How to Reach Matiao in the Philippines
Matiao is a beautiful destination located in the Philippines. If you are planning a trip to this charming town, here are some ways to reach Matiao:
Matiao
Matiao is a small, picturesque town located in the province of Davao Oriental, Philippines. Situated in the southern part of the country, i…
Best for you if…
- A week-long stay
- Exploring with transit or a car
- Beach hopping travelers
- Island hopping travelers
- Visiting in December to February
More about this guide
Matiao is a strong pick for beach hopping & island hopping — plan about 7-10 days days; group places into half-day loops. Peak season: December to February.
Deep guide guide · about 4 min to read · depth score 93/100 (coverage of intro, tips, and mapped places)
Spread density — Wide area — group nearby places into half-day loops. (≈100.5 km span)
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Places to explore
7-10 days
Recommended days
December to February
Best season
8
Nearby places
Find nearby destinations
When to go
High season: December to February
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
Best months for lower-cost travel: June · September · October
Weather
Cool
November to February
Rainy
June to October
Summer
March to May
How to get there
By Air:
The nearest international airport to Matiao is Francisco Bangoy International Airport, also known as Davao International Airport. From there, you can take a domestic flight to either Davao City or Mati City, which are the closest cities to Matiao. Once you reach Davao or Mati, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Matiao, which is approximately a 2-hour drive away.
By Land:
If you prefer traveling by land, you can take a bus or rent a car from Davao City. Matiao is around 120 kilometers away from Davao, and the journey takes approximately 3-4 hours, depending on traffic conditions. The route offers scenic views of the countryside, making it a pleasant journey for nature lovers.
By Sea:
For adventure seekers who enjoy sea travel, you can also reach Matiao by taking a ferry from Davao City to Mati City. The ferry ride usually takes around 4-5 hours, providing a unique experience as you sail across the crystal-clear waters of the Davao Gulf. Once you arrive in Mati City, you can easily reach Matiao by hiring a taxi or taking a local bus.
Local Transportation:
Once you are in Matiao, getting around the town is relatively easy. You can hire a tricycle, which is a common mode of transportation in the Philippines, to explore the local attractions and move around within the town. Tricycles are readily available and provide a convenient way to navigate Matiao's streets.
Whether you choose to travel by air, land, or sea, reaching Matiao is an exciting adventure. Make sure to plan your journey in advance and enjoy the scenic beauty and warm hospitality this charming town has to offer.
Getting to know Matiao
Matiao is a small, picturesque town located in the province of Davao Oriental, Philippines. Situated in the southern part of the country, it offers a serene escape from the bustling city life. With its lush landscapes and pristine beaches, Matiao is a hidden gem for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
The town is home to stunning natural attractions, such as Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich biodiversity. It is also home to the famous pygmy forest, where visitors can witness unique and rare flora species in a miniature scale.
For beach enthusiasts, Matiao has a coastline dotted with stunning beaches. Dahican Beach, in particular, is a must-visit destination. With its crystal-clear waters, powdery white sand, and sprawling palm trees, it is the perfect spot for sunbathing, swimming, and beach picnics.
In addition to its natural wonders, Matiao also has a thriving local culture. Visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant festivals that showcase the town's Filipino heritage, such as the Matiao Kadayawan Festival, where locals celebrate their bountiful harvest with colorful parades, street dances, and cultural performances.
Whether you're seeking tranquility in nature or an adventure-filled getaway, Matiao in the Philippines is a destination that offers both. Its natural beauty, friendly locals, and rich cultural heritage make it an unforgettable place to visit.
Pre-trip checklist
Compiled from local tips, stay length, and season notes.
Local tips
- Always carry sunscreen and insect repellent
- Try local street food for an authentic culinary experience
- Respect the local customs and traditions
- Pack light and bring comfortable footwear for outdoor activities
Places worth exploring
47 places mapped for this destination
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Walking loops
Evening strolls, half-days, and fuller day loops — clustered by proximity.
Evening stroll 1
~0.6 km · 2 places
Evening stroll 2
~0.6 km · 4 places
Evening stroll 3
~1.6 km · 3 places
Half-day loop 1
~2.2 km · 2 places
Half-day loop 2
~4.4 km · 5 places
Half-day loop 3
~1.2 km · 4 places
Half-day loop 4
~1.5 km · 2 places
Full-day loop 1
~6.9 km · 7 places
Full-day loop 2
~7 km · 7 places
Full-day loop 3
~0.7 km · 3 places
Suggested 7-day outline
Places ordered by proximity into day buckets. Add what you like to your trip.
Day 1
~81.5 km path
Day 2
~2.6 km path
Day 3
~7.8 km path
Day 4
~20.9 km path
Day 5
~30.3 km path
Day 6
~158.8 km path
Day 7
~181.5 km path
Frequently asked questions
Answers compiled from stay length, season, and local tips for this guide.
How many days do you need in Matiao?
Most travelers spend about 7-10 days days in Matiao, Philippines.
When is the best time to visit Matiao?
High season is typically December to February.
Which months are more budget-friendly in Matiao?
Travelers often find better value in June, September, October.
What kind of trip is Matiao good for?
Matiao suits Beach hopping, Island hopping, Mountain trekking, Cultural immersion.
Is Matiao walkable?
Wide area — group nearby places into half-day loops.
Any local tips for Matiao?
Always carry sunscreen and insect repellent
Build your trip
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Multi-city ideas
Nearby combinations sharing travel styles. See all routes
- Matiao → Mati → Maputi · ≈16 km
- Matiao → Mati → Baon · ≈18 km
- Matiao → Mati → Tamisan · ≈18 km
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