The most populous city in the Philippines after Metro Manila and a primary trade hub for Mindanao. Davao City has achieved more prominence from the international community in recent years because President Rodrigo Duterte was mayor of the city for many years, instigating a clean-up that has transformed Davao’s image.
While Davao City itself does not see as much tourism as Manila or Cebu, the city does have quite a lot to offer tourists. The Philippine Eagle is endemic to the region, and Mount Apo—the tallest mountain in the country—is just a couple of hours drive away. The Island Garden of Samal—a province located two kilometers from the coast of Davao—is famous for its luxury hotels and beach resorts, and travellers heading there would almost definitely go via Davao.
