DAVAO City is known as the Crown Jewel of Mindanao. It is the third largest metropolitan area in the Philippines, famous for its picturesque natural attractions that can be easily reached from the city proper, just hours of travel from the airport.
If you wish to experience Davao City in a new normal way of travel, just make sure to follow the local government’s guidelines in limiting the spread of Covid-19 which is available at the Davao City Tourism Facebook Page pinned post.
Here are five easy get away and must-see places to visit in Davao City: Experience Eden. A man-made attraction nested about 3,000 feet above sea level, Eden Nature Park is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and to let yourself be soaked with fresh air. Your eyes will surely feast on their green-spiration flora and fauna.
Eden Nature Park also offers a delicious gourmet feast at very reasonable prices They offer a safe and enjoyable experience while dining with a perfect view.
Staycation is an ideal way of a new normal vacation, and just recently the Department of Tourism granted them a Safety Seal, so you don’t have to worry about safety standards, not to mention that 98 percent of their staff are fully vaccinated.
Experience Gap Farm. A captivating rustic farm orchard, just about 15-minute drive from the downtown area, GAP Farm is filled with various fruit bearing trees. It is also a perfect place for educational tours where you can see statues of our national heroes, life-size statues representing different tribes of Mindanao, statues of the Philippines’ mythical folklore creatures, animals, and the most famous Philippine folklore creature, Juan Tamad. An old-World War II Japanese carved tunnel can also be experienced there, along with a huge swimming pool.
Experience Marilog. Described as “Little Baguio” because of the area’s cool weather with a spectacular ambiance, Marilog District offers a lot of choices from luxury to affordable price -- a perfect place for nature and adventure lovers. You will surely be mesmerized with its natural wonders from crystal clear rivers, springs, waterfalls, and an overlooking view where you can witness the sea of cloud forming every morning served with breakfast.
Experience Jack’s Ridge. A former headquarters of the retreating Japanese forces towards the end of World War II, Jack’s Ridge is perfect for those who love to see the historical side of Davao City. A lot of remains from the war like bullets and other war materials were discovered there. Even a crashed Japanese Aircraft sitting on its elevated forest can be seen slightly up above while you enjoy yourself in their pool area. It is still believed that there are treasures such as gold bullions that the Japanese had taken from other countries and brought to Davao. Legend says it’s still there.
Aside from its historical importance Jack’s Ridge also offers a great experience to diners. Its restaurant called “Taclobo” is a perfect spot in Davao City to witness the overlooking view of Davao Gulf which is much appreciated at nighttime.
Experience Samal Island. Just two kilometers away from Davao City via ferry ride, this island is blessed with pristine beaches with an amazing underwater world through scuba diving, and some water adventure. Aside from its beautiful beaches you can also enjoy hiking at Mt. Puting Bato, standing at 1,755 feet where you can see a panoramic view of the island. There is also a waterfall sitting in the island with a series of cascades ranging from three to seven feet deep forming a natural swimming pool at the Hagimit falls. That’s why it has always been the favorite tourist destination of those living in Davao City.
As of February 23, 2021 there are about 50 resorts that are allowed to operate on Samal Island that passed the staycation certificate of the Department of Tourism (DOT). You can choose from luxury to budget-friendly resorts. Just make sure to get a tourist QR Code in Samal Island before entering, just contact your desired resort for assistance.