Davao

Overview

Davao City is the largest city in the country by land area and the main gateway to the Davao Region, spreading along the shore of Davao Gulf with Mount Apo rising inland. Travelers come for its fruit markets and durian, its parks and museums, and easy access to Samal Island and the highland resorts at the foot of the mountains. It is commonly used as a base for exploring Mindanao further, and it has a reputation for being well organized and easy to move around.

Standout experiences

• 01 People's Park and the city center

  A landscaped public park with sculptures and gardens, close to the downtown streets and markets.

• 02 Philippine Eagle Center

  A conservation and breeding facility for the critically endangered Philippine eagle and other endemic species.

• 03 Malagos Garden Resort

  A garden and nature retreat in the foothills, with a chocolate museum and cocoa-focused grounds.

• 04 Samal Island

  Beaches and resorts just offshore in Davao Gulf, reached by a short ferry crossing from the city.

• 05 Durian and fruit markets

  Seasonal local fruit, including the durian the city is known for, sold in markets around town.

Getting there

Francisco Bangoy International Airport (DVO) lies north of the city center. Cebu Pacific, PAL Express and Philippine Airlines fly domestic routes, while Qatar Airways, Scoot and seasonal charters add international links. At the Port of Davao, passenger ferries use Sasa International Seaport and Santa Ana Wharf, and roll-on/roll-off services connect the city to other major Philippine ports.

When to go

Davao has a tropical rainforest climate with no true dry season, and monthly rainfall stays above 77 millimeters all year. The heaviest rain falls from June to October, peaking around June at about 193 millimeters and October at about 195 millimeters. The Kadayawan Festival, a thanksgiving for the harvest and the city's indigenous tribes, is held in August.