Mindanao is the second largest main island in the Philippines. Mindanao is not so popular as Palawan but there are awesome Mindanao Tourist Spots. Click here to get a discount booking your activities in the Philippines with Klook!
Mindanao next to Luzon, while Visayas is the smallest among the 3 main islands.Out of the 17 regions in the Philippines, six are located in this southern part of the Philippines, in Mindanao.
MIGHT BE HELPFUL ON YOUR NEXT TRIPS: Awesome Places to Visit in Bohol, Where to Eat in Boracay, and Davao itinerary
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MINDANAO TRAVEL GUIDE – DAILY BUDGET TO TRAVEL IN MINDANAO
The cost of living in Mindanao is low, you can get a jeepney ride for 10 PHP. There are meals in local places starting from 50-100 PHP for a meal in a local carinderia. And you can get accommodation starting from 1000 PHP.
ALSO, CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR ACCOMMODATION IN MINDANAO BEFORE YOUR TRIP WITH AGODA!
MINDANAO TOURIST SPOTS
TOURIST SPOTS IN MINDANAO AGUSAN DEL NORTE PROVINCE
1. BUTUAN NATIONAL MUSEUM
This museum located in Butuan City in Agusan del Norte was established in 1974 after the accidental discovery of some artifacts in the area. You can find different archaeological materials here and the most famous one is the Balanghai or the Butuan Boats that date from 4th to 13th centuries A.D.
2. MAGELLAN’S LANDING SITE
Also known as the Magellan’s Anchorage, historical site/park is believed to be where Ferdinand Magellan landed and made blood compact with an old leader in the province. It is located in Masao, Butuan City in Agusan del Norte and one of the favorite Mindanao tourist spots of those who want to learn about the early history of the Philippines.
MINDANAO TOURIST SPOTS IN BASILAN PROVINCE
3. MALAMAWI ISLAND
This beautiful, inhabited island is 1 km away from Isabela, Basilan. It’s a long stretch of white sand beach which is very relaxing and the perfect spot for escape in the city. It has become a popular Mindanao tourist spot now, so we recommend that you avoid visiting during peak seasons if you want to relax and enjoy the area by yourself.
BUKIDNON PROVINCE
4. KIOKONG WHITE ROCK WALL
These huge walls inside the Kiokong Eco-Tourism project in Quezon, Bukidnon are known because of the “vertical bivouac” attraction. If you are looking for some serious adventure in Mindanao, don’t miss visiting Kiokong White Rock Wall and go hiking!
5. DAHILAYAN FOREST PARK
Dahilayan Forest Park is one of Mindanao Tourist Spots that is perfect for families and big groups. You can do a lot of activities here such as having a picnic, playing mini golf, trying Go Kart, Bumper Boat and many more.
They offer overnight stays in their relaxing rooms too if you want to spend the night in this relaxing but fun place! It is located at Barangay Dahilayan, Manolo Fortich Bukidnon.
6. KITANGLAD MOUNTAIN RANGE
This mountain range that dominates the northern central part of Bukidnon is famous because of its rainforest that has thousands of diversified wildlife species. The top five highest peaks in this mountain range are Mt. Dulang-dulang, Mt. Kitanglad, Mt. Maagnaw, Mt. Lumuluyaw, and Mt. Tuminungan.
CAGAYAN DE ORO PROVINCE
7. TINAGO FALLS
Looking for a place to relax and cool down? Head on to Iligan City’s amazing Tinago Falls! Iligan City is just about an hour away from Cagayan de Oro and is truly one of the most breathtaking places to visit. If you enjoy trekking, then you’re in luck because it is quite a hike to reach Tinago Falls.
However, we can assure you that once you’re there, you’ll immediately be stunned by its beauty! The water is really blue and cold, and you can go under the waterfalls by riding the raft. There are cottages just across the waterfall if you decide to stay for a while and bring some food. We definitely recommend you visit here and enjoy the lush nature!
Read here: Best Waterfalls in the Philippines
8. SEVEN SEAS WATERPARK AND RESORT
This is a newly built recreational area and the first ever world class waterpark established in the country, so this is one of the Cagayan de Oro tourist spots to see. It has grown quite a name for itself and has been visited by many tourists and locals because of the many thrilling rides and slides such as the Cyclone and Abyss Tornado Ride.
The Seven Seas Waterpark can be found at Barra, Opol, so go ahead and visit this place where no one is too young or too old to have fun!
HOW TO GET TO SEVEN SEAS PARK AND ENTRANCE FEE
Its located in Opol just 10 kilometers North of Cagayan de Oro. It opens from 9 am to 5 pm. Prices for adults from Monday to Thursday 800 PHP and 1000 PHP on the weekends. Prices for kids below 4ft 500 PHP weekdays and 600 PHP on the weekends. Kids below 3 ft free entrance.
Click here to get a discount at Seven Seas Park with Klook!
9. MAPAWA NATURE PARK
One of the most beautiful and breathtaking tourist spots in Cagayan de Oro is the Mapawa Nature Park. This forest park is located at Barangay Cugman, and it offers a wide variety of things to do such as climbing or swimming near the waterfalls, horseback riding, canyoneering and also cliff jumping if you’re feeling brave!
You would not only enjoy all the activities they offer but you could also have fun with nature surrounding you. When you visit Mapawa Nature park, you can just relax, go on a hike, or maybe even set up a camp in the forest. Just be sure to clean up after yourself. Leave no trace behind!
HOW TO GET TO MAPAWA NATURE PARK AND ENTRANCE FEE
The river trek package is 1300 PHP per person with the entrance fee, lunch and bottled water. The environmental fee is 50 PHP, camping is 100 PHP, horseback riding 200 PHP per one hour, swimming pool 75 PHP, Zipline 325 PHP, Trail Run Hike 300 PHP and View Deck Big 1000 PHP and Small View Deck 500 PHP.
It’s opened from 7 am to 5 pm everyday. It’s located in Barangay Cugman. You can get a jeepney until Mapawa Crossing and take habal-habal from there.
CAMIGUIN ISLAND
10. MANTIGUE ISLAND
We love traveling in the Philippines and one of our favorite destinations in the Philippines is Mantigue Island in Camiguin. Mantigue Island is a paradise to discover and it’s not crowded yet! You can bring your snorkeling gear and avoid paying 200 PHP rental fee on the island.
You can bring your own food to the island. Also, you can even buy fish in the market and they will cook for you for 100 PHP. There are available cottages for rent and you can buy snacks, sodas and beers.
DAVAO DEL NORTE PROVINCE
11. SAMAL ISLAND
Samal Island is officially known as the Island Garden City of Samal. It’s a beautiful island city where you can relax and have fun at the same time. You can go swimming, snorkeling, island hopping, sunset-watching, and enjoy 24/7 in Samal Island! It’s truly one of the best Mindanao tourist spots that you can’t miss!
Read here: Where to Stay in Samal Island
DAVAO DEL SUR PROVINCE
12. DAVAO CITY
Apart from being an important hub for commerce and industry in the Philippines’ Mindanao region, Davao City is also an awesome travel destination with delicious food, breathtaking nature spots and beautiful people. In the 21st century, it is a wonderful example of a city that straddles two worlds: the old and the new.
Because of this, it has retained its reputation as one of the best Mindanao Tourist Spots. Some of the best Davao tourist spots that you should go to are Roxas City Night Market, Philippine Eagle Center, Davao Crocodile Park, and of course, the icon in the Davao – Mt. Apo.
Read here: Things to do in Davao
13. MT. APO
Located in both Davao City and Cotabato Province, Mount Apo is the highest mountain in the Philippines. It rises 10,311 feet above sea level and is one of the country’s most challenging hikes. A typical climb takes about 2 to 4 days and climbers can choose from many different routes to and from its peak. Among the 7 trails to reach the top, the easiest one is Kidapawan Trail.
This mountain range extends through North Cotabato, Davao del Sur, Agusan del Sur and Misamis Oriental. Hiking during the summer is ideal just because the weather is more predictable during these months of April and May.
Before you can climb Mount Apo, you need to register at the Kidapawan Tourism Office and get your permit. You also have to be in tip top physical conditions to be able to climb this mountain. It isn’t a task to be taken lightly but it sure is a fun and rewarding adventure.
DAVAO OCCIDENTAL PROVINCE
14. BALUT ISLAND
This volcanic island in Davao Occidental is also known as Malulong. There is a volcano in the middle part of the island called Balut Volcano. No need to worry if you want to visit this place because Balut Volcano has no recorded eruptions before.
DAVAO ORIENTAL PROVINCE
15. MATI CITY
Mati City is the capital of Davao Oriental. This city is one of the must-visit Mindanao Tourist Spots because there are a lot of things to discover and do here. You can go visit Dahican Beach, Sleeping Dinosaur Island, Mt. Hamiguitan, and many more!
16. CAPE OF SAN AGUSTIN
Cape of San Agustin is located in Lavigan in Governor Generoso, Davao Oriental. This is composed of 3 lighthouses that serve as the guide of the fishermen in the area, which is the primary source of income for locals.
17. MT. HAMIGUITAN
Located in Mati City, Mt. Hamiguitan is a 1620-meter high mountain with a diverse wildlife population. You can find (if you’re lucky) Philippine eagles and Nepenthes. It also has a protected 2000-hectare of forest area. This mountain is indeed a gem to Mindanao.
DINAGAT ISLANDS
18. DINAGAT ISLANDS
The Dinagat Islands are actually a group of islands across Surigao Strait. To get here, you must remember that there are no direct flights going to Dinagat Islands. You have to onboard a flight going to Surigao City and then ride a boat bound for San Jose, the province’s capital.
Because of its beautiful, pristine beaches, the islands are quite crowded during peak seasons so make sure you plan your trip ahead. Some of the beaches in Dinagat Islands that you can visit are Biray-biray, Cab-ilan, and Bita-og.
LANAO DEL NORTE PROVINCE
19. MARIA CRISTINA FALLS
Maria Cristina Falls is a gem to Lanao del Norte. It is called the Twin Falls as the flow is separated by a rock at the brink of the waterfall. It is truly a majestic view that will captivate you!
MAGUINDANAO PROVINCE
20. THE GRAND MOSQUE OF COTABATO
The Grand Mosque of Cotabato is known to locals as The Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mosque. It’s the largest mosque in the Philippines and you’ll be amazed how beautiful this mosque is. The mosque is located in Barangay Kalanganan II, Cotabato City.
NORTH COTOBATO PROVINCE
21. ASIK-ASIK FALLS
Asik-Asik Falls is also called Dulao Falls by the locals. It’s situated in Sitio Dulao of Barangay Upper Dado, Alamada, North Cotabato. It is a beautiful waterfalls where water emanates from a spring covered with green plants and rocks. One of the beautiful Mindanao tourist spots that you can’t miss.
HOW TO GET TO ASIK-ASIK FALLS
Going to Asik-Asik Falls is not that easy because you have to endure an almost 2-hour bumpy motorcycle ride for 700 PHP. It already includes going back to Midsayap. Oh, and the adventure doesn’t stop there because you still have to go down from the 376-step stone stairs to finally see the waterfalls. It’s worth it anyway!
SARANGANI PROVINCE
22. GUMASA BEACH
Because of its stunning beauty, Gumasa Beach can be compared to Boracay in Aklan. It’s even called the “Boracay of the South” because of its similarity with the famous beach- white, fine sand with crystal blue waters. It’s definitely one of the must-visit Mindanao tourist spots!
SOUTH COTABATO PROVINCE
23. LAKE SEBU
This natural lake is located in Lake Sebu municipality within the Alah Valley Region. Because of its ability to provide irrigation to the provinces of South Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat, this is one of the country’s most important watersheds and considered a gem to the Mindanaos.
24. LAKE HOLON
This picturesque lake in T’Boli, South Cotabato is one of the beautiful places in Mindanao that you should go to. Ever since it has become famous in Mindanao, tourists keep on coming here. The adventure going to Lake Solon is indeed worth it because once you see the pristine waters and beautiful views in the lake, you’ll surely feel rewarded and relaxed!
SURIGAO DEL NORTE PROVINCE
25. SIARGAO ISLAND
Siargao is probably one of the most famous and most-visited among the Mindanao Tourist Spots in this blog. There are several beautiful beaches to go to such as Daku Island, Guyam Island, Naked Island, Alegria Beach, and many more! You can go swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, kayaking, beach hopping, and surfing in these beautiful beaches with clear blue waters.
26. SOHOTON COVE
Sohoton Natural Park was an amazing place to discover combining the beauty of the place with the adventure of the caves, snorkeling and amazing drone shots.
You will have different options for this tour. This time we decided to join an organized tour from General Luna. Prices were 1800 PHP for locals and 2000 PHP for foreigners and they included an amazing lunch and the fees of Sohoton Natural Park, Daku, Naked Island, and Guyam Islam.
The departure to Sohoton National Park was at 7 am and it took 2 hours to get to Sohoton Natural Park. Once there, we got a guide and a small boat to go around the jellyfish sanctuary but it wasn’t the season and we couldn’t see jellyfish. The landscape was great and you can do snorkeling there. This activity lasts around 20 minutes.
We also got a boat and a guide to explore the caves in Sohoton. We did two caves with crystalline water and the last one included a jump. The visit to the caves took around an hour and when we were back they prepared an amazing lunch for us with pork, fish, vegetables and fruits.
After lunch is the worst part of the tour 2 hours sailing and it was a little bit wavy until reaching Naked Island, Daku and Guyam. For these three islands, they allowed us 30-40 minutes each to finally go back to General Luna at 5 pm.
Read here: Siargao Island Travel Guide
27. LAPSAY LAGOON
Lapsay Lagoon is part of a huge protected sanctuary in Barangay Tinago, Surigao del Norte. Aside from this lagoon where you can go snorkeling, swimming, kayaking, boating, rafting, and trekking, there are also mini islands and caves that you can explore in the sanctuary.
SURIGAO DEL SUR PROVINCE
28. ENCHANTED RIVER
The bright blue river in Hinatuan is indeed enchanted. Did you know that it is believed to be the home of spirits? Locals believe that the spirits are the one who take care of the river, making it aqua blue and deep.
Different types of fish swim in this deep blue river. It is a scenic spot for swimming. Take note that life jackets are required when swimming in the Enchanted River.
29. BRITANNIA GROUP OF ISLANDS IN SAN AGUSTIN
This group of 24 islands and mini islands are considered a tourist spot in Mindanao. You can go beach hopping here and explore the beautiful beaches such as Hagonoy Island, Buslon Island, Hiyor-Hiyoran Island, Naked Island, and many more!
30. TINUY-AN FALLS
Amidst the rocky, dusty and uphill road and a butt numbing trip coming from the city proper to the famous Tinuy-an Falls, everyone is still amazed at the beauty of the so-called Niagara falls of the Philippines.
It is said that a rainbow appears between 9am to 11am as a reflection of the sunlight through the mist, and it’s one of the things you need to watch out for if you ever go there!
Entrance fee is 50 PHP.
TAWI-TAWI PROVINCE
31. TAWI-TAWI ISLAND
This is an island province in the southern part of Mindanao. If you dare to visit this province that’s 1,058 km away from Manila, you shouldn’t miss visiting its famous tourist spots such as the Bud Bungao, Panampangan Island, Bongao Peak, and a lot more.
ZAMBOANGA DEL SUR PROVINCE
32. PAGADIAN CITY
Pagadian City is the capital of Zamboanga del Sur. If you get the chance to visit Pagadian, you should try to explore some of its famous Mindanao tourist spots such as Pulacan Falls, Mount Pinukis, Dao-Dao Island, Manga Falls, and Mt. Palpalan.
33. ZAMBOANGA CITY
Being one of the famous cities in Mindanao, it is visited by many tourists every year. Zamboanga City is a 1st class highly urbanized city in Zamboanga del Sur. You can do a lot of things here such as visiting Fort Pilar, Pasonanca Park, Paseo del Mar, and the famous Pink Beach.
34. PINK BEACH
Located in Great Santa Cruz Island, a small inhabited island in Zamboanga City, Pink Beach is one of the most picturesque Mindanao Tourist Spots, most especially if you have a drone. The island is only 4 kilometers long but a really beautiful one so it will really captivate you.
WHERE TO STAY IN MINDANAO
We know that finding places where to stay in Mindanao can be a little bit difficult, so we compiled some for you guys!
To get discounts on your accommodations in Mindanao, book through Agoda.
WHERE TO STAY IN MINDANAO – CAGAYAN DE ORO PROVINCE
THE URBAN POD HOTEL
Featuring a shared lounge, The Urban Pod Hotel is located 57.9 km from Dahilayan Adventure Park. With a bar, the 3-star hotel has air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, each with a private bathroom. At the hotel, rooms have a desk. All guest rooms feature a closet. Staff are always available to help at the reception.
The capsule room’s rate starts at $6 USD for a minimum of 4 people. For their rooms, their rate starts at $23 USD for single room and $27 USD for double rooms.
The Urban Pod Hotel is located at 8 Coralles Avenue, 9000 Cagayan de Oro.
Click here to book with discounts!
STARGATE DREAM VACATION RESORT
Stargate Dream Vacation Resort has well-equipped accommodations featuring free WiFi. Each unit comes with a balcony, a fully equipped kitchen with a fridge, a seating area with a sofa, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with bidet and free toiletries.
Some units feature a dining area and/or a terrace. The property has a grill and a garden, which can be enjoyed by guests if the weather permits. Their unit’s rates start at $68 a night with the most expensive unit at $106 with three rooms, fit for a family or with friends.
Stargate Dream Vacation Resort is located at Box 1, Upper Macasandig, South Diversion Road, 9000 Cagayan de Oro.
Click here to book with discounts!
WHERE TO STAY IN MINDANAO – CAMIGUIN ISLAND PROVINCE
YSLA BEACH CAMP AND ECO RESORT
With pool views, YSLA Beach Camp and Eco Resort is located in Mambajao and has a restaurant, a tour desk, bar and garden. Free WiFi is offered. Some units feature a seating area and/or a patio. A continental breakfast is served each morning at the property.
The campground has an outdoor pool. A grill is available for guests to use at YSLA Beach Camp and Eco Resort. Room starts at $80 a night.
YSLA Beach Camp and Eco Resort is located at Barangay Agoho, Mambajao, Camiguin.
Click here to book with discounts!
BINTANA SA PARAISO
This property is a 1-minute walk from the beach. Located in Mambajao, Bintana Sa Paraiso has an outdoor swimming pool. Offering a restaurant, the property also features a terrace. A tour desk can provide information on the area. At the resort, each room comes with a balcony.
Complete with a private bathroom, guest rooms at Bintana Sa Paraiso come with air conditioning, and some rooms here will provide you with a seating area. The area is popular for cycling and hiking, and bike rental is available at this 5-star resort. Room rate starts at $110 a night.
Bintana sa Paraiso is located at Naasag Mambajao, 1, 9100 Mambajao, Camiguin Island.
Click here to book with discounts!
Read our full blog post about Where to Stay in Camiguin.
WHERE TO STAY IN MINDANAO – SAMAL ISLAND
CLUB SAMAL RESORTS
Club Samal Resorts offers a 24 hour front desk, and a garden. All rooms have private bathrooms, air-conditioning, WiFi, kettle, and flat screen TV. You could also enjoy a continental, American or Asian breakfast in your stay. If you brought lots of clothes, they also have wardrobes. All of this and a balcony view for only, $100 USD.
Club Samal Resorts is at Purok 7, Barangay Caliclic, Samal.
Click here to book with discounts!
HOF GOREI BEACH RESORT DAVAO
You’d enjoy your stay here because of its main selling point, relaxation. All rooms are air-conditioned, and have a TV, minibar and private bathroom. These rooms also have their own balcony or terrace. Feeling tired? You could also enjoy their tea/coffee making facilities that are included. Also, you could get a massage at the comfort of your own room.
How lovely is that? For a double bed for two persons, you only need to pay $60 USD. It is accessible by a 50 minute boat ride from Sta. Ana Wharf, a 10 minute drive from Davao International Airport.
Hof Gorei Beach Resort Davao is located at Kaputian District, Adecor, Island Garden of Samal. Click here to book with discounts!
WHERE TO STAY IN MINDANAO – SIARGAO
DENAVILLE RESORT
This property is 3 minutes walk from the beach. Denaville Resort is located in Santa Monica and has a private beach area and an outdoor swimming pool. Among the facilities of this property are a restaurant, a shared lounge and room service, along with free WiFi.
Denaville Resort has airport transportation, while a car rental service is also available. Rooms are complete with a private bathroom equipped with free toiletries, while some rooms also feature a seating area. The resort has a terrace. Their double deluxe room rate starts at $80 a night!
Denaville Resort is located at Denaville Resort Alegria Siargao Denaville Resort, 8422 Santa Monica.
Click here to check rates and availability!
SIARGAO INN BEACH RESORT
This property is an 18-minute walk from the beach. Siargao Inn Beach Resort offers accommodations in General Luna. The resort has a private beach area and water sports facilities, and guests can enjoy a meal at the restaurant. Certain units include views of the sea or garden.
The rooms are equipped with a private bathroom. You will find babysitting service at the property. Professional surf lessons can also be arranged. Guests can enjoy various activities in the surroundings, including golfing, snorkeling and fishing. Rooms/units rate starts at $98 a night.
Siargao Inn Beach Resort is located at Barangay Catangnan, Siargao Island, 8419 General Luna.
Click here to book with discounts!
Read our full blog post about Where to Stay in Siargao.
WHERE TO STAY IN MINDANAO – SURIGAO
ALMONT BEACH RESORT
Almont Beach Resort is one of the great places where to stay in Surigao. For only around $39 USD per night in theirDeluxe Twin Rooms, you’ll get to enjoy their two swimming pools, the beach in front of the hotel with private beach area, and the bar.
Every room is airconditioned with private bathroom, free toiletries, as well as TV, pool views, and free wifi. What a steal, right?
It is located at Lipata, Surigao City.
Click here now to book with discounts!
PARKWAY HOTEL
Parkway Hotel has really good value for travelers. It’s one of those accommodations where you get greater value than what you paid for. The facilities may be decent but the staff are very courteous and welcoming. Their Deluxe Plus King Rooms have king-sized bed, are air conditioned, have a desk and WiFi, mini-bar, coffee maker, refrigerator, seating area, and closet.
A Deluxe Plus King Room in this place costs about $50 USD per night.
Parkway Hotel is located at Km 2 Barangay Luna, National Highway, Luna, Surigao City, Philippines
Click here now to book with discounts!
Read our full blog post about Where to Stay in Surigao.
Book your accommodations in Mindanao through Agoda
That’s it guys! We hope you liked this guide with Mindanao Travel Spots! Let us know if we missed something or if there are changes in the schedule and prices in our Mindanao travel guide.
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Happy travels!
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues to share his travel experiences alongside his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.