Davao Del Sur Is Famous For...

Eco-Adventure Activities
These include river tubing, a simpler version of white-water rafting using inflatable tire, in Sibulan River, Darong, Sta. Cruz; mountain climbing/trekking in Mt. Apo, the highest mountain in the country; mountain biking around the province; aqua-sports activities in Malalag, Sta. Maria, Jose Abad Santos, Sarangani, Sta. Cruz, and in other towns of the province.

White-Sand Beaches
Take your pick from the fine beaches in Sta. Maria, Malita, Jose Abad Santos, Sarangani, and Balut Island.

Tourism Farms
These can be found in Kapatagan (coffee, vegetables), Hagonoy (banana, sugar cane, mango), Malalag (banana), Padada (banana), Malita (cacao, coffee, coconut).

Cultural Tribal Villages
The province is home to the B’laans found in Matanao, the Tagakaolos in Malita, and the Bagobos in Kapatagan, Digos City as well as Sibulan, Sta. Cruz.

Tudaya Falls
Located in Sta. Cruz, it is one of the highest waterfalls in the country.

Pearl Farm
The 11-hectare Pearl Farm Resort was once, literally, a pearl farm, where thousands of white-lipped oysters, transported from the Sulu Sea, were cultivated for their pink, white, and gold pearls. The resort lies in a secluded island off the coast of Davao City. It boasts Samal Houses patterned after the stilt houses of seafaring Samal tribes of the Sulu archipelago, with schools of tiny fish frolicking between the sturdy poles that support the houses.

Crocodile Park
Probably the country’s richest in terms of biological diversity, Davao is now also known to be the habitat of crocodiles. In Ma-a, within the city of Davao, lies the Crocodile Park, the habitat for grisly crocodiles, including the country’s largest crocodile, named “Pangil.” Aside from crocodiles of varying ages and sizes, the park also houses various breeds of birds, from the Philippine sea eagle to kakatoe and Indonesian parrots – truly a sight to behold.

Philippine Eagle Research and Nature Center
It is home to the world’s largest eagle, the Philippine Eagle, the country’s national bird. Once known as the monkey-eating eagle, the Philippine Eagle is endemic to the eastern portion of the Philippines, comprising the Sierra Madre Mountains in eastern Luzon and the heavily forested area of Mindanao. The largest eagle, standing to about 3.5 feet, may be recognized by its powerful bill, strong legs and claws. The general body color is grayish brown on the back and wings, whitish on the front, neck, and belly, with shafts of gray brown streaked feathers on the head, which, when erect, form a crest.

Davao Mountainbiking
The Davao area has great opportunities for two-wheeled tours. The pristine hills and white-sand beaches of Samal Island make it a popular bike destination, and a well-attended race is held here annually. From Davao City you can make day trips to the rugged foothills of Mt. Apo, the archipelago’s highest peak. There are other options for extended touring, with roads running up the coast into Davao Oriental, south to Davao del Sur, and the classic long route across the center of Mindanao, descending into Bukidnon and continuing out to the coast at Cagayan de Oro City. Davao has an active biking community; there are several well-stocked shops, bikes are available for hire.

Davao Trekking
Far to the south, the mountains of Mindanao offer another range of trekking experiences. Begin on the slopes of Mt. Apo (2990m), the highest point in the country. This peak towers over the Davao plain, dominating the horizon for kilometers around. The most popular trail, starting in Kidapawan, North Cotabato, passes swift-flowing rivers, streaming hot springs and virgin forest before arriving at the tranquil Lake Venado. The trail to the summit is demanding, leading you through fields of boarders, jagged peaks and a large crater with unearthly sulphur pillars.