Current People's Park Davao Entrance Fees

For the most up-to-date details, check Lonely Planet Davao Guide before you go.

You can find the latest updates on Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary.

You must register your name at the security desk located near the main gate of the park. Please bring a valid identification card to ensure a quick and easy entry process for everyone. Security personnel will inspect your bags to keep the park safe for all of the visitors. They usually prohibit items like alcoholic beverages and sharp objects inside the public park grounds.

The park is a central part of any walking in Davao schedule. It features large sculptures created by the famous local artist Kublai Millan for the public to enjoy. You can explore the durian-shaped dome and the lush gardens without spending a single Philippine peso. It is an ideal spot for families who want to relax in a safe environment for free.

The park usually opens in the early morning and stays open until the late evening hours. It is best to visit during the late afternoon when the tropical heat starts to fade away. You can watch the colorful dancing fountains perform during the scheduled night shows at the park. Check the local city announcements for any special holiday closures or maintenance schedules before you go.

Factors Affecting Your Davao Travel Costs

Several different factors can influence how much money you spend during your trip to Davao City. Peak travel seasons often lead to higher prices for hotel rooms and local tour packages. The month of August is particularly busy because of the vibrant Kadayawan Festival celebrations. You should book your accommodation early to avoid the price hikes during these peak festival weeks.

Your choice of local transportation will also have a major impact on your daily travel budget. Jeepneys are the cheapest way to get around the city for only a few pesos per ride. Taxis and ride-sharing apps offer more convenience but they will cost you much more money. Walking between nearby attractions is the best way to keep your transport expenses at zero.

Staying in the city center makes it easier to join a free walking tour in Davao. You can save on transport by visiting multiple attractions that are located close to each other. Eating at local street food stalls is much more affordable than dining at high-end mall restaurants. Choosing a neighborhood with many cheap eateries will significantly reduce your daily food spending.

Currency exchange rates for the Philippine peso can change daily and affect your overall spending power. It is a good idea to monitor the rates before you change your money at the airport. Carrying small bills is helpful for paying for transport and buying snacks from local street vendors. Most small shops and markets in Davao only accept cash payments for their goods and services.

Budget Assumptions and Planning Details

Our budget estimates are based on several assumptions to help you plan your 2026 trip. We assume that you are a solo traveler staying in standard budget or mid-range accommodations. These daily totals include the cost of three meals and basic public transportation within the city. We have used the current market trends to project the costs for the upcoming travel season.

We have excluded the cost of international flights and expensive souvenirs from these daily budget figures. The prices reflect the expected market rates for the upcoming 2026 travel season in the Philippines. We include the People's Park Davao entrance fees as zero because the park is free for all. Daily totals do not include alcoholic drinks or expensive scuba diving trips around the nearby islands.

You should use these numbers as a general guide rather than a strict rule for spending. Some travelers may spend more on nightlife or specialized guided tours around the Davao region. Planning your itinerary in advance will help you stay within your chosen budget tier during your stay. Davao remains one of the most affordable major cities in the Philippines for international visitors.

We assume you will use public jeepneys for most of your travel needs around the city. Private car rentals or hiring a driver will significantly increase your total daily travel expenses. Always check for the latest price updates before you start your journey to the southern Philippines. A small emergency fund is always recommended for any unexpected travel needs or medical costs.

Budget Breakdown for Your Davao Visit

While the park is free, you still need to plan for other daily travel expenses in Davao. We have broken down the costs into three different tiers to suit your specific travel style. These estimates will help you decide how much cash you need to bring for your trip. Each tier offers a different level of comfort and convenience for the modern traveler.

Budget travelers can enjoy the city by staying in hostels and eating at local markets. Mid-range travelers can afford private rooms in nice hotels and dine at casual sit-down restaurants. Comfort travelers can stay in top-rated resorts and take private tours to see the nearby islands. Your choice of tier will depend on your personal preferences and your total travel savings.

The following table provides a clear overview of the expected daily costs for each travel tier. All prices are listed in US dollars to provide a standard reference for international visitors. Please remember that these are average ranges and your actual spending may vary during your stay. Davao offers great value for money regardless of which budget tier you choose to follow.

Keep a small emergency fund in case you decide to take an unplanned day trip. Davao is generally much more affordable than Manila or Cebu for most international tourists. You can have a wonderful experience in this city even if you are on a tight budget. Focus on the free attractions like the public parks to keep your daily costs very low.

Sample Daily Plan for Budget Travelers

A sample daily plan can help you maximize your time while keeping your expenses very low. Start your morning with a visit to the historic San Pedro Cathedral in the heart of Davao. This location is the starting point for a San Pedro Cathedral walking route through history. The cathedral is one of the oldest religious structures in the entire Davao region.

Walk over to the nearby Davao City Hall to see the beautiful colonial architecture. You can take many great photos here without having to pay any admission or entrance fees. Grab a quick lunch at a local eatery to taste authentic Filipino dishes for a low price. Try the local grilled chicken or the fresh seafood that Davao is famous for.

Head to People's Park in the late afternoon to enjoy the cool breeze and the sculptures. This is one of the 10 best photo spots in Davao for your social media. You can spend a few hours relaxing on the benches while watching the local families play. The park is beautifully lit up at night and offers a very romantic atmosphere.

Finish your budget day at the Roxas Night Market for a delicious and very cheap dinner. You can try the famous charcoal-grilled tuna or the sweet durian ice cream for a few pesos. This entire day of sightseeing will cost you very little money beyond your food and transport. It is the perfect way to see the best of the city without breaking the bank.

• Sample 24-hour budget itinerary for Davao
  • Visit San Pedro Cathedral early
  • Photo stop at City Hall
  • Afternoon at People's Park
  • Dinner at Roxas Market

Tips to Save Money in Davao City

Eating at local night markets is one of the best ways to save money on food. The Roxas Night Market is famous for its wide variety of affordable and tasty street food. You can enjoy a full meal including a drink for less than five dollars per person. Always look for the stalls with the longest lines as they usually have the best food.

Drinking service water at restaurants instead of buying bottled water will help you save your cash. Most established eateries in Davao provide clean and safe drinking water for free to their customers. Always carry a reusable water bottle that you can refill at your hotel before heading out. This simple habit can save you several dollars over the course of your entire trip.

You should learn how to use the local jeepney system to avoid expensive taxi fares. Most jeepney rides within the city cost less than twenty pesos per person for a single trip. You can also follow a self-guided heritage walk in Davao to see the sights for free. Ask the locals for help if you are unsure about which jeepney route to take.

Look for hotels that include a free breakfast to start your day without spending extra money. Booking your accommodation several months in advance can often lead to significant discounts on the room rates. Grouping your activities by neighborhood will reduce the amount of time and money spent on local transport. Davao is a very walkable city if you plan your route carefully and wear comfortable shoes.

• Practical ways to reduce your daily spending
  • Eat at Roxas Night Market
  • Use local jeepneys often
  • Drink free service water
  • Book hotels in advance