In the southernmost reaches of the Philippines, Southern Mindanao is a remote region known for its primitive tribes and beautiful scenery. Unfortunately, it is also known for its political unrest, a fact that keeps most tourists at bay.
The upshot is a territory that sees very few tourists. While outright facilities are limited to a few areas with beach or nature resorts, visitors will find endless ecotourism possibilities. Rugged landscapes, wildlife and century-old forests are all on the agenda.
The crowning feature of Southern Mindanao is Mt Apo, the tallest peak in the Philippines and a beacon for climbing enthusiasts. In the same area are Lake Sebu with its resort facilities and the Philippine Eagle Nature Center, a site working to conserve the world’s largest eagle.
Davao is the liveliest city in the region, with the best transportation infrastructure and access to mountains and coastal areas. The most popular getaway spot here is Samal Island, known for its white-sand beach resorts.
The entire landscape is populated by ethnic tribes that have lived here for centuries or even millennia. These tribes often practice Islam and a pantheon of rich cultural traditions. Filipinos from Luzon began to trickle in during the early 20th century, bringing a devout Catholic lifestyle to what became Southern Mindanao’s major cities. Cultural exhibitions and festivals are an important aspect of local life.
Heading into Southern Mindanao is a decision travelers must make on an individual basis. The best way to proceed is to check the current travel advisories issued by your country to get a sense of what the political climate is like at this moment. Travelers come and go on a regular basis and encounter nothing but hospitality and smiles.
Southern Mindanao - getting there
Davao is the main transport hub, with regular flights to Cebu (55 minutes) and Manila (1 hour, 55 minutes). Ferries run to these same cities, but travel times are too long for most tourists. General Santos is a secondary hub with flights to Cebu (1 hour, 20 minutes) and Manila (1 hour, 55 minutes) as well.
Getting around the region usually involves long jeepney rides to outlying attractions or bus rides between cities. A hire car is an option in well-traveled areas. Road quality declines the farther you travel from civilization.
In brief
Worth it? Southern Mindanao is a good candidate for nature lovers who don’t mind traveling off the beaten path.
What to do: climb Mt Apo, go island-hopping off the coast of Davao, relax on the shores of Sebu Lake, learn about the Philippine Eagle, enjoy a festival.
Best time to go: it rains throughout the year, but December to March is cooler and slightly drier.
How long? Three or four days are more than enough for most.
Trivia: the island’s name evolved from ‘Maguindanaon’, the name of the largest Sultanate in history.
Southern Mindanao attractions
- 2 - Mt Apo National Park: highlight of the region, the national park includes trails to the 10,000-foot summit and the Philippine Eagle Nature Center.
- 1 - Lake Sebu: at 3,000 feet above sea level, this lake catches the reflection of Mt Apo’s peak. A series of seven waterfalls are here.
- Davao City: Southern Mindanao’s cosmopolitan center is a launching point for side trips to Mt Apo and Samal Island, an exclusive beach resort.
Events
- Festivals: events like the Hinugyaw Festival, Marbeleño Mardi Gras and Kalilangan Festival are great ways to connect with the myriad indigenous and transplanted cultures that coexist in Southern Mindanao.