Planning a three-day adventure in Davao City? Buckle up, because you're in for a treat. This itinerary blends nature, food, and relaxation in a way that even your most indecisive friends will approve of. Whether you're an adventure junkie, a food lover, or just someone who enjoys lounging on the beach, Davao has something for you. Let’s dive into the good stuff.
Day 1: Mount Apo adventure
Start your trip with a bang by tackling the highest peak in the Philippines, Mount Apo. You'll feel like a champion, even if you end up panting like a dog halfway up. Set your alarm early—think 5 AM early—because you have a mountain to conquer.
- Morning: Arrive at the jump-off point, which is roughly a 2-hour drive from the city. Grab a hearty breakfast at Ranchero’s—you’ll need the fuel.
- 8 AM: Begin your ascent. Make sure to hire a local guide; getting lost in the jungle is not on anyone’s bucket list.
- 11 AM: Reach the first summit and marvel at the views. Snap that obligatory selfie, because if it’s not on Instagram, did it really happen?
After a few hours of climbing, enjoy a packed lunch. You’ll need energy for the trek back down, and I recommend something easy to carry—sandwiches or trail mix work well. You’ll hit the base around 3 PM, so make sure to stretch those muscles. You might feel like a pretzel, but it’ll be worth it.
- Afternoon: Return to your hotel to freshen up. A quick shower will revive you, and trust me, you’ll need it.
- Evening: Head to Jack's Ridge for dinner. The views of Davao City at night are stunning, and the food isn’t half bad either.
Finish the day with a well-deserved dessert—try the sans rival. It’s a local favorite, and if you don’t have a sweet tooth, you might need to reconsider your life choices.
Day 2: Dive into the food scene
After yesterday's workout, your legs will remind you they exist, but today is all about satisfying your taste buds. Sleep in a bit; you deserve it. Aim to be up around 8 AM.
- Morning: Start your day with a local breakfast at Torres Street. Try the tapsilog; it’s a classic and will keep you full for hours.
- 10 AM: Explore the Davao Crocodile Park. It’s not just about crocs; you’ll see exotic animals and might even get a chance to hold a baby croc—just don’t drop it.
After your animal encounter, it’s time to hit the local markets. Davao is known for its fruits, especially the durian. If you’re brave enough to try it, you’ll either love it or want to run away screaming. Either way, it’s a rite of passage.
- Afternoon: Head to the Roxas Night Market for lunch; it transforms into a food haven in the evening. Sample local street food like grilled seafood, banana cues, and whatever else strikes your fancy.
- 2 PM: Spend the afternoon at People's Park. It’s a great spot to relax and maybe nap under a tree. Just don’t drool on your shirt.
As the sun sets, the night market comes alive. Return for a food crawl. Try everything from kwek-kwek (quail eggs) to halo-halo (a dessert that’s basically a fiesta in a bowl). It’s a culinary adventure you won’t regret.
Day 3: Beach day at Samal Island
Your final day is all about relaxation and fun in the sun. Set your alarm for a leisurely 7 AM wake-up call. You deserve to bask in the glory of doing absolutely nothing.
- Morning: Have breakfast at your hotel and then head to the ferry terminal for a quick boat ride to Samal Island—about 15-30 minutes depending on the boat.
- 9 AM: Arrive at White Sand Beach. Plop your stuff down and claim your spot. Bring a good book or your favorite playlist; you’ll be here for a while.
Once you’ve had enough sun, dive into the clear waters for some snorkeling. You might spot colorful fish and coral reefs. Just remember, flippers don’t make you a mermaid, no matter how hard you try.
- Afternoon: For lunch, try a beachside eatery. Grab some grilled fish and enjoy it with a cold drink while you soak in the views.
- 2 PM: Spend your afternoon exploring more of the island. Consider visiting Hagimit Falls for a refreshing swim. It’s a bit of a trek but worth every step.
Return to the mainland by evening. Treat yourself to a farewell dinner at Vikings for an all-you-can-eat buffet that could feed a small army. You’ll leave feeling like a champion, ready to tackle the world—or at least your next meal.
Three days in Davao City can be a whirlwind of adventure, flavor, and relaxation. It’s a beautiful place where the mountains meet the sea, and the food will leave you dreaming of your next visit. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable trip. Who knows, you might even run into a friendly crocodile that wants to join you for dinner!
