DiscoverDavao Del Sur
Discover the natural beauty, culture and heritage of Davao Del Sur.
Book Now Pay Later
Loading traveller reviews…
Join Our Newsletter
Get tailored flight deals, travel tips & inspiration straight to your inbox.
HandpickedDavao Del Sur HolidayDeals
Complete holiday packages with flights, hotels and experiences in Davao Del Sur.
Stays AcrossDavao Del Sur
From luxury beachfront resorts to city hotels and budget stays.
UnforgettableExperiencesin Davao Del Sur
Search and book amazing activities and tours across Davao Del Sur.
Top 10 Reasons to Visit Davao Del Sur
Reason 01
A Sneak Peak into Davao Del Sur
- The beautiful natural scenery and rich culture experiences on holidays to Davao del Sur make it an enticing place to visit.
- This province is in the southern part of the Philippines. It offers a wide range of attractions and activities for all kinds of travellers.
- There are many beautiful places to discover in Davao del Sur, from the majestic peaks of Mount Apo, which is the Philippines’ highest mountain, to the peaceful beaches of Samal Island.
- Nature lovers can enjoy the lush surroundings of the Davao Crocodile Park and get up close to these beautiful animals.
- They can also visit the Philippine Eagle Centre, which is dedicated to protecting the critically endangered Philippine Eagle.
- People who want to learn about other cultures will enjoy their time in Davao del Sur.
- The D’Bone Collector Museum is a one-of-a-kind site that showcases a collection of animal bones and educates visitors about the importance of protecting wildlife.
- People interested in history can visit the Japanese Tunnel, a relic from World War II, and the Museo Dabawenyo, which showcases the area’s rich tradition and history.
- Each place has a story that helps people connect with the area’s culture in a meaningful way.
- Visitors can fully experience the local way of life by doing a wide range of activities. Davao del Sur has something for everyone.
- You can enjoy traditional events, eat delicious local food at the Roxas Avenue Night Market, or go on outdoor adventures like hiking or river rafting.
- People in the area are eager to share their culture and practices with tourists, so don’t miss the chance to experience how friendly and open they are.
- Capital: Digos City
- International airport: The nearest major international airport is Francisco Bangoy International Airport (DVO) in Davao City. Davao del Sur does not have its own international airport.
- Currency: Philippine Peso (PHP)
- Time: UTC+8
- Driving side: Right-hand side
- Main electricity: 220 volts, 60 Hz
- Official languages: Filipino (based on Tagalog) and English; local languages include Cebuano, Tagakaulo, and Bagobo
- Religion: Predominantly Roman Catholic, with some Protestant, Muslim, and indigenous groups
Reason 02
Highlights
- The richness of holidays to Davao del Sur makes it a haven for nature lovers. The province features tropical rainforests, coastal areas, and a diverse array of flora and fauna.
- Mount Apo and Tamayong Prayer Mountain offer breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere.
- Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate seeing the endangered Philippine Eagle and other rare species in their natural habitat.
- Cultural heritage is another motivation to visit Davao del Sur. Indigenous and settler cultures have shaped the province.
- The Kadayawan Festival showcases street dance, music, and art to honour the region’s cultural richness and agricultural wealth.
- Meeting local artists and learning about traditional crafts adds a personal touch to the tourism experience.
- Davao del Sur offers several adventures. Zip-lining at Eden Nature Park and beach days at D’Leonor Inland Resort and Wavepool offer plenty of fun.
- BlueJaz Water Park and Davao Zorb Park are excellent places for families to create lasting memories.
- Davao del Sur’s numerous attractions entice exploration and adventure at every turn.
Reason 03
Seasons to Travel
- Holidays to Davao del Sur are best visited during the dry season, from November to May. These months are ideal for outdoor activities and touring, thanks to the pleasant weather.
- An annual highlight is the August Kadayawan Festival, which celebrates the region’s culture and rich agricultural heritage.
- Street dancing, floral floats, and contests draw residents and tourists to this lively event.
- Fresh vegetables are available throughout the local harvest season, making it another fantastic time to visit.
- Visitors can browse local markets for fresh fruits, vegetables, and other local treats.
- This season, the Roxas Avenue Night Market is a must-visit for its diverse street cuisine and regional specialities. Foodies will adore the grilled fish and sweets.
- June to October are off-peak months for calmer experiences. Although there may be periodic rain showers, this time offers a more casual tour of the area with fewer people at famous sights. Connecting with locals and having a real experience is ideal.
Reason 04
Worth A Visit
Samal Island
- Island Garden City of Samal, or Samal Island for short, is the Philippines’ biggest holiday city. It’s a haven of beautiful beaches and lively natural sights that are only a boat ride from Davao City.
- Samal is a great place for island-hopping, boasting clear waters and high-end resorts like Pearl Farm Beach Resort.
- You can go on an organised tour to find secret gems or an island-hopping trip to see beautiful islets and coves.
- You can cool off at Hagimit Falls, where you can swim in natural ponds surrounded by lots of trees and plants.
- For a more active experience, you can walk up Mt. Puting Bato to see the whole island, or you can go to the Monfort Bat Cave and see millions of bats come out at dusk, which is a very interesting sight.
- Samal Island is a great destination for all kinds of tourists, offering a mix of relaxing and exciting activities.
Eden Nature Park
- The Eden Nature Park and Resort in Davao City is an ideal place to unwind in nature. Set in the mountains, this 80-hectare park features beautiful gardens, hiking trails, and thrilling rides, such as the Skyswing, which are perfect for thrill-seekers.
- The park’s peaceful setting makes it a great place to meditate alone or with your family.
- You can walk through beautifully landscaped areas like Lola’s Garden, Mayumi’s Well, and the Flower Garden, or you can visit Tinubdan. This cultural town showcases Mindanaoan history and offers an opportunity to learn about the native culture.
- Staying at the resort overnight allows you to fully enjoy its pools, playgrounds, and lush surroundings, making it a great place to both rest and have fun.
Malagos Garden Resort and Chocolate Museum
- Both nature lovers and chocolate enthusiasts should visit Malagos Garden Resort.
- There are numerous ways to connect with nature in this 12-hectare park, which features a butterfly sanctuary, a bird feeding dome, and a petting zoo.
- Malagos is also home to the famous tree-to-bar Malagos Chocolate. The Philippines’ first chocolate museum tells you all about how it’s made.
- Don’t miss the chance to see the Mindanao Contemporary Art Gallery, which has interesting art and history from the area.
- A stroll through Malagos Garden Resort is a great way to escape the city and unwind, whether you want to enjoy nature or indulge in sweets.
Crocodile Park
- The Crocodile Park in Davao City allows visitors to get up close to crocodiles that are raised there.
- The park has both freshwater and ocean crocodiles. It’s an interesting stop for those interested in protecting wildlife.
- You can explore the room where crocodile eggs are carefully raised or attend one of the educational events at the park to learn more.
- In addition to crocodiles, the park is home to a diverse array of animals, including birds, snakes, and bears.
Philippine Eagle Centre
- The Philippine Eagle Centre is a sanctuary dedicated to protecting the critically endangered Philippine Eagle.
- People who visit the centre can get up close to these beautiful birds. You can watch them fly or eat by seeing how their strong beaks tear through raw meat.
- The centre also features mammals, reptiles, and various bird species.
- It is an informative and unique experience. Every visit helps the centre do important environmental protection work, so tourists who care about the environment should visit.
People’s Park
- People’s Park in Davao City is a well-kept public park that’s great for a walk or a day with the family.
- The park is renowned for its cleanliness and greenery, and it features the famous Durian Dome, as well as impressive sculptures that showcase local culture, including a large replica of the Philippine Eagle.
- The park features a Sunken Garden, an exercise centre, and a playground for children.
- It’s a popular place for both locals and visitors to relax. In the middle of the city, People’s Park is a peaceful place to escape for a short time or the whole afternoon.
Jack’s Ridge
- Jack’s Ridge, situated on a hilltop and offering panoramic views of Davao City, boasts the best views of the city.
- In addition to its beautiful views, the site is historically significant because it served as a Japanese base during World War II.
- You can take it easy at either Karlo’s Gourmet or Taklobo, where you can enjoy coffee or traditional Filipino food with a beautiful view.
- There is even a story that the Japanese stashed wealth here, making your trip a little more mysterious.
Reason 05
Discover More
Roxas Night Market
- The Roxas Avenue Night Market is a fun place to spend the night. It has rows of food stands with a wide range of delicious local treats.
- There is something for everyone to eat, and the prices are reasonable. There is grilled fish and warming soup.
- The night market transforms into a shopping paradise when the food stalls come to life.
- Vendors sell clothes, accessories, and gifts. It’s a bustling place where you can experience Davao City’s vibrant street culture.
Museo Dabawenyo
- The Museum of the People of Davao, or Museo Dabawenyo, is an interesting place to learn about the city’s rich cultural heritage.
- The museum is located near the Bonifacio Rotunda and features a variety of interesting exhibits, including models of stilt houses, antique guns, and traditional Moro clothing.
- You can learn a great deal about Davao’s native history and how the city has evolved.
- Since the museum is open every day (with extended hours on holidays), it’s an easy place for culture lovers to visit.
Mt. Apo
- Climb Mt. Apo, the Philippines’ tallest peak, for a trip you’ll never forget.
- At over 10,000 feet, this magnificent mountain offers expansive views of the Mindanao island region. Its trails range from easy for beginners to difficult for experts.
- You’ll see a lot of different types of scenery along the way, from lush woods to rubber farms.
- You’ll also see beautiful waterfalls like Tudaya Falls and lakes inside volcanic craters.
- Aside from its beautiful views, Mt. Apo is also a biodiversity hotspot, home to rare species such as the Philippine Eagle and unusual plants.
- Many hikers opt to camp at Lake Venado, a peaceful spot near the summit. When walkers reach the top, they are rewarded with views that go as far as the provinces next door.
- No matter how skilled you are as a mountain climber or how often you go hiking, a trip to Mt. Apo is something you should do. The beauty and size of the Philippines’ natural world will amaze you.
Davao Butterfly House
- In the Davao Butterfly House, hundreds of butterflies flit around tropical plants, creating a vibrant and joyful atmosphere.
- These calm areas are home to a variety of butterflies, as well as unusual insects and other animals. Nature enthusiasts and photographers should definitely visit.
- You can see these butterflies at their busiest in the early morning, when they are dancing between flowers and relaxing in the sun.
- The Davao Butterfly House is not only beautiful, but it also helps protect these delicate animals and their habitats by educating people about wildlife conservation.
- The life cycle of the butterfly, from egg to caterpillar to adult, is also shown on teaching boards. It’s a great place to stop and enjoy some peace in nature.
Kadayawan Village
- Visit the Kadayawan Village in Magsaysay Park to get a feel for Davao City’s rich culture tapestry.
- The village shows off the traditional homes of the Lumad and Moro communities, as well as other indigenous and Moro groups from the Davao area. This lets tourists learn about their architecture, way of life, and traditions.
- Each house is from a different ethnic group, and the detailed designs show how each culture’s artisans work and their past.
- The village comes alive with lively shows, traditional dances, and cultural displays during the annual Kadayawan Festival in Davao City. This is the ideal time to visit and learn more about the area’s history.
- You will not only learn about the building, but also about how the indigenous people helped protect the environment and how they continue to shape Davao City’s culture.
Tourist Spots in Davao Region
- Although Davao City has a lot to offer, nearby places like Dahican Beach and Aliwagwag Falls offer even more opportunities for exploration.
- Surfers and beach enthusiasts adore Dahican Beach in Mati. It is renowned for its long stretch of fine, white sand and crystal-clear blue water.
- You can sit on the beach or try to catch the perfect wave at Dahican Beach. It’s a peaceful place to escape the city.
- If you want to see amazing nature sights, you should not miss Aliwagwag Falls in Davao Oriental. It is the Philippines’ tallest waterfall, featuring more than 100 levels of falling water. It is surrounded by beautiful jungle.
- The falls are located near the town of Cateel, making them an ideal destination for nature lovers to spend the day.
- The cool water below the falls is perfect for swimming, and the scenery is so breathtaking that it will leave you speechless.
Reason 06
Culture Traditions
- History and culture make Davao del Sur an intriguing destination for learning about local life.
- The distinctive D Bone Collector Museum showcases the region’s fauna and conservation activities.
- This museum’s enormous collection of animal bones raises questions about biodiversity and environmental protection. A fantastic encounter can be had with experienced workers who are passionate about teaching animal protection.
- The Japanese Tunnel, a World War II relic, illustrates the narrative of Filipino perseverance.
- Tours of the tunnel showcase its historical significance and enable tourists to pay their respects to past sacrifices.
- The Museo Dabawenyo complements this cultural trip with Davao’s rich history items, photos, and displays. History and local culture buffs should visit this museum.
- Joining local festivals is another opportunity to see Davao del Sur culture. The beautiful annual Kadayawan Festival honours the region’s cultural variety and agricultural riches.
- Locals and visitors attend this week-long event for its colourful street dance, floral floats, and contests.
- This lively festival provides an opportunity to connect with the community and experience Davao’s hospitality.
Reason 07
Food Fun Fashion
Food
- First, prepare for the durian, known as the “King of Fruits.” The pungent smell of durian might turn some people off, but locals enjoy it. Beyond its scent, the fruit’s creamy, luscious flesh makes it a unique experience for daring foodies. Durian is a must-try in Davao, whether in sweet or savoury forms, or as a fruit.
- Kinilaw is a seafood must-have. The Filipino form of ceviche marinates raw fish in vinegar, citrus juices, and seasonings. The meal is refreshing and shows Davao’s seafood wealth.
- Sinuglaw combines grilled pig belly (sinugba) with the tanginess of kinilaw. It’s a tasty blend of salty and zesty tastes that showcases Davao’s culinary ingenuity.
- Due to its coastal location, Davao has an abundance of fresh seafood. Grilled tuna belly, squid, or prawns with soy sauce, calamansi (a local lime), and chilli are a must. A simple yet delightful way to appreciate the region’s seafood.
- This vivid salad showcases Davao’s pomelo fruit—sweet, juicy, and refreshing. Pomelo salad with shrimp, onions, tomatoes, and sweet-sour dressing will tickle your taste senses.
- Lansiao provides Davao cuisine to adventurous eaters. This substantial soup uses beef or carabao (water buffalo) testicles, which some say are aphrodisiac. This meal showcases Davao’s cultural and culinary variety.
- Balbacua, a hearty stew prepared from cow skin, tendons, and cuts cooked till soft, is a Davao comfort meal. Locals love this full rice dinner.
- Philippines cuisine is incomplete without Adobo, a national favourite. Adobo in Davao may include coconut milk or turmeric in the soy sauce and vinegar marinade. Tradition and regional flair are in every mouthful. These dishes demonstrate Davao’s gastronomic diversity and depth.
Fun
- In Davao del Sur, there are exhilarating activities to suit a variety of interests. Adventurers must view Mount Apo. As the Philippines’ tallest mountain, it provides stunning vistas and tough trekking terrain.
- For those who prefer to explore with a knowledgeable companion, guided trips allow you to see the breathtaking landscapes and distinctive flora and fauna.
- A day visit to Malagos Garden Resort offers a more relaxed experience. This lovely site features gardens, a butterfly refuge, and a chocolate museum that showcases the local cocoa industry. It’s a great place for families and couples to relax and enjoy nature.
- Davao del Sur has several water sports. Samal Island provides snorkelling, diving, and beautiful beaches for a day holiday.
- The island’s day-use resorts provide it a handy retreat from the metropolis.
- The Davao Zorb Park offers a thrilling opportunity to roll down hills in a huge inflatable ball, making it an excellent choice for creating memories with friends and family.
Fashion
- Shopping in Davao del Sur, from traditional markets to upscale malls, is a fun experience. Foodies and souvenir hunters can visit the Roxas Avenue Night Market.
- Street food includes grilled fish, local specialities, and sweets. The lively ambience and bustling population make it a great place to experience local culture and buy unique gifts.
- Aldevinco Shopping Centre boasts a diverse selection of Filipino handicrafts and local products.
- You can purchase authentic Davao del Sur souvenirs, including handwoven fabrics and exquisite wood sculptures. Haggling for the greatest pricing is enjoyable!
- SM City Davao and Abreeza Mall offer a diverse range of local and international brands, restaurants, and entertainment options, providing a contemporary shopping experience.
- These malls are a great place to unwind after a day of exploration, whether you want to shop or eat with friends.
Reason 08
Nature Safari
- Nature enthusiasts will adore holidays to Davao del Sur, which offer outdoor experiences showcasing its stunning scenery and abundant wildlife.
- The Davao Crocodile Park is a great site to learn about crocodile conservation and see these magnificent creatures.
- The park features many additional creatures, making it an ideal destination for families and nature enthusiasts.
- The Philippine Eagle Centre, which protects the critically endangered Philippine Eagle, is another must-see.
- Learn about the centre’s work to conserve this gorgeous bird while enjoying its verdant surroundings. The knowledgeable staff regularly gives entertaining discussions and presentations on wildlife protection.
- Tamayong Prayer Mountain provides a serene setting for meditation and relaxation.
- This tranquil area has flowers, prayer spaces, and mountain views. It’s perfect for meditation or just appreciating nature away from the city.
Reason 09
Events Fiestas
- Holidays to Davao del Sur festivals showcase local culture and community spirit. Every August, the Kadayawan Festival is the most popular.
- This celebration recognises Davao’s indigenous people and highlights its agricultural legacy.
- Visitors may witness colourful street parades, traditional music and dancing, and food vendors offering local specialities.
- The colourful and festive environment allows tourists to interact with people and experience the culture.
- The durian festival, celebrating the king of fruits, is another noteworthy event. This event highlights the importance of durian to Davao’s agriculture and economy.
- Durian tastings, culinary demos, and contests are available. It’s a fantastic way to learn about local cuisine while eating delectable goodies.
- Davao del Sur hosts cultural exhibits, art fairs, and gastronomic festivals throughout the year.
- Visitors may meet people, learn about crafts, and sample the region’s cuisine at these events.
- Attending these events allows you to engage with the locals and experience Davao del Sur’s vibrant culture.