Davao Region, Philippines Travel Guide

Discover the Davao Region: A blend of vibrant city life, stunning natural landscapes, and rich cultural experiences in the heart of Southern Philippines.

Nestled in the southern part of the Philippines, the Davao Region is a captivating mix of natural wonders and cultural heritage. From the bustling city life of Davao City to the serene landscapes of Samal Island, this region offers a diverse range of experiences for every traveler. The lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and majestic mountains create an idyllic backdrop for adventure and relaxation alike. Davao City, the region's capital, is known for its vibrant markets, historical landmarks, and mouth-watering cuisine. The city is also home to the iconic Mount Apo, the highest peak in the Philippines, which attracts hikers and nature enthusiasts from around the world. For those looking to unwind, the nearby Samal Island provides tranquil beaches and crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling and diving. The Davao Region is not only a haven for nature lovers but also a cultural hub. Visitors can explore indigenous tribes' traditions, visit the Philippine Eagle Center to see the country's national bird, and participate in local festivals that showcase the region's rich heritage. Whether you're seeking adventure or a peaceful retreat, the Davao Region promises an unforgettable journey.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Davao Region.

Visit during the Kadayawan Festival in August to experience local culture and festivities.
Try the local delicacy, Durian, known as the 'King of Fruits.'
Book a guided tour to Mount Apo for a safe and enriching hiking experience.
Carry sunblock and stay hydrated, especially when exploring beaches and outdoor attractions.
Respect local customs and traditions, particularly when visiting indigenous communities.

Top City Travel Guides in Davao Region

The cities of Davao Region, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Davao City

Destinations in Davao Region

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Mt. Apo

Davao

Explore Davao Region: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Davao Region

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Browse the full guide

All Attractions

People’s Park Davao

Immerse yourself in the lush greenery and vibrant culture of People's Park Davao, a beautiful urban oasis in the heart of Davao City.

4.4

Roxas Night Market

Experience the culinary essence of Davao City at Roxas Night Market, a vibrant night market filled with local delicacies and cultural charm.

4.4

Davao Riverfront Crocodile Park & Zoo

Discover the wonders of wildlife at Davao Riverfront Crocodile Park & Zoo, where adventure and conservation come together for an unforgettable experience.

4.4

Eden Nature Park & Resort

Discover the serene beauty of Eden Nature Park & Resort, a tropical haven in Davao City, perfect for relaxation and adventure amidst nature's splendor.

4.6

Best landmarks in Davao Region

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Browse the full guide

All Landmarks

People’s Park Davao

Discover the lush landscapes and artistic sculptures of People's Park Davao, a city park that embodies the spirit of Davao City.

4.4

Roxas Night Market

Experience the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere of Roxas Night Market in Davao City, a must-visit for food lovers and culture seekers.

4.4

Davao Riverfront Crocodile Park & Zoo

Discover the thrilling wildlife of Davao Riverfront Crocodile Park & Zoo, where adventure meets education in a family-friendly setting.

4.4

Eden Nature Park & Resort

Discover the tranquil beauty of Eden Nature Park & Resort in Davao, where adventure meets serenity amidst nature's wonders.

4.6

Best restaurants in Davao Region

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

Browse the full guide

All Restaurants

Vikings Luxury Buffet - SM Lanang

Experience unparalleled dining at Vikings Luxury Buffet - SM Lanang with diverse global cuisines in an elegant setting perfect for any occasion.

4.8

Tong Yang, SM City Davao Ecoland

Savor the interactive buffet experience at Tong Yang in SM City Davao Ecoland – where grilling meets deliciousness!

4.8

Jack's Ridge

Experience breathtaking views and authentic Filipino cuisine at Jack's Ridge in Davao City – where every meal comes with a view.

4.4

Davao Dencia's Restaurant

Experience authentic Filipino flavors at Davao Dencia's Restaurant – where every meal tells a story.

4.3

Best bars in Davao Region

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Browse the full guide

All Bars

Jack's Ridge

Experience breathtaking views and delicious dishes at Jack's Ridge, a top dining spot in Davao City perfect for tourists seeking culinary delights.

4.4

Huckleberry Southern Kitchen & Bar

Experience the warmth of Southern hospitality at Huckleberry Southern Kitchen & Bar, where delicious food and drinks await in Davao City.

4.3

Club Echelon Davao

Discover the heart of Davao's nightlife at Club Echelon, where vibrant music, delicious drinks, and unforgettable moments await you.

4.2

Upstairs Rooftop Bar Kitchen

Experience the best of Filipino cuisine with stunning views at Upstairs Rooftop Bar Kitchen in Davao City, a must-visit culinary destination.

4.2

Best nightclubs in Davao Region

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

Browse the full guide

All Nightclubs

Club Echelon Davao

Discover the energetic nightlife at Club Echelon Davao, where live music and a vibrant atmosphere await every night.

4.2

The Grid

Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Grid, a lively bar in Davao City with amazing DJs and a great atmosphere for relaxation and socializing.

4.1

Alcatraz Penal Bar

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Davao at Alcatraz Penal Bar, where electrifying music and great drinks await.

4.0

801 Infinity Restobar

Discover the energetic vibe and exquisite flavors at 801 Infinity Restobar in Davao City, where culinary delights meet vibrant nightlife.

4.2

Best shops in Davao Region

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Browse the full guide

All Shops

SM City Davao

Explore SM City Davao, a vibrant shopping mall with diverse retail options, delicious dining experiences, and exciting entertainment for all ages.

4.5

SM Lanang

Explore SM Lanang in Davao City – a vibrant shopping mall with diverse retail, dining, and entertainment options for the ultimate shopping experience.

4.5

Gaisano Mall of Davao

Discover the vibrant shopping and dining experience at Gaisano Mall of Davao, where locals and tourists unite in retail therapy.

4.3

Ayala Malls Abreeza

Experience shopping, dining, and entertainment at Ayala Malls Abreeza, the ultimate destination in Davao City.

4.4

Explore Davao Region on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Davao Region, mapped for you.

Davao Region Essentials

Davao Region is located on the island of Mindanao in the Philippines. The main gateway to the region is Davao City, which is served by Francisco Bangoy International Airport (DVO). The airport connects to major cities in the Philippines such as Manila, Cebu, and Clark, as well as international destinations like Singapore and Hong Kong. From the airport, you can take a taxi, ride-sharing service, or airport shuttle to reach your accommodation. Buses and ferries are also available for those arriving from other parts of Mindanao.
Once in Davao Region, various transportation options are available. Within Davao City, taxis and ride-sharing services like Grab are convenient and affordable. Jeepneys and multicabs are popular forms of public transport for short distances. For longer journeys, buses and vans connect Davao City to other towns and cities within the region. Car rentals are also available for those who prefer to explore at their own pace. For a more traditional experience, try riding a habal-habal (motorbike taxi) or tricycle.
The official currency in the Philippines is the Philippine Peso (PHP). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops in Davao City, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are readily available in urban areas, but may be scarce in remote locations. Currency exchange services are available at the airport, banks, and major shopping centers.
Davao Region is generally considered safe for tourists. Davao City, in particular, is known for its strict law enforcement and low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to remain vigilant. Avoid displaying valuable items, be cautious when withdrawing money from ATMs, and stay in well-lit areas at night. Exercise caution when traveling to remote areas, and avoid regions known for political instability or insurgent activity.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Davao City has well-equipped hospitals and medical facilities, including the Southern Philippines Medical Center. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues. It's advisable to have travel insurance covering medical emergencies. In the event of natural disasters such as earthquakes or typhoons, follow local authorities' instructions and seek shelter in designated safe areas.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in rural areas and religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove your shoes and cover your head when entering places of worship. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a polite 'po' or 'opo' to show respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Davao Region like a local, visit the local markets such as Bankerohan Market for fresh produce and traditional goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about their culture. Don't miss trying the famous Durian fruit, known as the 'King of Fruits.' For a unique experience, visit the Philippine Eagle Center and learn about conservation efforts for the critically endangered Philippine Eagle. Explore the Samal Island's pristine beaches and indulge in water activities like snorkeling and diving.

When is the best time to visit Davao Region?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Davao Region

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Davao Region. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloKumusta
  [koo-moos-tah]
- GoodbyeAyo
  [ah-yoh]
- YesOo
  [oh-oh]
- NoDili
  [dee-lee]
- Please/You're welcomePalihug
  [pah-lee-hoog]
- Thank youSalamat
  [sah-lah-maht]
- Excuse me/SorryPasensya
  [pah-sen-syah]
- How are you?Kumusta ka?
  [koo-moos-tah kah]
- Fine. And you?Okey ra. Ikaw?
  [oh-kay rah. ee-kaw]
- Do you speak English?Nakasabot ka ug English?
  [nah-kah-sah-bot kah oohg ing-glish]
- I don't understandWala ko kasabot
  [wah-lah koh kah-sah-bot]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseGusto ko makita ang menu, palihug
  [goos-toh koh mah-kee-tah ahng meh-noo, pah-lee-hoog]
- I don't eat meatDili ko mokaon ug karne
  [dee-lee koh moh-kah-on oohg kar-neh]
- Cheers!Sa salud!
  [sah sah-lood]
- I would like to pay, pleaseGusto ko magbayad, palihug
  [goos-toh koh mahg-bah-yahd, pah-lee-hoog]
- Help!Tabang!
  [tah-bahng]
- Go away!Palayo!
  [pah-lah-yoh]
- Call the Police!Tawga ang Pulis!
  [taw-gah ahng poo-lees]
- Call a doctor!Tawga ug doktor!
  [taw-gah oohg dok-tor]
- I'm lostNaawala ko
  [nah-wah-lah koh]
- I'm illMasakit ko
  [mah-sah-kit koh]
- I'd like to buy...Gusto ko mopalit og...
  [goos-toh koh moh-pah-leet og]
- I'm just lookingNagtan-aw ra ko
  [nahg-tan-ahw rah koh]
- How much is it?Tagpila ni?
  [tag-pee-lah nee]
- That's too expensiveSobra ka mahal
  [soh-brah kah mah-hal]
- Can you lower the price?Pwede nimo ibanan ang presyo?
  [pweh-deh nee-moh ee-bah-nan ahng pres-yoh]
- What time is it?Unsay oras?
  [oon-sigh oh-ras]
- It's one o'clockAlas uno
  [ah-lahs oo-noh]
- Half past (10)Alas diyes y medya
  [ah-lahs dee-yes ee meh-dyah]
- MorningBuntag
  [boon-tahg]
- AfternoonHapon
  [hah-pon]
- EveningGabii
  [gah-bee-ee]
- YesterdayKahapon
  [kah-hah-pon]
- TodayKarun
  [kah-roon]
- TomorrowUgma
  [oog-mah]
- 1Usa
  [oo-sah]
- 2Duh
  [doo-ah]
- 3Tulo
  [too-loh]
- 4Upat
  [oo-paht]
- 5Lima
  [lee-mah]
- 6Unom
  [oo-nom]
- 7Pito
  [pee-toh]
- 8Walo
  [wah-loh]
- 9Siyam
  [see-yahm]
- 10Sampu
  [sahm-poo]
- Where's a/the...?Asa ang...?
  [ah-sah ahng]
- What's the address?Unsay address?
  [oon-sigh ah-dress]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Pwede nimo ipakita (sa mapa)?
  [pweh-deh nee-moh ee-pah-kee-tah (sah mah-pah)]
- When's the next (bus)?Kanus-a ang sunod (bus)?
  [kah-noos-ah ahng soo-nod (bus)]
- A ticket (to ....)Usa ka tiket (paingon sa ...)
  [oo-sah kah tee-ket (pah-eeng-on sah ...)]

History of Davao Region

Before Spanish colonization, the Davao Region was inhabited by various indigenous groups, including the Bagobo, Manobo, and Mandaya. These groups had rich traditions, complex social structures, and engaged in trade with neighboring islands and territories.
In the mid-19th century, the Spanish began to exert control over Davao. The establishment of the town of Davao in 1848 by Don Jose Uyanguren marked the start of Spanish influence. Uyanguren aimed to subdue the local Muslim population and convert the region to Christianity, leading to significant cultural and demographic changes.
After the Spanish-American War, the Philippines came under American rule. The Davao Region saw an influx of American settlers and businesses. The agricultural industry, particularly abaca (Manila hemp) and coconut plantations, flourished during this period, driven by American investments.
During World War II, the Japanese occupied Davao from 1942 to 1945. The region was strategically important for its agricultural output and as a military base. The occupation had a profound impact on the local population, with many enduring hardships and atrocities.
After the war, Davao underwent significant reconstruction. The region's economy began to recover, bolstered by the re-establishment of agricultural industries and the influx of migrants from various parts of the Philippines. This period saw the growth of Davao City as a major urban center.
The declaration of Martial Law by President Ferdinand Marcos in 1972 had significant ramifications for Davao. The region experienced political repression and human rights abuses, but it also became a center for resistance and activism, with local leaders and communities playing crucial roles in the struggle for democracy.
Today, Davao is known for its vibrant culture, diverse population, and economic dynamism. The region is a key agricultural hub and a growing center for trade and tourism. Davao City, in particular, has become a symbol of progress and resilience, maintaining its unique cultural heritage while embracing modernity.