General Santos
Introduction
You will find General Santos, also known as GenSan, situated within the Soccsargen region of the Philippines. As a highly urbanized city, it serves as a major hub for your travels through this part of the country.
Before you go
Prepare for your visit by understanding the local culture and history. You may hear residents speak Cebuano or Hiligaynon, though you can also communicate in Tagalog and English. The city is known by several names; while officially named after General Paulino Santos, it was previously known as Buayan and Dadiangas, a name derived from the Ziziphus spina-christi tree.
You can expect a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: a wet season and a dry season. Because the city sits outside the typhoon belt, you can enjoy the local atmosphere during major celebrations like the Kalilangan Festival in February or the Gensan Tuna Festival in September.
Getting there
You can arrive in General Santos by plane at the local international airport, which accommodates daily domestic flights from Manila, Cebu, and Iloilo using a variety of medium and large jets. Upon landing, you can find jeepneys in the car park outside the terminal to take you to the bus terminal.
Alternatively, you can reach the city by boat via limited ferry services from Davao City. If you prefer traveling by land, several bus lines connect General Santos to nearby hubs like Koronadal City and Davao City. Other regional connections are available via buses and vans from locations such as Bukidnon, Cagayan de Oro, Cotabato City, and Glan.
Getting around
You can navigate the city using a variety of local transport options including jeepneys, multicabs, and tricycles. For more direct travel, white air-conditioned taxis equipped with meters are also available for your use.
Where to stay
You can choose from a variety of accommodations depending on your preferred level of comfort and amenities. For those seeking more extensive facilities, options like the Norfolk Pine Garden Resort or the business-oriented AB Star Suites provide a higher standard of service, with the latter offering convenient extras such as an on-site cafe and a mini convenience store.
If you prefer a more modest stay, numerous pension houses and inns are available across the city. Some locations offer air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms and cable TV, while others provide fan-cooled options or dormitory-style beds. You can find accommodations near local landmarks like the Lagao public market or in quieter areas that feature garden spaces for relaxation.
Food & drink
Savor the local flavors of General Santos, where tuna is a staple of the culinary scene alongside an array of fresh seafood. You can enjoy grilled tuna belly dipped in soy sauce with onions and chili, or try Sinuglaw, which combines grilled meat with Kinilaw. For something sweet, look for fried banana and turón made from local fruit. The city offers diverse dining options ranging from casual spots serving garlic chicken to food centers and bakeries. You can also find specialized dishes like lechon, steaks, prawns, and various Filipino favorites across the different neighborhoods.
- Blugre Coffee offers a comfortable atmosphere with jazz music, where you can enjoy espresso coffees, teas, iced-blended drinks, and fresh-squeezed lemonade.
- Tatay Pepe's Restobar provides live entertainment featuring acoustic modern, alternative, and contemporary music.
- Pahayahay Restobar features good music and a reggae feel.
What to see and do
Explore the natural landscapes surrounding the city, including the active Mount Matutum to the north, which features a well-preserved crater and densely forested floor. You can also visit Klaja Ecopark, where you can see karst formations that resemble "frying pots" and feature natural waterfalls and caves. For expansive views of the city, Sarangani Bay, and neighboring provinces, head to Nopol Hills or hike to Sanchez Peak for panoramic vistas from its high mountain peak. Other vantage points include Barikot View Deck.
Immerse yourself in local culture by visiting the Gen. Paulino Santos Museum to see artifacts and memorabilia of early settlers. If you prefer a coastal atmosphere, relax at Queen Tuna Park on Sarangani Bay, which features beachside cabanas and shaded trees. For a local culinary experience, visit Balut Balut Park to enjoy traditional snacks. You can also participate in various regional activities such as diving at south divers point or golfing at the Sarangani Golf Club or Kalasangi Golf Club.
When to go
You can experience General Santos year-round in a tropical climate characterized by consistent warmth. During the dry season from November to May, you will enjoy minimal rainfall and consistently warm temperatures, making these months an ideal time for your visit.
If you travel during the wet season from June through October, you should expect heavy rainfall. However, because the city sits outside the typhoon belt, you do not need to worry about severe storms during these wetter months.
Three days in General Santos
Day one, you can begin your journey in General Santos by exploring the local culture and landmarks of the city. You might spend your time learning about the history of the region or preparing to enjoy the sights of GenSan.
Day two, you can visit nearby areas such as Koronadal City or explore different locations within Soccsargen. Depending on your preference, you can choose to see the local scenery in the surrounding districts.
Day three, you can relax at a resort like Norfolk Pine Garden Resort or find a place to stay in an area with convenient accommodations before concluding your time in the Philippines.