Things To Do
in Matanao
Matanao is a tranquil inland municipality in Davao del Sur, Philippines, nestled among rolling farmland and forested hills. It offers a relaxed rural atmosphere with friendly locals, vibrant markets, and scenic river valleys. The area serves as a gateway to nature experiences while staying within reach of Davao City and nearby towns.
Visitors can immerse in local culture through markets, fiestas, and countryside viewpoints.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your morning with a refreshing hike up to Mount Matanao, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. As you ascend, immerse yourself in the lush greenery and listen to the sounds of nature. Capture the stunning sunrise as it bathes the hills in golden light, creating an unforgettable backdrop.
After descending, head to the nearby Matanao Eco-Park, where you can enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature. Spend your afternoon exploring the park's trails or take a leisurely stroll by the river, where you can cool off in the crystal-clear water. Don’t forget to try some local delicacies sold by vendors in the area.
As the day winds down, return to the town center and enjoy a traditional Filipino dinner at a local eatery. Savor the flavors of regional dishes while mingling with friendly locals who share stories about Matanao’s culture. After dinner, take a leisurely evening walk to enjoy the cool breeze and the charming ambiance of the town.
Begin your day with a visit to the Matanao Public Market, where vibrant colors and lively chatter fill the air. Engage with local vendors, sampling fresh fruits and traditional snacks as you explore the stalls filled with handmade crafts and goods. This is a perfect opportunity to pick up unique souvenirs to remember your trip.
After the market, take part in a craft workshop where you can learn traditional weaving or pottery from skilled artisans. This hands-on experience will give you insight into the rich cultural heritage of Matanao. Enjoy the satisfaction of creating your own piece of art to take home as a memento.
In the evening, visit a local cultural center where you can watch traditional dance performances showcasing the history and folklore of the area. The vibrant costumes and rhythmic music will leave you captivated and enriched by the local culture. After the show, enjoy a casual dinner with fellow travelers and share your experiences.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🍜Meal for two at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $1-3 |
| 🚗Local transportation (short ride) | $1-4 |
| 🏨Budget hotel (per night) | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed rural atmosphere and friendly locals
- Affordable living costs and easy access to nature
- Limited nightlife and nightlife venues
- Fewer English-language services and amenities in some areas
- "Maayong buntag" - Good morning
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Palihug" - Please
- "Asa ang merkado?" - Where is the market?
- "Tagpila ni?" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Matanao
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden hour light over patchwork rice fields in the outskirts provides calm, reflective compositions.
A serene riverside scene with a simple bamboo bridge, ideal for long exposure and portrait work.
Sweeping valley views from a rural hillside; great for panoramic city-to-farmland shots.
A small waterfall and nearby forested area offer lush green backdrops and dynamic water motion.
Food in Matanao
Matanao Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh fish cured in vinegar, lime, chili, onions, and herbs; widely available at markets and roadside stalls.
Must-Try!
Rice packed in coconut leaves served with grilled fish and a squeeze of calamansi for a rustic, flavorful meal.
Fresh fish grilled over charcoal, often served with a tangy dipping sauce and rice.
Taro leaves simmered in coconut milk with chili and coconut oil; commonly found in local eateries.
Classic adobo prepared with coconut milk for a milder, creamier version often served with rice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Center of daily life where locals buy produce, fish, meat, and ready-to-eat snacks; great for real-time flavor sampling.
Smaller neighborhood markets that offer seasonal fruits, vegetables, and street-side snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet others with a smile and use polite forms like 'po' when addressing elders or strangers; a handshake or light bow is common.
Ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially in private homes or family settings.
Dress modestly in residential areas and churches; shoulders and knees should be covered in more conservative spaces.
In some homes, shoes are removed before entering; follow local cues and be respectful.
Safety
Tipping in Matanao
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. If service is good, a small tip (about 5-10% in sit-down restaurants) is common; most markets and casual stalls do not expect tips.
Cash in Philippine pesos is widely accepted. Credit/debit cards are accepted mainly in larger hotels or formal establishments; mobile wallets (e.g., GCash, PayMaya) are increasingly used in towns with card readers and merchants who support digital payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March–May brings hot, dry days with clear skies; best for outdoor hikes early in the morning and river visits before lunch; bring sun protection and plenty of water; fire risk can be a concern in dry fields.
November–February offers cooler mornings and pleasant temperatures; humidity is moderate and skies are often clear, making it ideal for early-morning hikes and photography outside of peak heat.
June–October brings heavier rainfall and higher humidity; trails can be slippery and river levels rise, so plan flexible outdoor activities and carry rain gear.
Matanao at Night
Hiking in Matanao
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle-to-moderate hike offering views of valleys, fields, and distant hills.
Trail along a river with lush vegetation and occasional small cascades; suitable for a half-day trek.
Shade-dense path leading to lookout spots with panoramic rural scenery.
Airports
How to reach Matanao by plane.
Davao City’s main airport, about a few hours by road from Matanao; a primary gateway for arrivals and departures.
A larger regional airport offering nearby access for travelers coming from the southern parts of Mindanao.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority of residents spoke Cebuano; strong agricultural presence and close-knit community life.
Smaller Lumad groups and local indigenous families live in surrounding hinterlands, contributing to cultural diversity.
A mix of local migrant workers and visitors from nearby towns and cities who come for markets, farming, and nature trips.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in schools, barangays, and informal courts; a common pastime for locals.
Popular in community centers and homes; often played in evenings.
Traditional Filipino martial art taught in some schools and local groups.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Matanao.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in many carinderias and eateries; look for vegetable dishes like laing, pinakbet-inspired plates, or egg and tofu-based offerings. When in doubt, ask for 'walay isda' (no fish) and request extra vegetables or tofu.