Mount Apo

This amazing volcano situated on Mindanao Island, overlooking the city of Davao is the highest mountain in the country at 9692 ft. and is classified as having the potential to become active, although no record exists of its most recent eruption. The mountain consists of 3 peaks and features a volcanic crater with a small lake and is a very popular destination amongst mountain climbers.

Mount Apo (creative commons)

The mountain was declared a national park in 1936 and a UNESCO world heritage site in 2009, covering an area of 135.845 acres excluding the two peripheral areas of around 22,432 acres combined. For the avid bird watchers this site is home to 272 bird species and a breeding site for the endangered Philippine Eagle.

The only geothermal power plant in Mindanao draws around 106MW of power from this source.

Talicud Island (creative commons)

Talicud Island

This beautiful little island is situated just a short boat ride from Davao harbour. The stunning white beaches are in contrast with the black sandy beaches of Davao. The resort of Isla Reta features a Dugong sanctuary that is aimed at increasing the dwindling numbers of the unique sea creatures. Best viewing times are rumoured to be during full moon.

Isla Reta is a popular camping site for locals and tourists, tents and equipment being available for rent on site. Dining is available and offers a cooking facility for guests, which makes this piece of Paradise a great camping place. If the Philippines are too far, but you would still fancy a camping holiday with your dear ones in a nice European destination, than make sure you use canvas promotional codes to benefit from the best deals available.

Samal Island

Within sight of Davao and Talicud is the Garden City of Samal which is easily reached by ferry, barge and passenger boats covering the 2 km water-way. The island has a rich history as was bombed by the Japanese during WW2 and also occupied by them for many years.

Due to its excellent beaches the island is a popular destination for tourists, the countless reefs attracting scuba enthusiasts from around the world.

A Major attraction in Samal Island is the presence of millions of old world fruit bats, known as Geoffroy’s Rousettes, in a cave situated on a 23 hectare area in Barangay Tambo. This site also holds a Guinness Book of World Records. The Monfort Bat Cave houses an estimated 2.4 million bats in the 1000 foot long cave. The island is home to 26 species of bats, ranging from the world’s smallest to largest species, including the giant golden-crowned flying fox.