If you’re going to Mindanao, your travel destination should always include Davao City. In terms of land area, it is known to be the largest city in the Philippines, and because of this, it is registered to house a large population, making it the third-highest population in the Philippines.
Davao City also serves as the center of trade, industry, and commerce in Mindanao. Here’s a quick guide on how you can traverse the roads of the Durian Capital of the Philippines.
If you want to have a glimpse of the history and culture of Mindanao, Tribu K’Mindanawan Cultural Village is the best place to go. It has a couple of activities that both children and adults will love. Some of this entertainment include tribal songs, fire dancing, and folk dance performances. There is also a restaurant beside the activity area in which you can dine after the show.
Aside from being known as the home of the Durians, this city is also home to the Philippine Eagle. The Philippine Eagle Center is a conservation area that protects rescued Philippine Eagles and other endangered animals. It has a small entrance fee amount that is used to shoulder the operations of the center.
In the heart of Davao City, you’ll find Mount Apo, the King of Philippine Peaks. It has a breathtaking view that captures the hearts of both locals and visitors. If you want to have physical activity in the area, reserve a day in your itinerary so you can hike or trek the summit. There are various tour groups that can accommodate you so you won’t have to worry about the logistics. Keep in mind, however, that climbing is only open during March, April, and October.
Bankerohan Market is just like any market if you look at it physically. What‘s special about it is that you’ll find an abundant volume of fresh Durian. Make sure not to leave Davao without having a taste of this creamy and custardy Filipino fruit despite its pungent smell!
If you’re looking for good food with a magnificent view, Jack’s Ridge is your place to go. It is located in the heart of the beautiful hills of the city. This compound is composed of various restaurants and bars that will definitely satisfy your stomach. Since it is situated on the top of the hill, you’ll get a full view of the city of Davao when you dine in here. Make sure to bring your jacket as well if you’re planning to visit at night!
Davao City is also popular with its authentic chocolate offerings. You’ll get a glimpse of this sweetness in the Malagos Chocolate Museum, a world-renowned place known for its home-grown tree-to-bar chocolate products. You may visit the museum if you’re curious about how this place started. What’s exciting, however, is the experience of creating your own chocolate at the Malagos Chocolate Laboratory.
Unlike any other travel destination, there are two things that you have to consider when planning your visit to Davao City. Aside from checking the weather forecast, it’s also good to note the corresponding festival dates so you can enjoy the unique happenings in the area.
It’s best to go on a trip to Davao during the hot season, specifically from January to April. This is apt since the bulk of your itinerary consists of outdoor activities. But aside from these dates, it’s also an excellent time to schedule your trip every third week of August to witness the annual Kadawayan Festival, hailed as the “Mother of all Mindanao festivals.”
Planning to visit Davao City in the next coming days? Checkout the weather in Davao City.
Given that the metropolitan is the primary industry hub on the island, no wonder that it’s pretty accessible wherever your destination is.
One of the advantages of Davao City is that it has its own airport, the Francisco Bangoy International Airport. As the name says, the flights here both cater to domestic and international, so no need to worry if your entry point is outside the Philippines. It is connected to main international gateways like Singapore, Hongkong, Taiwan, and Indonesia.
You may also fly in from NAIA, Cebu, and Clark, for an average of a 2-hour flight. Wherever you are, you won’t have to worry about booking your ticket to Davao.
Another way to reach Davao City is by sea through a ferry. The downside to this, however, is that there are no trips that are catered to long-distance ferry travels. Therefore, if you’re coming from either Cebu or Manila, the nearest port that you can dock onto is the Nasipit Port located in Agusan del Norte. This city is around 6 hours away from the city of Davao.
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