About My Journey
The southern island of Mindanao is a land of vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and deep-rooted history. In particular, Region 12 (SOCCSKSARGEN), Region 13 (Caraga), and Maguindanao stand out as destinations filled with natural beauty and cultural treasures. From majestic mountains and pristine beaches to centuries-old traditions and colorful festivals, these areas offer a unique travel experience that blends adventure with heritage.
So far, traveling to the provinces in Regions 12, 13, and part of the BARMM is the most expensive trip. Again, that's so far. Nonetheless, this part of Mindanao is one of the great tourist destinations in the Philippines. There are fine white sand beaches, gigantic waterfalls, lakes, historical sites, and many more.
Day 01: General Santos City
About General Santos
Known as the “Tuna Capital of the Philippines,” General Santos City is a bustling hub in South Cotabato. Famous for its thriving fishing industry, vibrant markets, and rich cultural heritage, GenSan is also the hometown of world boxing icon Manny Pacquiao, making it a dynamic destination for both business and leisure travelers.
How to Get Here
I booked a flight from Manila to GES. Cebu Pacific: 672.64 pesos. ETD NAIA 3: 12:10 PM and ETA General Santos Airport: 2:15 PM. Then, rode a van to SM. I paid 100 pesos. Then, checked in at Residencia Heneral for 250 pesos, overnight. Visited the nearby tourist spots, such as Plaza Heneral, Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage Church, and the City Hall. Had dinner at a fastfood for 105 pesos. Bought water for 27 pesos. End of Day 0. Total Expenses: 1,626 pesos.
Hotels to Stay in Gen San
I stayed at Plaza Heneral, the cheapest motel found on Google Maps. View and book your hotel stay and get the best deals here!
Day 2: Isla Jardin del Mar, Sarangani
About Sarangani Province
Located at the southern tip of Mindanao, Sarangani Province is known for its pristine beaches, rich marine life, and vibrant culture. It offers a mix of adventure and relaxation, from diving in clear waters to experiencing the traditions of its indigenous communities.
From Residencia Heneral, I used Google Maps, super walk to KCC Mall early in the morning. Then, breakfast in McDo. Spent 89 Pesos, with coffee nayun ah. Mas masarap chicken nila kesa sa ibang branch nationwide. Beside the KCC Mall, rode a van to the Municipality of Glan and alighted at their terminal. The fare was 114 pesos. Then, a tricycle ride to Isla Jardin del Mar. I paid 400 pesos for back and forth. Settled the entrance fee of 70 pesos. Explored the beauty of Isla Jardin del Mar. By the way, Isla Jardin del Mar is a hidden paradise known for its powdery white sand, crystal-clear waters, and serene ambiance. Perfect for beach lovers, it offers a peaceful escape ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and unwinding by the sea. I stayed there for an hour and a half, then, a tricycle ride back to the terminal. Again, rode a van back to General Santos City. The fare was 114 pesos. This time, had my lunch at Jollibee for 107 pesos. na hulaan nyo anung meal ko? Then, rode a tricycle to Bulaong Terminal. Paid 80 pesos. Mahal dahil binayaran ko buong trip. Isinama ko narin pamasahe nung driver. Another van ride from Bulaong Terminal to Lake Sebu. ETD: 1:55 PM, ETA: 4:05 PM. Kayo na mag compute, please lang. Checked in at SLT Homestay for 350 pesos overnight. Then, had a palutong dinner for 220 Pesos (Escabecheng Tilapia with Ginkgo biloba extract). Tidied up. Browsed photos. Rested. End of Day 1. Total Expenses for today: 1,444.
Day 3: Lake Sebu, South Cotabato
About South Cotabato
Known as the “Land of the Dreamweavers,” South Cotabato is a cultural and natural gem in Mindanao. It is home to the T’boli people, the stunning Lake Sebu, and vibrant traditions, making it a destination rich in heritage and breathtaking landscapes.
I woke up early because my body said so. Kahit ayoko, wala akong choice kundi gumising. Anlamig kasi sa SLT Homestay. Labas pasok - uy, bastos! ang hangin because of the local materials used to build the house. Tapos mag-isa pa ako. Then, I met Jorie, my contact guide. At 6 AM, we visited the Lotus Farm, rented a canoe for 200 pesos (this is the best time para kita nyo pag-buka ng mga ma-mink-mink na mga Lotus flowers. Then, it was followed by a visit to the T'Boli Museum, with an entrance fee of 20 pesos. Sarado pa sya nung pumunta kami kasi maaga, pinabuksan namin. Spell POWER!!!! Photo ops at the I Love Lake Sebu signage. Headed back to SLT Homestay for breakfast. Then, visited the Seven Falls Adventure, with an entrance fee of 20 pesos. Zipline, 350 pesos. Souvenir: ref magnet: 150 pesos, sando: 150 pesos. Visited The Dreamweavers. Donation: 50 pesos. Visited Evelandia, entrance fee: 30 pesos. Headed back to SLT Homestay. Paid for my dinner: 285 pesos. Hinatid ako ni Sir Jorie sa Lake Sebu Terminal. Pero malapit lang talaga. Then, rode a van to Surallah for 40 pesos. Another van ride to Isulan, for 50 Pesos, alighted at their terminal.
Hotels to Stay in Lake Sebu
I stayed and had an amazing night at SLT. Book your hotel stay and get the best deals here!
The Capitol of Sultan Kudarat
Named after the great Moro leader Sultan Muhammad Dipatuan Kudarat, the province of Sultan Kudarat is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. It is home to scenic mountains, caves, waterfalls, and vibrant traditions that reflect the resilience and heritage of its people.
Upon arrival in Isulan, Sultan Kudarat, I rode a tricycle to the Provincial Capitol, paid 50 pesos. Explore the stunning structure. I stayed there for 30 minutes. Then, rode a tricycle back to the terminal, paid 50 pesos. Then, rode a Husky Bus bound for Cotabato, the fare was 70 pesos. Alighted at the junction and visited the Pink Mosque. Then, by the highway, rode a van to Cotabato City, alighted sa kanto pa Grand Mosque. Chartered a tricycle to the Grand Mosque, paid 200 pesos, back and forth. Then, rode a habal to CityMall, 60 pesos. Break at Jollibee, 105 pesos. Besides Jollibee, I rode on a padyak to Carta de Amor, where I checked in for 500 pesos, overnight. The room has AC and a TV. Basta, pag nasa Jollibee (front of Greenwich), may trike jan, sakyan nyo. Tapos sundan nyo sa Mapa. Tidied up. Rested. End of Day 3.
Day 4: Asik-Asik Falls, North Cotabato
About North Cotabato
North Cotabato is a landlocked province in Mindanao blessed with fertile plains, rolling hills, and majestic mountains. It is a melting pot of cultures and traditions, offering travelers both natural wonders and rich heritage.
Asik-Asik Falls
Asik-Asik Falls is a one-of-a-kind natural wonder where cool spring water cascades gracefully from a curtain of green vines, creating a breathtaking wall of water that looks almost magical.
From Carta de Amor, early in the morning, I walked to Jollibee. Of course, had breakfast for 114 pesos. Wala kasing carinderia na bukas. In front of Jollibee, rode a jeep, with "Magallanes" signboard and alighted at the terminal. Rode a bus to Libungan Terminal, paid 72 Pesos. Travel Time: 1.5 hours. I met Yson at the terminal, tapos isang mahabang bumpy ride. Arrived at Asik-Asik Falls, entrance fee: 30 pesos. Visited Palipaz Falls, entrance fee: 20 pesos. And headed back to the jump off. Pabantay ng bag sa bata, 20 pesos. Souvenir: 90 pesos. Motor parking: 10 pesos. Habal tour fee was 1,300 pesos. Then, Yson brought me to Midsayap, where I rode a bus to Davao City, fare was 370 pesos. ETD: 2 PM, ETA: 8 PM. Kayo na ulit mag compute. Alighted in Ecoland Terminal in Davao City. Had dinner at the carinderia, 60 pesos. Rode a habal to D'Morvie Suites: 70 pesos. Checked in at D'Morvie for 250 pesos, 12 hours. Tidied up and rested. End of Day 4.
Day 5: Surigao City, Surigao del Norte
About Surigao del Norte
Known as the “Surfing Capital of the Philippines”, Surigao del Norte is a paradise of pristine islands, white-sand beaches, mystical caves, and the world-famous Siargao Island. It’s a destination that perfectly blends adventure, nature, and culture in one stunning province.
Please note: Surigao City is in Surigao del Norte. Wala lang, reminder lang. Still in Davao City, I woke up early, kasi 12 hours lang binayaran ko sa D'Morvie. Loaded by Smart and Globe numbers, 200 pesos, mahirap na walang load in case of emergency. Kelangan Globe at Smart meron kayo. From D'Morvie, walked to Almyndras Gym and rode a jeepney to Ecoland Terminal. Breakfast at the carinderia: 40 pesos. Rode a bus bound for Butuan City, with 2 Stops. The bus fare was 730 pesos. ETD: 8 AM, ETA: 4 PM (terminal near Puregold). Bought a bottled water and hopia: 80 pesos. While waiting, I had lunch/dinner for 60 pesos. Ayokong mag-paka busog, baka mag-hanap ako ng toilet. Rode a bus to Surigao, bus fare was 174 pesos, 4 hours travel period. Then, a tricycle ride from the terminal to a lodging house in front of the port, paid him 100 pesos.
Cheap Hotel in Surigao
I stayed in B and J Pension House. I paid 300 Pesos for 12 hours with common toilet. Tidied up. Rested. Book your hotel stay and get the best deals here! End of Day 5.
Day 6: Dinagat Islands
About Dinagat Islands
The Dinagat Islands is a hidden gem in Caraga, Mindanao, known for its unspoiled white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, enchanting rock formations, and rich marine biodiversity. A true paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers, it offers a serene escape away from the usual tourist crowds.
Still in Surigao City, I woke up early. Tidied up, packed my things, and walked to Pier 2, in Boulevard. Hopped on the fast craft to San Jose, Dinagat Islands (Viel's Liner 2), fare was 120 pesos. Travel Time: 1 hour. ETD: 7 AM, ETA: 8 AM. Bought a biscuit for 20 Pesos. I met Kuya Dadong at the port. Breakfast at the carinderia plus take-out (for our lunch): 150 Pesos. Island hopping: 2,500 Pesos, medyo mahal kasi magisa lang ako.
Dinagat Islands Tourist Spots
- Pangabangan Blue Lagoon
- Duyos Beach
- Bitaog Beach
- Garden Resort
Hotels in Dinagat Islands
I checked in at 3RJA Pensione House, 250 pesos for overnight. The room has a single bed, a fan, and a common toilet and bath. Book your hotel stay and get the best deals here! End of Day 6.
Day 7: Siargao Island
About Siargao
Siargao, dubbed the “Surfing Capital of the Philippines,” is a tropical paradise famous for its world-class waves, pristine lagoons, island-hopping adventures, and laid-back island vibe. It’s a must-visit destination for surfers, beach lovers, and nature enthusiasts.
From the 3RJA Pension House, I walked to the port. Bought a ferry ticket bound for Surigao, paid 120 pesos and a terminal ticket for 10 pesos. ETD: 6 AM, ETA: 7AM. Had breakfast at the carinderia by the port, for 85 pesos. Then, another ferry ride to Dapa Port, Siargao. Ferry fare was 300 Pesos, ETD: 9:30 AM, ETA: 11:00 AM. I met my habal driver/guide near the port date. Then, headed to Happynest, a backpackers' hostel. Settled my things on the bed. Then, we started a habal tour. Paid 1,500 pesos, gas: 280 pesos. Dito ako napamahal dahil hindi ako marunong mag-motor. Dinner with my new found friends. Tidied up and rested. End of Day 6.
Cheap Hotels to Stay in Siargao
I stayed at Happynext, a cheap yet recommended place for surfers and backpackers. Check some of the best places to stay in Siargao.
Day 8: Bega Falls, Agusan del Sur
About Agusan del Sur
Agusan del Sur, located in the heart of the Caraga Region, is a landlocked province known for its lush forests, mighty rivers, and rich cultural heritage. It is home to the Agusan Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary, one of the most important wetlands in the Philippines.
Early wake-up call. Tidied up and packed my things. Nagpahatid ako kay Cliff sa Dapa Port. Nag pa gas kami ng 70 pesos, ayoko mag tulak. Bought a ferry ticket (Sean Ferry 2) to Surigao: 350 Pesos. Terminal Fee: 10 Pesos, Municipal Fee: 5 Pesos ETD: 6AM, ETA: 7:23 AM. Upon arrival in Surigao, I used Google Maps, from the boulevard, walked to BPI, and withdrew. Breakfast at McDonald's, beside BPI: 125 Pesos. In front of McDo, rode in a jeep to the terminal. Rode in a bus from Surigao to Butuan: 252 Pesos (non-stop). ETD: 8:40 AM, ETA: 11:30 AM. Alight in Butuan Terminal, near Puregold. Not in Robinsons. Toilet: 5 pesos. Ihi lang ginawa ko, wag judgemental. Bought a distilled water for 25 pesos, 75 ML. Rode a bus to Awa Crossing, for 154 pesos. ETD: 12:30 PM, ETA: 2 PM. I met Kuya Aljon (habal driver/guide). Paid him 400 Pesos. Settled Bega Falls, entrance fee: 30 Pesos. I stayed at the falls for an hour, then, headed back to the tourism office by the highway. Then, Hinatid ako ni Kuya Aljon to Prosperidad, the capital of Agusan del Sur. Rode a bus to San Franz, for 45 pesos. Nag cutting trip ako para makahanap ng 2 stops na pa Davao. Then, another bus ride to Davao City. Paid 514 pesos for No Stops. ETD: 5:50 PM, ETA: 10 PM. Alighted in Ecoland Terminal. A habal ride to D'Morvie San Pedro, 60 pesos. Checked in at the D'Morvie, 450 pesos for 24 hours. Tidied up and rested. End of Day 7.
Day 9: Davao City
Breakfast at McDo, Bankerohan, for 119 Pesos. Bought bread for 25 Pesos. Walking galore around the city, tapos hanap malong and ukay-ukay. Bought Ukay: 370 Pesos. Rest galore at D'Morvie. Then, at 6 PM, I rode a taxi to Davao International Airport, paid 270 pesos. Flown back to NAIA Terminal 3. ETD: 08:15 PM, ETA: 10:15 PM.
Budget and Expenses
Total Expenses: 20,721 pesos
- Airfare: 2,235 pesos for two way
- Without airfare 18,486 pesos
Summary
Exploring Regions 12, 13, and Maguindanao is more than just a journey across Mindanao—it’s a chance to immerse yourself in the stories, traditions, and wonders that define this part of the Philippines. With their unmatched landscapes, warm communities, and cultural richness, these destinations promise experiences that will leave travelers inspired and longing to return.
As someone who has visited all 82 provinces in the Philippines, I’ve created a complete guide to help you explore each one. Check out my Philippines 82 Provinces Travel Guide here.
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