A nature-filled trip to Davao, the Philippines’ third largest city and a popular tourist destination

Davao is located in the southern part of Mindanao Island in the southern Philippines. It is the third largest city in the Philippines, after Metro Manila and Metro Cebu, and serves as the political, economic, and cultural center of the southern Philippines. With both an international airport and seaport, Davao is known for its convenience, safety, and beautiful natural surroundings. For these reasons, it has been recognized by the Philippine Department of Tourism as the "most livable city" in the country. Davao is also famous for its fruit production, particularly durian and pomelo. The climate in Davao is stable throughout the year, with no distinct rainy or dry seasons, making it comfortable to visit anytime. Now, let’s introduce some of Davao’s relaxing and peaceful tourist spots.

1. Eden Nature Park

Eden Nature Park is located about an hour’s drive from the center of Davao City, nestled in the mountains at an altitude of 1,000 meters, surrounded by rich nature. It’s a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts, complete with accommodation facilities. Inside Eden Nature Park, a variety of activities are available, such as horseback riding, an adventure playground, trekking, fishing, and ziplining. There are also herb and flower gardens, and greenhouses for hydroponic vegetables grown without pesticides, where you can take a leisurely tour.
There’s also a guided tour around the park, which you can join to explore by vehicle. At the restaurant inside Eden Nature Park, you can enjoy dishes made with fresh vegetables grown in the park. With its spacious grounds, everyone can find a way to enjoy their time here.

2. Philippine Eagle Centre

Did you know that the Philippine Eagle is the national bird of the Philippines? The Philippine Eagle Centre is dedicated to the conservation of this endangered species. They focus on artificial insemination, breeding, and research to protect and preserve these majestic birds.
In the vast 8.4-hectare area, you can also encounter other protected animals like monkeys, owls, and crocodiles.
At the visitor’s lounge, you can get a map of the entire center or request a guide to assist you. Although it’s located away from downtown Davao, it’s well worth the visit to see the rare Philippine Eagle and to learn about the importance of nature conservation. Be sure to stop by!

3. People’s Park

People's Park is a public park located in the heart of Davao City. It’s a popular spot both as a tourist destination and as a place of relaxation for the people of Davao. Inside the park, you’ll find more than 1,000 species of plants from Southeast Asia, Australia, Africa, and South America, making it a nature-rich park.
It opened in 2007, making it a relatively new park. There’s a large statue of the Philippine Eagle, the national bird of the Philippines, as well as many statues of Davao’s people throughout the park. Perhaps this is why it’s called “People’s Park.”
There are also playgrounds for children, ponds, and fountains, making it a great place for a leisurely walk. At night, the park is beautifully lit up, attracting many local residents.

4. D' Bone Collector Museum

D' Bone Collector Museum is the first museum of its kind in the Philippines, and it’s believed to be quite rare worldwide. Opened in 2012, the museum focuses on the theme of “bones.” When it first opened, it displayed only 150 exhibits, but now it features over 700 bones from various animals and marine creatures.
The museum director, Darrell Dean Blatchley, is an American who has been fascinated with bones since he was young. His passion eventually led him to establish this museum in Davao.
Upon entering, an English-speaking guide will give you a detailed explanation of the exhibits. The most impressive displays include the huge skeletons of a sperm whale and a grizzly bear. Among the animals displayed here, some died because of human interference in nature. It’s said that plastic bags, plastic wrap, and bottles of alcohol were found inside their stomachs. Because of this, the director and his staff are actively working to raise awareness and help prevent such incidents from happening again.

5. Abreeza Mall

Abreeza Mall is a shopping mall that opened in May 2011. It’s so spacious that it’s hard to explore everything in just one day.
Inside Abreeza Mall, you’ll find familiar shops and restaurants, a cinema, fast food chains, and even convenience stores. There’s also a money exchange counter, so you don’t need to worry if you forget to exchange your money elsewhere.
In addition, Abreeza Mall features an open-air event space with a spacious atmosphere, where various events are regularly held.

6. Crocodile Park

Davao’s Crocodile Park is known as one of the largest crocodile parks in the Philippines, attracting many tourists. The park has three ponds where over 1,000 crocodiles are raised. Most of them are saltwater crocodiles imported from America, while about 10% are freshwater crocodiles native to the Philippines.
Aside from crocodiles, you can also observe the Philippine Eagle (the country’s national bird), giant tortoises, other native animals and plants, and butterflies. You can even witness the thrilling crocodile feeding shows. Visitors can also take photos with a giant python—why not give it a try? Uniquely, they also sell crocodile meat and crocodile steak for those curious to try.

7. Matina Town Square

Matina Town Square is considered one of Davao’s main hubs for food, entertainment, art, and culture.
Known as "MTS," it’s home to many bars, restaurants, and cafes, making it a popular hangout spot for Davao’s youth. On weekends, local live bands perform, and music lovers gather to enjoy lively evenings.
There’s also a playground for kids and a mini garden with benches where people can relax. Matina Town Square is open from 8 AM to 2 AM.

9. SM Lanang Premier

SM Lanang Premier is a relatively new shopping mall that opened in 2012. It is one of the largest malls in Davao City, with a clean and well-maintained interior. It offers a wide range of shops and dining options, making it a pleasant place even for Japanese visitors.
The mall has levels from the basement up to the third floor, a large parking area, and an integrated bank. For women, there are nail salons and eyelash extension services available.
For those who enjoy visiting local supermarkets when traveling abroad, SM Lanang Premier also has a large supermarket. It’s so spacious that it might take an entire day to explore! But even if you’re just browsing, SM Lanang Premier is a fun place to visit, so it’s a good idea to set aside enough time when you go.

10. Aldevinco Shopping Center

Aldevinco Shopping Center is one of the most famous shopping destinations in Davao, with more than 150 souvenir shops tightly packed together. Walking through it feels like navigating a maze!
There are also money changers inside, so you don’t have to worry if you forgot to exchange your money elsewhere. You’ll find colorful tropical-printed shirts, dresses, accessories, and products made from abaca (Manila hemp), making this a fun tourist spot even if you’re just browsing.
It’s located right in front of the Marco Polo Hotel, which is considered a landmark in Davao, so it’s easy to find.

11. Mount Apo

Mount Apo means “ancestor” in Japanese and is located southwest of Davao. It is the highest volcano in the Philippines, standing tall at 2,954 meters. Positioned between Davao City and Cotabato Province, it attracts climbers from all over the world as one of the Philippines’ top mountaineering spots.
The area around Mount Apo is home to lakes, waterfalls, caves, and rapids, along with an abundance of wild plants. It has been designated as a national park in the Philippines. Additionally, the "Mount Apo Super Banana 800," cultivated at an altitude of 800 meters, has gained popularity in Japan for its sweetness and quality. Many people in Japan have become fans of this premium banana.
Mount Apo is also home to the Philippine Eagle, the country’s national bird. In fact, more than 270 species of birds are said to inhabit the area. Despite its high altitude, Mount Apo doesn’t experience snowfall, but its relatively cool climate makes it an ideal home for tropical birds.

◎ Summary

How was it? Davao is one of the safest places in the Philippines, with many areas where you can encounter nature and animals. Because there are also many tourists, you’ll often find guided tours with detailed explanations and well-maintained facilities—something that makes it a pleasant destination, even for Japanese visitors.
It’s also fun to explore Davao’s history and traditional culture, visit places where young people gather, and discover what’s trending in the city. Since many Filipinos speak English, Davao is also an ideal place to practice and improve your English skills.
Why not consider staying in Davao for a bit longer, enjoy a relaxing vacation surrounded by nature, and perhaps master English along the way?

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A nature-filled trip to Davao, the Philippines’ third largest city and a popular tourist destination