· PH

Kidapawan

Kidapawan, Cotabato, Philippines

Discover Kidapawan: The City at the Foot of Mount Apo Nestled at the foot of the majestic Mount Apo, Kidapawan City, located in the heart of Cotabato province, Philippines, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Offerin…

#Kidapawan#Cotabato#Philippines#urban#agricultural

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Kidapawan.

Top Hotels in Kidapawan

Top Flights to Kidapawan

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Kidapawan.

Tours

Kidapawan City Plaza

A vibrant public space in the heart of Kidapawan ideal for relaxation, picnics, and enjoying the local scenery.

Shopping

Korean-Philippine Shopping Center

A popular shopping destination offering a variety of Korean and local products.

Outdoor

Mount Apo Natural Park

A breathtaking park at the foot of Mount Apo offering hiking, camping, and wildlife observation opportunities.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Kidapawan.

Currency

₱ | PHP | Philippine Peso

Population

160791.0

Languages

Cebuano, Cebuano, English, Hiligaynon

Average weather

Kidapawan

Jan

30°21°

Feb

31°21°

Mar

32°22°

Apr

33°23°

May

32°23°

Jun

31°23°

Jul

31°23°

Aug

31°23°

Sep

31°23°

Oct

31°23°

Nov

31°22°

Dec

30°22°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Kidapawan.

What people love

Kidapawan, located in Cotabato, Philippines, offers a unique travel experience with its beautiful natural attractions and cultural heritage. Here are some pros of traveling to Kidapawan:

Natural Wonders: Kidapawan is known as the "Fruit Basket of Mindanao" due to its abundance of fruits and natural resources. The city is surrounded by lush greenery, mountains, and forests, providing opportunities for outdoor activities such as trekking, hiking, and nature exploration.
Mount Apo: Kidapawan is the jump-off point for climbing Mount Apo, the highest peak in the Philippines. Climbing Mount Apo is a challenging yet rewarding experience, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and a sense of accomplishment upon reaching the summit.
Hot Springs and Waterfalls: Kidapawan is home to several hot springs and waterfalls, such as Asik-Asik Falls and Lake Agco Hot Springs. These natural attractions are perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation, allowing visitors to unwind and connect with nature.
Cultural Immersion: Traveling to Kidapawan provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions of the indigenous peoples in the area. Visitors can interact with the locals, learn about their customs, and experience traditional practices firsthand.
Festivals and Events: Kidapawan hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating the city's rich cultural heritage and agricultural abundance. One of the most famous events is the Timpupo Festival, which showcases the bountiful harvest of fruits and vegetables in the region.

Overall, traveling to Kidapawan offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures, making it a compelling destination for travelers seeking a taste of authentic Filipino charm.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Kidapawan, Cotabato, Philippines may include:

Security Concerns: Kidapawan, like some other areas in Mindanao, has experienced security issues in the past due to insurgent groups and occasional clashes between military forces and rebels. Travelers are advised to stay informed about the current situation and exercise caution.
Limited Tourist Infrastructure: Kidapawan is not as developed for tourism compared to other destinations in the Philippines. This means that amenities such as hotels, restaurants, and transportation options may be limited or not up to international standards.
Language Barrier: While English is widely spoken in the Philippines, some areas, including Kidapawan, may have a higher concentration of local dialects like Cebuano or Maguindanao. This could pose a challenge for travelers who do not speak these languages.
Remote Location: Kidapawan is located in a more remote part of the Philippines, which may result in longer travel times and limited access to certain services or facilities.
Weather and Natural Disasters: Kidapawan, like many areas in the Philippines, is prone to typhoons and other natural disasters. Travelers should be aware of the weather conditions and have contingency plans in place.

It's important to conduct thorough research and consider these factors before planning a trip to Kidapawan, Cotabato, Philippines.

Kidapawan, officially known as the City of Kidapawan, is the capital city of the province of Cotabato in the Philippines. It is situated in the foothills of Mount Apo, the highest peak in the Philippines. The city is part of the SOCCSKSARGEN region, also known as Region XII.

Early History

Kidapawan was originally inhabited by indigenous tribes like the Manobos and Bagobos. The area was rich in natural resources, which attracted settlers over the years. The name "Kidapawan" comes from the words "Tida," meaning spring, and "Pawan," meaning highland, reflecting the city's geographical location as a highland area with abundant springs.

Spanish and American Periods

During the Spanish colonization, the area was part of the vast Cotabato province. However, it was not significantly settled or developed by the Spanish due to its mountainous terrain.

During the American occupation, efforts were made to develop the region. Infrastructure improvements and agricultural initiatives encouraged more settlers to move to the area.

Post-Independence

Kidapawan was officially created as a municipality on August 18, 1947, by virtue of Executive Order No. 82 signed by then-President Manuel Roxas. Initially, it was part of a larger Cotabato province.

The development of Kidapawan accelerated after World War II, as the region became a focal point for agricultural development. Kidapawan played a significant role in the production of crops like rubber, coffee, and various fruits, which remain important to its economy today.

Cityhood

Kidapawan became a city on February 12, 1998, following the passage of Republic Act No. 8500. This change in status was a significant milestone, allowing for greater local governance and increased development opportunities.

Significant Events

1980s to 1990s: The area witnessed episodes of conflict due to the presence of various armed groups in Mindanao. However, efforts were made to promote peace and development.
Earthquake in 2019: Kidapawan was significantly affected by a series of earthquakes in October 2019, which caused damage to infrastructure and displaced many residents.

Important Landmarks

Mount Apo: As the highest mountain in the Philippines, Mount Apo is a major landmark and a popular destination for mountaineers and nature enthusiasts.
Kidapawan City Hall: The city hall is a significant symbol of local governance and development.
Kidapawan Cathedral (Immaculate Conception Cathedral): This is a prominent religious site for the predominantly Catholic population of the city.

Notable Figures

Kidapawan has produced various local leaders and citizens who have contributed to the development of the area, though there are no widely recognized national figures originating from the city.

Economy and Culture

Kidapawan is known for its agricultural products, particularly fruits like durian and mangosteen. The city celebrates the Timpupo Festival, which showcases its bountiful harvest and cultural heritage.

Overall, Kidapawan is a city with a rich tradition of agriculture, resilient in the face of natural challenges, and characterized by its diverse cultural heritage.