Durian is synonymous to Davao . The strange smell of this tropical fruit that abounds in Davao can be ambiguous so much so that an uninitiated may throw the fruit and miss out on the opportunity to taste Durian-the food for the gods. Old wives tales states that the treasures of Davao are guarded by fairies and mystical creatures that have an unaccountable liking for Durian. People would leave mounds of this pungent fruit to lure the mystical creatures to leave the treasures. However, wrath would befall to the people caught by the spirits stealing their treasures.

A five hectare durian plantation in Calinan, Davao enthralls not only foreign tourist but also local residents as well. The plantation is really an entrancing tourist destination as the durian trees that are top pruned have spreading branches that provide unbroken shade to the strolling tourist. The delicate taste of these pungent but sweet and creamy fruits is not the only thing that entices visitors. Davao is actually a fruit haven. The famous Davao pomelo, bananas, mangosteen, pineapple, lanzones are exported worldwide. Just like in the folklore, it is not uncommon for Davao residents to give visitors and tourists free fruits but this time visitors would not have to worry that their valuables will be stolen.

Fruits however, are not the only things Davao has to offer. The flora and fauna are just as enchanting. The Malagos Philippine Eagle Research and Nature Center in the rain forest of Calinan is the sanctuary of the world’s largest eagle, the Philippine eagle. Formerly known as the monkey-eating eagle, this King of the skies is Philippines ’ national bird. The Philippine eagle is now endangered specie but it was in this sanctuary that the eagle Pag-asa (Hope) was born in captivity. Presently, more eagles are bred in this sanctuary and once able to fend for themselves these birds are released to roam the sky freely.

Mt. Apo is the Philippines ’ highest peak. A trail starting from Kidapawan offers adventurous spirits with challenging trekking experiences as the trail would pass through swift flowing and eddying rivers, a wide expanse of virgin rain forest as well as steaming and boiling hot springs before finally emerging at the serene and enchanting Lake Venado . The demanding trail is only for the physically fit as a trekker will be subjected to traverse jagged and stiff cliffs. The view at the top however, is worth all the hardships of the climb.

On the slopes of the Mt Apo, one can find Vanda Sanderiana, the most prized orchid of the Philippines . Waling-waling as it is commonly called is considered to be the Queen of the Rainforest because of its exceptional attributes. This orchid specie is most sought after by flora lovers because of its extraordinary velvety petals that are often tinged with purple, yellow or red.

Kadayawan sa Dabao is a week-long feast in August. It is Davao City ’s best and leading festival that features the natural bounty and the cultural heritage of the land. Why not schedule your visit to Davao to coincide with the festival? You will surely be entranced by the place and the hospitality of the Davaouenos.

Tags: davao, durian, kadayawan, mt. apo