Cheap Flights to Davao

This bustling and increasingly cosmopolitan city boasts picturesque parks and natural attractions and activities to suit any tastes and interests -- whether you're a foodie, an animal lover or an adventure junkie. Alongside the commercial activities and fruit plantations, that make it the economic capital of the Southern Philippines, are beautiful family-friendly beaches of white sand and lush forested slopes. In the distance, Mount Apo looms over everything as a majestic presence. The city was officially colonised in the 1840s when the Spanish arrived. They established a settlement of Christians among the mangrove swamps defeating the tribal leader Bago in the process. The town was originally christened Nueva Vergara. The 20th-century saw Japanese and American occupations before the city settled down into its present multicultural mix. Its varied history means that Davao presents as a cosmopolitan mix of local, Chinese, Muslim and Japanese influences that together provide an interesting twist to its cultural and gastronomic scene.

Things to do

The varied heritage mix of Davao has left it with a number of interesting historical sites and attractions such as the Mindanao Folk Arts and the Davaoeño Historical Society museums. In contrast, reminders of conflict in the 20th-century are the Japanese cemetery and the Japanese Tunnel that was built and used during World War II.

• Saving a spectacular bird

The Philippine Eagle is one of the most important indigenous species. It's a species that is huge in wing span but now small in numbers. The Eagle Centre helps conserve this magnificent species as well as being home to other birds of prey.

• Just for adventure junkies

The Outland Adventure Camp is known all over the Philippines, if not Asia, for its state-of-the-art 1,000m-long zip line as well as rope facilities that take you high into the forest canopy.

• A historical record

Museo Dabawenyo has collections of artefacts and photographs that bring together the complex world of the different tribes and ethnicities of the Mindanao region. It also documents the Japanese and American occupations of the city.

Calendar of Events

Like all towns in the Philippines, Davao likes to party and sees its fair share of festivals throughout the year. New Year's Day, Rizal Day and Araw ng Dabaw all flood the streets with colour, music and merriment.

• Araw ng Dabaw. This is celebrated in March and commemorates the period when Davao received its official charter. Fighting on horseback, ancient rituals and a grand parade are all part of the vibrant fun.

• The Tabanogan Festival. Held in June this festival acknowledges the country's love of kites and kite-flying. It showcases kite designs and the skill needed to keep them in the air. The festival also honours the city's patron saint, Peter.

• Kadayawan sa Dabaw. Life is celebrated with this lavish festival in August, when both locals and visitors take to the streets to give thanks for the bounties and beauty of nature as well as the year's successful harvest.