An island of untamed beauty, vibrant culture, and unforgettable experiences awaits you. Mindanao invites adventurers and tourists alike to discover its thrills along with tranquil activities. Bring out your checklist and note all the things to do here in Mindanao.
Surfing at Cloud 9 and the Enchanted River of Siargao
First stop: the northern part of Mindanao. Siargao, the surfing capital of the Philippines, truly lives up to its name. Ride the waves for an exhilarating experience, or enjoy the tranquility and relaxation of the serene, crystal-clear waters of the Enchanted River—a well-maintained area perfect for those seeking a retreat into nature.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES
- Cloud 9
- No Entrance Fee
- Boardwalk fee: Php 50.00
- Surfing Instructions: Php 500.00
- Enchanted River
- Entrance fee: Php 40.00
- Life Vest Rental: Php 15.00 per hour
- Island Hopping: Rent a boat for Php 500.00 for 2 hours, plus another Php 200.00 if it exceeds the given hour.
OTHER INFORMATION
- Cloud 9
- Operating Hours: Open Daily
- Enchanted River
- Operating Hours: Open Daily from 08:00 AM to 05:00 PM
- Contact Number: 0906-446-2628
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location:
- Cloud 9: Barangay Catangnan, General Luna, Surigao del Norte, Philippines
- By Van: As you exit Sayak Airport, you’ll typically find van drivers ready to offer rides to General Luna. Vans are usually waiting just outside the arrival area. They tend to wait until enough passengers join (or you can negotiate for a private ride) before departing.
- By Habal-Habal or Tricycle: Generally used for shorter trips and within General Luna. They serve as a backup option if other choices aren’t available or if you’re traveling light, and for those who are seeking a more adventurous ride.
- Enchanted River: Hinatuan Sacred River, Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur
- Traveling from Cloud 9 to Enchanted River involves in riding different modes of transportation in order to get
- From Cloud 9 to Dapa Port (Siargao Island): Shared Van or Tricycle: These are the most common and affordable ways to travel. A van ride usually takes about 30–45 minutes.
- From Dapa Port to Surigao City (Ferry Ride): The ferries typically depart once or twice daily, and the journey can take roughly 1.5 to 2 hours, though schedules and trip durations may vary with weather or season.
- From Surigao City to Hinatuan Bus or Shared Van: These typically take around 3–4 hours from Surigao City to Hinatuan. There might be direct vans or buses from the ferry terminal or nearby areas. Locals or tour operators can advise on the best pickup points.
Bukidnon: The Monastery of Transfiguration
When traveling in Mindanao, never forget to stop at Bukidnon. Are you looking for a place to reflect and find peace? Visit the Monastery of Transfiguration, a Catholic monastery run by Benedictine monks, known for its stunning pyramid-shaped church. It offers breathtaking views and serves as a spiritual retreat. You can also buy Monk’s Blend Coffee, grown and processed by the monks themselves.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES
- Guest Room Rates / Retreats: Php 900.00 to Php 1,000 per night
- Monk’s Blend Coffee: No exact price for the coffee.
OTHER INFORMATION
- Operating Hours: Open 24 Hours from Monday to Sunday
- Contact Number: 0915-553-7410
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: Barangay San Jose, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon,Philippines
- By Bus/Van: Arrival at Davao International Airport: If you’re landing in Davao, you can start your journey from here. Buses or private vans run routes to Bukidnon, often taking about 5–6 hours to reach Malaybalay City.
Riding the Longest Zipline in Mindanao
Say Geronimo! Experience the Lake Sebu Seven Falls Zipline, one of the highest ziplines in Southeast Asia, soaring 600 feet above the ground. While on the line, you can witness the seven waterfalls. After the ride, explore the area, shop for souvenirs, and rent traditional T’boli costumes to complete your Lake Sebu adventure.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES
- Booking & Rates: prices can vary and it’s best to confirm with local tour operators or the Lake Sebu tourism office in advance.
OTHER INFORMATION
- Operating Hours: Open Daily from 07:00 AM – 05:00 PM from Monday to Sunday
- Contact Number: +65 8281 1761
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact location: Barangay Lake Lahit, Lake Sebu, Timog Cotabato
- By Bus: From Cotabato City, take a bus or van heading to Koronadal City (also known as Marbel). The journey typically takes around 3-4 hours. Once in Koronadal City, transfer to a jeepney or van bound for Lake Sebu. This leg of the trip usually takes about 1-2 hours.
- By Motorcycle: Upon arriving in Lake Sebu, you can hire a habal-habal (motorcycle taxi) or tricycle to take you directly to the Seven Falls Zipline site.
Davao Crocodile Farm
To top it all off, if you’re looking for a more extreme experience and want to try new foods, the Davao Crocodile Farm is the place for you. It offers thrilling encounters and delicious dishes, including crocodile sisig and the renowned roasted crocodile. You can also see the other wildlife at the park.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES
- Entrance fee: 3 Years Old and Above Php 350.00 while 2 Years Old and Below are Free
- Roasted Crocodile:
- Php 150.00 per gram
- Php 1,500 per Kilo
OTHER INFORMATION
- Operating Hours: Open Daily from 08:00 AM to 05:00 PM
- Contact Number: 0917 702 5953
- Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/davaocrocodileparkandzoo/
- Email Address: davaocrocodileparkandzoo@gmail.com
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact location: Riverfront Corporate City, Diversion Road, Ma-a, Davao City, Davao City, Philippines
- By Taxi: The easiest and fastest way is to take a taxi. The park is about 6 kilometers from the city center, and the ride typically takes around 8-10 minutes,
- By Public Transport: If you prefer a more budget-friendly option, you can take a jeepney heading towards Ma-a or Diversion Road. From there, you might need to walk a bit or take a short tricycle ride to the park.
Mindanao has a wealth of places and activities to offer, from ziplining to gastronomical adventures. This island can truly fill your bucket list with unforgettable experiences.
