Davao City, the largest city in the Philippines, has an area of 244,000 hectares. Unsurprisingly, it is also big in terms of attractions and activities. It is easy to spend weeks in Davao and still not experience everything this highly urbanized city has to offer. To make the most out of your visit, here is a suggested list of the top 10 things not to miss in Davao City:  

Commune with nature at Eden Nature Park and Resort

Eden Nature Park is a mountain resort situated approximately 3,000 feet above sea level. Being 95% man-made, the park is a great model of how we can re-create nature and rebuild a lost environment. It’s the perfect place to be in touch with the sights and sounds of nature while enjoying access to certain conveniences and amenities.  

Help Save the Philippine Eagle

The Philippine Eagle Center (PEC) within the Malagos Watershed in Baguio District, Davao City, is an 8.4-hectare area at the foothills of Mt. Apo. The center primarily operates as a conservation breeding facility for the critically endangered Philippine Eagle and other birds of prey. Your entrance fee goes towards the conservation of these endangered animals.  

Explore Davao Crocodile Park

Also considered as one of the key destinations in the city is Davao Crocodile Park. Home to various exotic animals, the park is a place to explore and enjoy the rich flora and fauna of Davao. They have regular shows you should not miss, including Bird Show and Friendly Animal Encounter, Crocodile Frenzy/Crocodile Feeding, Crocodile Dancing, Tightrope Walking, and Animal Petting. Tribu K’Mindanawan is also worth checking out. If you’re looking for souvenir items, they have crocodile leather products for sale along with crocodile oil soap, Philicillin crocodile oil, and coffee beans from Mt. Apo.  

Take a Splash at The Deck, Marco Polo

While having a relaxing staycation at Marco Polo Hotel, don’t miss an opportunity to enjoy a refreshing swim in the pool at the 4th floor. Marco Polo is located on C.M.Recto Street, right in the heart of Davao’s shopping and business district.  

Stroll Around People’s Park

People’s Park is considered one of the city’s main recreational centers. It is a 4-hectare tourist attraction boasting of a mini forest, interactive fountain displays, a durian dome, and an activity plaza. Open from 1:00 pm until 10:00 pm, tourists can take leisurely walks around the park and admire the various statues by Kublai Millan, representing the indigenous groups in Southern Mindanao.  

Appreciate the Rich and Colorful Heritage of Davao

Davao is characterized by its cultural diversity and variation. With more than thirteen ethnolinguistic groups residing in the region, Davao’s greatest asset is indeed its people and the astonishing biological and cultural diversity in the area. A good starting point of learning about the city’s rich historical and cultural heritage is by checking out the exhibitions in the various galleries at Museo Dabawenyo.    

Enjoy an overlooking view of Davao City at Jack’s Ridge

Looking for a cool place to hang out at night while in Davao? Jack’s Ridge is the best bet. With a number of restaurants and cafes to choose from, you will surely enjoy sumptuous meals as you sit back and take in the gorgeous view of the city.  

Eat Fresh Durian

What is a visit to the Durian Capital of the Philippines if you do not try the King of Fruits, which Jessica Chastain recently described to Jimmy Kimmel as “the blue cheese of fruit”? In Davao, the best place to do a fruit trip is at Magsaysay Park and Bankerohan Public Market. While you’re at it, you must also try other sweet fruits such as pomelo, rambutan, and mangosteen.  

Indulge your sweet tooth at Lachi’s Sans Rival Atbp

Lachi’s is definitely one of Davao’s dining treasures. Although this family-owned restaurant also serves awesome meals for lunch and dinner (Note: Their Unforgettable Grilled Pork Ribs truly are unforgettable!), their desserts are such a delight. My personal favorites are the sans rival, luscious mud pie, pecan pie, and durian cheesecake. It’s hard to resist gluttony when you are surrounded by great food. Food coma post-Lachi’s, but it’s all so worth it.  

Shop at the Pasalubong Center

No trip is ever complete without shopping for souvenir items (pasalubong) for friends and family back home. In Davao City, the best spot for souvenir shopping is at the Pasalubong Center. Strategically located along Palma Gil St, next to the People’s Park, the Pasalubong Center serves as a one-stop destination for Davao-made products. This was established by the City Government of Davao, where various pasalubong items are sold, including handicrafts, processed food, fashion accessories, home decors, indigenous costumes and native accessories, among others.  

BONUS:

I just couldn’t resist adding another one.  

Explore Samal Island

While the Island Garden City of Samal (IGaCoS) is technically not part of Davao City, this coastal paradise lies only 900 meters east of Davao City, only 10-15 minutes away via motorboat or ferry boat. Aside from the resorts and private beaches spread along the 118-kilometer stretch of white sand, IGaCos has much more to offer. There are nature parks, waterfalls, caves, and a bat sanctuary, among others.

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  There is a lot more sights to see, activities to do, and places to shop in Davao City. This is but a short list, there’s a whole lot more to explore. What’s your favorite spots in the city? Let us know in the comments section.