Davao
Durian Capital & Eagle Sanctuary
Overview
Davao is the largest city in Mindanao and third-largest in the Philippines, known for its safety, cleanliness, and the iconic durian fruit. It's the gateway to Mt. Apo (Philippines' highest peak), home to the endangered Philippine Eagle, and offers pristine island beaches at Samal.
Davao City, officially the City of Davao, is a highly urbanized city in the Davao Region, Philippines. The city has a total land area of 2,443.61 km2 (943.48 sq mi), making it the largest city in the Philippines in terms of land area. It is the third-most populous city in the Philippines after Quezon City and Manila respectively, and the most populous city in Mindanao, in Davao Region, and outside of Metro Manila. According to the 2024 census, it has a population of 1,848,947 people.
Read more on WikipediaDavao is the largest city on the Philippines' second-largest island, Mindanao. It has a huge land area, and the inhabitants like to think of it as one of the most crime-free large cities in the Philippines.
Top Attractions
Philippine Eagle Center
Sanctuary for the endangered Philippine Eagle
Mt. Apo
Highest mountain in the Philippines (2,954m)
Samal Island
Island resort destination with beaches and caves
Eden Nature Park
Mountain resort with gardens and activities
Crocodile Park
Largest crocodile collection in Philippines
People's Park
Urban park with sculptures and durian dome
Malagos Garden Resort
Chocolate museum and gardens
Jack's Ridge
Hilltop dining with city views
Things to Do
Philippine Eagle Center Visit
See the majestic Philippine Eagle
Mt. Apo Trek
2-3 day climb to the summit
Samal Island Hopping
Beaches, caves, and marine sanctuary
Eden Nature Park Day Trip
Nature activities and highland dining
Malagos Chocolate Making
Learn about local chocolate production
Durian Tasting
Try different durian varieties at Magsaysay
Crocodile Park Tour
See crocodiles and exotic animals
Photo Gallery
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Explore DealsGetting There
- Direct flights from Manila (multiple daily)
- Direct flights from Cebu
- Bus from other Mindanao cities
Local Food
Durian
King of fruits - try at Magsaysay Park or Aldeguer
Pomelo
Sweet citrus fruit, Davao specialty
Grilled Tuna
Fresh tuna belly (panga) grilled to perfection
Kare-Kare
Oxtail stew with peanut sauce - try at Marina Tuna
Where to Stay
Downtown
₱1,000-5,000/nightClose to restaurants and night market
Lanang
₱1,500-6,000/nightNear malls and business district
Samal Island
₱2,000-15,000/nightBeach resorts across the water
Eden/Toril
₱2,500-8,000/nightMountain resorts with cool climate
Weather Forecast
Travel Tips
- •Book Philippine Eagle Center visit in advance for feeding time
- •For Mt. Apo, hire accredited guides through tourism office
- •Try durian at Magsaysay - vendors will pick the best for you
- •Davao is very strict on smoking and drinking in public
- •Visit Roxas Night Market for street food experience
- •Samal Island ferry is just 15 minutes from downtown
- •The city is safe - one of the safest in Philippines
- •Kadayawan Festival (August) showcases Davao's harvest and culture
Best Time to Visit
Kadayawan Festival in August celebrates harvest season