Malagos Garden Resort | Davao City

Malagos Garden Resort is a 12-hectare eco-tourism destination in the Baguio District of Davao City. It functions as a nature sanctuary, agricultural farm, and leisure resort.

Visual Characteristics

The resort is characterized by lush tropical landscaping, manicured gardens, and pine-tree-lined paths. The architecture is rustic and integrated with nature, featuring open-air pavilions, wooden cottages, and stone-paved walkways. Key visual landmarks include the butterfly sanctuary, bird domes, and the dedicated chocolate museum.

Location & Access Logistics

Address: Baguio District, Calinan-Baguio-Cadalian Rd, Davao City, 8000 Davao del Sur.

Access: Located approximately 30–45 minutes from Davao City center.

Transport: * Private Vehicle: Most efficient route via the Davao-Bukidnon Highway.

Public Transport: Take a van or bus to Calinan from the city center (Annil Terminal), then a tricycle to the resort.

Entry: Admission requires an entrance fee; various packages are available that include meals or specific activities.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The resort started as a orchid farm and has evolved into a comprehensive eco-park. It is home to the Malagos Cacao, which has gained international recognition for high-quality chocolate production. The resort emphasizes biodiversity conservation and sustainable agriculture.

Key Highlights & Activities

Malagos Chocolate Museum: The first of its kind in the Philippines; offers a "tree-to-bar" experience where visitors can make their own chocolate.

Bird Show: An interactive educational show featuring various avian species.

Butterfly Sanctuary: An indoor garden housing numerous local butterfly species.

Petting Zoo: Allows interaction with farm animals such as goats, sheep, and horses.

Chocolate Laboratory: A hands-on activity area for chocolate-related workshops.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The facility includes two cafes, a full-service spa, and an outdoor swimming pool. Accommodation ranges from standard rooms to executive villas. It is a frequent venue for seminars, weddings, and team-building events. 5G cellular coverage is available but can be inconsistent in dense garden areas.

Best Time to Visit

Operating Hours: Daily from 06:00 to 21:00.

Weekends: Best for catching the scheduled bird and animal shows.

Morning: Ideal for walking through the gardens and museums before the afternoon heat.

Facts & Legends

Malagos Chocolate has won multiple gold and silver awards from the Academy of Chocolate and the International Chocolate Awards, putting Davao on the global culinary map. The resort’s name is derived from the word "Malakas na Agos" (strong current), referring to the nearby river.

Nearby Landmarks

Philippine Eagle Center: 0.5 km South

Mount Apo National Park: Accessible via nearby mountain trails

Davao City Center: 30 km Southeast