I love Davao City. The system works here. It's clean. People follow the rules. Taxi drivers give you change down to the last centavo. I felt safe because Davao city is also among the safest and largest cities in the Philippines and is usually made the gateway to other beautiful places in Mindanao.Davao comes with a good mixture of both manmade and natural attractions that are top destinations for foreign and local tourists. Whether you want to find out more about the history of the region, relax in a park and take in the view, or do something with a little more adventure, there are plenty of Davao tourist spots that you should explore during your visit. Let’s take a look at a few.
TOP TOURISTS SPOT
EXPLORE DAVAO CROCODILE PARK
If you enjoy wildlife, the Davao Crocodile Park is a great place to learn more about the animal. Here you will be able to learn about the crocodile in the Crocoseum, see crocodile feedings, experience shows with crocodiles dancing, and even check out some of the other animals that are in the park. If you are visiting at the right time, you may even be able to see some hatchlings during your visit.
GET A RUSH AT EDEN NATURE PARK
Adrenaline junkies who are looking for a place to spread their wings should check out Eden Nature Park. There is a butterfly sanctuary and an aviary within the park, but the main reason to come here is the thrills. The Indiana Jones ride is a zip line that is designed for younger thrill seekers, while the SkyRider is designed for adults. If you have ever wanted to ride a bike on a tightrope, then this is your opportunity. The SkyCycle is designed with wheels that hug the rope pretty high above the ground.
CLIMB MOUNT APO
If hiking is something that you enjoy, then making the trek up Mount Apo will be well worth your time. There are three trails that you can take up the mountain, all of which offer a different hiking experience for visitors. There are seven different peaks on the mountain, but the highest is 3,144 meters above sea level. The hike is quite a feat to achieve, so on the way back down, don’t forget to stop and relax in the hot springs that can be found in the foothills.
EXPLORE PEOPLE’S PARK
This park was created as a legacy to Mayor Rodrigo Duterte that has become home to flower shows, sports events, and other events. It is truly a serene environment to enjoy, especially if you take the time to check out the waterfalls and the fountains within the park. There is even a play area for children to enjoy.
EXPLORE JACK’S RIDGE
Waste time overlooking Davao City's lightscapes. You can have your dinner here too. And they have a playground to keep the kids entertained.
EXPLORE ALDEVINCO
Your one stop shopping or pasalubong center in Davao City.
TOP FOOD TO TRY IN DAVAO
DURIAN
Durian is a fruit that is grown in this area of the world. If you have never tried durian, it is a unique flavor that some adore, while others find that it is too pungent to enjoy. If you have the chance to stop at the Bankerohan Fruit Market, you can find durian as well as some of the other fruits that are unique to the area. Davao is known as the fruit basket of the Philippines, so make sure to try some fruit while you are there. If you don’t enjoy fresh durian, you can try it in cheesecake, ice cream, or pies throughout the city.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Davao is a city that has plenty to offer. It is not a large tourist area, but that is part of the beauty of this part of the Philippines. There are plenty of places where you can go get up close to the wildlife that lives in the area, and no matter where you go, you can find some delicious fresh fruit to enjoy. Davao is a unique area of the Philippines that you will want to explore, so make it the next destination that you cross off of your bucket list. If you have the chance, check out some of the festivals in the area while you are there.
