Mindanao travel guides

Mindanao is the large southern island group of the Philippines, split into six regions: Zamboanga Peninsula, Northern Mindanao, the Davao Region, SOCCSKSARGEN, Caraga and BARMM. Distances are long and road trips between regions can take most of a day, so most visitors fly into one city and stay in one area rather than trying to cover the whole island.

The northeast is where many first trips go. Siargao is the surf island, and the Siargao from Cebu guide compares the flight with the overnight boat route. Nearby in Surigao are the lagoons of Bucas Grande, the Enchanted River in Hinatuan and Tinuy-an Falls in Bislig. Off the northern coast, Camiguin is a compact volcanic island that fits a long weekend, and its Lanzones Festival fills Mambajao every October.

Inland and to the south, the trips change character. Cagayan de Oro is known for white-water rafting and Bukidnon for its cool highlands and adventure parks. Davao combines a big, easygoing city with Samal Island and the foothills of Mount Apo, the highest mountain in the Philippines, where the Philippine Eagle Center cares for the national bird. Farther south, Lake Sebu is home to T'boli communities and a string of waterfalls, while Dapitan in the west keeps the place where Jose Rizal lived in exile.

Safety conditions vary a lot from one province to another, and the destinations in these guides are established tourist areas. Before travelling overland into places you do not know, check current advisories and ask your accommodation or the local tourism office about the route. Flight schedules to smaller airports change often, so confirm them before you plan connections.