Discover the Davao Region through a wide range of interests: rich natural environments, water experiences, cultural sites and agriculture. When planning your trip, you can first decide which of these themes interest you most. Places and activities range from a UNESCO World Heritage site and historic buildings to diving, festivals and insights into weaving.
Nature and landscapes
The Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary in Davao Oriental is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a habitat for endangered and endemic plant and animal species. These include the Philippine eagle and the Philippine cockatoo. The protected area is home to 1,380 species, including 341 Philippine endemics. This makes it both a World Heritage site and a place with a remarkably diverse range of flora and fauna.
At Mt. Candalaga, trekking routes pass through forests and mountain landscapes. There is also the opportunity to see Rafflesia magnifica in its natural habitat. The flower is seasonal, and a sighting is not guaranteed. If you plan to make this plant a special focus of your trip, keep its seasonal availability in mind.
The Aliwagwag Falls in Cateel offer a different kind of landscape: this natural waterfall consists of a series of cascading tiers. At Digos City Ecopark and Arboretum, the focus is on environmental awareness and sustainability. Each place adds its own distinct theme to a nature-focused visit.
Cape San Agustin lies at the southeasternmost point of the Philippines and is known for its historic lighthouses. Here, a distinctive geographical location meets a historic setting. The San Salvador del Mundo Church in Caraga is the oldest church in the Davao Region; it was completed in 1884.
Water, reefs and activities
At Lake Leonard in Maco, Davao de Oro, visitors can go boating and fishing, or take walks in nature. The options include both activities on the water and time for a stroll. Check current boating conditions before visiting.
The waters around Kopiat Island near Mabini offer opportunities to dive and snorkel among soft corals and diverse reef ecosystems. At Pujada Bay in Mati City, diving and freediving are possible activities. This offers two different forms of diving; sea conditions may vary.
Dahican Beach in Mati City is suitable for skimboarding and surfing. Beach conditions and suitability for these activities change seasonally. At Bilawa Mainit Hot Waterfall, visitors can bathe in naturally heated water; local conditions and access may vary. If you choose to take part in these activities, keep local conditions in mind.
Culture, festivals and local produce
The Kadayawan sa Davao Festival is celebrated every August in Davao City; the exact dates vary from year to year. If you want to plan your trip around the festival, check the dates for the relevant year. The Bulawan Festival has a different focus: it highlights the heritage and traditions of Davao de Oro through street dancing, cultural performances, and agricultural and trade exhibitions.
Kadayawan Village in Magsaysay Park features replicas of the traditional homes of Davao City’s eleven Indigenous and Muslim tribes. The City of Tagum Cultural Center hosts cultural events, exhibitions and educational programs; its program may vary. These places offer different ways to experience culture: one showcases traditional homes, while the other presents an events and exhibition program.
At the Salinta Monon Weaving Center, visitors can watch master weavers at work and buy handmade textiles. Textile availability may vary. In Davao City, the ten-hectare Gap Orchard Resort grows durian, rambutan, pomelo and other tropical fruits. The Malagos Garden Resort in Davao City houses the first and only chocolate museum in the Philippines. Handmade textiles and tropical fruit cultivation sit alongside a dedicated chocolate museum as distinct cultural and agricultural themes.
Discover more destinations: Davao Del Sur, Tagum City, Compostela, Mawab, Eastern Visayas, Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, Northern Mindanao, Mimaropa.
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