Davao, Philippines: 6 Reasons to Visit this Under-the-Radar and Budget-Friendly Destination!

Mention holidaying in the Philippines and the first thing that comes to mind for most Singaporeans is probably Boracay’s pristine beaches. 

However, if you are tired of going to the same tourist destinations that everyone else is flocking to, it might be a good idea to explore some lesser-known travel spots.

A four-hour flight away from Singapore, Davao City is known as the crown jewel of the Southern Philippine island of Mindanao. With its natural surroundings and proximity to numerous idyllic islands, it is a popular domestic getaway destination for those working in Metro Manila.

Did you know that Cebu Pacific operates direct flights from Singapore to Davao City four days a week? Take this as a sign for your next weekend escapade!

The Alvinology team was in Davao City recently for a 4D3N familiarization trip. Here we share 6 reasons why Davao is worth visiting! 

1. Davao City is one of the safest cities in the Philippines

Davao City, home to the country’s former strongman president Rodrigo Duterte, is known as one of the safest cities in the Philippines. It is known for having strict laws and policies on crime and security, widely credited to Duterte who was the mayor of Davao City for more than two decades. 

Being the largest urban center in Southern Philippines, Davao City is a convenient gateway to explore nature getaways and sandy beaches in the wider Davao region.

For accommodation in Davao City, Seda Abreeza hotel is conveniently-located right across the road from a shopping mall. 

2. Visit the endangered Philippine Eagle

Visit the grand Philippine Eagle at the Philippine Eagle Center, an 8.4-hectare property about an hour’s drive from Davao City. Dedicated to breeding and conserving the critically endangered Philippine Eagle and other birds of prey, the center is also a “mini zoo” with rescued animals and illegal pets which were confiscated.  

Did you know that the Philippine eagle is also known as the monkey-eating eagle? Luckily, we did not see any monkeys being eaten during our visit, but note that Friday morning is live-feeding time for the eagles! Rabbits and even baby goats are fed to the eagles. 

The entrance fee is only approximately S$1.20 for adults or S$0.70 for those under 18. Proceeds from the entrance fees go to conservation efforts and there is even a complimentary guided tour provided. 

3. Go on Island-hopping adventures

Just 45 minutes away from Davao City via a ferry ride, Samal Island or the Island Garden City of Samal is a quiet, beautiful island blessed with white sandy beaches and sparkling azure water. 

Go on a Samal Island hopping tour where you can expect fun-filled activities like cliff-jumping, snorkeling in crystal clear waters with corals aplenty, and even see the world’s largest giant clam- Tridacna gigas, at the Giant Clam Sanctuary, an eco-tourism initiative which saves the endangered marine creature, and also offers jobs for the local community.

Those looking for an atas resort experience can find it at the Dusit Thani Lubi Plantation, a luxury resort on a private island. Don’t miss the beautiful sunrise in the morning and crystal kayaking!

4. Adventures in the Sky

Moving on from azure blue waters to verdant greenery, Eden Nature Park is an expansive eco-adventure resort nestled in the hills of Davao. The sky’s the limit for the numerous recreational activities here- find out if the air is really fresher the higher you go with the Sky Swing, Sky Cycle, good old flying fox, and more. 

You can make it a day trip or even a staycation. There are lots of other attractions in Eden Nature Park such as the deer park, bird walk, and hiking trial. 

5. Customize chocolates and commune with birds

Customized your chocolate bars at Magalos Garden Resort, an agri-ecotourism resort that is home to the first and only chocolate museum in the Philippines. Bet you did not know that Davao City, being a top producer of cacao beans, is called the Chocolate Capital of the Philippines.

A favorite of animal lovers, enter the bird dome with free-flying parrots and budgies. Get a packet of seeds from the attendant and be ready to enact fairytale scene as all the little birdies fly to you.  It’s easy to see the lure of Magalos Garden Resort as a popular destination for day trips and staycations

6. Feast on Filipino food and fruits

Tasting authentic local cuisine is high on any self-respecting foodie’s list. Marina Tuna is a popular local restaurant known for its Ten-Way Tuna, which is 10 ways of serving different tuna parts. Dishes include Tuna Panga (jaw or jowl), Tuna Sashimi, and Tuna Eye Soup.

For a taste of warm and homely Filipino dishes, head to Balik Bukid. The restaurant is eclectically decorated with upcycled materials. It will be more than your tastebuds feasting as you will be treated to cultural performances while tucking in.  

Also, be sure to enjoy tropical fruits like mangosteen and jackfruit sold all around the city.

Make sure to try marang, a unique fruit plentiful in the Philippines with soft creamy flesh! It tastes like a cross between the mangosteen and soursop! 

Direct Flights from Singapore to Davao 4X Weekly

Ready for you next adventure?

Philippines budget airline Cebu Pacific flies 4x weekly from Singapore to Davao City.