Mindanao

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Mangroves forest cove a Sugba lagoon in Siargao, Philippines. Aerial shot taken with drone

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Overview

Despite jaw-dropping beaches, killer surf, rugged mountains and indigenous cultures living much as they have for centuries, Mindanao, with the exception of Siargao and to an extent Camiguin, remains off the tourism industry’s radar. Of course, the conflict that has simmered for several generations (and the 2017 declaration of martial law in the region) bears much of the responsibility for this. That’s not to say, however, that there isn’t development and the woes that go with it – the southern city of Davao is, for example, fairly cosmopolitan.

Attractions

Must-see attractions

Fort Pilar Museum

Mindanao

At the southeastern end of town near the waterfront is this solid and squat building, partially restored to maintain its historic character. Inside is a…

Museo Dabawenyo

Davao

An excellent museum with two floors of well-designed galleries exploring the complex patchwork of indigenous tribal groups, religions and ethnicities of…

Kublai's Gallery

Davao

An unconventional setting for a fine-art gallery, paintings by artist Kublai Millan fill the walls of this large space. Take an elevator to the 4th or 5th…

Binangawan Falls

Camiguin

At 15m or so this is the shortest of the falls on Camiguin and one of the most difficult to reach. You can go on your own or with a guide arranged through…

White Island

Camiguin

Uninhabited White Island, a pure white-sand bar a few hundred metres offshore, is accessible by boats (P450, up to four people) that leave from a spot…

Davao Crocodile Park

Davao

Around 5km north of the city centre is this large complex spread out along the Davao River. A combination conservation centre and zoo, there are croc …

Sunken Cemetery

Camiguin

Between the hillside and Bonbon you’ll see an enormous white cross floating on a pontoon in the bay, marking the spot of the Sunken Cemetery, which…

Santa Cruz Island

Mindanao

Great Santa Cruz Island is around 7km off the Zamboanga City waterfront, and is home to only a few dozen families from the Samal tribe. Visitors come to…

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