Marawi Travel Guide

Discover the beauty of Marawi in the Philippines with our comprehensive travel guide. Learn about its must-see attractions, outdoor activities, hiking/biking routes, food scene, accommodations, and safety tips.


Marawi is a beautiful and culturally rich city in the Bangsamoro region of Mindanao, Philippines. Known as the “Islamic City of Marawi,” it offers a unique blend of Christian and Islamic cultures, making it a must-visit destination for travelers interested in history, culture, and adventure. From its fascinating museums and historical sites to its scenic natural wonders and outdoor activities, Marawi has something for every kind of traveler. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the top attractions, things to do, food scene, accommodations, and safety tips in Marawi.

Introduction to Marawi

Marawi is a small city located in the Lanao del Sur province of Mindanao, Philippines. It is widely known for its rich Islamic heritage and cultural traditions. Marawi has a population of over 200,000 residents, with the majority being Muslims. The city is situated at an elevation of 700 meters above sea level and is surrounded by beautiful mountains and lakes. Marawi is also famous for its traditional crafts and textiles like malong and langkit rugs.

List of Places to Visit in Marawi

Marawi is home to many culturally significant attractions and beautiful natural wonders. Here are some of the must-visit places in Marawi:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Marawi Museum
  • Sultanate of Marawi

Natural Attractions of Marawi: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake Lanao
  • Mount Mupo
  • Marawi Waterfall

Hiking/Biking Routes of Marawi

Marawi is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts as it boasts many hiking and biking trails. Here are some of the best routes for biking and hiking in Marawi:

  • SportBike Trail - a 32km route that offers scenic views of Lake Lanao.
  • Sumpayan Trail - a 27km trail that offers a challenging and scenic ride through the mountains.

Best Things to Do in Marawi: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of things to do in Marawi. Here are some of the best activities and tours to consider:

  • Visit Marawi Museum and learn about the city’s Islamic heritage.
  • Explore the beautiful Lake Lanao by boat tour.
  • Go hiking or biking along the scenic trails in the mountains.
  • Visit the Marawi Waterfall for a refreshing dip.

Week-Long Itinerary for Marawi

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Marawi:

Day 1: Explore the city’s historical and cultural sites such as Marawi Museum and the Sultanate of Marawi. Day 2: Take a boat tour of Lake Lanao and visit the beautiful islands nearby. Day 3: Go biking or hiking along the scenic trails in the mountains. Day 4: Visit the Marawi Waterfall and enjoy a refreshing swim. Day 5: Sample the local cuisine at the city’s best restaurants and cafes. Day 6: Shop for souvenirs and local products at the city market. Day 7: Have a relaxing day and enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife scene.

Food and Drink Scene of Marawi

Marawi has a vibrant food and drink scene, with plenty of delicious dishes and refreshing beverages to try. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in Marawi:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Piaparan - a traditional Maranao dish made of chicken or beef cooked in coconut milk and spices.
  • Bangkuraro - a rich and flavorful Maranao soup made with beef, coconut milk, and vegetables.
  • Beef Rendang - A Malaysian-inspired curry dish that is commonly found in Marawi.
  • Paksiw - A fish dish cooked in vinegar with ginger, garlic, and onion.

Local Beverages

  • Kapeng Maranao - A strong and flavorful coffee grown locally in Marawi.
  • Lulut - A sweet, milky drink made from rice and flavored with pandan leaves.

Where to Stay in Marawi: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Marawi has plenty of options for accommodations that cater to different types of travelers. Here are some of the best places to stay in Marawi:

  • Mindanao State University - Located in the heart of the city, this university has guest rooms available for visitors.
  • Maranding Hotel and Resort - A resort-style accommodation with a swimming pool and beautiful views of Lake Lanao.
  • The Oriental Hotel - A modern hotel located near the city center with all the amenities of luxury accommodation.

What to Buy in Marawi: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Marawi is famous for its traditional crafts and textiles like malong and langkit rugs, which make for great souvenirs. Other local products to consider buying in Marawi include traditional jewelry, locally-made coffee and sweets, and hand-woven baskets.

Local Culture and Customs of Marawi

Marawi has a rich Islamic culture with many traditional customs and practices. Visitors should be mindful of local customs such as dressing conservatively, respecting Islamic prayer times, and refraining from eating or drinking in public during Ramadan.

Best Time to Visit Marawi

The best time to visit Marawi is from December to February when the weather is cooler and drier. However, visitors should be mindful of the city’s occasional heavy rainfall and potential flooding in low-lying areas.

Do’s and Don’ts of Marawi

When visiting Marawi, here are some of the do’s and don’ts to remember:

Do:

  • Show respect for local customs and traditions.
  • Dress conservatively when visiting mosques or Islamic sites.
  • Buy traditional crafts and textiles from local artisan markets to support the local economy.

Don’t:

  • Public displays of affection are not culturally appropriate.
  • Refrain from drinking alcohol in public areas.
  • Do not take pictures of individuals without their permission.

Safety and Health

Marawi is generally safe for travelers, but visitors should take precautions to keep themselves safe and healthy.

Safety in Marawi

  • Avoid crowded areas, especially during political conflicts or unrest.
  • Be cautious of pickpockets and theft in public areas.
  • Research the area and read travel advisories before taking a trip to Marawi.

Health in Marawi

  • Visitors should be up to date on their routine vaccinations before traveling to Marawi.
  • Keep insect repellent and sunblock handy.
  • Visitors should carry any necessary prescription medications with them.

Getting to Marawi: Transportation Options and Logistics

Here are some ways to get to Marawi:

Airports Near Marawi

  • Cagayan de Oro Airport
  • Laguindingan Airport

Bus Stations Near Marawi

  • Iligan City Bus Terminal
  • Cagayan de Oro Bus Terminal

Other Options

  • Visitors can take a taxi or private car from nearby cities such as Iligan or Cagayan de Oro.

How to Get Around in Marawi

The best way to get around Marawi is through hiring a taxi or a motorcycle or tricycle. Buses and jeepneys are also available for travel within the city limits and nearby destinations.

Where to Go Next from Marawi: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions that visitors can take after exploring Marawi:

  • Iligan City - a nearby city known as the “City of Majestic Waterfalls.”
  • Cagayan de Oro - a bustling city known for its adventure activities and natural wonders.
  • Lake Sebu - a picturesque lake located in the province of South Cotabato, known for its scenic views and traditional T’Boli culture.

Conclusion

Marawi is a beautiful city that should be on every traveler’s list when visiting Mindanao in the Philippines. From its rich cultural heritage to its beautiful natural wonders, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Marawi. Visitors should take precautions for the weather and keep safety in mind, but with proper planning, Marawi can be a safe and memorable destination for travelers.

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