Melo Villareal
2023 Ultimate Travel Guide to Kidapawan City, Philippines
The City of Kidapawan is a third-class city and the capital of Cotabato which is a province in the Philippines. It has a population of 140,195 people and is located at the foot of Mt. Apo. It is popular during the summer due to mountain climbing activities.
Prominent Muslims used to call Kidapawan their home like Sultan Omar Kiram II, a descendant of Rajah Baguinda. The Maguindanaon were the first settlers of the city. It became a city on February 12, 1998, through the Republic Act. No. 8500 signed by then-President Fidel V. Ramos.
Its main tourist attraction is Mt. Apo which is where the nearly extinct Philippine Eagle can be found. There are other notable attractions in Kidapawan City like Lake Venado and Kansal Falls.
In this 2019 Travel Guide to Kidapawan City Blog, we listed some tips on how you can do your own DIY Day trip to Kidapawan City. We also included Kidapawan City Itinerary, Things to do and see, how to get there, and more.
Best Time to Visit Kidapawan City
Kidapawan City is located outside the typhoon belt so it has a mild climate. It gets cold during December and January and its hottest months are April and May. If you’re looking forward to climbing Mt. Apo then you should go during the summer (April to May) or November to December otherwise you can go anytime.
How to Get There
From Manila (by air or land)
Take the direct flight from Manila to Awang Airport in Cotabato City via Cebu Pacific and ride a van, bus, or jeepney to Kidapawan City.
From Davao (by land)
Ride the bus going to Kidapawan City at Ecoland Terminal, Davao City.
Currency and Accessibility to ATM Machines
The currency used in Kidapawan City is the Philippine peso. There are several ATM machines like BPI, Metrobank, and Landbank.
Internet Connectivity
PLDT, Smart, and Globe WIFI are available in Kidapawan City. Most accommodations offer free WIFI.
Things to Do in Kidapawan City
Enjoy the Bountiful Fruit Harvest
August to September is the season when there are plenty of fruits that visitors can try. These are locally grown tropical fruits like mangosteen, rambutan, marang, banana, lanzones, and durian. Everybody awaits this time because the fruits taste great and there is a lot to choose from.
Join the Apo Sandawa Climb Festival
This climb festival happens from April to May and October to November when trekking groups head on to the highest mountain in the country. These groups take on the Mandarangan Trail where everyone can witness magnificent surroundings with lush forests and exciting adventures. This is also a day of celebration to hone the indigenous people of Kidapawan City.
Watch Kidapawan Carnival
It’s a weeklong celebration from February 8 to 12 which pays tribute to the founding of Kidapawan as a city. It’s much like a Mardi gras festival and performers wear costumes made of vibrant materials and parade into the streets to dance.
Visit Lake Agco and Mandarangan (little volcano)
Lake Agco is located at the foot of Mt. Apo and inside Mt. Apo Natural Park. It’s a boiling lake which might scare you at first but don’t worry as it’s just sulphuric steam which is good for health actually. You can go on a spring bath and enjoy a mud spa. It’s one of the main reasons why visitors go to the place.
Mandarangan, on the other hand, is what they call a ‘little volcano’. It’s a major attraction in Kidapawan City as you’ll reach it first before Lake Agco. It leads to the Marbol River and Mt. Apo.
Other Tourist Spots to Visit in Kidapawan City
The mystical lake of Lake Venado is an attraction in Kidapawan City you shouldn’t miss. It’s located at the foot of Mt. Apo and it’s the second-highest lake in the country.
Where to Eat in Kidapawan City
Karahay Eat-All-You-Can Restaurant
Location: Barangay Sudapin Davao, Cotabato Road, Kidapawan City
Delicious meals need not be expensive and Karahay takes care of that while giving you plenty of food choices at their Eat-All-You-Can restaurant. They serve delicious meat, vegetables, and seafood dishes. They also serve fresh foods.
AJ Hi-Time
Location: Plaridel St. corner Laurel St. Kidapawan City
Strategically located in the middle of the city, it’s near the park and the Office of the Mayor. It has a cozy ambiance and they serve a mix of Asian, Filipino, and International cuisine.
Boyd’s Pizza House
Location: Roxas Street, Kidapawan City
If you’re looking for comfort foods, make no mistake and head to Boyd’s. Their menu is packed with mouth-watering options like burgers, pasta, pizza, sandwiches, soups, salads, and many more. Their prices are higher than usual because it’s good for a group rather than a single serving.
Where to Stay in Kidapawan City
Eva’s Hotel
Location: 139 Quezon Blvd, Poblacion, Kidapawan City
The price for Matrimonial Queen Room starts at USD24++ via Agoda
The newly renovated is popular with travelers due to its location which makes the city’s attractions easy to reach. They have an onsite ATM, spa and massage facilities, and karaoke.
ABC Landmark Hotel
Location: National Highway, Kidapawan City (in front of Methodist Center) 9400
The price for Matrimonial Room starts at USD18++
The modern setting of ABC Hotel gives visitors a vibrant vibe. Guests who wish to stay on track with their fitness regimens can use their gym. They also have a function hall for meetings and other events, standard room features, a café, and a restaurant.
Travel Tips
Be sure to bring the necessary mountaineering gear if you’re planning to climb Mt. Apo. Likewise, bring proper swimming attire if you’re brave enough to try Lake Agco.
Contact Info
Emergency Hotline 911/0908 921 7888
City Information Office (064) 577 4829
Police Station (064) 577 1444
Have you been to Kidapawan City? Help us improve this Travel Guide to Kidapawan City Blog by sharing your personal Kidapawan City travel tips and recommendations.
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Also Read:
- A Quick Getaway to Apo Island
- Exploring Apo Reef Natural Park via Discovery Fleet Cruise
- UPDATED BORACAY TRAVEL GUIDE
- Top 12 Best Things to Do in Kidapawan City
