Davao
Mindanao's big, green and orderly city, with the national bird on its doorstep and island beaches a short ferry ride away.
Quick answer
- What it is: the largest city in Mindanao and one of the largest in the world by land area, on the Davao Gulf.
- Don't miss: the Philippine Eagle Center in Malagos, a breeding and conservation centre for the national bird.
- Beaches: Samal Island, a short ferry ride across the gulf.
- The mountain: Mount Apo, the highest peak in the Philippines at 2,954 m.
- Festival: Kadayawan, the harvest festival, every August.
Davao City is the largest city in Mindanao, spread along the Davao Gulf with Mount Apo, the country’s highest mountain, rising behind it. It has a reputation for being clean and orderly, with green suburbs, fruit stalls stacked with durian, and a relaxed pace for a big city.
It is also the best place in the country to see the Philippine eagle, one of the largest and rarest eagles in the world, and a quick hop to the beaches of Samal Island.
Top things to do
- Meet the Philippine eagle at the Philippine Eagle Center in Malagos, a breeding and rehabilitation centre for the critically endangered national bird.
- Cross to Samal Island for beaches, snorkelling and the Monfort Bat Cave, home to a huge colony of fruit bats.
- Eat durian, fresh or as candy, ice cream or coffee. Davao is the country’s durian capital.
- Stroll People’s Park in the city centre, full of sculptures and shady gardens.
- Visit Malagos Garden Resort for its chocolate and bird shows, or Eden Nature Park in the cool hills.
- Climb Mount Apo, 2,954 m, with a guide and permit.
Areas to know
| Area | Why go |
|---|---|
| Poblacion (city centre) | People’s Park, the cathedral, Chinatown and night markets |
| Lanang | Malls, hotels and the ferry area for Samal |
| Calinan and Malagos | The Philippine Eagle Center and Malagos Garden Resort |
| Samal Island | Beach resorts and island hopping |
When to go
Davao sits south of the main typhoon belt, so the weather is fairly steady all year, with rain spread across the months. August brings Kadayawan, the harvest festival, and the peak of the durian season. See our guide to the best time to visit.
Getting there and around
Francisco Bangoy International Airport has flights from Manila, Cebu and other cities, and some international routes. In the city, use Grab, taxis or jeepneys. Ferries and barges cross to Samal from the city in a few minutes. See our guide to getting around the Philippines.
Where to stay
Stay in the city centre to walk to People’s Park and the markets, in Lanang for modern hotels, or on Samal for a beach base.
What to eat
- Durian, plus durian candy, pastries and coffee
- Pomelo and mangosteen from the local farms
- Kinilaw, fresh fish cured in vinegar and calamansi
- Grilled tuna jaw and other seafood
Day trips and next stops
From Davao, fly onward to Siargao or Camiguin via Cebu or Cagayan de Oro, or back to Manila. See our Siargao guide and our Camiguin guide.
Travel advice for parts of Mindanao changes. Check your government’s latest advice and with local tourism offices before you go.
Photo gallery
Frequently asked questions
Is Davao safe to visit?
Davao City is generally considered calm and orderly, with strict local rules such as smoking bans. As anywhere in Mindanao, check your government's travel advice before you go, since some other areas carry warnings.
How do I get to the Philippine Eagle Center?
It is in Malagos, Calinan District, about an hour from the city centre by taxi, Grab or tour.
How do I get to Samal Island?
Take a ferry or barge from the city across the gulf, a short crossing of around 10 to 15 minutes. Many resorts arrange their own boats.
When is durian season?
Durian is at its best and cheapest from roughly August to October, which is also Kadayawan time.
Can I climb Mount Apo?
Yes, with a registered guide and permit. Climbs usually take two to three days. Check with the protected area office for current trail rules.
We checked this guide against the 3 sources listed below. Last updated 14 November 2026. Basis: researched from official sources. Written and edited by Delfin, with AI-assisted research (how we work). Prices, hours and rules change, so confirm before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.
