Davao: Adventurism at its Finest

Words and photos by Katherine C. Eustaquio
Published in Action & Fitness Magazine May 2009 issue

Ahh…Davao! The land of extremes. By that I mean Davao is both a buzzing metropolis and a tropical paradise. With its amazing waterfalls, majestic beaches, world-famous zip lines, and first-class accommodations, this typhoon-free province is a cultural haven and a favored adventure spot by locals and foreigners alike. So if you’re itching for a getaway this summer, fly to Davao and experience a different kind of adventure and relaxation.

It all started with one man’s fascination to saltwater and freshwater crocodiles. In November 1995, Philip Dizon was given the permit to operate the first Davao Crocodile Park. After much success in planning with the help of his consultant Dr. Gilbert Buenviaje, the world-class Davao Crocodile Park was opened on August 18, 2006.

(right) King reptile: The saltwater crocodile, the biggest of all living crocodiles, can be found in Southeast Asia and Northern Australia.

(upper right) Toddler turtle: A baby turtle pops its head out of the shell for a better picture.

(lower right) Big Cat: Solitary and territorial, the tiger is one of the world’s four “big cats”. This domesticated Bengal Tiger found in the Davao Crocodile Park is a common subspecies of the Panthera genus.

Whether you’re an extreme sports enthusiast or a nature lover, you will surely get your adrenaline fix from the 13-kilometer of white water rafting adventure at the Davao River. Gear up set your boat, and prepare to paddle for the ride your life.

Suit up: Wear light clothes and footwear that you wouldn’t mind getting wet. Safety vest and helmet will be provided as well as a locker wherein you can stash your things before heading to the rafting area.

Rafting photos provided by Iona Santos of the Department of Tourism.

“Pamulaan” is a Lumad-Matigsalog word which means “seedbed”. The Pamulaan Center for Indigenous People’s Education is the first IP school in the Asia. Its main objective is to provide an adequate and culturally rooted way for the training and transformation of indigenous people to help them be more effective in their own communities.

(top) A Call of Hope: A native sounds a local trumpet at the entrance of the Living Heritage.

(left) A campus inside a campus: The Pamulaan Center is located at the University of Southeastern Philippines in Mintal Campus, Davao City.

A trip to Davao wouldn’t compete without paying a visit to the Philippine Eagle Center (PEC) located at the foothills of Mount Apo in Malagos, Baguio District.

The Philippine Eagle is the largest in the world and is the king of the Philippine rainforests. The majestic bird of prey takes refuge at the PEC until it’s strong and able to retreat to its natural habitat.

Primarily a research facility for the preservation of the Philippine eagles, the PEC has become a famous tourist attraction in Davao, giving both locals and foreigners the chance to see the King of the Philippine Forest.

The Philippine Eagle develops a unique attachment to their mates. Some, however, develop a strong bond to their caretakers. By nature, they are most ready to attack whenever they feel their territory, mate, or food is threatened.

(top) Lunch Break: A Philippine Eagle eats its lunch in peace.

(bottom) Nature trip: The PEC allows visitors to enjoy the beauty of the Philippine rainforest and the wildlife it holds.

Ultimate High: Zip line at Camp Sabros

Camp Sabros—short for Sacdalan Brothers—is home to an 820-meter zip line, the longest in Asia (there are two other zip lines here at 380m and 400m). Located in Kapatagan, Digos City, Davao del Sur, it is a good two-hour drive from Davao City. From the check-point, guest can take horses, motorbikes, or 4x4 vehicles to reach the zip line area. But for those who want to stretch their muscles after the long drive, the zip line area is a good 20 to 30-minute hike from the check point, giving you a chance to marvel at the breathtaking view of Mount Apo.

Welcome, adventurers! What started as the Sacdalan Brothers’ rest house in the cool highlands of Kapatagan turned out to be the home of Asia’s longest zip line.

Zipped! The author (left) trying out the 380m zip line.

Photo courtesy of Rudy Liwanag.

One of Davao’s most renowned tourist attractions is the Pearl Farm Beach Resort in the Samal Group of Islands. These islands are blessed with white sand beaches, rock formations, marine wild life, coconut palm trees, and exotic plants.

The beach resort was once a pearl farm where white-lipped oysters are bred for the divine white, gold, and pink pearls they produce.

Getting there. The Pearl Farm Beach Resort is 40 minutes away from the mainland. Guests can take a boat ride from the Davao Marina Wharf.

Peaceful setting. The resort’s cottages are patterned after the trial houses of the Samal tribes in the Sulu archipelago. Guests can also take refuge in bigger cottages. A conference room is available for functions as well as a game room.

Flying to Davao and experience all the wonders it has to offer is one thing. Getting a taste of the city and taking pieces of it home with you is another. Davao is famous for its luscious pomelo and tasty durian.

In Southeast Asia, durian is considered the King of Fruits. The husk is thick and spiky, protecting the succulent, creamy flesh inside that emits a slightly off odor even when the husk is intact. Some people regard the smelly fruit as fragrant while others find it disgusting. Despite the debate, the durian is a delicacy in Davao.

Taking it home can be a chore since the fruit can grow up to 12 inches long and is quite heavy, too. The best way to take it home is to buy it frozen and ready to eat. They come in plastic containers that are small and easy to store. A little reminder though: some airports ban the fruit because of its offensive smell. So if you’re planning to take some home despite the hassle, make sure you have lots of plastic wrappers and a good roll of masking tape ready.

While there are many souvenirs shops in almost every tourist spot in Davao, the cheapest places to shop in are the ones located in front of Ateneo de Davao University.

Test your bargaining skills at the many stores selling authentic Davao artifacts, bags, clothes, and other items made by local manufacturers.

The author (in purple shirt) with fellow travel writers.