Relaxing Vacation in Philippines: Exploring Tagum City and Nabunturan

  • Day 1: Arrival in Davao City
    Estimated Time: 3 hours (81.5 km) from Tagum City

    Start your vacation by flying into Davao City, the largest city in Mindanao. After your arrival, you can take a taxi or grab a car to go to your accommodation in Tagum City, located approximately 1.5 hours away from Davao.

  • Day 2: Panabo City and Tagum City
    Estimated Time: 30 minutes (7.8 km) from Panabo City to Tagum City

    Start your day by visiting the Tagum City Hall, the city's most recognizable landmark. Then, head to the Tagum City Market and sample the local delicacies. After lunch, visit the Amazone Zoo in Panabo City to see various species of birds and animals native to the Philippines. End your day by relaxing at the Ocean View Beach Resort, a quiet resort that boasts of its forest-like surrounding and peaceful atmosphere.

  • Day 3: Nabunturan
    Estimated Time: 25 minutes (15.2 km) from Tagum City to Nabunturan

    Start your morning with a refreshing dip at Asuncion Beach Resort. After that, head to New Bataan Rapids, and experience their water slides and natural pools. After lunch, visit Kapalong Hot Spring, one of the best hot springs in the area that's perfect for relaxation. End your day by visiting the Nabunturan Public Market, where you can find different kinds of pasalubongs and souvenirs.

  • Day 4: Tagum City
    Estimated Time: 20 minutes (8.9 km) from Nabunturan to Tagum City

    Start your day by visiting the Energy Park, where you can relax while feasting your eyes on the park's wind turbines. Afterward, head to the Tagum City Hall of Justice, a modern structure that features incredible light shows during the night. Spend your afternoon at the Hijo Resorts Davao, where they offer different activities such as farm tours and plantation tours.

  • Day 5: Island Hopping and Beach Hopping
    Estimated Time: 2 hours (51.2 km) from Tagum City to Samal Island

    Experience island and beach hopping by visiting Samal Island's Hagimit Falls, Talicud Island's Coral Garden, Babu Santa Beach in Island Garden City of Samal, and Pearl Farm Beach Resort in Samal Island. These destinations are known for their crystal-clear waters and white sand beaches, where you can swim, snorkel, and relax.

  • Day 6: Davao City Tour
    Estimated Time: 1 hour (54 km) from Samal Island to Davao City

    Start your day by visiting the People's Park, where you can see different kinds of orchids, endemic plants, and sculptures. After that, visit the San Pedro Cathedral, one of the oldest and most significant churches in Davao. Then, head to the Davao Crocodile Park and Zoo, which features different crocodile species and other animals. End your day at the Jack's Ridge, a famous mountaintop restaurant that offers a panoramic view of Davao City's skyline.

  • Day 7: Relaxation and Departure
    Estimated Time: 15 minutes (5.7 km) from Davao City to Francisco Bangoy International Airport

    On your last day, visit the Eden Nature Park and indulge in its lush greenery and relaxing atmosphere. After that, get an invigorating massage at Healing Hands Spa and Massage for a complete relaxation experience. End your trip by catching your flight at Francisco Bangoy International Airport, located approximately 1.5 hours from Tagum City.

Time and Cost Estimates:

  • Tagum City Hall - Free admission
  • Tagum City Market - Php 100-300
  • Amazone Zoo - Php 100-200
  • Ocean View Beach Resort - Php 500-1000 per night
  • Asuncion Beach Resort - Php 50 entrance fee
  • New Bataan Rapids - Php 50 entrance fee
  • Kapalong Hot Spring - Php 60 entrance fee
  • Nabunturan Public Market - Php 100-300
  • Energy Park - Free admission
  • Tagum City Hall of Justice - Free admission
  • Hijo Resorts Davao - Php 7500-15000 per night
  • Island hopping and beach hopping packages - Php 1000-3000 per person
  • People's Park - Free admission
  • San Pedro Cathedral - Free admission
  • Davao Crocodile Park and Zoo - Php 150-300
  • Jack's Ridge - Php 500-1000
  • Eden Nature Park - Php 500-1000
  • Healing Hands Spa and Massage - Php 500-2000
  • Total Estimated Costs - Php 20,560-36,660

Transportation:

Travelers can take a taxi or car rental from the airport to Tagum City. Jeepneys and buses are also available for those looking for more affordable options. Boat tours in Samal Island are available for those looking to go island and beach hopping. Davao City offers different modes of transportation such as taxis, jeepneys, and tricycles. Expect to pay for at least Php 50 per ride. For those who are willing to splurge, car rentals and private tours are also available.

Useful tips:

For those who have more time, it is highly recommended to visit Mount Apo Natural Park, where you can hike the highest mountain in the Philippines. You can also visit Parola Beach in Calinan, which boasts of its turquoise waters and white sand beach. For those who have less time, it's suggested to remove Day 6 or Day 5 from the itinerary. Most destinations are closed on Mondays, so it's advised to plan your itinerary with that in mind.

Airports:

The Francisco Bangoy International Airport (DVO) serves as the main gateway to Davao City and its neighboring destinations. It is located approximately 7.3 km from the city center, and travelers can take either a taxi or private transportation options to get to their destination.

0