food trip davao

Davao Food Trip Guide : Must-Try Restaurants in Davao

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• Post last modified: June 12, 2023

• Marco Polo Davao
• Seda Abreeza Hotel
• Park Inn by Radisson Davao
• Waterfront Insular Hotel Davao
• Apo View Hotel
• Homitori Dormitel
• North Zen Hotel
• GV Hotel Davao
• The Royal House Travel Inn & Suites
• Bahay ni Tuding Inn & Resto
• My Hotel Davao
• Green Windows Dormitel

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try Macao Milk tea here in Davao —> https://ckk.ai/s7TAS

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Davao Travel Guide: What to Do + Hotels + Itinerary

Best Time to Go to Davao

Dry and summer season | january to may, kadayawan festival | august, climate and weather, what to wear, how to get to davao, getting around.

• Where to Stay in Davao

Types of Accommodations

Neighborhoods and areas, accommodation highlights in davao.

• What to See and Do in Davao

Go Island-Hopping to Samal Island

Hike mount apo, explore eden nature park, visit the philippine eagle center, check out the malagos chocolate museum, go sightseeing in kadayawan village.

• What to Eat and Drink in Davao

Local Cuisine

Recommended best restaurants and bars, practical information and tips, sample itinerary in davao.

• Day 1: Davao Sightseeing

Day 2: Island-Hopping in Samal Island

• Day 3:  Davao City Sightseeing + Departure

Experience Davao's melting pot of culture. Learn about the top tourist spots that you should visit, where the best resorts and hotels are, and which finest delicacies to try. Make the most out of your trip by reading this travel guide.

There are many beautiful destinations worth visiting when planning your trip to Mindanao in the Philippines. One of the places that you should highly consider going to first is Davao. A trip here will treat you to a fun escapade to beaches, waterfalls, and food adventures.

• Find the best Davao trips and experiences that you can add to your travel plans

Davao is blessed with several natural resources, that’s why it’s a nature lover's perfect destination. For one, Davao is home to the Philippine Eagle. Also known as the Monkey-Eating Eagle, the Philippine Eagle is an endangered species endemic to the country.

Davao is also famous for its fruits such as pomelo, rambutan, lanzones, and durian that are must-tries. 

See our popular Davao Tours and Activities

Davao city tour b with transfers | philippine eagle center, people's park, malagos garden resort, 3-day stress-free package to davao at seda abreeza with breakfast & airport transfers, davao city tour d with transfers | crocodile park, people's park, d' bone collector museum.

Two kilometers off the coast of the city of Davao is the pristine Samal Island . This beautiful island is endowed with white sand beaches and sparkling azure waters. If you want a tropical paradise that is a mere hour away from the convenience of a city, read on and start taking notes. Davao City will surely captivate you.

When planning your trip to Davao, it's essential to take note of the season, climate and weather to have a hassle-free adventure. This is to avoid canceled trips due to inclement weather that might occur at any time of day.

It is also essential when packing your things, as it would serve as a guideline on what you have to bring and wear during your trip to Davao.

As with the whole Philippines, Davao City only has two seasons, the dry summer season and the wet season.  If you have a lot of outdoor destinations included in your Davao itinerary , it's best to book flights to the Philippines during the dry months of January to April.

These months have the least chances of rainfall, so you can fully enjoy the outdoor activities and water adventures.

Davao celebrates its annual Kadayawan Festival every third week of August.  Recognized as the “Mother of all Mindanao festivals” Kadayawan is an extravagant affair that features flower floats parades, street dancing, and trade fairs. 

The festival is held in commemoration of Davao’s indigenous people and their contribution to the city’s rich cultural heritage. Kadayawan Festival is also a thanksgiving celebration for a bountiful harvest. Visiting Davao City during the Kadayawan Festival is a great way to experience the city and be immersed in its vibrant culture.

Before heading to the city, make sure to check Davao weather updates to avoid any problems during your trip. Learning about the climate and weather of your destination is the best way to prevent canceled plans due to inclement weather conditions. 

Take note that Davao weather does not vary significantly throughout the year. However, March, April, and May are the hottest months in Davao City, with an average daily high of 32°C.

On the other hand, the cool season starts in December and lasts through February, with an average daily high temperature below 31°C. January is the coldest month of the year with and an average low of 24°C.

 Here’s a summary of the average temperature in Davao City.

Source: Weather Spark

The ideal time to visit Davao City for hot-weather activities would be from early January to May. These months are perfect because they receive less rainfall than the other months. Here’s a summary of the average monthly rainfall in Davao City:

Davao weather can be humid during the summer season, it's best to wear light, breathable clothes as the weather can get hot and humid. If you’re coming to Davao from June to November,  bring an umbrella or jacket since these months are the rainy season.

Luckily for travelers looking for their next tropical getaway, Davao is easy to reach. Thanks to its international airport, Davao is highly accessible from other airports in the Philippines , as well as from select international airports abroad. Travelers can also catch daily flights to Manila from here. 

Davao has its own airport, the Francisco Bangoy International Airport commonly referred to as the Davao International Airport . It is the main gateway to Mindanao, so it is naturally the busiest airport in Mindanao and the third busiest in the Philippines. 

Aside from being connected to major jump-offs all over the Philippines, Davao Airport is also connected to a number of international airports.

If you’re coming from outside of the Philippines, you can travel to Davao directly, or you can fly to either Manila-Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Luzon or Mactan-Cebu International Airport in the Visaya.

From International Destinations

Davao International Airport is connected to international destinations like Hongkong, Singapore, Indonesia, and Taiwan. Wherever you are in the world, you can fly to those countries and hop on a plane headed directly for Davao City. 

From Luzon and Visayas 

You also have the option to fly to the major jump-off points across the country. The Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Airport in  Manila , Luzon is connected to several countries in Asia, Middle East, Oceania, North America, and Europe. From NAIA, you can fly directly to Davao International Airport.

Flying in from Clark to Davao, it is also a good choice if you’re coming from the Northern part of Luzon or if you want to avoid the traffic in Manila. Airfares from Clark are usually lower than Manila. Luckily, Clark International Airport is connected to Korea, Taiwan, Hongkong, and Singapore. 

You can also fly in from the Visayas region by taking  Bohol to Davao flight  or Bacolod to Davao flight , among others. A flight from Cebu is also a popular choice as the Mactan-Cebu International Airport is now connected to 21 international destinations including, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, and Hong Kong.

If you will be coming from Mindanao, you can take a Zamboanga to Davao flight as well. 

Traveling to Davao via ferry is also possible, albeit less convenient. There are no ports that accommodate long-distance passenger ferries within the city. If you’re coming from Manila or Cebu, you will be docking at Nasipit Port in Agusan del Norte which is approximately 6 hours away from Davao City. 

2Go Travel offers ferry routes from Manila to Nasipit Port twice a week. The travel time typically takes 33 hours and 30 minutes. Likewise, only 2Go Travel has routes from Cebu to Nasipit Port.

There are trips thrice a week with travel time lasting 8 hours. The sailing durations and trip frequency may vary from season to season, so be sure to check the schedule before you plan your trip.

You will need to learn how to get around Davao to reach tourist attractions. Strap on because Davao has a variety of transportation options. The primary mode of transport is the jeepney, which has specific routes that can take you around the city. Jeepneys,  multicabs, buses, and tricycles serve as general transport.  

• Book Davao City airport transfers

Taxicabs can also be hired to take you to other parts of Davao. Alternatively, you can rent a car in Davao for maximum comfort and convenience. Just make sure you have all the requirements to rent a car in the Philippines . Taxi booking apps are also available in Davao.  

Jeepneys or jeeps are the most popular means of public transportation in the Philippines along major highways. They ply specific routes that can take you around the city.

Riding these open-aired vehicles in congested streets offers an interesting experience for first-time visitors. You can use this Davao City Jeepney Guide App to help you find and ride the right jeepney route.

Motorized tricycles, or simply tricycles, are the Philippine version of the auto-rickshaw. They are also comparable to Thailand’s tuk-tuk. Tricycles ply the barangay roads throughout the Davao City; they typically go where the jeepneys can’t.

Tricycles can’t pass by major roads, but you can hail one anywhere as long as you’re not on the highway. 

Van or Car Rental

If you’re traveling from the city to the rural towns, you might need to get on a bus, ride a jeepney afterward, and possibly hop on a tricycle. Multiple transfers are unavoidable if you’re traveling to the further towns of the province via public transportation. If this isn’t comfortable for you, you can opt for self-drive car rentals in the Philippines . Booking a Davao car rental  or a van rental in the Philippines  is your best option, or if you can indulge, book a  budget car rental in the Philippines ,  SUV rental in the Philippines , or  luxury car rental in the Philippines .

There are plenty of taxi cabs in Davao. They're one of the easiest modes of getting around, but they can also be quite costly since Davao is a huge city. You can hail one almost anywhere.

The best thing about Davao taxis is that unlike those in Metro Manila who usually pick passengers, Davao taxi drivers will take you to your destination without second thoughts. 

Taxi Booking App

Typically, commuting in Davao entails riding more than one public transportation. If you can’t stand going through multiple transfers, then you can opt to take a taxi or book with the Grab Taxi app . 

While Grab Taxi is usually more expensive than riding jeepneys or buses, these can ensure you can get around safely and in comfort. You don’t have to do multiple transfers, which is convenient for travelers coming from and going to the airport.

There are also buses in Davao. However, buses exclusively ply the north to south route. Riding a bus is a great way to go in and out of the city. You can also ride a bus to get to Samal Island. The Island City Express Bus can take you to Samal Island via the barge-ferry at Sasa Ferry Terminal.

Another mode of transportation you can take to reach Samal Island is a water taxi. Water taxis bring locals and international travelers to and from Samal Island and Davao. There are daily water taxi trips to the Island Garden City of Samal. You catch the water taxi at Sta. Ana Wharf in Davao. The water taxi can transport up to 4 passengers.

Where to Stay in Davao  

You won’t run out of options when it comes to accommodations in Davao City or Samal Island. If you’re on a budget, there are several affordable hotels in Davao you can choose from.

• Seda Abreeza Davao tour package
• Davao to Cagayan de Oro Mindanao tour package
• 10-day Davao to Cebu to Siargao Philippines tour package

If you’re traveling with family or you prefer private rooms that are reasonably priced, you’ll find mid-range Davao hotels or vacation rentals that will fit your needs. On the other hand, if you’re after an ultra-luxe experience, there are several luxury resorts in Davao and Samal Island that will cater to your creature comforts.

Where you'll stay in Davao depends on your preference, the number of people staying, and your budget. Here are some of the types of accommodation you can find in Davao.

Island and Beach Resorts

Samal Island won’t disappoint when it comes to island and beach resorts. Some offer complete facilities, i.e., spa and restaurant, while some provide basic amenities, such as an airconditioned room but with access to the beachfront. It solely depends on your preference.

Whether you're in Davao for business or pleasure, there are a lot of hotels where you can stay that offers complete amenities. There are hotels near the airport, hotels in Davao. You have to find the right location that fits your itinerary.

Vacation Rentals

While in Davao, you can rent a private house. It is an excellent option for large groups who want to save money but don't want to sacrifice essential amenities such as kitchen and laundry. Some even offer indoor pools and gardens. Make sure to check the neighborhood of the vacation house first before you rent it as it might be far from the various tourist spots you plan on visiting.

Budget Lodges and Inns

For more affordable accommodations, you have several options when it comes to budget-friendly lodges, inns, or guesthouses. Davao budget inns offer basic amenities that are great for solo travelers or a backpacker on a budget. You can stay in a dorm-type room and still get standard amenities in a private room.

When choosing where to stay, you need to know first the main area where you can book accommodations in Davao. As mentioned, Davao is the largest city in the Philippines in terms of land area.

You’ll want to book your lodgings near the central point of your Davao itinerary, or near major commercial establishments where you can quickly run to replenish travel supplies. Read on to find out the best area to book your accommodations.

Downtown Davao

The downtown area of Davao is where most of the action happens. Also referred to as Poblacion or the Poblacion District, Downtown Davao is where you’ll find the Central Business District, parks, churches, and several commercial establishments such as shopping malls, restaurants, banks, and hotels. 

This is also where most jeepneys and tricycles converge. As such, the downtown area is also the busiest part of Davao. Truly, the downtown area is the heart of Davao. It is a good mid-way point between Davao tourists spot and it has everything a traveler needs. Hence, booking your lodgings here is an excellent idea.

Samal Island

Samal Island is a mere two kilometers away from Davao. This pristine island paradise boasts fine white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. Samal Island is also home to several beach resorts and hotels.

If you plan to spend most of your travel vacation by the beach, booking a room in Samal Island itself is a good choice. There are several beach-side properties in the island that range from budget to luxury. Aside from swimming, you can also explore other Samal Island attractions such as the Hagimit Falls and the Bat Cave.

Most accommodations in Davao range from luxury, mid-range, and budget-friendly. Depending on your preference, here are some of the best accommodations in all budget types.

Budget Accommodations

If you prefer to allocate a bigger chunk of your budget on exploring your destination, then you can opt for these budget lodgings. Budget hotels and inns in Davao offer basic amenities that are enough to make your stay comfortable while allowing you to splurge more on your itinerary.

Make sure to book in advance instead of just walking in so you can get the best rooms. These affordable hotels in Davao are highly-recommended.

Homitori Dormitel

If you're looking for a place to spend the night in, check out the budget-friendly Homitori Dormitel. Homitori Dormitel is located within the downtown area and is only 30-minutes walking distance from the city center.

It is also just four kilometers away from the SM Lanang Premier. This hotel offers complete amenities suitable for any type of travelers. They offer non-smoking air-conditioned rooms and dorm-type rooms with wifi.

Zen Rooms 

The budget hotel chain Zen Rooms have a branch along Davao’s Roxas Avenue. This highly affordable lodging is situated inside Downtown Davao as well. It is flanked by several restaurants and is also near major transportation terminals.

ZEN Rooms Roxas Avenue is also a 34-minute drive to Davao’s Francisco Bangoy International Airport. Their air-conditioned rooms are equipped with free wifi, cable TV, and a hot shower.

Another excellent no-frills budget hotel in Davao that is located in the downtown area is the GV Hotel. This economy accommodation is 8-minutes walking distance from Museo Dabawenyo and is also near commercial establishments.

GV Hotel offers single standard rooms, twin rooms, and family deluxe rooms. You can also choose between a fan room and an air-conditioned room. 

Punta del Sol

Punta del Sol is a beachfront resort in Samal Island that offers budget accommodations that are perfect for solo travelers, couples, and large groups. This humble resort has complete facilities and offers a wide array of water activities and lodgings.

They also have a restaurant, cottages, and function halls. You can choose to pitch a tent and camp at the resort or book one of their affordable lodging options. Punta del Sol offers air-conditioned rooms, fan rooms, dormitory rooms, and private rooms.

Mid-Range Accommodations

If you’re traveling with family or friends and prefer somewhere cozier but still reasonably priced, mid-range hotels are perfect for you. It is if you want plusher beds and you have more leeway budget-wise. These mid-range accommodations can accommodate solo, couples, and groups.

Paradise Island Park and Beach Resort

It has its own open-are restaurant and snack bar which offers both local and international cuisines. Their rooms are equipped with basic amenities such as a personal safe and a private bathroom

North Zen Hotel

This mid-range hotel is for those travelers who want to experience a comfortable stay but don't want to splurge. They have their own sauna, coffee shop, and a restaurant. North Zen Hotel is in Downtown Davao and is merely three blocks from Gaisano Mall.

It also only 10-minutes walking distance from Victoria Plaza and Abreeza. Their rooms are fully equipped with a flat-screen TV, wifi, and other basic amenities. The location is accessible to a couple of tourist attractions.

Crown Regency Residences Davao

Crown Regency Residences Davao is an excellent mid-range lodging option that will give you value for your money. It is conveniently located within the downtown area. Crown Regency has an outdoor pool, a pool-side bar, spa, gym, and a rooftop garden.

It is also only a 10-minute drive from SM Lanang Mall and Abreeza Mall. Crown Regency offers air-conditioned rooms that are equipped with free wifi and cable TV. Some of their rooms even feature a private balcony and sitting area.

Luxury Accommodations

If you like to travel in style and you have the resources to book premium accommodations, then you’ll love our list of luxury recommendations. These are the hotels you’ll get the VIP treatment you deserve.

Most of them offer top-notch amenities not found in other hotels. You'll have a lot of choices when it comes to accommodations in Davao. Check out these various hotels and resorts:

Marco Polo Davao

This exquisite 5-star hotel offers top quality accommodation that has all the comforts you need. It has its own outdoor pool, a fitness center, a spa, and 5 dining options.

All of their air-conditioned rooms have carpeted flooring equipped with complete amenities such as an en-suite bathroom, a flat-screen TV, and a safe. The hotel overlooks Mount Apo and is near various city malls.

Seda Abreeza Hotel

For those who aren't traveling on a tight budget, Seda Abreeza Hotel in Davao is your best bet. Aside from it being near the port to Samal Island, their floor-to-ceiling windows offer panoramic views of the city.

All of their rooms are equipped with top-tier amenities such as cable TV, an iPod dock, a minibar, and many more. They also have an E-lounge located at the hotel's lobby.

What to See and Do in Davao 

Davao has so much to offer to travelers. The city is an excellent blend of both natural and manmade attractions which are top destinations for both local and international travelers.

• Samal Davao island-hopping tour
• Samal Island tour

Whether you want to know more about the cultural heritage of the city, go on an adventurous trip or relax and have fun, there are a lot of Davao tourist spots that you can explore.

A trip to Davao would not be complete without checking out Samal Island . You can swim to your heart’s content in the sparkling waters of Samal, or you can take your Davao adventure to the next level by going on a Samal Island-hopping escapade .

• Check out other destinations where you can experience island hopping in the Philippines

You will be given free goggles so you can witness this underwater marvel. The vibrant and gigantic corals of Samal’s expansive coral garden will take your breath away.  

If you’re an experienced hiker looking for your next challenging climb, then head to Davao where you can find the Philippines ‘ highest mountain, Mount Apo. Considered as the King of Philippine Peaks, Mount Apo is also on top of the list of the highest mountains in Southeast Asia. 

• Learn more about hiking in the Philippines

The mountain an elevation of 10,311 feet. Because of the level of difficulty, climbing Mount Apo is only recommended for experienced climbers. The stunning landscape makes up for the extreme conditions you will experience when braving Mount Apo. Most experienced hikers climb the summit for the months of March, April, and October.  

Photo by Eden Nature Park

Eden Nature Park is an expansive eco-adventure complex nestled in the hills of Davao. If you want to commune with nature, try out exciting recreational activities, or simply relax, then include Eden Nature Park in your Davao itinerary.

Eden Nature Park has a number of attractions that you can tour via a guided shuttle. There is a Bird Park where you can check out their aviaries and the different birds that call them home. You can also find a Deer Park which houses over thirty Philippine Deers. If you love flowers, Eden’s flower garden will surely delight you.

You can also go on a short hike through the Park’s hiking trails. If you’re curious about the indigenous tribes in Mindanao, Tinubdan Cultural Park will fascinate you. Take your Eden Nature Park adventure up a notch by trying their heart-pumping activities such as the skyrider, skycycle, and the sky swing. 

The Philippine Eagle or the  Monkey-Eating Eagle is an endangered species that can only be found in the Philippines. It is also considered as the national bird of the country. To protect and conserve these birds of prey, the Philippine Eagle Center in Davao was established.  

The Philippine Eagle Center is a conservation breeding facility, but it has also developed into one of the top tourist destinations in Davao.

The center is home to 36 Philippine Eagles, with 18 of them are captive-bred. It is also a sanctuary for 10 other species of birds, 4 species of mammals, and 2 species of reptiles. 

Here you can watch the magnificent eagles feed and fly freely in a large protected enclosure. The Philippine Eagle Every cent that is donated to the Philippine Eagle Center is spent on the conservation of the country’s national bird.

This center dedicated efforts and time to protect the endangered species while providing an interesting and fun platform for locals and visitors.

Malagos Chocolate is undoubtedly one of Davao’s pride. This home-grown chocolate brand is world-renowned for its tree-to-bar fine chocolate products. You can have the tree-to-bar experience first hand at their Chocolate Museum which is part of the Malagos Garden Resort.

You can sample the world-famous Malagos Chocolate at the Chocolate Bar, or you can take your experience to another level by trying to make your own chocolate at the Malagos Chocolate Laboratory. 

If you want to get a glimpse of how the indigenous and ethnic tribes of Davao used to live, then head to the Kadayawan Village in Magsaysay Park. Located within the downtown area, Kadayawan Village presents travelers with an opportunity to appreciate the rich cultural heritage of the city as well as Philippine architecture. 

The Village depicts the lives and culture of the Lumad (indigenous) and the Moro (Muslim peoples of Mindanao). Here you can see the intricacy and beauty of tribal houses of the 11 ethnic tribes, such as Bagobo-Klata, Ata, Matigsalug and Ovu Manovu, through life-size exhibits.

You can also witness a performance of the cultural dance while in the village. Be sure to include the Kadayawan Village when sightseeing in Davao ’s downtown area.

For a more comprehensive list of tourist attractions and things to do in Davao, read our Things to Do in Davao City article

What to Eat and Drink in Davao  

Any traveler would be famished after exploring the many tourist attractions of Davao. Luckily, Davao is a treasure trove of culinary experiences and unique local treats.

Davao is famous for its fresh and high-quality fruits such as Pomelo, Rambutan, Lanzones, and many more. It’s most famous produce, however, is the durian.

The popularity of durian has inspired different flavored delicacies; from durian yema (a sticky sweet made from egg yolk), durian candy, durian Tart, durian Ice Cream, and even durian Cake. A trip to Davao would not be complete without trying these durian flavored treats.

Another Davao specialty is the world-famous Malagos Chocolate. Malagos Chocolates are made from premium single-origin cacao grown on the farms in the foothills of Mount Talomo in Davao City.

Because Malagos Chocolates are made from cacao that is sourced from only one region, it has a more distinct and pronounced taste. Be sure to sample Malagos Chocolate products when you visit Davao City.

Davao does not run short of restaurants. From Visayan cuisine, Filipino street food, Chinese cuisine, to Halal restaurants, you have plenty to choose from. Here are some of the recommended places to dine and drink in Davao.

If you’re looking for sumptuous home-cooked meals and mouthwatering desserts, drop by Lachi’s. Davao’s Lachi’s is a family-run restaurant in Downtown Davao.

This restaurant initially made its name selling delicious desserts, but you can also get hearty meals in this rustic restaurant. When you’re at Lachi’s be sure to try their famous Durian cheesecake and carrot cake!

Roxas Night Market 

There is no better place to experience authentic Filipino street food in Davao than at the Roxas Night Market. Here you can taste different cuisines that Davao has to offer; it the ultimate food trip destination in the city.

You can find several stalls that serve barbecue,  home-cooked and grilled fresh seafood, veggies, meat, and many more. Roxas Night Market is also a great place to hang out, mingle with locals, and enjoy a cold drink.

The Vegan Dinosaur

Another highly recommended restaurant in Davao is a vegan joint called the Vegan Dinosaur. If you’re vegan or into vegan cuisine, this is your go-to place.

Try out their nourish bowls and delicious salads such as Tofu Barbeque and Corn and Tofu Buddha Bowl. They also have soy-free food such as Spicy Cheese Open Toasties and Cheese Melt Tortilla Chips.

Rebecca’s Halal BBQ and Restaurant

Davao is home to thousands of Muslim families. Thus, there is no shortage of Muslim-friendly restaurants in the city. Whether you are Muslim or craving for Halal cuisine, try Rebecca’s Halal Barbecue and Restaurant.

It is one of the top recommended Halal joints in Davao. Rebecca’s is a veritable local favorite when it comes to halal barbecue.

Chef Lu’s Restaurant

If you’re craving for Chinese cuisine, Chef Lu’s Restaurant comes highly recommended. Chef Lu’s Restaurant serves wok-cooked Chinese dishes. They also offer traditional dishes prepared with a modern twist.

Aside from Chinese cuisine, Chef Lu’s also has a full-service sushi bar that also serves cocktail drinks and beer. What you shouldn’t miss out in Chef Lu’s should be their authentic Szechuan cuisine experience.

Kusina sa Subli

If you want to experience Filpino comfort food and fresh seafood, make a beeline for Kusina sa Subli. This restaurant serves home-cooked type meals and offers boodle feasts as well.

However, their most popular dish is the Southside Burger and Pakfry. Kusina sa Subli is also known for its grilled seafood, so try their Grilled Tuna Belly when you get the chance.

For a hassle-free and convenient trip to Davao, it's essential to read up on useful tips. These will come in handy if it's your first time in Davao

Major establishments in Davao accept payments in Philippine Peso (PHP). There are several ATMs and money changers in Downtown Davao. However, there are only a few in Samal Island.

So be sure to withdraw more than enough cash and have your currencies changed while in Davao City proper.  ATMs are available in most establishments, such as malls and convenience stores. However, not all establishments may accept credit card payments.

If you're in Davao and you want to address a local, expect an answer in either Cebuano, Tagalog, or English. Most locals understand English well, so don't be afraid to ask questions or directions. Say hi/hello first when approaching them to establish a friendly tone. Who knows? You might earn a new friend in the process.

Day 1: Davao Sightseeing 

09:00 AM - ETD from NAIA in Manila

10:00 AM - ETA at Davao International Airport

10:30 AM - Check-in at the hotel, unpack and relax 

12:00 NN - Lunch at Lachi’s

01:00 PM - Visit the Eden Nature Park ; join the guided shuttle tour and try the skyrider, skycycle, and the sky swing. 

04:00 PM - Visit the Philippine Eagle Center

06:30 PM - Chill at the hotel

07:00 PM Onwards - Dinner at the Roxas Night Market

07:00 AM - Breakfast 

08:00 AM  - Depart from Davao City and start of Samal Island-Hopping Tour : Malipano Island, Diaz Island, Taklobo Sanctuary, Dela Paz Island, and Starfish Sanctuary

12:00 NN - Lunch on board

01:00 PM - Snorkelling in the Samal Coral Garden

03:00 PM - Head back to Davao City  

05:00 PM - Arrival at Hotel

06:00 PM - Dinner at Chef Lu’s Restaurant

Day 3:  Davao City Sightseeing + Departure

09:00 AM - Check out the Malagos Chocolate Museum

11:00 AM -  Continue Davao sightseeing tour ; Kadayawan Village

12:00 NN - Lunch at Kusina sa Subli

01:30 PM - Head to Davao International Airport

Start Planning Your Davao Trip Now!

Pack your bags and plan that Davao trip. Find Davao tours and activities that you can add to your itinerary for a hassle-free adventure. 

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1 Yellow Fin Seafood Restaurant

2 Claude's Le Cafe de Ville

3 Davao Dencia's Restaurant

4 lachi's, 5 luz kinilaw inihaw place.

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6 Balik Bukid Farm & Kitchen

7 sea green cafe + boutique rooms, 9 jack's ridge, 10 cafe tavera, 11 ellen's tuna queen, 12 penong's calinan, 13 al-sultan halal restaurant., 14 lachis sansrival atbp, 15 malagos garden resort.

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16 Matina Town Square

17 roxas night market, 18 de bonte koe european bar and restaurant, 19 hukad sa golden cowrie, 20 the vegan dinosaur, 21 the white house, 22 italiannis, 23 gerry's sm lanang (gerry's grill), 24 bigby's, 25 blackbeard seafood island grill.

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26 Yellow Cab Pizza Co.

27 chowking, 28 boy zugba, 29 the coffee bean & tea leaf, 30 chicken bonchon, 31 lugang cafe davao, 32 marinatuna, 33 mcdonald's spmc davao, 34 pepper lunch - g mall, 35 jollibee.

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36 Woorijib Davao City

37 krispy kreme, 38 armynavy burger + burrito, 39 shakey's pizza parlor, 40 starbucks, 41 bo's coffee, 42 goldilocks, 43 taters abreeza mall, 44 red ribbon, 45 max restaurant.

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46 Pancake House

47 teriyaki boy, 48 jollibee, 49 cecils snack inn & bakeshoppe, top searches in davao city, popular road trips from davao city, what's the weather like in davao city.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Davao City for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Davao City in January
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• Davao City to Cebu City drive
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Davao Food Trip: 5 Restaurants Worth Traveling For

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Davao Food Trips

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Best Restaurants in Davao City, Philippines

Restaurants in davao city, establishment type, online options, traveler rating, dietary restrictions, restaurant features.

• De Bonte Koe European Bar and Restaurant
• Penong's Barbeque Seafoods and Grill
• Madayaw Cafe
• Marina Tuna
• Tong Yang, SM Davao Ecoland
• Benjarong Bar and Restaurant Davao
• Waling Waling Cafe - Acacia Hotel Davao
• Caitlyn's Dumpling Bar
• Cecil's Snack Inn and Bakeshop

Top Davao Foods

by Ihra | Jun 23, 2023 | Davao , Food , Itineraries

Tasting food from different places is like knowing their culture in its deepest form. What they served on the table describes their lifestyle and the environment they belong to. Exploring Davao Foods is just that!

Most of Davaoeño’s dishes are easy to cook and not as complicated as any other dishes. It is because this place serves as a trading spot in Mindanao, some people are too busy to spend hours in the kitchen, they said. Local people tend to cook foods that can be served easily without any complications. They also loved to experiment and combined two different dishes to make them their own. This goes to show how creative Davaoeño is when it comes to their cooking techniques!

So if you’re looking for food to eat while you are in this beautiful province, you are in the right place! Keep on scrolling and prepare to crave for their mouthwatering Davao dishes!

Key Takeaways

Davaoeño’s taste buds are very diverse. They have seafood dishes, meat, vegetables, and even finger foods for special occasions. Here are some of the foods that you should try when you visit the province:

Cacao and Chocolate

• Chicken Binako l

Grilled Squid

Image Source: Authentic Food Quest

Davao is not just famous for its beautiful islands and tourist spots, it is also famous for having delicious dishes and goodies. In fact, Davao is dubbed as the Durian Capital Of The Philippines because of producing different goodies out of their famous fruit– Durian.

Many Filipinos would agree that eating Durian is not for the weak. It takes a lot of courage to swallow its slimy texture. It also produces a not-so-pleasant smell that people couldn’t take! But on the contrary, it still depends on who is eating it, because some find it very delicious and can eat it as a raw fruit! But nonetheless, Davañoes are very considerate and try to produce snacks and desserts that will suit your preferences!

If you love candies, they have Durian Candy for you. If you love tarts, they also have a Durian version of it. They also have Durian Ice Cream and Durian Cookies! You will eventually forget the smell of the King of Fruits of Davao because they offer lots of goodies with it as the main flavor. And there are many more local goodies out of this famous fruit that you should try. Be sure to have a taste of any of those and buy some for your family as pasalubong!

Image Source: Esquire Philippines

Aside from Durian, Davao is also known as the Chocolate Capital of the Philippines! This is where 80% of Cacao came from. They also exported and distributed to other countries, making the Philippines known for having delicious Chocolates and Cacao beans. Infact, Malagos Chocolate, the well-known Cacao Farm in Davao, has now 56 international awards in total! A very well-deserved recognition because they are serving high-quality beans from scratch! You can taste the hard work of their workers in every bite of your Chocolates. They are known for producing Tree-to-Bar Chocolates.

When you visit the province you can try visiting their Chocolate Museum, which is also included in my Davao Tourist Spots blog . You can make your own Chocolate there or buy some Chocolate goodies from their store. But if you have no plans on going to Malagos, you can still have a taste of their Chocolate Products because it is available in Davao’s local markets and pasalubong centers. Be sure to drop by and buy as many as you can!

Image Source: The Kitchn

Now, let’s go on with some of the Davao Foods that are great in pairing with rice! First, we have the Kinilaw! If you are a sour-lover and eat everything with vinegar, then this food is definitely for you!

Kiniliw is one of the common dishes served in every Davao household. It is easy and does not take too much time to prepare. Yes, PREPARE because this dish doesn’t need fire to cook! A unique soured-fish dish that you will surely enjoy! You can pair it with rice or eat it as your pulutan while drinking your favorite alcohol. When you visit Davao, be sure to explore the place and find restaurants that serve this dish.

But if you want to try doing it on your own. You can definitely do so! Bring Davao Foods to your home by following these simple steps.

#ExodoersRecipe

Kinilaw Davao

• First, cut a raw fish into small chunks. Preferably Tuna. Clean using 1 cup of vinegar and drain afterward.
• In a glass bowl, put ginger, onion, lime juice, or calamansi juice and ½ cup of vinegar. Mix it together then add the fish chunks.
• Put seasonings based on your liking. You can add salt, chili for added spice, and ground pepper.
• Cover the glass bowl with plastic and chill it in the refrigerator for 1 hour. Then serve and enjoy!

Image Source: Ang Sarap

This next dish is like the level up of Kinilaw, Sinuglaw is the combination of Sinugbang Baboy (or Liempong baboy in local terms) and Kinilaw. The sour taste of Kinilaw and the grilled and tender taste of Sinugba will definitely make your mouth watery! They also added cucumber to make it more fresh. You can pair it with a bowl of rice or make it your pulutan.

We can say that Davaoñeos love Kinilaw so much because they make an upgraded version of it! Well, they love it for a reason. So don’t miss your chance and taste it on your own. Try Sinuglaw when you visit Davao!

If you are a vegetable lover or a vegetarian by heart, this next dish is created just for the people like you!

Law-Uy or also known as Utan Bisaya is a vegetable dish from the Visayas Region, that was also adopted in Davao. This food is very easy to cook and only includes boiling techniques. You can find this dish in any local restaurant or carinderia in Davao. You can pair it with white rice and some fried fish as the main dish. Having healthy dishes, just like Law-Uy, becomes famous in Davao as many locals love farming and eating vegetables. Eating this dish is like knowing the lifestyle of many local Davañoes and tasting their usual meal in their everyday life.

Image Source: Foreign Affair

Prepare your tummy because this next dish will surely make you crave for it!

Adobo is the favorite food of every Filipino, yes I’m generalizing, because who isn’t? In fact, it is also one of the famous dishes to cook in every Filipino household. But in Davao, they have this food called Kalderobo, it is a combination of Adobo and Kalderata! Yes, you read it right, Adobo and Kalderata in one! It is like a dream dish to try and enjoy with your newly cooked white rice. Your tummy will surely burst from eating it non-stop.

In terms of cooking, this dish is a bit complicated and takes a lot of time to prepare. Because it is a combination of two dishes, you will literally need to cook Adobo first before making that Adobo into Kaldereta. It is a continuous process of cooking two dishes. But all the hard work will be paid off because the meat becomes extra tasty! You can really taste the flavor of Adobo and Kaldereta combined. If you visit Davao it is a must to try this dish. No more reasons, just go and have a dig of it!

Chicken Binakol

This next dish is not originated in Davao but because they love the dish so much locals consider it as their own, this dish is Chicken Binakol!

Chicken Binakol is like the famous Tinola, you can familiarize it because of the same ingredients as Sayote and Chili leaves. But what makes it unique is the presence of Coconut Juice and Coconut meat! Yes, your fresh buko can also be a dish. It is a unique food experience to try on! A hot bowl of Chicken Binakol is perfect to pair with hot white rice! Perfect for the rainy season just like now.

When you visit Davao, try finding this dish in any of their restaurants! But if you want to try cooking it on your own, we have this step-by-step recipe for you!

Chicken Binakol Davao

• In a hot pan, sautee ginger, garlic, and onion. Sautee for a minute until it becomes translucent. Add Chicken meat and season it with ground pepper and fish sauce. Cover and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
• After that, add Coconut juice, lemongrass, and Sayote. Mix it together and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
• After 5 minutes, add the Coconut meat and green chili. Let it simmer again for 5 minutes then add chili leaves.
• Let it cook. You can season it with salt if the taste is still not enough for your liking. After that, you can now serve it and enjoy it!

Image Source: RedDoorz

Davao is an island that is surrounded by bodies of water, and our next dish is one of the advantages of living in this kind of place. Having seafood available for the locals, they created this wonderful dish called Imbaw.

Imbaw is a Clamp Soup perfect for the rainy season. Sipping the hot soap with the taste of clamps makes it more perfect. It is also easy to cook and only includes sauteing and boiling the ingredients. Preparing it will only take at least 30 minutes. You can pair it with rice or eat it as a soup. It depends on your diet. There is no right or wrong in eating this dish. Taste the beauty of Davao and its natural resources by trying this delicious food!

Image Source: Lutong Pinoy Recipe

Davao is indeed rich in seafood so this next food is another seafood to try on– the Grilled Squid!

Just by the look of it, especially paired with soy sauce and chili, you can say that it is perfect in every Inuman . You can pair it with rice but definitely better without it. It is grilled with its very own barbeque sauce and some seasonings. Tasty and delicious that you can enjoy! Closing your eyes while eating is a must!

You can try it anywhere, but eating it in front of the beautiful island of Davao is a different experience. If you visit one of their beaches, be sure to order Grilled Squid and try it on your own!

Image Source: Escape Manila

Our last Davao Food is Pakfry. Yes, another combination of food that you should try. Obviously, Davañeos loves to level up some cuisines and combine different dishes with one another.

Pakfry means Fried Paksiw. You will literally cook Paksiw and then fry it to create a more unique dish. Locals love to pair it with a bowl of rice and some dipping sauce. It is perfect if you love fried food! Try Pakfry when you visit Davao, they have this food place called The Pakfry King, you can visit that place to get the perfect experience you are aiming for. But if you want to learn how to cook it on your own, we have prepared an easy guide just for you!

Pakfry Davao

• In a pan, put the tuna fish, ginger, garlic, onion, and 1 cup of vinegar. Simmer it until the fish is well-cooked. This is a process of cooking Paksiw.
• Next, after the Paksiw is cooked, remove the Tuna Fish and drench it into the fried seasonings and breading.
• Deep fry it in hot cooking oil until it becomes golden brown. After that, Pakfry is ready to serve!

And these are the Davao Foods that you should try when you visit the province! If you want to have a glimpse of the culture of Davaoeño, get a taste of their famous local dishes and you will surely understand their culture even more! Enjoy your vacation and make sure that your tummy is well-fed!

The First-Timer’s Travel Guide to Davao City, Philippines

Posted on Last updated: April 17, 2024

EDITOR’S NOTE: Please be advised that this Davao travel guide hasn’t been updated in 2024. Prices and travel guidelines may no longer be accurate so it’s important that you verify any information before proceeding.

Mention “Rodrigo Duterte” to any Filipino and you’re guaranteed to get one of two reactions – fierce adulation or bitter disgust. Without question, he is a polarizing figure. Ever since he won the Philippine presidency, there seems to be no middle ground when it comes to how people feel about him.

But regardless of where you stand with this man, one thing isn’t in question – the city which he governed as mayor for 22 years is one of the country’s best and most progressive. We had heard many good things about Davao before our trip and it was nice to find that all of it seemed true. The city was indeed cleaner than Manila and it felt safe to walk around. What struck me most was how the pawnshops in Davao looked more like retail jewelry shops compared to the mini-fortresses we have in Manila! Davao has the second lowest crime rate in Southeast Asia, behind only Singapore, and the relatively lax security was proof of that.

Most important of all, the citizens of Davao seem to respect President Duterte. Our taxi driver for two days went on and on about him and all the good he’s done for Davao. And it wasn’t out of fear or blind worship either. It sounded more like a child mature enough to understand that all the difficult things his disciplinarian father made him do, were for his own good. We got to experience that first-hand on our trip to Davao and with this guide, we hope you do too.

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GUIDE TABLE OF CONTENTS

Travel restrictions.

Because of the current global situation, travel guidelines have been changing often. Our friends at SafetyWing created a website that lists detailed information on travel restrictions around the globe.

Before doing any serious travel planning, be sure to check the Flatten the Curve website for information on travel restrictions to the Philippines.

Like the rest of the Philippines, Davao is hot, its hottest months being April and May when daytime temperatures frequent the lower 90s. This peak of summer is then followed by the monsoon season from May to October. If you aren’t a fan of such weather extremes, then I suggest avoiding these months. Instead, shoot for December to February . It’s the coolest and driest time of the year.

Festival goers will prefer to visit Davao in August when the annual Kadayawan Festival is held. Be warned that this is the most popular time of the year to visit, with the most number of tourists and the highest prices. Reserving a hotel room months in advance is a must.

HOW TO GET THERE

Located two hours south of Manila, you’ll be arriving at the Francisco Bangoy International Airport. Local airlines with direct flights from Manila are Cebu Pacific , Philippine Airlines , and AirAsia .

From the airport, you can take a taxi to your hotel. Be sure to take a metered taxi because operators offering “set fares” will charge you 2-3 times as much. A taxi from the airport to the city center should run you around PHP 240 , depending on traffic and the location of your hotel. If you’d rather book a private transfer in advance, then you can do so through Klook. Travelers to Samal will be arriving at the airport then taking a ferry to the island. More on that later.

Most travelers will probably fly to Davao but there may be other ways to get there depending on where you are. I suggest checking Bookaway to find route options available to you. You can click on the link or use the widget below.

HOW LONG TO STAY

If you’re the type of traveler who doesn’t like to rush, then I’d say 4 nights in Davao is perfect. It will give you enough time to tour the city and spend a day or two on neighboring Samal Island. With just 3 nights in Davao, we skipped Samal on this trip because I didn’t think we had enough time. I realize in hindsight though that we did. It would have made our trip much more hectic and faster paced, but it is possible. Here’s a 3-night itinerary for travelers with ADHD:

Arrive as early as possible, then go straight to your resort on Samal Island. Spend the rest of the day relaxing on the beach or exploring the island.

Check out at noon, then stay as long as you like before taking a ferry back to the mainland. Check in at your hotel in Davao City.

Hire a car for the whole day. If you start early enough, around 8 AM, then it’s possible to visit Malagos Garden Resort, the Philippine Eagle Center and Eden Nature Park all on the same day. If you want to do the “Sky rides” at Eden Nature Park, then it’s best you visit them in this order:

8-9AM – Drive to Malagos Garden Resort 9-10:30AM – Malagos Garden Resort 10:30-11:30AM – Philippine Eagle Center 11:30AM-12:30PM – Drive to Eden Nature Park 12:30PM-4PM – Eden Nature Park 4-5PM – Drive back to Davao City 5-7PM – Have dinner at Jack’s Ridge

The reason why I suggest doing it like this is because the SkyCycle, SkyCider, and SkySwing rides aren’t available until 1 PM on weekdays (Mon-Thurs). For that reason, it’s best to go to Malagos Garden Resort and the Philippine Eagle Center first. If you can make it to Eden Nature Park by around noon, then that would be perfect since the price of admission comes with lunch. If you go over the weekend (Fri-Sun), then it matters less in which order you visit these places since the aforementioned rides at Eden Nature Park are open from 8AM-12NN and 1-4PM.

You can stay as long as you want in this area before driving back to the city. I suggest having dinner at Jack’s Ridge that same night to make full use of the rental car.

Visit Bankerohan Market and D’ Bone Collector Museum before flying out of Davao.

HOW MUCH MONEY TO BRING

Like most Southeast Asian cities, Davao City is cheap, much cheaper than Manila. Jeepney rides start at PHP 8 and a modest double room should cost around PHP 1,000 a night, less if you’re getting a single. Since many of the attractions are located outside of the city, you can rent a chauffeured car for eight hours for anywhere between PHP 2,000-3,000 depending on the vehicle. If you’ll be sharing a room with someone, then a budget of around PHP 2,500-3,000 a day per person should be plenty. Add a little more if you’ll be spending time on Samal Island since accommodations there will be more expensive.

WHERE TO EXCHANGE CURRENCY

If you don’t already have PHP with you, then the best place to exchange currency is at money changers in shopping malls. You can try Gaisano Mall, Abreeza Mall, or SM Mall. I’ve read that Aldevinco Shopping Center along Claro M. Recto Ave. offers good exchange rates as well. But as much as possible, try changing your money in Manila if possible as you’ll probably get better rates there.

Another thing you can do is withdraw PHP from an ATM. I’m starting to do this more myself when we travel. The rates are good but just make sure to let your bank know before you leave that you’ll be using it abroad. That way you don’t run into any problems. In my experience, it works in some machines but not in others.

WHERE TO STAY: Bahay ni Tuding Inn

I rely on TripAdvisor when it comes to hotels and Bahay ni Tuding had very favorable reviews. It’s about a couple blocks from city hall and is smack dab in the middle of the city’s old commercial center, just a quick jeepney ride away from Bankerohan Market and Gaisano Mall. It’s also about a ten minutes’ walk from D’ Bone Collector Museum.

When I booked our room, the last one they had was the large family room which goes for PHP 2,700 per night. It was nice, but had it been available, we would have been perfectly happy with the compact double for just PHP 1,500. If you’re traveling alone, then their standard single goes for PHP 1,000. All room rates come with free continental breakfast consisting of coffee, toast, jam, and yogurt.

It’s worth noting that another reason why I chose this place is because the owner, Mel, offers a popular Davao food tour . Unfortunately, she was away on holiday during our stay so we weren’t able to do it.

Approximate Room Rate: PHP 1,500 per night for a compact double (as of April 2017)

THINGS TO DO

1. go skycycling at eden nature park.

Located about an hour’s drive from the city center, Eden Nature Park is an 80-hectare mountain resort that’s home to over 100,000 pine trees. Surprisingly, only around 5% of the resort is natural. The rest was replanted in the early 70s in an effort to restore the foliage cleared by illegal logging. An admirable and impressive effort indeed. Highlights include the SkyCycle, SkyRider, SkySwing, horseback riding, fishing, and a 4-km trek through the forest.

Suggested Length of Visit: 3-4 hrs / Admission: PHP 550 (adults) and PHP 350 (kids) with buffet meal, PHP 220 (adults) and PHP 190 (kids) with plated snack

2. Contribute to the Protection of the Philippine Eagle

Located around an hour’s drive from the city center and just down the road from Malagos Garden Resort, the center is home to rescued and captive-bred Philippine Eagles, as well as other birds of prey and a few reptiles and mammals. There’s a nominal entrance fee which goes towards the conservation of these endangered animals. Seeing them up close was pretty awesome. They’re huge!

Suggested Length of Visit: 1-1.5 hrs / Admission: PHP 150 (adults), PHP 100 (kids)

3. Enjoy some of the Philippines’ Best Locally-Produced Cheeses at Malagos Garden Resort

Up the road from the Philippine Eagle Center, Malagos Garden Resort is a 12-hectare nature theme park featuring botanical gardens, a butterfly sanctuary, an aviary, and a petting zoo. But being the gourmands that we are, the main attraction for us was the food. They carry Malagos Farmhouse cheese and chocolates which are arguably the country’s best. They just recently opened a chocolate museum which you may find interesting as well.

Suggested Length of Visit: 2-3 hrs / Admission: PHP 200 Photo borrowed with permission from Dude for Food

4. Become Environmentally Aware at D’ Bone Collector Museum

Founded by an American living in Davao, D’ Bone Collector Museum is an unusual but eye-opening collection of bones from a wide variety of animals. Here you’ll find complete skeletons of dogs, reptiles, horses, ostriches, a tiger, dolphins, even a 41-ft sperm whale. With many of the aquatic animals having died from the consumption of plastics, this museum is a sobering reminder of how our actions can often have a devastating impact on the environment. A must see, especially if you have kids.

Suggested Length of Visit: 1 hr / Admission: PHP 80 (adults), PHP 70 (kids)

5. Enjoy Fresh Durian at Bankerohan Market

Suggested Length of Visit: 1 hr

6. Explore Samal Island

We skipped Samal Island on this trip but beachgoers should make it a point to spend at least one night there. Aside from the beaches, other popular attractions include the Monfort Bat Sanctuary , Hagimit Falls , and the giant water slide at Maxima Aqua Fun . Samal Island is accessible from Davao City via a twenty-minute ferry ride. Follow the link for ferry information to Samal Island .

Photo by aenjeleven via Shutterstock

WHERE TO EAT

Expect to Pay: Around PHP 500 per person with drinks

2. Jack’s Ridge

Expect to Pay: Around PHP 600 per person with drinks

3. Toryano’s Chicken Haus

Expect to Pay: PHP 250 per person with drinks

TRAVEL TIPS

1. rent a pocket wifi device.

No matter where you go in the Philippines, you’ll need a steady wifi connection to make your trip easier and more pleasant. How can you post your #OOTD on social media without it?? You can get a wifi connection by purchasing a sim card or renting a pocket wifi device. I don’t like dealing with the hassle of sim cards so I always rent a pocket wifi device even though it’s more expensive

Whether you’re on team sim card or team pocket wifi, you can book either before your trip so you don’t have to worry about it in the Philippines. Assuming you’ll be landing in Manila before continuing on to Davao, you can pick them up from NAIA airport or have them sent to your hotel in Manila. Follow these links to buy a sim card or rent a pocket wifi device through Klook.

2. Get Travel Insurance

If you’re a foreigner traveling in the Philippines, then I think it’s a good idea to get travel insurance. Fact is, you never know what could happen on a trip. You could get hurt while trekking or riding a motorbike so having insurance will be a godsend.

Personally, we don’t buy insurance before every trip but when we do, we get it from SafetyWing. They’re a popular travel insurance provider used by many digital nomads. Click on the link to get a free quote from SafetyWing .

3. Check for Discount Passes

I enjoy going through online tour providers like Klook before a trip because I often find deals on interesting activities. Whenever I rent a pocket wifi device before a trip, it’s usually through them. They aren’t offering as many deals in Davao yet but it’s still worth a look. Follow the link for a list of Klook deals in Davao .

4. Bring the Right Power Adapter

The Philippines has Type A or Type B electrical outlets so be sure to bring the right power adapters for your devices. Electrical voltage is 220V and the standard frequency is 60Hz.

HOW TO GET AROUND

Jeepney rides start at PHP 8 and take you pretty much anywhere you want to go in the city. If you’ll only be in town for a few days though and don’t want to waste any time getting lost, then I suggest just cabbing it. Taxi fares are reasonable.

As mentioned in the above itinerary, you can rent a chauffeured car for eight hours for anywhere between PHP 2,000-4,000. It’s much pricier than taking public transportation but it’s also a lot faster, convenient, and more comfortable. Plus, you’ll be guaranteed to visit all those places in one day.

You can book a private car charter through Klook. They have one for just Davao City proper and another for the countryside . If you’re interested in visiting Malagos Garden Resort or Eden Nature Park, then that’s the one you want.

I’m not an expert on Davao but I do hope you find this post helpful. I’m only sharing some of the things we learned from our trip. If you have any suggestions, then please feel free to let us know in the comments section below.

Thanks for stopping by and have fun eating durian in Davao!

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Thursday 3rd of December 2020

When this pandemic is over, I will see to it that I will visit Davao's local attractions first. Eat, swim, and travel local is the way to go, soon!

JB & Renée

Thursday 10th of December 2020

Go for it Benny! :)

Jaggy Taggart

Wednesday 9th of September 2020

food trips and malls in davao aren't just the only things you can do there. This is a great guide for that!

Monday 14th of September 2020

Indeed Jaggy! ;)

Friday 24th of July 2020

This is a great list! We have also been to the Malagos Garden Resort and the kids and I found it very fun. The Falconry show really entertained my boys. They were amazed to be up close with different birds of prey. My girl loved making her own chocolate at their Chocolate Museum. It is a great place indeed. Thank you for this guide, will definitely do this again.

Tuesday 28th of July 2020

Happy to hear you enjoyed it Mary! :)

Monday 9th of March 2020

Hello, JB and Renee! I am going to Davao this year and came across this helpful post! I am definitely following every word on this article on my trip to Davao!

Happy and safe travels always!

Thursday 12th of March 2020

You're welcome Sher! Happy and safe travels to you too and enjoy Davao!

Monday 7th of October 2019

Just got here, feel kind of loss, didn't plan in advance. Here for 6 days. Your article was helpful, Thanks a lot!!!!!

Tuesday 8th of October 2019

You're welcome David! Enjoy your time in Davao. :)

Davao City Food Trip: Trying Carabao (Water Buffalo!) Dishes

I’m doing a series on my Davao City food trip until the end of April. Today, I’m writing about an unusual meat that’s popular among locals in the city.

Carabao or Water Buffalos ( Kalabaw in Filipino/Tagalog and Kabaw in Bisaya, the language of the city) have many uses to people. It is the uncomplaining partner of the farmer, helping in agricultural growth that feeds millions of people. It’s milk and hide are also sources of livelihood to many, even uplifting people from poverty to abundance. Needless to say, the kalabaw has greatly benefited the Filipino society.*

But to Davaoeños, the carabao has an additional use: It’s meat**. Carabao meat, also known as Carabeef , is an ingredient in some Davaoeño dishes, which I will feature in this article. I asked a waitress where they source their carabeef and she told me that they get it from Bankerohan Public Market , the city’s most popular market. If they get it from there, then carabeef must be common in Davao, I thought.

So I included carabeef dishes in my Davao Food Trip. Here’s what I tried:

Bulca Chong at Bulca Chong

Yes, the dish and the food spot has the same name!

Bulca Chong (the dish) is truly Davaoeño. Bulca is short for Bulalo , a popular bone-in beef shank soup, and carabao, while Chong is the name (or surname) of the eatery’s owner and master chef. It’s made by boiling carabeef, which is flavored with ginger, green onions, tanglad (lemongrass), and some secret spices. It gets it nice orange color from atsuete or anatto seeds.

Bulca Chong

The al fresco dining area of Bulca Chong

At first, I was concerned that it might be gamey and tough. But to my surprise, there’s no gaminess but only an incredible tenderness. The broth is thick and hearty, with a strong ginger taste (maybe that’s why there’s no gaminess at all). If I didn’t know that it was made with carabeef, I would mistake this dish for a beef stew.

Bulca Chong (P100)

Opened 24 hours, Bulca Chong (the eatery) is the perfect place for drunkards. It’s signature dish, they say, is the perfect hangover cure. I say “they say” because I didn’t try (and have no plans) to get drunk and eat there. LOL.

Address: 18 General Luna St., Poblacion District, Davao City | Operating Hours: Daily, 24 hours | Facebook

Note: I was trying to learn about the history of the eatery. Unfortunately, the resources in the Internet are scarce. So if you know any resource on Bulca Chong, kindly comment it below.

Hinalang and Tapa at Sana’s Original Kabawan & Bulaloan

Sana’s is a humble kabawan (carabao place) in the Boulevard Area. Named after it’s owner, this carinderia (eatery) is famous probably because it’s known to be President Rodrigo Duterte’s favorite eatery. Aside from that, it was graced by foodie heavyweights Sonny Side of the Best Ever Food Review Show and KF Seetoh of Singapore’s Makansutra (Side also featured Bulca Chong). So you know that this place is something.

Sana’s Original Kabawan & Bulaloan

Inside Sana’s

One of Sana’s bestselling dish is their Tapa . Tapa is a dish consisting of strips of marinated then cooked protein, usually beef but some use pork and even deer. It’s marinade is made with soy sauce, calamansi (Philippine lime), and spices. Sana’s version is made with carabeef but fried until it’s reduced to flakes. It is nicely crisp and chewy, with a hint of sourness. This is the President’s favorite dish here and I now understand why.

Tapa (P100)

Another bestseller and presidential favorite is Hinalang . From the Bisaya word “ halang ” which means spicy, this dish is a spicy beef soup or stew. Sana’s version has generous chunks of carabeef swimming in herbal broth, with prominent ginger and lemongrass flavors. It’s nicely paired with a dip made of calamansi and Guinamos (fermented fish sauce). It may be weird to combine carabeef with fermented fish but it works!

Hinalang (P80)

Address: 8 Juan Luna St. Ext., Poblaion District, Davao City | Operating Hours: Monday-Saturday, 6AM-7PM | Facebook

What carabeef dish above have you tried or would like to try? What carabeef dish or kabawan should I try next? Comment them below!

*Laws and government agencies were even created for the development of the carabao. The primary agency tasked to do this is the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) Philippine Carabao Center or PCC . They have written an excellent article which made me profoundly appreciate the beast of burden even more. Read it here .

**Carabeef is also used in the cuisine of other regions. However, I think it’s only in Davao where you have institutions that are famous for their carabeef dishes.

Other entries in the Davao City Food Trip series: Food Experience to Try at the King City of the South | The Night (Market) Crawler Goes to Roxas Night Market | The Ultimate Tuna Experience Part 1 (Kinilaw, Pakfry, and Panga) | The Ultimate Tuna Experience Part 2 (Marina Tuna and Yellow Fin) | My Durian State of Mind