Cotabato City Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Cotabato City with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the top attractions, best places to stay, where to eat, and useful tips.


Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Cotabato City

Welcome to Cotabato City, a city located in the Bangsamoro region of Mindanao in the Philippines. This vibrant city has a rich cultural heritage and is surrounded by breathtaking natural wonders. In this comprehensive guide, you will discover the top attractions, best places to stay, where to eat, and useful tips for planning your trip to Cotabato City.

List of Places to Visit in Cotabato City

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you want to immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Cotabato City, visit these museums and historical places:

  • City Museum - This museum showcases the history and culture of Cotabato City, including artifacts and exhibits from various ethnic groups in the region.

  • Tamontaka Church - This beautiful church is one of the oldest wooden structures in Cotabato City, dating back to the Spanish colonial period.

  • Sultan Kudarat Monument - This monument honors Sultan Kudarat, a revered Muslim leader who fought against Spanish colonization in the 17th century.

Natural Attractions of Cotabato City: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Cotabato City is surrounded by stunning natural wonders, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the top natural attractions in the city:

  • Asik-Asik Falls - This stunning waterfall is located in the nearby town of Alamada and is known for its crystal-clear waters and verdant surroundings.

  • Liguasan Marsh - This vast wetland is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species, including migratory birds.

  • Mt. Apo - The highest mountain in the Philippines is located near Cotabato City and offers challenging hiking trails and breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cotabato City

Cotabato City has several hiking and biking trails that offer a perfect escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Some of the best routes include:

  • Alamada River Trail - This trail follows the Alamada River and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lush jungle.

  • Barangay Poblacion Trail - This scenic trail takes you through the heart of Cotabato City, providing an excellent opportunity to see the city’s cultural and historical landmarks.

  • Kalanganan Trail - This trail offers breathtaking views of the city’s skyline and is a popular spot for birdwatching and photography.

Best Things to Do in Cotabato City: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of exciting activities and tours to do in Cotabato City, from exploring cultural landmarks to trying local cuisine. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Take a Cotabato City Heritage Tour - This tour will take you to the city’s historical landmarks and cultural sites, offering a fascinating glimpse into Cotabato City’s colorful past.

  • Try Local Delicacies - From the popular Maguindanaon dish called “tinagtag” to mouth-watering “piyaren” cookies, Cotabato City has many unique and delicious local dishes to try.

  • Go on a River Cruise - Take a leisurely river cruise and marvel at the natural beauty of the city while enjoying local delicacies and live music.

Week-Long Itinerary for Cotabato City

Day 1: Explore the city’s cultural landmarks and visit the City Museum, Tamontaka Church, and Sultan Kudarat Monument.

Day 2: Experience the natural beauty of Cotabato City by visiting Asik-Asik Falls and Liguasan Marsh.

Day 3: Hike up to Mt. Apo and enjoy the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Day 4: Take a day trip to nearby towns and visit the popular Tantawan Park and Weaving Center.

Day 5: Cycle through the city’s scenic trails and visit Barangay Poblacion Trail and Kalanganan Trail.

Day 6: Take a river cruise, enjoy local delicacies, and appreciate live music.

Day 7: Relax and unwind by spending the day at the city’s popular Midsayap Municipal Beach.

Food and Drink Scene of Cotabato City

Must-Try Dishes

Cotabato City has many local dishes that are worth trying, such as:

  • Tinagtag- a Maguindanaon dish made with sweet potato and rice flour.

  • Pastil- rice topped with shredded chicken or beef and wrapped in banana leaves.

  • Piyaren- a sweet cookie made with coconut and sesame seeds.

Local Beverages

Cotabato City offers many refreshing drinks, such as:

  • Kapeng Tagakaolo - a rich coffee made from locally grown beans.

  • Likit-Likit- a refreshing drink made with coconut milk, brown sugar, and pandan leaves.

Where to Stay in Cotabato City: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Cotabato City offers a range of accommodation options for travelers, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Here are some of the best places to stay in Cotabato City:

  • The Farmhouse- a beautiful guesthouse located in the heart of town, offering comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and an outdoor pool.

  • Hotel Rio - a 4-star hotel with spacious guest rooms, a pool, and in-house dining options.

  • Chona and Christophe Guesthouse- a budget-friendly option with a laid-back atmosphere, located just a few minutes away from the city center.

What to Buy in Cotabato City: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Cotabato City is famous for its handicrafts, such as traditional Muslim textiles, wooden carvings, and brassware. Other popular souvenirs include locally made sweets and delicacies, such as piyaren.

Local Culture and Customs of Cotabato City

Cotabato City is a melting pot of different cultures and traditions, where Islam and Christianity exist side by side. Traditional dances and music are also an essential part of the local culture, such as the Kapa Malong-Malong dance.

Best Time to Visit Cotabato City

The best time to visit Cotabato City is from December to May when the weather is dry and ideal for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cotabato City

Do:

  • Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites and mosques.

  • Respect local customs and traditions.

  • Try local dishes and delicacies.

Don’t:

  • Drink alcohol in public places.

  • Leave valuables unattended.

  • Take photos of people without their consent.

Safety and Health

Safety in Cotabato City

Cotabato City is generally a safe place for travelers, but it is always wise to exercise caution. Avoid traveling alone at night and be aware of your surroundings.

Health in Cotabato City

Make sure to drink only bottled or filtered water to avoid getting sick. It is recommended that you get vaccinated before traveling to Cotabato City to protect against diseases such as typhoid and hepatitis A.

Getting to Cotabato City: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Cotabato City

The city is served by Cotabato Airport (CBO), which has direct flights to Manila and other major cities in the Philippines.

Bus Stations Near Cotabato City

Several bus companies operate daily services to Cotabato City from major cities in Mindanao and other parts of the Philippines.

Other Options

You can also reach Cotabato City by boat from Zamboanga City and General Santos City.

How to Get Around in Cotabato City

The most convenient way to get around Cotabato City is by tricycle or motorcycle taxi. Car rental services are also available.

Where to Go Next from Cotabato City: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Cotabato City is a gateway to some of the most stunning natural attractions in Mindanao, such as:

  • Lake Sebu - a picturesque lake located in South Cotabato, surrounded by lush greenery and traditional T’boli villages.

  • Surallah - a charming small town located in the heart of South Cotabato, known for its scenic countryside and serene atmosphere.

  • Maguindanao - a province known for its vibrant Muslim culture, natural beauty, and historical landmarks.

Conclusion

Cotabato City is a beautiful and vibrant destination that offers a perfect blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and outdoor adventures. Plan your trip today and experience all that Cotabato City has to offer.