Why Davao is One of the Safest and Most Scenic Cities in the Philippines

Welcome to Davao City—a dynamic urban hub surrounded by natural treasures and rich with culture, tradition, and progress. Located in the southeastern part of Mindanao, Davao is the largest city in the Philippines by land area and one of the most liveable and safest cities in the country.
 

As your friendly tour guide, let me take you through everything Davao has to offer—from its majestic mountains and pristine islands to its indigenous roots and iconic fruits (yes, we’re talking about durian!).

📍 Where is Davao City?

Region: Davao Region (Region XI)

Island: Mindanao

Nearest Airport: Francisco Bangoy International Airport (DVO)

✈️ How to Get to Davao

🛫 By Air

Davao International Airport is one of the busiest in the Philippines.

Direct flights from: Manila, Cebu, Clark, Iloilo, Zamboanga, and select international cities (Singapore, Doha, Hong Kong).

Airport to city center: ~30 minutes by taxi or van (₱200–₱300)

🕒 Best Time to Visit Davao

🌟 August is peak season for the Kadayawan Festival, Davao's grandest celebration.

🏙️ Why Visit Davao City?

Home to Mount Apo, the highest peak in the Philippines

Gateway to Samal Island’s white beaches

Rich indigenous culture and heritage

Eco-tourism attractions like the Philippine Eagle Center

Known for cleanliness, discipline, and public safety

Fresh tropical fruits like durian, mangosteen, and pomelo

🌟 Top Things to Do in Davao

1. Hike Mount Apo – The Philippines’ Highest Peak

Height: 2,954 meters above sea level

Trails from Davao, Kidapawan, or Digos

Ideal for serious hikers and nature lovers

Requires a guide and permit

🏞️ Tip: Best climbed between March and May for stable weather.

2. Island Hopping on Samal Island (Island Garden City of Samal)

Just 10–15 minutes by ferry from Davao City, Samal is a tropical paradise.

Beach Resorts: Pearl Farm, Kaputian Beach, Hof Gorei

Attractions: Hagimit Falls, Monfort Bat Sanctuary, Giant Clam Sanctuary

Day tours or overnight stays available

🚤 Ferry fare: ~₱100. Day tours from ₱1,000.

3. Visit the Philippine Eagle Center

A conservation sanctuary for the critically endangered Philippine Eagle.

Home to over 30 Philippine eagles and other wildlife

Educational tours available

Located in Malagos, about 45 minutes from city proper

🎟️ Entrance: ₱150 for adults | ₱100 for kids

4. Enjoy Nature at Eden Nature Park

A mountain resort complex offering gardens, zip lines, and horseback riding.

Scenic views, cool climate, and outdoor activities

Great for families and couples

Buffet lunch included in many packages

🌿 Entry + buffet: ₱600–₱800/person

5. Discover Malagos Garden Resort and Chocolate Museum

Home to the award-winning Malagos Chocolate!

Tour the chocolate museum

Try farm-to-bar artisan chocolate

Interactive exhibits, animal encounters, butterfly garden

🍫 Don't forget to take home Malagos dark chocolate as a souvenir.

6. Explore Davao Crocodile Park

A family-friendly attraction with crocodiles, birds, snakes, and wildlife.

Live feeding shows and educational tours

Part of a larger Davao Riverfront Complex with shops and restaurants

🎟️ Entry: ₱250–₱350

7. Experience Local Culture at Kadayawan Village and Museo Dabawenyo

Kadayawan Village: Mini tribal village showcasing 11 indigenous groups

Museo Dabawenyo: Historical artifacts, tribal exhibits, and Davao’s story

🎭 A great way to appreciate the city’s cultural diversity.

🍽️ Where and What to Eat in Davao

Local Delicacies to Try:

Durian – The King of Fruits; try it fresh or as candy, ice cream, or coffee

Kinilaw – Filipino-style ceviche with fresh fish

Sinuglaw – Grilled pork and kinilaw combined

Grilled Tuna Jaw (Panga) – A Davao specialty

Pomelo – Juicy, sweet citrus fruit grown locally

Recommended Restaurants:

🛍️ Souvenirs to Bring Home from Davao

Durian candies and coffee

Malagos chocolate and cheese

Waling-waling orchids (symbol of Davao)

T’nalak woven products from indigenous groups

Pomelo and mangosteen (seasonal)

Find souvenirs at Aldevinco Shopping Center, Pasalubong Centers, and local markets.

🛏️ Where to Stay in Davao

Budget-Friendly:

Green Windows Dormitel – Central, clean, and affordable

My Hotel Davao – Basic amenities, walking distance to attractions

Mid-Range:

The Royal Mandaya Hotel – Classic comfort with pool

Seda Abreeza – Stylish rooms, near Abreeza Mall

Luxury:

Marco Polo Davao – Iconic 5-star hotel with spa and skyline views

Dusit Thani Residence – Modern suites, ideal for business and long stays

🧭 Sample 3-Day Itinerary for Davao

Day 1 – City Exploration

Morning: Philippine Eagle Center

Lunch: Malagos Garden Resort + Chocolate Museum

Afternoon: Eden Nature Park

Dinner: Tuna Panga at Luz Kinilaw

Day 2 – Samal Island Adventure

Morning ferry to Samal Island

Relax at Kaputian Beach or day tour at Pearl Farm

Visit Hagimit Falls

Return by evening and enjoy durian dessert

Day 3 – Culture and Shopping

Visit Museo Dabawenyo and Kadayawan Village

Lunch at Dencia’s

Shop at Aldevinco for local crafts

Try durian coffee before your flight

🌱 Responsible Travel Tips

Avoid taking live animals or coral souvenirs

Dispose of durian husks properly

Support local farmers and artisans

Learn basic Bisaya or Tagalog greetings

Dress modestly when visiting cultural sites

💬 Final Thoughts: Why Davao Deserves a Spot on Your Travel Bucket List

Davao offers the perfect balance of urban sophistication and natural wonders. It’s a city where modern infrastructure meets rich indigenous traditions, and where you can scale the highest peak in the country in the morning, then relax on an island beach by sunset. Whether you're a foodie, adventurer, cultural explorer, or simply a curious traveler, Davao City welcomes you with warmth, safety, and authenticity.