10 Places to Visit in Davao City

Davao City is known for its lively activities, latest amenities and urban growth. It has a good mix of built and natural attractions, and the Davao Airport makes the city accessible to many visitors. As the most populous city in Mindanao, Davao City is regarded as one of the safest cities in the Philippines.

The city has everything you need for a great vacation, including top-notch Davao hotels, beaches, outdoor adventures and delicious local cuisines. If you have not been there, here are 10 new places to visit in Davao City for your next holiday trip:

The Davao Crocodile Park is not only home to crocodiles, but also to numerous species of birds, monkeys, snakes, and other reptiles. With the latest machinery and supplies, it exhibits an advanced crocodile farming system in the Philippines. Freshwater and saltwater crocodiles, which are bred and born-on site, can be found in this park. Additionally, the incubator room, where hundreds of crocodile eggs are cared for, is open to visitors for a tour.

Apart from tourism and entertainment purposes, the wildlife professionals at this park aim to provide lectures on public awareness, educational opportunities to students, and education on wildlife conservation.

Address: Diversion Road, Riverfront, Corporate City, 8000 Davao City, Philippines

The recreational activities that can be found at Eden Nature Park are perfect for you if you want to relax and connect with nature. These activities include horseback riding, fishing, the sky swing and many more. Additionally, there are also attractions such as a deer park, a hiking trail and an amphitheatre. Young children can enjoy themselves at an outdoor modern playground.

Apart from that, you may stay at the resort which has a variety of rooms. This is a great way to spend time with your loved ones, as there is so much to explore, and you can take part in different activities in just one place!

Address: Eden Bayabas, Toril, Davao City, Mindanao Philippines

The Roxas Avenue Night Market in Davao City is the right place to find a variety of food and the cheapest shopping deals. This night market is well-known to both visitors and locals due to its accessibility and the variety of things sold there.

Fresh and cooked varieties of seafood, vegetables, meat, and many more can be found at various stalls. In the shopping area, you will find everything from accessories to high-quality souvenirs, novelty items, and cheap clothing. Although it is open all nights of the week, the best time to go is during the weekends when all vendors are there!

Address: Roxas Avenue, Poblacion District, Davao City, Davao del Sur, Philippines

If you are an experienced climber, a visit to Mount Apo is important as it is one of Southeast Asia’s highest mountains, with an elevation of 2,954 metres above sea level. Depending on the difficulty level, you may choose from a variety of hiking trails to climb up the mountain. As it is a difficult climb, you will need to be a trained climber. The summit is held in October, March, and April. These mountain climbing events are organized by a variety of tour and climbing organizations.

You will find rubber plantations and the Tudaya Falls on this mountain, alongside wild deer and pigs. At the peak of Mount Apo, seven mountains can be seen. You may even catch the sunrise or sunset if the skies are clear.

Address: Mindanao, Davao City, Philippines

Dahican Beach is one of the most breathtaking beaches in the Philippines, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in Mati. It is a 7-kilometre open beach with fine sand, powerful waves, and tall coconut trees. The beach is frequented by surfers, skim boarders and regular beachgoers who come to enjoy this natural paradise. It is also a haven for sea turtles (‘pawikan’), thus,  the local government works hard to protect the area. Additionally, there are many resorts near the shore with different room options.

Address: Mati, Davao Oriental, Philippines

Museo Dabawenyo aims to preserve and educate the public on Davao City’s historical development and cultural heritage. Hence, you will find replicas of indigenous weapons, musical instruments, and stilt houses within the museum. Additionally, it houses a comprehensive gallery of antiques, including the Moro People’s lamps, chairs and armour, as well as traditional Filipino clothing and many other items.

There will be a tour guide to share with you some interesting stories and facts while you walk around the museum. Most importantly, the museum entrance is free for all!

Address: Philippine Women’s University of Davao, University Ave, Talomo, Davao City, Davao del Sur, Philippines

The Philippine Eagle Centre is committed to the preservation of the nation’s national bird, which is an endangered species. You will find these eagles flying freely around the property, allowing visitors to take amazing close-up photos. You may also catch their bird show, ‘Raptors in Flight’ to learn more about these unique birds or book a guided tour.

Additionally, this centre serves as a haven for wild birds, monkeys and reptiles. Overall, it is a well-known location for educational tours as there is so much to see and learn!

Address: Malagos-Baguio Road, Brgy, Davao City, 8000 Davao del Sur, Philippines

The Davao People’s Park is known as one of the cleanest parks in the country. You will find one of the park’s highlights here, the Durian Dome, which is a popular fruit across the country. Apart from that, in another corner of the park, there is the Sunken Garden and the Children’s Library, where kids of all ages can read whenever they want.

At night, you will see the “waling-waling” lighting up the park’s walls – also known as the “Queen of Philippine Orchids”. There are also picnic tables here, but most families choose to eat on the ground or near the ponds with large sculptures. Entrance to the park is free for all!

Address: Uy Building, 49 Jln Palma Gil St, Poblacion District, Davao City, 8000 Davao del Sur, Philippines

The Malagos Garden Resort is one of the most interesting natural attractions in Davao. It is the perfect place for visitors to seek sanctuary in the tranquillity of the area while admiring the natural environment. You will see bird feedings, a butterfly sanctuary, a petting zoo and even animal shows from time to time, all of which are sure to captivate animal lovers.

Apart from that, you will also find the Philippines’ first chocolate museum here. Join their educational guide on a tour of their cacao farm, where you can see some of their local farmers at work, observe their cacao trees and learn more about their chocolate-making process. In the end, you can make your very own Malagos chocolate to take home with you!

Address: Malagos Garden Resort, Malagos, Baguio District, Calinan – Baguio Rd, Dabaw, 8000 Lalawigan ng Davao del Sur, Philippines

Samal Island is ideal for tourists who are looking to escape the bustling city. It is one of the most visited places in Davao for the perfect tropical getaway, with its beautiful beaches, great snorkelling and scuba diving spots, and affordable resorts. Other activities include climbing Mount Puting Bato and visiting Monfort Bat Cave, where they offer a night immersion in which you can witness the bats emerging from the caves! The Kaputian Beach on Samal Island is a 40-minute ferry ride away from Davao City.

Address: Island Garden City of Samal, Samal, Davao del Norte, Philippines

With the guide above, you can explore the beauty of Davao City and the various activities that it offers. If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to get to these attractions, AVIS Philippines offers a safe and reliable national car rental service. You have the option of driving yourself or hiring a chauffeur for the entire trip! Make a reservation right away by clicking here to learn more about the rental costs.