Davao is arguably one of the environmentally-friendly cities in the region and a great jump-off point to all the natural wonders surrounding the city.
Compiled by: Ari Fajar
Here are some of the green places where you can go to for a day trip from Davao City:
Return to Eden
A place where you can actually say “I am taking a walk in the garden of Eden”
If the tropical heat becomes unbearable for you, then head to Eden Nature Park & Resort. Here the fresh air sweeps through 80 hectares of manmade forest interspersed with beautiful gardens where you can take it easy.
HOW TO GET THERE:
Francisco Bangoy International Airport (approx. 1 hr 20 mins by taxi, approx. PHP1000) → Eden Nature Park & Resort
OR
Downtown Davao City (approx. 1 hr by jeepney, approx. PHP20) → Toril (get off at Mercury Drugstore)
Toril (approx. 45 mins by habal-habal, approx. PHP80) → Eden Nature Park & Resort
Try out the skycycle for a rush of adrenaline
You will have the choice between two Day Tour packages at the park: Buffet Lunch (Adult PHP550, Child 4-10 years old PHP350) or Plated Snacks (Adult PHP220, Child 4-10 years old PHP190). Both packages let you freely roam the park by foot. If you’re not in the mood for walking, you can take the Tour Shuttle (PHP120) which goes on a loop around the area. There are a number of activities available:
- Skyrider (zip line) – PHP150
- Skycycle (tight rope bike) – PHP200
- Horseback riding – PHP85
- Fishing – PHP40
- Swimming – Adult PHP80, Child PHP55
Lumadnong Tambal, a traditional herb garden typical to Mindanao Island, where Davao is located
If you want to spend a night or two surrounded by nature, the resort offers various lodging options, from mountain villas to family cottages, with prices ranging from PHP3,938 to PHP12,600.
Tip: Don’t forget to visit the Flower Garden and Spice Garden where you can spy a wonderful view of Davao City and even all the way to Samal Island!
SEE ALSO: Plan Your Own Boracay Adventure!
Go Eagles!
The Philippine Eagle is highly adept at snatching monkeys from trees, which explains its other name, Monkey-eating Eagle
Do you know that the Philippine eagle is the largest eagle in the world in terms of length and wing span? Or that it is monogamous, remaining loyal to its mate for the rest of its life? Learn these and so much more when you visit the award-winning Philippine Eagle Center. Aside from the majestic Philippine eagle, you will also be able to get up close with other eagle species. Think taking a selfie with an eagle perched on your arm.
HOW TO GET THERE:
Annil Terminal (approx. 1 hour by bus, approx. PHP50) → Calinan
Calinan (approx. 10 minutes by habal-habal, approx. PHP50) → Philippine Eagle Center
Life as a celebrity eagle is hard, what with all the fans wanting to take their selfies with me
Entrance fees for the centre are PHP50 for adults and PHP30 for children under 18 years old, plus the entrance fees that you need to pay upon entering Davao City Water District (Adult PHP5, Child PHP3).
Tip: Small insects flying around the centre like to fly into your eyes. They are not dangerous, but irritating. Wear something to protect your eyes, maybe sunglasses or even goggles (if you don’t mind being stared at).
SEE ALSO: What’s in Metro Manila? 13 Things You Need to Know
Island in the Sun
The famed Pearl Farm Resort
Access to Samal Island from Davao is convenient, making the island a favourite spot to have a fun day at the beach. Although famed for its resorts, Samal is also a great place to convene with nature. Visitors can go to the falls (Hagimit, Tagbaobo, Sampao), snorkel around a giant clam sanctuary (Tridacna/Taklobo), dive the deep seas between the islands (Talikud, Ligid), explore the caves (Kimoko, Mangongawong, Simbahang Dako), meet the millions of Geoffrey Rousette bats at the Monfort Bat Conservation, hike Mount Puting Bato and other activities that the island has to offer.
HOW TO GET THERE:
Francisco Bangoy International Airport (15 mins taxi, approx. PHP150) → Sasa Barge Wharf
Sasa Barge Wharf (10 mins by ferry, PHP10) → Babak, Samal Island
Tip: The ferry boat service is available 24 hours round the clock.
HOW TO GET TO DAVAO: AirAsia flies direct to Davao from Manila and Cebu.
Search for flights, manage your booking and check-in on the go with the AirAsia mobile app. Download it now! airasia.com/apps
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