Davao Davao Region, Philippines Travel Guide
Detailed steps to guide your journey from initial thought to departure.
A historical timeline for your pre-trip activities.
Check your passport. It must extend validity for at least six months beyond your planned return date. Renew if needed.
Research visa requirements for your nationality. Apply for a visa if needed, allowing ample processing time.
Book your international flights, especially if journeying during peak season or holidays.
Book major accommodations and any popular tours (e.g., Mount Apo trek, white water rafting), specifically if traveling in peak season or during a festival.
Consult a travel health clinic for suggested vaccinations (Hepatitis A, Typhoid, etc.).
If intending to rent and drive a car/motorcycle, arrange for your IDP.
Reconfirm all flights, accommodations, and pre-booked tours.
Pack climate-appropriate clothing, needed medications. Download offline maps plus mobile apps (Grab, Google Translate). Secure internet with NordVPN.
Arrange for pet care, mail hold, and a house-sitter if needed. Notify trusted contacts of your itinerary.
Specific items to book ahead for a smooth journey.
Expand your local knowledge before arrival.
Final arrangements for peace of mind while you're gone.
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and lost luggage well in advance. Consider World Nomads for your coverage.
The initial actions upon arrival guide you to get oriented and settled quickly.
Clear immigration by presenting your passport, return ticket, and completed arrival card.
Collect your luggage. Exchange a small sum of currency or withdraw cash from an ATM for immediate needs.
Acquire and register a getting A sim card upon arrival kiosks. Book transportation from the airport to your accommodation (taxi, Grab, pre-booked transfer).
Go to your hotel or guesthouse and establish yourself in.
Take a short stroll around your immediate neighborhood to acquaint yourself with nearby amenities (restaurants, convenience stores, ATMs).
Acquire bottled water and local snacks.
Exchange a small amount of foreign currency at the airport for immediate needs.
You often discover improved exchange rates at authorized money changers in city malls. Withdraw additional cash from ATMs as needed.
From Davao International Airport (DVO), use licensed taxis (insist on the meter) or the Grab ride-sharing app.
If your hotel offers a pre-arranged pick-up, confirm the details prior for a smooth transfer.
Jeepneys offer cost-effective travel for short to medium distances within the city.
Grab or taxis provide faster, more direct routes if time is a factor.
Always activate your local SIM card promptly to maintain communication. Confirm your accommodation address and transport information before leaving the airport.
Plan your departure to conclude your trip smoothly.
Important information regarding Value Added Tax for visitors.
Formulate a physical checklist and mark off items as you finish them.
This straightforward action lessens stress and guarantees nothing important slips attention.
