring you get your adrenaline pumping. Relax under a palm tree with a good book or simply soak up the sun as you unwind.
As the day comes to a close, enjoy a beach bonfire with fellow travelers and locals, sharing stories and laughter. Sample some traditional grilled street food while watching the waves ebb and flow. The sound of the ocean creates a serene backdrop as you gaze at the starry sky, marking an unforgettable day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-2 |
| 🚕One-way taxi ride | $2-5 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $20-40 |
| 🛒Grocery item | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet coastal scenery and nearby mountains
- Warm, welcoming communities and seafood-rich cuisine
- Limited large-city amenities
- Rural road travel can be slow during heavy rains
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Palihug" - Please
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Asa ang kasilyas?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Tagpila ni?" - How much is this?
- "Pwede bang mag-picture?" - May I take a photo?
- "Pwede ba nimo balik-balik sa suwat?" - Could you repeat that, please?
- "Limpyo ang lugar" - The place is clean
Places to Visit in Maco
Visit one of these nice places.
A rocky promontory where the sun rises over the Sibulan Sea, ideal for silhouettes of fishing boats.
Colorful stalls and lanterns with a backdrop of the ocean, perfect for candid street photography.
Forest path leading to a tucked-away waterfall—mist and emerald ferns create moody photos.
Rolling hills and palm-fringed coastline visible from a high vantage point just outside town.
Food in Maco
Maco Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh fish cured in vinegar, with onions, chili, and coconut, best enjoyed with bright citrus and a dash of spice.
Must-Try!
Freshly grilled fish seasoned with local herbs and calamansi, often served with rice and a side of spicy vinegar.
A variant of adobo featuring marinated meat simmered until tender and served with leftover rice.
A sweet sticky treat made from mashed cassava or banana with coconut and sugar.
Seasonal desserts featuring custardy durian or tangy dalandan oranges, a tropical treat.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub for fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and prepared snacks. Try kinilaw, grilled squid, and ripe mangoes straight from the stalls.
A string of stalls offering banana cue, camote fries, kwek-kwek, and grilled corn—perfect for a casual dinner stroll.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use polite terms like po and opo when speaking to elders; greet with a simple hello or good morning.
Always ask before photographing people, especially in rural communities or religious sites.
In markets and villages, clothing should be modest; remove hats when entering places of worship; avoid rubbing salt in cultural sensitivities.
Small tokens or shared meals are common; accepting local hospitality is a sign of respect.
Safety
Tipping in Maco
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected. In sit-down restaurants with service charge, check the bill; otherwise spare change or 5-10% for good service is common.
Cash is widely accepted; many places accept mobile wallets like GCash and PayMaya; some larger establishments may take cards. In rural areas, bring enough cash for purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry and hot with bright sunshine; best for beach days and long coastal walks. Hydrate and apply sunscreen; outdoor activities are prime during early mornings.
Frequent showers and short tropical downpours; trails stay lush but can be slippery. Bring a light rain jacket and quick-dry footwear; be mindful of local weather advisories.
Pleasant and comfortable, with cooler evenings by the coast. Great for street food strolls and photography when light is softer.
Maco at Night
Hiking in Maco
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
UNESCO-listed range near Mati with jungle trails, dramatic cliffs, and panoramic coastal views; best accessed via Mati.
Accessible hikes in the wider region offering ocean vistas and forest scenery; offer day-trip options from Maco.
Airports
How to reach Maco by plane.
Main gateway to Southern Mindanao; drive to Maco typically 2-4 hours depending on traffic.
Alternative southern Mindanao airport; longer drive to Maco but useful for regional travel.
Northern Mindanao option with connections to Manila and Cebu; additional travel time to Maco.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant language in daily life with Filipino and English widely understood.
Indigenous communities contribute cultural traditions and crafts to the region.
People from Luzon and Visayas communities who work in fishing, farming, or trade.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A favorite in schools and barangays; often played in makeshift courts and gymnasiums.
Common in community centers and beach areas during festive events.
Traditional Filipino martial art occasionally trained in local communities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Maco.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose vegetables and tofu dishes; ask for garlic- and onion-free preparations if needed; many eateries offer veggie versions of local staples.